The best vacations for every decade of your life

Dream vacations are different for everyone, but no matter how you define them, every decade brings with it the opportunity to take a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime trip. As we age, our travel preferences change—what excites us in our 20s may not be the same at 40 or beyond. To help you plan the perfect getaway at every stage of life, here's a guide to the perfect vacation for every decade.

At 20: Escape to Costa Rica

Affordable adventures await you

Costa Rica is the perfect destination for those in their 20s and 30s. It offers a balance of budget travel and exciting activities. Flights to Costa Rica are usually cheap and the cost of living there means you can enjoy yourself without spending a fortune.

• To do?: Surf, snorkel and hike through lush rainforests.
• Don't miss it:Las Pumas Rescue Center and Sanctuary, a sanctuary where you can observe sloths, jaguars and other wild animals.

Budget Tips for Your Costa Rica Getaway

• Beer (Imperial) for $1-$2.
• Meals for about $10.
• The beaches are free and the adventures are endless.

At 30: Discover the wonders of Japan

A mix of tradition and modernity

When you reach your 30s, you might be looking for a combination of culture, adventure and relaxation. Japan offers it all. Tokyo will dazzle you with its mix of futuristic skyscrapers and ancient temples, while the natural beauty of its mountains and hot springs will offer you the perfect retreat.

• Where to go:Explore Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing, shop in Harajuku, and visit temples and gardens in Kyoto.
• Adventure seekersSki in Hokkaido during the winter or visit the pristine beaches of Okinawa for a tropical experience.

Unique experiences in Japan

• Take a dip in natural hot springs (onsen).
• Ski in the Japanese Alps or visit the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani.

At 40: Hiking Machu Picchu, Peru

An adventure you can't miss

Your 40s are the perfect time to take big, adventurous trips, and Machu Picchu in Peru is the perfect choice. With its towering mountain views, agricultural terraces and historic Incan citadels, this is a trip that requires careful planning, but the rewards are immense.

• How to get there:Take the iconic Inca Trail or opt for the lesser-known Salkantay route to encounter fewer crowds.
• Other highlights:Visit the vibrant city of Cusco and spend time in Lima before or after your trek.

Tips for exploring Machu Picchu

• Add a trip to the Lares region for more secluded trekking.
• Choose between hiking, driving or taking the train.

At 50: Explore the Galapagos Islands

Nature's best kept secret

The Galapagos Islands are a dream destination for nature lovers. From the age of 50, one can fully appreciate the pristine beauty of the islands and their unique fauna and flora. Thanks to conservation efforts, these islands remain untouched by mass tourism, offering a unique opportunity to experience untouched nature.

• What you will see: Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, iguanas and Galapagos penguins.
• Travel advice:Book a luxury yacht tour with a naturalist on board for a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.

The luxury of tours in Galapagos

• Enjoy small group tours with a personal touch.
• Enjoy extras like Wi-Fi and rooftop hot tubs on select ships.

At 60: Relax in France

A journey of sophistication

At 60, France beckons with its rich culture, history and gastronomy. Start with the Paris classics: admire the Eiffel Tower, visit the Palace of Versailles and indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine. From there, venture out to lesser-known gems along the French coast and countryside.

• Key destinations:Paris, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, the French Riviera and Provence.
• Must-do activities:Explore medieval architecture in La Rochelle, sip wine in Bordeaux and stroll through the lavender fields of Provence.

A French itinerary to remember

• Visit the dazzling cities of Saint-Tropez and Cannes.
• Discover the beauty of the French Alps and the serene beaches of the French Riviera.