Globetrotting grannies: a tale of two sisters travelling the world in their 80s
- Zonaira Chaudry
- Sep 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 7
Because hey, age is just a number!
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and age is just a number when it comes to exploring the world."
– Menon sisters
Meet Ramani Menon, 84, and Valsala Menon, 86, two sisters whose zest for travel has defied a centuries-old stereotype associated with age. From the Swiss Alps to the serene valleys of Kashmir, they’re travelled across 16 countries together.
They’re doing what many people only dream of in their 20s: catching flights, exploring new places, and collecting passport stamps. Their journey is a testament to the fact that wanderlust knows no age!
A Passion to Explore
Ramani and Valsala’s love for globetrotting is nothing new; they’ve always shared a passion to explore and discover new destinations. After retirement, Ramani formed a small group of friends and neighbours, and planned various trips together. Her life took a turn after her husband’s death; that’s when she moved in with her granddaughter, Gayathri Padmanabhan. Valsala too joined them, and soon they started going on trips together as a family. “We loved going to Switzerland, but we left our hearts in Kashmir. We felt a special energy in the Himalayas”, they share with enthusiasm.
No tour guides or travel agencies–they love to explore a new destination on their own terms and “live like the locals.” They prefer to be travellers immersing themselves in foreign culture by feeling it instead of visiting it. The trips are mostly planned by their travel partner and granddaughter, Gayathri.
“We are always ready for a new adventure, whether it’s a nearby resort in Kerala or a week in Paris!” Their next travel destination is set to be either Lakshadweep or the Maldives.
Travel–a pathway to wellness and vitality
Ramani and Valsala believe that travel energises them. “The moment we start a journey, we feel alive and fit. Travel, along with mental power and prayer is important for leading a happy life. In fact, at home, we feel stressed, stiff and tired. Being outside gives us purpose and keeps us light-hearted.”
Overcoming obstacles
A common question we get asked often is, “why are you travelling at this age?” Ramani believes that age is just a number. It is the attitude of others that is the real obstacle. “We want our travels to be seen in a positive light. Instead, we receive unsolicited advice from strangers to sit at home, since it’s not safe outside. While we understand it may be stemming out of concern, we just don’t need to hear it,” she says.
Despite facing skepticism, the sisters choose to respond graciously. They simply say, “we’re still young,” and move on with their day. These determined women refuse to let anyone dim their spirit. “Other people’s negativity only gets us more motivated to keep going,” they affirm.
Leading a healthy lifestyle
“We believe that a positive mindset adds to your lifespan and keeps the people around you motivated as well,” she suggests. They keep themselves engaged by managing household chores, spending time with family and entertaining guests. Both are avid readers and make it a point to peruse the newspaper cover to cover every single morning. They learn about the latest happenings, trends and technologies. “Staying active all the time is key to being mentally and physically fit,” they advise.
Living with a purpose
Their wanderlust souls have also shaped their perspective on life. “Always try to keep some purpose alive. Don’t think that old age means that your life is going to end. There must be a driving purpose until the last moment.” Travel broadens your perspective, cultivates personal growth and promotes well-being. They believe, “life is for being happy, irrespective of your past or future. Don't waste time by simply sitting at home. You only have today and the present moment in your hands. Set yourself free from the shackles of worrying, complaining and fighting; instead, travel and see the world.”
Unfiltered advice for the youth
Remani and Valsala have a deep appreciation for the younger generation. They are well versed in all Gen Z and Gen Alpha concepts, constantly updating themselves by keeping a diary of the latest trends. They wisely say, “we can’t expect the younger generation to speak our language. We need to learn theirs to feel included.”
Their advice to the youth of today is, “take life seriously and avoid being casual. Pursue your passion, have a purpose, do what you love, but put your heart and soul into it.”
The Menon sisters are living proof that adventure knows no limit. Their ageless crusades are a beautiful reminder that life is meant to be lived joyfully, without anyone stopping you from following your dreams.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your passport and get ready to dive into your adventure. Your next dream getaway is just around the corner!
Also Read: Here's why they say, "Live like the French."