Travel and Learn in Comfort with Elderhostel
See United States and Canada to Fit Your Budget and Activity Level
Mar 7, 2009
Many retired people list traveling as first on their to-do list. Elderhostel makes it safe, fun and easy to do. From the Grand Canyon to Alaska's Endless Summer, older adults can take trips with clearly specified activities to fit both their physical skills and interests.
History of Elderhostel
Starting in 1975, Elderhostel has grown to the world's largest educational travel organization for older adults. Over 4 million adults have participated in this non-profit program based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Categories of Programs Offered by Elderhostel
For those interested in honing their skills in photography and the arts, there are indoor and outdoor workshops in both the United States and Canada. Or, seniors can study various crafts with master artisans in the eastern states. Sing in a choir at a Performing Arts event in Colorado or the East Coast. For those who fancy cooking, instruction from culinary experts is available across the continent. Participants can learn a language from native speakers or improve health, fitness, and the healing arts. So many choices, and others are available!
Types of Programs Available to Seniors with Elderhostel
There are several different types of travel and experiences available to seniors who enjoy Enderhostel. Discoveries involve nature in national parks and even in cities. Liberal arts activities involve literature, fine arts, social sciences, and other areas of academia.
Attendees can learn or brush up on skills or hobbies. Outdoor adventures and intergenerational activities are also popular. Others choose community service learning projects. Some program have university campus access.
Area studies check out regional history and color while holidays, festivals and events give a behind-the-scenes look at cultural celebrations.
Varied Activity Levels Provided to Accommodate Diverse Seniors
Six levels of physical activity start with Level 1 and range from being able to handle one's luggage, climb a few stairs, and move from room to room to Level 6, which involves a high level of physical fitness for full days of strenuous physical challenges.
Special needs are met with arrangements being made on an individual basis. Other options include dietary accommodations, transport between local terminals and the program location, listening devices, and inclusion of recreational vehicles.
Pricing Options to Include Variety of Budgets
Prices are clearly stated and include the whole package. However, different plans are available for single, double, and even no accommodations for those who live nearby. Budget-friendly programs average less than $100 per day.
Included in the program price are experts, group leaders, excursions with transportation, accommodations and most meals, as well as all gratuities and taxes.
Intergenerational Activities Offered at Elderhostel Destinations
Grandparents can raft the Grand Canyon with grandkids, learn about horses and sea creatures in Alabama, or run away to the circus in Georgia. Others may tour Yosemite or head to Minnesota to the International Wolf Center. Branson, Missouri and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania are also popular sites to visit with family members of any age.
Seniors are utilizing Elderhostel as they travel comfortably while learning at special places of interest. They can study topics of their choice, and at their preferred physical activity level, while staying at special sites across the United States and Canada. Pricing is clear-cut and fits many budgets. Intergenerational excursions are welcomed by family members. Maybe it's time to plan a trip.
Source: Elderhostel Catalogue, Spring, 2009, Vol. 11, Issue 8, Published October 2008.
