Queensland Seniors Card for Travel
When it comes to domestic travel, it’s easy to forget what amazing options we have right on our doorstep. In researching seniors travel discounts for our articles, we have found that Australia is truly ahead of the game. In particular, this relates to transportation options, hotels, restaurants, and more. Queensland is the State that is most definitely at the forefront when it comes to looking after senior travellers. We present to you the following uses and benefits of Queensland seniors card.
Discount Cards. One of the best features of the Queensland seniors card is the benefits of discount cards. Queensland is undoubtedly the destination where you will gain the most advantage with a seniors card. The card provides access to hundreds of discounts across Queensland – so make it work hard for you if you have one.
Ask For Discounts and Value Add Options. Having been in the travel industry for many years, I have seen the peaks and troughs. The industry overall is finding it tough at the moment, Queensland particularly so. The Sunshine State is one of the casualties of low-cost airlines allowing more Australians to travel overseas. This gives you, the domestic traveller a great bargaining position. The senior’s travel discount tends not to be the best deal these days. When you are calling hotels or requesting your quotes on the Internet, be sure to ask for “the best rate of the day”. Ask for extra’s such as free Internet access, free breakfasts, free gym access, etc. If the hotel is not a member of a large chain, you will have more negotiating power. Be flexible and ask what days of the week are the cheapest. The large chains are less likely to be able to budge on price and inclusions.
Queensland Rail. Take advantage of your Queensland seniors card because Australian Government Seniors Card holders are now entitled to the following discounts on Queensland Rail Journeys
• 50% discount on economy and business class seats
• 50% discount on the economy and first-class rail portion for sleeping berths
• 20% discount on the premium Queenslander Class fare
Translink. When travelling on any Translink trains, buses, and ferries, both Seniors Card and Pensioners Cardholders are entitled to concession fares. This means you can get around the state for a great discount, leaving you more play money to eat and shop with.
Cheaper meals. Take advantage of the great deals to be had at top restaurants if you are willing to eat early. Many Gold Coast restaurants offer discounts, usually around 50% or buy 1 get 1 free if you order between 5 pm and 7 pm. We did this most nights on our recent trip to Broadbeach and there was definitely no skimping on meal sizes or standards.
Head over to Trip Advisor. Trip Advisor has a page dedicated to the top Queensland Hotels for Seniors. If you haven’t visited Trip Advisor before – I warn you, once you are there, you will be lost for hours. This is a great site that provides comments and ratings for people who have previously stayed at hotels. I personally do not book a hotel these days without taking a peak at Trip Advisor
