Stepping into the bustling space of the Hastings Senior Expo, a vibrant community hub filled with laughter, conversation, and the spirit of connection, one might not immediately consider it a starting point for voyages across the globe. Yet that's precisely what it became on May 17th, when John Lyons, CEO of Landmark Tours, graced the event with his presence and a vision of travel tailored for seniors.

John Lyons and Landmark Tours have been serving the Hastings community for over three decades, carving out a unique niche in the travel industry by creating inclusive, worry-free vacations designed specifically for retirees. With 25 years of partnership with the Hastings Senior Center, Lyons and his team have brought the wonders of the world to the doorstep of thousands of local seniors​​.

Landmark Tours operates on a simple, yet powerful ethos: to take the stress and complication out of travel for those who may not feel comfortable navigating the complexities of the modern travel world. As Lyons puts it, they provide a personal and guided experience, beginning from the Minneapolis St. Paul Airport and continuing throughout the entire vacation. The goal? To fulfill the dreams that their clients have nurtured throughout their working lives, enabling them to explore the world while leaving the worries behind​​.

The significance of Landmark Tours' presence at the Hastings Senior Expo goes beyond the company's services. It is a testament to the enduring relationship Lyons has cultivated with the local community. He regards the event as special, owing to the long-standing history he shares with Laurie Thrush and the senior center. His words painted a picture of joyous reunions, cherished memories, and the anticipation of reconnecting with friends whose lives have been touched by Landmark Tours' journeys​​.

John Lyons had a simple answer when asked how the community could support Landmark Tours in serving local seniors: come along on a journey. Spread the word. Share the stories. Encourage others to discover the safe, enjoyable, and life-enriching experiences Landmark Tours offers. His belief is that travel isn't just about visiting new places; it's about creating a community that cherishes shared experiences and the joy of discovery​​.

John's parting message to the Hastings community was one of urgency and wisdom, words he learned from a traveler over the years: "Pay attention to that window of opportunity when everything lines up the right way... So if not now, when? Go ahead and see the world and live your dreams." His encouragement reminds us all that time is precious, and the opportunity to fulfill our dreams should be seized while we still have the health, resources, and support to do so​​.

We're reminded to not just sit on the sidelines of our dreams, but to actively "lean in" to them. Like Lyons and his commitment to Landmark Tours, we too should foster a spirit of adventure, resilience, and community, as we navigate the rich and rewarding landscape of our golden years. The message is clear: dream, travel, explore, and never stop discovering the landmarks of life.