ELDERHOSTEL
About 13 years ago we traveled to Culowhee, NC, to embark on a new adventure. We attended our first Elderhostel program. We learned about the forests, railroads, geology and culture of the Smoky Mountains, as well as going around the world in five days, which was a study of the largest city on each of five continents.
You are probably wondering what Elderhostel is. It is the world's largest educational travel organization for adults 55 and older. The programs are truly what is advertised, an adventure in lifelong learning. Elderhostel believes that sharing new ideas, challenges, and experiences is rewarding to every season of life.
A non-profit organization, Elderhostel offers more than 10,000 programs a year in more than 90 countries. Unlike tourist or commercial tours, there are no hidden costs. In addition to accommodations, all meals, lectures, field trips, cultural excursion, gratuities, and medical coverage are included in the package.
The most common type of program is five days with three activities. One would be hard put to not be able to find an activity that is liked. Our favorites are those that cover the many facets of an area, be it history, literature, architecture, culture, geology or some combination of them all. Some cover multiple cities, with travel to them all. The cruises are numerous and varied. Overseas programs are often two weeks long. Many in the lower 48 are also two weeks long. Then, if a quicky is desired—-three day weekenders are available. For further information go toElderhostel
Our first program in Culowhee was conducted by Western Carolina University. Since then we have been to St. Simons Island, GA, Natchez, MS, Pensacola, FL, San Antonio, TX, Chattanooga Aquarium, TN, Dauphin Island, AL. Poteau, OK, Houston, TX, Trout Lake, MO, Ozark Folk Center, AR, and Lafayette, LA. We have enjoyed them all, some more than others. Accommodations range from better than adequate to luxurious. Food ranges from good to great.
On other pages we will go into detail on some of them and show pictures. When each page is finished a link to it will be shown to the right.
