Grandma Joy Ryan, who didn’t get her first passport until 91, has embarked on an extraordinary adventure, traveling the world with her 43-year-old grandson, Brad Ryan. Their latest conquest? Antarctica, marking their fourth continent visited and the halfway point in their ambitious goal to explore all seven.
From Mountains to Continents: A Journey of a Lifetime
Joy’s journey began in 2015 with a simple wish: to see a mountain. Brad, inspired by her yearning, took her to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That initial trip ignited a passion for exploration, leading them to embark on a mission to visit every U.S. National Park.
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Documenting their adventures on Instagram as @grandmajoysroadtrip, they garnered a devoted following while experiencing everything from volcanic landscapes in Hawaii to observing brown bears fishing for salmon in Alaska. In 2023, Joy achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the oldest person to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks. This accomplishment culminated with a trip to the National Park of American Samoa, requiring Joy to obtain her first passport at the age of 91.
Setting Sail for the Seventh Continent: Antarctica
With a passport in hand, Grandma Joy and Brad set their sights on a new challenge: visiting every continent. Their recent expedition to Antarctica, aboard a Hurtigruten Expeditions hybrid battery-powered cruise ship, brought them to a continent few experience.
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Antarctica offered Joy breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, penguins, and whales. From the ship’s Explorer’s Lounge, she marveled at panoramic vistas, while nightly rituals included cocktails (mocktails for Joy) and live piano music, providing the perfect setting to reflect on each day’s adventures. Witnessing penguins sliding on their bellies across the snow filled Joy with childlike wonder, proving that adventure knows no age.
Embracing Life’s Adventures: Inspiration for All Ages
Joy’s remarkable spirit and zest for life are truly inspiring. Having outlived her husband and three children, she embodies resilience and joy. Brad credits her with teaching him the importance of embracing possibilities at any age. Their shared experiences underscore the power of connection and the transformative nature of travel.
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Their journey has not only strengthened their bond but has also challenged societal norms surrounding aging. Grandma Joy’s adventures serve as a powerful reminder that life’s adventures are available to anyone, at any age. Her fearless pursuit of new experiences encourages others to say “yes” to life and embrace the unknown.
What’s Next for Grandma Joy’s Road Trip?
After conquering the icy landscapes of Antarctica, Grandma Joy and Brad are setting their sights on new horizons. A trip to Iceland to witness the Northern Lights is planned for January, followed by a warmer adventure to Borneo to observe orangutans in their natural habitat.
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Their ongoing adventures continue to inspire and captivate, reminding us that the spirit of exploration and the joy of discovery are timeless. Grandma Joy’s journey is a testament to the power of human connection, the resilience of the human spirit, and the endless possibilities that life offers, no matter your age. Follow their incredible journey on Instagram @grandmajoysroadtrip.
