What is a Program?

With nearly 8,000 offerings a year in more than 90 countries, Elderhostel programs are as unique and diverse as our participants. But what qualifies a program to be part of Elderhostel?

From Seattle to Santiago, Beijing to Berlin, our programs all share four unique attributes:

educational excellence

comfortable accommodations and delicious meals

extraordinary value

and the warm camaraderie of fellow Elderhostelers.

Our expert instructors, experienced group leaders and helpful staff create extraordinary experiences by sharing stimulating information, leading fascinating field trips and cultural excursions, and by taking care of details. As a result, our programs excite one's mind and enrich one's life. There are no grades or tests. All that's needed is an inquiring mind, an adventurous spirit, and the belief that learning and discovery are lifelong pursuits.

Below is a sample list of the kinds of programs we offer.

Outdoor Adventures :

Local experts share in-depth information, venturing with you into Earth's most fascinating environments to experience the wonders of the natural world. From hiking in the Grand Canyon to exploring central France by barge and bicycle to sharpening your golf or tennis skills, Outdoor Adventure programs exercise the body and the mind.

Discover:

Journey into the American experience - the diversity of landscape and currents of culture that define the U.S. and Canada. With experts at national parks, in cosmopolitan cities and on the open road, explore the places, meet the people and discuss the events that have shaped these neighboring nations.

Individual Skills:

Try your hand at a new skill, or brush up on an old hobby! Learn the secrets of Southwestern cooking, take up the watercolorist's brush, practice the ancient discipline of yoga, or engage in the hands-on study of traditional pottery-making. Experienced craftspeople and experts guide these forays into the creative experience.

Intergenerational:

Share your love of learning with a young relative or friend as you explore a mutual interest, from dinosaurs to geology, outer space to children's literature. Learn together during interactive lectures and field trips, and apart during age-specific activities. You'll share an experience that bridges generations, opening doors to discovery and friendship.

Liberal Arts:

Pursue Shakespeare, analyze Freud, study terpsichorean techniques, or take in a classic opera with Elderhostel's broad selection of Liberal Arts programs. Lectures by distinguished university faculty, backstage forays with theater professionals, and insights from historians, authors, diplomats and philosophers inform your experience, exploring a wealth of intellectual, literary, civic and artistic topics.

Service Learning:

Service learning programs are an opportunity to make a difference - in a community, an ecosystem, or the life of an individual. From tutoring schoolchildren or helping restore a crucial forest habitat for wildlife, to assisting with artifact restoration and museum curatorial work, service learning is a challenging, satisfying and enjoyable experience.

Adventures Afloat Programs:

What better way to explore and learn about the diverse history, culture and natural environment of the world than from the deck of a floating classroom? These exciting, educational programs traverse some of the world's most spectacular waterways, offering you a unique perspective, an invigorating experience and an incredible travel value.

Women Only Programs:

Join other adventurous women on learning expeditions around the world. Gain insights and new wisdom as you discuss the female perspective in topics ranging from fine art to natural medicine.

Independent Explorations:

Independent Exploration programs are for those who wish to combine structured learning with independent travel. In addition to seven nights hotel accommodation and breakfasts, each program features six lectures by local experts, two escort-led field trips and detailed outlines for four self-guided excursions. Airport transfers are not included.