Thelma Loret de Mola recently returned from a study tour in Holland called “The Flower That Built a Nation,” in which she studied flowers. She and her husband have also followed the pilgrim route to Spain and visited Portugal to observe and learn about the country's famous tile work. As a couple, they were able to do this without worrying about where to stay, and with knowledgeable guides and lecturers to teach them about each country and culture. If this sounds enticing and you are 55 or older, Elderhostel may be right for you.

“I've been on 13 Elderhostels, and we have never been disappointed,” says Loret de Mola. “Some people go with a notebook to scribble. I rarely take notes. I listen, enjoy the lectures and soak up whatever I can.”

Elderhostel, founded in 1975, provides all-inclusive educational and travel opportunities to individuals over age 55. The organization began in the United States but has offered international programs since 1981 to such areas as Mexico, Great Britain and Scandinavia. Currently, Elderhostel operates more than 350 programs in more than 100 countries. Individuals can go bird-watching in Ecuador, study the genesis of African civilization in Ethiopia or teach English in China. There are also many programs in Europe to choose from, including a popular course in Oxford titled “Harry Potter and Friends,” which explores children's fantasy literature and the English school system.

One unique aspect of Elderhostel is its service programs, which provide individuals with a learning experience combined with a service project in a needy community. For example, a group of Elderhostel volunteers might assist with marine research to protect wildlife or work on an affordable housing project while studying abroad. According to Elderhostel's PR director Despina Gakopoulos, participants often become quite passionate about the countries in which they work. They return again to continue their service, either through Elderhostel or on their own.

A Variety of Programs

Elderhostel's traditional programs are remarkably varied. Beyond US programs, individuals travel the world to experience diverse cultures, explore politics or ancient history, or study art and literature. The programs vary in length, but the international programs usually last from one to four weeks.

“I've been on other types of tours and swore never to do them again,” says Loret de Mola. “Rather than simply getting off and on the bus, Elderhostel allows you to take your time, and its study component has never been lacking. Wherever you go, the people they have as lecturers are highly qualified.”

For individuals with other interests, there are also Active Outdoor programs, which involve hiking, kayaking and walking, and Adventures Afloat -- learning courses that take place on ships and in the ports where they stop.

Who Participates in Elderhostel?

The average age of participants is between 67 and 72, but Gakopoulos notes that on any given trip, there's a range of ages -- from 55 to 80. Individuals tend to be “curious, outgoing and interested in learning,” notes Gakopoulos. People often remark on the fact that all their peers in the program are genuinely interested in the subject matter, which differentiates Elderhostel programs.

“We have found very interesting participants on all of our international trips,” says Loret de Mola. “These are people who are used to traveling the world. We have met State Department retirees, professors and people who are really knowledgeable and interested in world events.” Beyond the trips to Holland, Spain and Portugal, Loret de Mola has been to Canada twice, including one trip to study photography on Prince Edward Island.