road scholar travel to uruguay

The Scoop: What to Know About Road Scholar

This nonprofit tour company has an inspiring educational focus..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

Part of what we do here at TourScoop is use our (human) travel expertise to vet tour companies so you have an easy way to get a bunch of trustworthy information all in one place. Today we’re digging into Road Scholar, a popular tour company that’s been around for nearly 50 years. Read on to find everything you need to know to confidently make the decision about whether it’s a good fit for you.

Road Scholar (previously known as Elderhostel) is a tour company with a difference: Since 1975 the company has been run as a nonprofit organization with an educational mission as its primary focus. That means a few things: since it’s a nonprofit, Road Scholar offers excellent value (tours aren’t priced for profit). I also like that it’s unusual among tour companies because it offers both financial aid and caregiver grants. And since it’s education-driven, the tour operator attracts a particularly curious and educated group of travelers, including many retired educators. 

Road Scholar’s 4,000 offerings include small group tours, grandparent-grandchild trips, cruises, private jet adventures, and tours focused on passions including birding, food and drink, and history.

TourScoop Takeaways: Road Scholar

• Continents Covered: 7
• Tour Size Average: Road Scholar’s small group programs max out at 24 travelers, but the company also runs larger programs with hundreds of participants who are then broken into small groups for activities. 
• Tour Types: Coach, ship, plane, train

How to Book

Road Scholar tours can be booked directly through Road Scholar ; here are all the ways you can contact the organization for information about trips.

Credibility Check

Road Scholar is a BBB accredited charity that meets the standards for charity accountability, and has a low complaint number and a high response-to-issues ratio. It has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Facebook . Tour-focused online travel agency TourStride past guests gives Road Scholar a 4.4 out of 5.

Tour Destinations

Road Scholar operates tours on seven continents and to nearly 100 countries. In the U.S., it offers itineraries to most states, and internationally, its most popular destinations include Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, and Italy. 

Road Scholar offers hundreds of programs on a variety of topics, with thousands of departures annually. Since it’s a nonprofit organization with an educational mission, everything it does is about learning, and it weaves in educational visits, lectures, and events into every trip.

On the website, you can filter trips by hobbies or what you want to learn about, from Military History to Native American Studies, Birding, Pickleball, or another topic. You can also filter the course catalog by activity level, from “Easy Going” to  “Outdoor: Challenging.”

Road Scholar also offers Adventures Afloat (cruises), skip-gen programs geared to grandparents and grandchildren traveling together, and virtual tours that range from one-hour lectures to multi-day online adventures. 

Tour Guides

As an education-focused tour organization, Road Scholar refers to its group leaders and instructors as faculty . Faculty members–many of whom have been working with Road Scholar for a decade or more–are local experts with years of experience in travel and academics. Group leaders receive initial training and receive yearly professional development to ensure they’re at the top of their game. 

In addition to faculty, tour participants meet a broad range of experts on tour, experts that range from shrimp boat captains to award-winning authors. 

Inclusions/Extras

Road Scholar programs are all-inclusive and have no optional extras or hidden expenses. The price of a tour includes: 

• Accommodations, 
• Experienced Group Leader
• Expert-led lectures and field trips
• Most meals (some meals during free time not included)
• Gratuities throughout the program, including group leader gratuities
• Road Scholar Assurance Plan   (24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during a program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation)

Flights to and from the tour are not included in base program prices, but Road Scholar will book flights for participants traveling internationally. Flights booked through Road Scholar also include complimentary airport transfers.

Typical Travelers

If you don’t count kids in the mix on the Grandparent and Family programs, the average age of a Road Scholar participant is 72. But trips generally include a wide range of older travelers from people in their 50s through 90s. About 30% of participants are solo travelers, and of that 30% about 85% are women traveling on their own. Road Scholar trips are generally reported to be very welcoming to solo travelers. 

Communication 

Once you’ve booked a tour with Road Scholar, the company sends regular emails leading up to trip departures. You can also access your trip information online: once you’re enrolled in a program, all trip information is accessible via your online account.

Road Scholar’s U.S.-based contact center (800-454-5768) is open 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (ET), Monday through Friday. Monday is the contact center’s busiest day, so to avoid long wait times, call midweek or at the end of the week if you can). Road Scholar has callback feature, which allows you to save your place in the queue without having to wait on the phone–a representative calls you back as soon as it’s your turn in line.

Loyalty Program

Because Road Scholar is a nonprofit organization, discounts are not offered, including for repeat travelers. But the company is dedicated to making travel affordable for more travelers, and offers financial aid and caregiver grants . 

Private Options

Groups made up of between 18 and 24 people can reserve private departures of existing itineraries with Road Scholar. If you organize a group of 20 or more, you can take advantage of group discounts or free travel for one person. 

Sustainability Efforts

Road Scholar offsets some of the carbon emissions created through travel on its programs. It invests in projects including rainforest preservation in Brazil, methane gas recapture in Florida, and reforestation in Kenya. The company also tries to use sustainability certified hotels, locally owned services, and restaurants that serve locally sourced meals whenever possible.  

Health and Safety Practices

Road Scholar has partners on the ground worldwide who monitor all areas visited by the company. If concerns arise, Road Scholar will find replacement content or cancel the program, depending on the severity and location of the issue.

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1 Week in Uruguay Itinerary: Take This Awesome Coastal Road Trip in 2024

Planning a quick visit to Uruguay? This one week in Uruguay itinerary has you covered. Come discover one of South America’s most underrated destinations!

A tiny country of just 3.5 million people, Uruguay is often overlooked by travellers. But if you’re not adding an Uruguay itinerary to your South American adventure, you’re missing out .

Squeezed between Argentina and Brazil, its 660-kilometre-long Uruguay coast  stretches alongside the Atlantic Ocean. It’s considered safe and has quite the progressive government .

It has all the energy and passion of Buenos Aires – just packed into a country far smaller than Argentina. It’s also an easy country to travel , and the best way to visit Uruguay is on a week-long coastal road trip .

Read on for the highlights of an Uruguay road trip that will take you from historical sites to heaving party cities to relaxed beach towns – all within a week.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

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Uruguay road trip itinerary

You’ll need at least one week in Uruguay to experience the highlights of the country and get the most out of this coastal road trip. How many days in Uruguay comes down to how much time you have – but a week is the minimum, I think.

Of course, more time to travel Uruguay means more time chilling out on the beaches and exploring the small towns and big cities, so you can extend the itinerary I’m outlining in this article.

If you do only have one week, a suggested Uruguay travel itinerary is:

• Days 1 & 2: Depart Buenos Aires, explore Colonia del Sacramento, overnight in Carmelo and then enjoy the Carmelo wineries
• Day 3: Drive to Montevideo and explore the city
• Days 4 & 5: Drive to Punta del Este, relax on the beaches
• Days 6 & 7: Drive to Punta del Diablo and chill out
• Day 8: Return to Colonia del Sacramento to get the ferry back to Buenos Aires

The Uruguay map below shows the route for this road trip.

How to get to Uruguay

This article assumes that you’re in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and looking to visit Uruguay from there.

If that’s the case, then the easiest way to get to Uruguay is by ferry from Buenos Aires . The daily ferries travel to Colonia del Sacramento, Montevideo and Punta del Este. It’s a short, comfortable trip and the ferries have food and drinks on board. The main ferry companies are Buquebus , Seacat and Colonia Express . Check each out to compare prices and schedules.

Some airlines do fly internationally into Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, but most flights to Uruguay connect through Buenos Aires or São Paulo. Search for and compare flights to Uruguay .

Alternatively, you can cross into Uruguay by land from Argentina and Brazil at one of the many border crossings.

How to hire a car in Uruguay

The best way to do this Uruguay itinerary is to take a road trip . All the major car companies have offices in Montevideo or are a short walk from the ferry terminal in Colonia del Sacramento. Having your own car means you can see all the best places to visit in Uruguay at your own pace .

RENT A CAR IN URUGUAY

Most cars for rent will be manual (stick), but you can search around for an automatic.

Keep in mind that when driving in Uruguay, you need to drive with your headlights on at all times. Uruguayans drive on the right-hand side and of course seatbelts are mandatory at all times.

If you don’t want to drive, you can still follow this Uruguay itinerary on public transport. Bus travel in Uruguay is easy , with regular services between the major towns and cities.

When to visit Uruguay

The best time to visit Uruguay is between October and March , when the weather is warmer. However, summer brings throngs of tourists from Argentina, who mostly head directly to Punta del Este. The beaches are usually quieter between October and December (although of course that means the water is likely still chilly!).

We visited Uruguay over Christmas and the temperature was perfect – although we did have a couple of days of light rain.

Now that we’ve got a few of the logistics to plan your trip to Uruguay out of the way, let’s get stuck into the road trip itinerary!

Stop 1: Colonia del Sacramento

Only 50 kilometres from Buenos Aires by ferry, Colonia del Sacramento is a popular day trip destination from Argentina . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the historical district is a lovely place to explore for an afternoon. On a clear day, you can see Buenos Aires’ skyline across the Río de la Plata.

Pick up your rental car here in Colonia. You’ll only need a small car as there’s no off-roading on this itinerary.

Things to do in Colonia del Sacramento

• Wander the Barrio Histórico’s cobblestoned streets and you’ll come across beautiful homes and colourful trees. You can see the gate and walls that were built in 1745, all still well preserved.
• Listen hard in Calle de los Suspiros , “the street of sighs” and learn about the many legends about how this street got its name.
• Climb El Faro , the lighthouse, for views over the city.

Where to stay in Colonia del Sacramento

I recommend spending a few hours in Colonia del Sacramento and then starting your road trip, but if you do want to stay the night, there are plenty of hotels in Colonia del Sacramento .

• The Radisson Colonia del Sacramento has beautiful views over the river, and has indoor and outdoor pools. It’s within walking distance of the historical centre. Check prices and book on Booking.com or Expedia
• Posada Boutique Las Terrazas Hotel has the cutest outdoor pool area. Rooms are on the small side but staff are friendly and helpful. Check prices and book on Booking.com or Expedia
• If you’re looking for a more affordable option, El Viajero Colonia Hostel and Suites has both private and dorm rooms. A huge buffet breakfast is served each morning. Check the latest prices and book on Booking.com | or Expedia

Stop 2: Carmelo

While not as well-known for wine as its neighbour, Uruguay is fast becoming a hub for wine lovers looking for less-visited vineyards. Carmelo is the perfect place to taste the heady Tannat varietal that the country produces. It’s a rustic, tranquil town with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you occupied.

After Colonia del Sacramento, take a little detour to Carmelo and spend a night or two here. Not many tourists have Carmelo on their list of places to visit in Uruguay, but they’re missing out!

Things to do in Carmelo

• Sample wine at a few of the local wineries. Almacen de la Capilla , Bodega Irurtia and El Legado all offer tours and tastings.
• Have lunch in the country-style home at Finca Narbona .
• Catch the sunset on the beach . Of course, this is a river, but the gentle waves will trick you into thinking you’re by the ocean.
• Get outdoors and go horseback riding through the countryside, or go fishing along the Río de la Plata.

Where to stay in Carmelo

• We stayed at Carmelo Resort & Spa . The bungalows are huge, with enormous glass windows that overlook the vineyards outside. The spa is incredible, and the whole resort is tranquil. It’s the perfect place for an Uruguay vacation for couples. Check prices and book online at Booking.com or Expedia
• Located at the winery, the Narbona Wine Lodge , is rustic and spacious. There are sitting rooms with fireplaces and staff can arrange picnics by the river. Even if you don’t stay here, make sure to book a meal here! Check availability and book online at Booking.com or Expedia

Stop 3: Montevideo

Lying almost directly across the Río de la Plata from Buenos Aires in Argentina, Uruguay’s capital , Montevideo, is a fun city to visit. It’s like a smaller version of Buenos Aires , with the same passion and culture .

Things to do in Montevideo

• Explore the Ciudad Vieja (old town), especially the bustling Mercado del Puerto (Pérez Castellano) , the city’s old port market building. On weekends there’s a street market and a lively atmosphere. There are plenty of restaurants and the tell-tale smell of an asado (barbecue) underway.
• Take a tour of Montevideo with a guide who can share the history and culture of the city.
• Make sure you have a glass (or two) of medio y medio , a mix of sparkling and red or white wines – Uruguay’s version of Prosecco (it’s delicious!).
• Try yerba mate , a drink you’ll see  everyone in Uruguay (and Argentina and Paraguay) sipping. This drink isn’t for everyone, but it’s a huge part of the cultural fabric of the country.
• On Sundays, head to Feria de Tristán Narvaja (Tristán Narvaja and Colonia, and the streets around) , a huge flea market.
• Plaza Independencia commemorates José Artigas, Uruguay’s national hero, with a huge statue and an underground mausoleum that holds Artigas’ remains.
• Wander along La Rambla , a fun spot on a Sunday when locals pack this coastal promenade.
• Museo de los Andes (Rincón 619) , a sombre museum about the 1972 Andean plane crash in which 29 Uruguayans died. If you’ve seen the movie Alive you’ll be familiar with this tragic story.
• Museo del Gaucho (Avenida 18 de Julio 998) is a museum that celebrates all things gaucho (cowboys). (Updated: The museum is currently closed for renovations)
• Learn how to make delicious alfajores – cookies sandwiched together with dulce de leche.
• Have a night out on the town with this tango show and dinner .

Where to stay in Montevideo

• Casa Roberto is delightfully decorated. Some rooms have a terrace or patio and it’s conveniently located. Check availability and book online at Expedia | Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Located right in the historic part of the city, the rooms at Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel have old-world charm. Check availability and book online at Booking.com or Expedia

Stop 4: Punta del Este

Known as the “St Tropez of Latin America”, Punta del Este is where the Argentine elite go to see and be seen .

During summer, the beaches of “Punta” swarm with tourists and prices go up accordingly. It’s got a great party scene and lots of high-end dining choices.

You can’t visit Uruguay without stopping here. Although, if your idea of fun is more about quieter beaches than parties, then you can skip Punta del Este.

Things to do in Punta del Este

• Hit the beach . Punta has kilometres and kilometres of beautiful sand. Playa Brava and Playa Mansa are the two main beaches in Punta del Este, but you can check out other smaller beaches like La Barra de Maldonado .
• Pose in front of La Mano en la Arena (“the hand in the sand”), a sculpture by Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal. It stands as a warning swimmers of the dangers of the ocean.
• Marvel at Casapueblo , a gleaming white building that looks like it belongs in Santorini. Designed by Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, it’s located on the side of a cliff in Punta Ballena. It’s one of the coolest things to see in Uruguay.
• Take a day trip to José Ignacio , a stylish beach town. Have lunch at Parador La Huella where all the beautiful people hang out. The restaurant is right on the beach and serves a lot of fresh seafood.
• Visit the world’s second-largest southern sea lion colony on Isla de Lobos , about 10 kilometres offshore.
• This full-day tour of Punta del Este covers the highlights of the city, including La Mano en La Arena and Casapueblo.

Where to stay in Punta del Este

• Minimalist and modern in design, The Grand Hotel is right on Brava Beach. Some rooms have ocean views. Check availability and book online with Booking.com or Expedia
• We loved the nautical-themed rooms at Hotel Atlantico . This cute, boutique hotel has a wonderful pool and outdoor area perfect for sunbaking. Check availability and book online with Booking.com or Expedia

Stop 5: Punta del Diablo

Only 45 minutes from the Brazilian border, this former fishing village is now one of Uruguay’s hottest destinations . It’s not big and flashy like Punta del Este and that’s what draws people here.

Strolling along the streets in the late afternoon, sipping a beer over a plate of fresh seafood and listening to the waves crash on the beach are what makes this a heavenly coastal escape .

Things to do in Punta del Diablo

• Hang out on the beach – you’re here to relax.
• Take a day trip to Cabo Polonio and really get off the grid. This small town can only be reached by huge trucks that cut across the sand dunes. There are no paved roads and little electricity. If you have more than one week in Uruguay, consider adding a day or two on to your itinerary and stay here. (If you’re not doing a road trip in Uruguay, then consider this day trip to Cabo Polonio from Punta del Este .)
• Go hiking in Santa Teresa National Park . It’s free to enter, and pathways lead through the forest and to Uruguay beaches on the coastal side of the park.

Where to stay in Punta del Diablo

• Located right on the beach, at Remanso del Diablo you can sit in your in-room private hot tub while watching the waves crash onto the beach. We stayed here on our trip and loved its casual vibe. Check availability and book online with Booking.com
• El Diablo y El Mar is a small posada with only a few rooms, set just a few hundred metres from the beach. Check availability and book online with Booking.com or Expedia

Return to Buenos Aires

To end your Uruguay road trip, make the 6.5-hour journey back to Colonia del Sacramento inland (via Ruta 13 and then Ruta 8).

Or, arrange to drop your rental car in Montevideo (there’s usually an additional fee to do so).

From either city you can catch a return ferry back to Buenos Aires.

I hope you have a great Uruguay road trip ! Enjoy the country’s beautiful coastline.

Uruguay itinerary: FAQs

Is uruguay worth visiting.

Uruguay is an incredible destination worth visiting for a variety of reasons. I love Uruguay because it feels more “off-the-beaten-path” than its South American neighbours. You’ll see fewer foreigners here – apart from a lot of Argentines. There are lovely beaches, beautiful wine and lots of fresh food. It’s got a very relaxed vibe, even in the cities.

Is Uruguay expensive to visit?

Uruguay is generally considered to be an affordable destination to visit, although it is slightly more expensive than some other countries in South America, like Peru and Bolivia. Prices for food, accommodation and transportation are generally quite reasonable.

How many days do I need for Uruguay?

You can take a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires. However, I think a week in Uruguay is the minimum time you should plan for. This allows you to travel the coastline and see beaches, cities and wineries. If you don’t have that much time, then 3 days in Uruguay would allow you to see Colonia del Sacramento and Montevideo, or spend three days at the beach towns.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Do you now want to visit Uruguay? If you need any help planning your Uruguay itinerary, leave me a question in the comments below.

Related posts

Liked this article? If you’re heading to Argentina or Brazil next, you might like these travel blogs:

• How to plan the perfect 2-week Argentina itinerary
• The best things to do in Argentina
• 3 days in Buenos Aires itinerary
• Where to stay in Buenos Aires
• Where to eat in Buenos Aires
• 101+ things to do in Buenos Aires
• 3 days in Rio de Janeiro itinerary
• The best places to visit in Brazil
• The best things to do in Ilha Grande

BOOKING A TRIP SOON? HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL LINKS

• Book your flight online with Skyscanner – it’s where I always start my flight research.
• Find a great hotel on Booking.com .
• Need a rental car? Compare prices and vehicles on DiscoverCars .
• Omio is a great site for booking buses, trains and ferries across Europe.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout major cities and countries on GetYourGuide , Klook or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance . Travel Insurance Master  allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while  SafetyWing  is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
• Stuff I always pack? A reusable water bottle , packing cubes and a handy electronics organiser .

ONE WEEK URUGUAY ITINERARY: PIN IT FOR LATER

Save this 1-week Uruguay itinerary to Pinterest for later.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

12 thoughts on “1 Week in Uruguay Itinerary: Take This Awesome Coastal Road Trip in 2024”

I am planning to rent a camper van and do your suggested itinerary for Uruguay. Cannot find a rental company for camper vans in Uruguay. Im thinking of renting a camper van in Bunos Aeres and cross over by ferry to Uruguay. Do you know if this is feasible or has been done before? Many thanks for responding Ramy

Hi Ramy, great idea! I’ve just done a quick search myself and also couldn’t find any campervan rental companies in Uruguay… so it may not be a thing. You might be able to rent one in Argentina BUT there are often issues crossing the border with just cars, so you’d need to talk to the campervan rental companies to see if that’s possible to cross the border into Uruguay. Good luck!

Hi Rebecca, I am flying into Uruguay mid December and will be there for 3 weeks, starting and ending in Montevideo. Would love your thoughts on how to expand the itinerary? Trying to figure out the best place to be for Christmas and new year. I am not a big beach goer, but love the idea of wineries, hiking. Was thinking of spending g my first weekend in Montevideo, then going up to Punta del Diablo and spend Christmas there then make my way back down. Will spend at most one night in Punta del Este….and I was thinking to spend new year in Montevideo then first week of Jan doing Carmelo and Colonia del Sacramento then back to Montevideo for my flight on 5th Jan. But as I have 3 weeks, with both Christmas and new year wondered what suggestions you would make? Also I keep searching but are there things to do / still open the first week of January? Thanks for the help!

Hi Wendy! The trip sounds great – what a way to spend a few weeks 🙂 To expand on the itinerary, you could go inland – would you be willing to rent a car? I haven’t done this, but I hear great things about staying at an estancia inland, or checking out the hot springs around Salto. T

Hi Rebecca! We live in Porto Alegre so we will be flying into Montevideo for a week next October. Any recommendations on shifting the itinerary to both start and end there? Thanks!

Also, is it worth it to go up to Fray Bentos?

Hi Dan! You could start in Montevideo then head to Colonia and Carmelo, up to Fray Bentos – I haven’t been but I have heard cool things about it! – then drive to Punta del Este from Fray Bentos, which would bypass Montevideo a bit… not sure what there is to see on that road though. Then head to Punta del Diablo, but this does mean you’ll have to come back to Montevideo via the same route passing Punta del Este – depends on how you feel about backtracking! Alternatively, you could just focus on either east or west of Montevideo to avoid backtracking? I’d play around with putting those cities in Google Maps and then see what makes most sense from a driving perspective. Hope you enjoy your time in Uruguay!

Wow! A very interesting article really. Ending the pandemic, I plan to travel to Punta del Este, I would like to know what you think of the places mentioned in this article and if you recommend visiting them. Many thanks

Punta del Este is a lot of fun – enjoy!

I’m dying to do this road trip and go all the way to Cabo Polonio, I’m sad we don’t have time this year because we got a new car and what better way to estrenarlo!? Saving this post for hopefully next year!!

Whoop, perfect way to try out the new wheels! Fingers crossed for next year!

My best friend is originally from Uruguay and I’ve heard so many great things about this country. Would love to visit Montevideo and Punta del Diablo. Old cities, great beaches, colorful markets and great seafood are right up my alley! Great guide and love the pictures!

I could spend a whole week in Punta del Diablo! And your best friend would be able to give you tonnes of tips and contacts! I hope you get there soon 🙂

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A roadtripper's guide to the best of Uruguay

Jan 22, 2019 • 6 min read

Take an epic road trip though the very drivable country of Uruguay © Juan Pablo Malcon / EyeEm / Getty Images

Squeezed between the colossuses of Argentina and Brazil, compact Uruguay (South America's second-smallest country) is politically and economically stable, peaceful and perfect for a self-drive adventure. Thanks to good roads, considerate drivers and – outside the peak holiday season – little traffic, you can explore its never-ending coastline and boundless pampas at your own pace.

Here are some of the highlights.

Maldonado’s surf …

Leave Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport and head straight for the beach. An easy two-hour drive east will take you to laid-back La Barra and the retro-chic Casa Zinc , where you'll find six rooms decorated with vintage furniture and flea market finds. From here, spend a few days discovering deserted beaches, surfing Playa Bikini, dipping in to La Barra’s antique shops, perusing neighboring Manantiales’ design stores and dining at relaxed restaurants, such as the rustic El Chancho y La Coneja .

A ten-minute drive to the west, over the undulating bridge that spans the Rio Maldonado, is glitzy Punta del Este , where the skyscrapers resemble a mini Miami and the bars, clubs and beaches turn into the playground of wealthy Argentinians and Brazilians in December and January.

Just 30 minutes to the east is boho José Ignacio. There are no high-rise resorts, pumping nightclubs or shopping malls in this former fishing village, only sprawling beaches dotted with high-end homes, watched over by a quaint lighthouse. In high season, it becomes an under-the-radar celebrity haunt, thanks to its upscale boutiques, galleries and pop-up restaurants from celebrity chefs. The rest of the year, it’s a place to chill and feast on seafood – try the beachfront Parador La Huella .

From Manantiales, head north to the Fundación Pablo Atchugarry , a sculpture park (located just ten minutes from the coast) created by one of Uruguay’s most renowned artists. If you’re lucky, you might catch Atchugarry chiseling away at one of his larger-than-life pieces.

Another 50 minutes northeast is the quiet village of Garzón, surrounded by serene pampas. It’s been transformed from a virtual ghost town into a foodie hotspot by Argentina’s legendary chef, fire master Francis Mallmann who converted its abandoned general store into an atmospheric restaurant-with-rooms, Restaurante Garzón . Even if you don’t stay overnight, eating here is worth the splurge. The menu focuses on regional produce and everything – from the salad with burnt oranges to a top-notch ribeye  and even the cocktails – is created using crackling flames. Thanks to Mallmann's initiatives,  contemporary galleries and creative spaces are springing up alongside other activities like horse riding, bird watching and biking.

A 30-minute drive from the village (which includes a stretch bouncing over winding dirt roads) takes you to a low-slung stone building, the state-of-the-art winery Bodega Garzón . Take a tour and tasting (remembering that Uruguay has a zero tolerance policy on drinking and driving so remember to have a designated driver), or eat in their farm-to-fork restaurant and drink in the views over the rolling vineyards from the terrace. At some point, be sure to try the Balasto, a blend using Uruguay’s signature grape, Tannat.

The relaxed capital

Then it’s back to Montevideo, a two-and-a-half-hour drive west along near-empty roads flanked with fields and grazing cattle until the capital appears on the horizon. (Fun fact: Uruguay has around four times as many cows as people.) Fringed by the calm waters of the Río de la Plata, this small and easily explored city was founded in 1726 by the Spanish and it still feels as much European as Latin American.

In the Ciudad Vieja, contemporary glass-walled skyscrapers sit shoulder-to-shoulder with art deco façades and grand colonial mansions. You can celebrate La Cumparsita , the world’s most famous tango song, at the Museo del Tango . located in the imposing Palacio Salvo on Plaza Independencia. The buzzy  Mercado del Puerto  close to the port is perfect for an unhurried lunch – perhaps octopus salad and just-caught corvina – at one of the open-sided restaurants that throng with a mix of locals and visitors at weekends.

Uruguay and Argentina may squabble over who invented tango, the best way to drink yerba mate or who makes the finest dulce de leche (an addictively sweet spread), but the infectious rhythms of the candombe drummers are uniquely Uruguayan, dating back to the mid-18th century and the arrival of African slaves. You can hear candombe around the port when there's a cruise ship in, or in the Palermo district when the candombe troupes, or comparsas , take to the streets at night to practice. The comparsas play a key role in Montevideo's colorful, 40-night Carnival (starting 24 January), parading in full costume during Las Llamadas.

Then make like the Montevideanos and head to the beach – Pocitos is one of the most popular – or stroll, jog or cycle along the Rambla, the promenade that snakes around 14 miles (23km) of the waterfront.

Historic Colonia

Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay’s oldest city, lies 112 miles (180km) to the west, across the broad sweep of the tea-colored Río de la Plata from Buenos Aires. Founded by Portuguese colonists in 1680, it passed between Portuguese and Spanish hands for decades. Today its postcard-perfect, UNESCO-protected Barrio Histórico is filled with pretty tree-shaded plazas lined with cafes perfect for people watching, and a riverfront promenade for front-row sunset views.

The four-room La Posadita de La Plaza on the main square makes a great base for exploring, and Eduardo Alvares Boszko – Brazilian photographer, collector and genial host – has filled his unique B&B with a quirky assortment of vintage objects from around the globe.

Explore the ruins of the seventeenth-century Convento de San Francisco , and then climb the 100 or so steps of its nineteenth-century lighthouse for stunning views. Be sure to stroll through the Portón de Campo the reconstructed eighteenth-century city gate with its wooden drawbridge, and make time for idle wandering along the car-free cobbled streets. Should you feel a bit peckish, indulge at the riverfront Charco Bistró , or head to  La Bodeguita  to try a chivito (Uruguayan meat-feast sandwich).

End by driving back to Montevideo, or if you're up for more adventure, leave the car in Colonia take a ferry with Colonia Express or Buquebus to Buenos Aires , just 45 minutes and a world away.

Make it happen

There are various rental car outlets at Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport, including Avis, Budget and Hertz. Drivers need to be at least 23 years old and have held a full driving license for two years. Automatic cars can be requested and a GPS is recommended. For an extra charge, you can usually pick up in one city and drop off in another.

If you pay for your fuel with a foreign credit or debit card the 22% VAT will be deducted, currently up until 30 April 2019.

Sarah Gilbert traveled to Uruguay with support from Journey Latin America . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

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Road Scholar’s “Living and Learning” Programs Offer 6-Week Language and Cultural Adventure

Baby Boomers were one of the first generations to discover the world through their college study abroad programs. Statistics show that we acquired passports at a younger age than our parents.

They explored the world both alone and in groups, carrying little more than a back pack and a few cashier’s checks – and they did all of this with no cell phones, no debit cards and alas, no Internet!

The first wave of baby boomers have reached retirement age, and have not lost their wanderlust or desire to explore the world on their own terms.  With that in mind, Road Scholar has unveiled its new “Living and Learning” series, in which adventurers are immersed for six weeks in the language and culture of one of six cities worldwide.

While Road Scholar has made the world its classroom for 40 years, the exciting “Living and Learning” series ratchets up the depth of discovery by allowing participants to settle in and live like a local in each of two vibrant cities in France – Paris and Provence — as well as Berlin, Montreal, Florence and Sevilla.

In each adventure, Road Scholars are welcomed with an orientation and review of local customs, are acclimated to their furnished apartment and new neighborhood, and then pursue language study in classes suited to their proficiency.

They also attend weekly educational events with local experts and fellow participants, experience museums and other cultural sites, and enjoy ample free time to explore and enjoy local cuisine. Throughout the six weeks, a local host assists each Road Scholar in pursuing specific interests.

Patricia Infantine, 68, was looking for a novel adventure and chose the “Living and Learning” experience in Florence, Italy. She said it is a memory she will forever treasure.

“I cannot imagine a more perfect way to experience a beautiful city, and its history and culture, than the Living and Learning program with Road Scholar,” she said. “Quite simply, it had everything—special concerts and expert-led museum discoveries, stimulating lectures, language classes, and a variety of weekend and day trips to some of the most charming towns in the world. All of this in addition to independent living that enabled us to become part of the fabric of daily life in our own neighborhoods.”

Highlights of Road Scholar’s Living and Learning Adventures

Living and Learning in Sevilla—Independent Stay and Language Study . Located in the sunny south of Spain, Sevilla is a 2,200-year-old city that was made wealthy by the New World.

Living and Learning in Paris – Independent Stay and Language Study . The style, energy and je ne sais quoi of Paris have always attracted expatriates including the likes of Hemingway, Gertrude Stein and Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald.

Living and Learning in Provence – Independent Stay and Language Study . Learn to speak French like a true Provencal in Aix en Provence, a city as renowned for its culinary traditions as it is for its artistic heritage.

Living and Learning in Florence: Independent Stay and Language Study . Inspired by Florence’s timeless beauty and youthful energy, become a Renaissance man or woman on this immersive six-week adventure. Here’s a video of the experience.

New! Living and Learning in Berlin – Independent Stay and Language Study . Inspired by grand monuments and a vibrant arts scene, learn to speak German like a true Berliner on this immersive adventure in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.

Living and Learning in Montreal: Independent Stay and Language Study . Step out of your apartment and onto prestigious Rue Sherbrooke, alive with hustling throngs of pedestrians and the chatter of students crowding café tables.

Don’t forget, for a limited time, Sixty and Me community members can enter to win $500 off their next Road Scholar adventure. All you need to do is click here and sign up for their free catalogue. There’s no pressure. So, what have you got to lose?

Have you ever been on a Road Scholar adventure? What was your experience? Please join the conversation.

About Road Scholar |  Not-for-profit Road Scholar’s mission is to inspire adults to learn, discover and travel. Our learning adventures engage expert instructors, provide extraordinary access, and stimulate discourse and friendship among people for whom learning is the journey of a lifetime. Since inception, more than 5 million people have enrolled in our 5,500 iconic educational adventures offered annually in 50 states and 150 countries around the world.

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Sixty and Me

Sixty and Me is a community of over 500,000 women over 60 founded by Margaret Manning. Our editorial team publishes articles on lifestyle topics including fashion, dating, retirement and money.

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Your Impact

When you support Road Scholar, you ensure that our mission is carried out in the following key areas:

Creating transformative educational travel experiences for older adults

We develop an extraordinary range of learning adventures — some appeal broadly, some appeal to a smaller audience–to meet the needs of a broad ranger of learners. We offer these experiences not because they are profitable, but because they are meaningful. Your support give us the flexibility to create a broad interdisciplinary curriculum much like a liberal arts college.

See how Road Scholar’s adaptability allowed learners to get back on the road safely after COVID-19 curbed international travel:

Ensuring educational excellence

If we’re lucky, we can all remember at least one from our school days. The teacher who made learning a sport. The teacher who opened a new door on the world. The teacher who introduced us to a passionate interest we never saw coming. That’s how we choose the members of our Road Scholar faculty—for the depth of their knowledge about a destination or subject and for their ability to captivate us while communicating that knowledge. Your generosity helps ensure that we can continue to attract the most engaging leaders in their fields.

See how participants had the opportunity to learn from civil rights historians and heroes in the city where the movement was born in our Conference on Civil Rights: A Road Scholar President’s Program :

Piloting new learning adventures around the globe

With your support, we don’t just offer educational travel experiences. We create opportunities for older adults to learn, feel reinvigorated, meet new friends and expand their horizons. Road Scholar experiences are truly transformative, inspiring adults to take on new challenges and to live life to the fullest — at every age. We’re proud of the difference we make in the lives of so many older adults. But we can’t do this without the support of our friends. No matter how big or how small, every gift helps us enrich the lives of more than 5 million older adults.

See how female-only travel groups allow women to embark on any adventure with the comfort and safety of having a group of like-minded women. Even better, going on women-only tours fosters special bonds with females of all backgrounds through sharing stories and experiences.

Meeting the Evolving Needs of Older Adults

Over the decades, we’ve studied what makes an unforgettable learning experience, and we’ve come to realize that people have widely individual styles of exploration. That’s why with your support we will continue to create new trips with different levels of structure, from detailed itineraries packed with learning experiences to lightly structured schedules with generous free time. Thanks to you, we can give older adults access to the most extraordinary people and places in the world.

See how Road Scholar’s Adventures Online programs offer students greater flexibility by bringing experts and educational experiences to their own homes :

Awarding scholarships and grants

Donors who establish scholarship funds find it to be a deeply meaningful way to pay tribute to someone special while also opening a door to learning for someone who could not otherwise participate in a program. Each year, Road Scholar awards more than 300 of these scholarships, in the form of Impact Grants, to enthusiastic lifelong learners. Supporters like you who endow a Scholarship ensure that others can enjoy the unique Road Scholar experiences they hold so dear.

See how Road Scholar’s Caregiver Grant gave Collette the hope she needed to heal and move forward after her husband passed away :

Become a Road Scholar Insider

Do you want to receive exclusive email updates directly from Road Scholar?

Get direct and instant access to a member of our team, who will share information about your impact, project outcomes and stories from the field.

“At this point in my life, I find joy in supporting things that matter to me, and education is certainly one of them. I give because I want to ensure that Road Scholar is here for many generations to come.”

— Sarah H. from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania —

Complimentary Gift Planning Resources Are Just a Click Away!

How is this information used?

At Road Scholar | PO Box 56033, Boston, MA 02205-6033, we are so appreciative of the support we receive from donors, volunteers, advocates, partners, and others like you. That is why we are committed to protecting your privacy and take steps to keep any personal information you provide confidential.

You were invited to take this survey because we value your trust and confidence and sincerely would like to understand your preferences, interests, and wishes so we can be more sensitive to them.

By answering these survey questions, you will help us:

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As a whole, your answers will help us become better stewards of donation dollars as a result of time savings and reduction of printing, mailing, and postage costs.

Going forward, we will make our best attempts to use the information you provide in this survey to adjust the content of the communications we send you and the frequency with which you receive them.

Please remember, you can always review our complete privacy policy and you may opt-out of receiving communications from us at any time.

Thank you so much for your time, interest, and commitment to Road Scholar | PO Box 56033, Boston, MA 02205-6033.

You can read more about our privacy policy here.

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Road Scholar   Reviews

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Difficult to work with, will not use again

Have used Road Scholar before and quickly learned not to have them arrange for flights. They have a small allocation of flights and seats to offer you. If you plan your own travel on the same flight there are many seats to choose from, like business class (which they told me was not available). They will pick seats from their small allowance which will not be in alignment to you program times. Too many stops, too late of flight (after program ends), etc. The whole trip is a gamble because the insurance, touted as "Cancel For Any Reason", is a false advertisement. You CANNOT cancel for any reason and expect a full refund. We cannot take the yellow fever vaccination because we are on an immune repressive medication. You don't learn this until you put your money down. Now I know why they don't ever answer the phone, they are too busy responding to all the negative reviews. Not for profit, means their employees and facilities take all the money they don't refund. Shameful. Never again!

Date of experience : March 15, 2024

Reply from Road Scholar

Dear Marcos, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. Many factors influence the flight itineraries our travel team is able to book. Working within the airline availability and the terms of our negotiated pricing, we endeavor to provide the most direct, cost effective flights available that work within your program parameters. We generally begin booking air approximately six months before departure. If you are not agreeable to the flight itinerary we will try our best to work with you and find an alternative or arranging your own airfare is an option on most programs too. We try to be as forth coming as possible by providing any necessary information on our website for all programs, such as health requirements, to help participants select the best adventure that suits their interests and needs. The health requirement details are provided for all international programs and can be found by clicking into the “Travel Information” tab on our site. In this case, it is noted that if you are not able to get the yellow fever vaccination, due to medical reasons, a waiver from one’s doctor would be acceptable. Since you purchased the optional trip protection plan you can file a claim with Aon Affinity to seek reimbursement for your cancellation fees. If it is deemed a covered reason you will receive cash reimbursement. If it is not a covered reason you will receive a cancel for any reason credit that can be used towards a future Road Scholar program. An explanation for the cancel for any reason benefit can be found on our website and within the optional trip protection plan materials that are sent after purchase. Should you have any questions about the claim process or would like to discuss this further please feel free to contact us at 1-877-426-8056. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Roads Scholar charges more than anyone, non-profit? I don't think so.

I have taken 12 safaris in many African countries over the years. I wanted to do Roads Scholars Botswana trip but the single cost without airfare is over $12,000. This pretty much does single for profit not matter what they say. Last year's safari to 4 countries included international and in country air fare and everything else. I'll go with another company.

Date of experience : February 26, 2024

Dear Pat, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are sorry to hear you will not be taking advantage of a Road Scholar adventure. We are not profiting off of solo travelers. We are a not-for-profit organization. We do not charge anything more than what is charged to us by the hotels. The cost of the single supplement covers only the cost of accommodations. In a double occupancy, the cost of the room is split between two people; in a single, the room cost is the same but only one person is paying. You will also find that on average, you save 20% per night compared with comparable trips offered by commercial tour companies. That’s because every Road Scholar learning adventure includes most meals and all lodging, tips and taxes, behind-the-scenes experiences, expert lectures, group expeditions, and listening device, as well as, 24/7 emergency assistance. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Better to watch the travel channel.

When you call the number, you get ads for services. Have you tried calling your own number? There are certainly up sell ads. Especially one for an alert alarm. Frustrating to get through. No people. And no refunds if you have to cancel. You would be better off staying home, looking at You Tube and visiting your local restaurants. Maybe non profit, but someone is making money.

Date of experience : December 17, 2023

Dear Daniel, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. It sounds like there may have been a misdial, as we do not offer any ads while calling our Contact Center. We are open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6:30 pm ET with advisors ready to assist you. If you are unable to wait on the line we have an option to request a callback as soon as someone is available. Our cancellation and transfer fees are not meant to be punitive. They cover the commitments we have made on your behalf with our providers. We try to be as transparent as possible and explain our cancellation and transfer policy on every enrollment call, describe it on our website and include it in our program materials. We highly encourage participants to purchase the optional trip protection plan to help protect their investment, so if they do need to cancel they can file a claim to receive cash reimbursement, for a covered reason, or depending on when the plan was purchased, a credit towards a future program, for a non-covered reason. We see that you were successful in reaching us and someone will be following up with you soon. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Roadscholar travel department nightmare…

In dealing with Roadscholar travel department, it has been a nightmare. Hours on hold, and twice the dates were wrong. They had us arriving two days early, when we clearly stated we wanted only one day early. Itineraries were not given to us until just before the final payment was due, and so there was much tension until we could get it straightened out. Hours on hold with the travel department was nerve racking as their times are limited in that department. Next time we will do our own travel plans, if we use them again.

Date of experience : August 29, 2023

Dear Cherilyn, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We appreciate that it can be frustrating to wait on hold and offer a callback option to help. We call on every callback request the same day it was received. We are also continuing to hire and train our staff to improve our level of service and help reduce wait times. We do apologize for any confusion regarding your departure days and see that we were able to get this straightened out for you. Sincerely, Road Scholar

no response to refund question

We enjoyed out trip to Portugal, but air travel was a nightmare! Road Scholar arranged flights. Of the planned flights, one was cancelled and two were downgraded from business class to economy class. I asked Road Scholar for help in getting a refund and have not received any response, despite multiple emails over multiple weeks. I realize Road Scholar is not responsible for airline schedules. But, I do believe they have a responsibility to respond to customer queries.

Date of experience : May 06, 2023

Dear Mike, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are happy to hear you enjoyed your recent Portugal adventure. We understand how frustrating flight disruptions can be and apologize for the time it has taken to respond to your inquires. We are actively working on this and will be reaching out to you directly to discuss this in more detail. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Deposit is not refunded or transferred. Be careful

I booked a trip with road scholar and had to put a $500 deposit down. I thought I was told that if I had to cancel, that deposit could be used for another future trip as as I canceled within a certain timeframe .I need knee replacement surgery and I had to cancel the trip .turns out that the $500 was nonrefundable. I’ve never worked with the company that did not allow you to either refund or transfer the deposit as long as you met their cancellation guidelines be careful

Date of experience : January 10, 2023

Dear Mary, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are sorry you needed to cancel your program. As a not-for-profit organization, our cancellation and transfer fees are not meant to be punitive. They cover the commitments we have made on your behalf with our providers and the administrative costs associated with your enrollment. Transferring at no cost is a possibility for some programs, but not all, depending on the adventure and the time of the requested transfer. Our transfer and cancel policy is reviewed during enrollment before the deposit is requested, and is included in the enrollment confirmation notice/email. We also offer an optional trip protection plan for one to purchase to help protect themselves if they find they have to cancel. We wish you the best with your surgery. Warmly, Road Scholar

Stay away from this company

Stay away from this company. We had booked a trip with Road Scholar but after reviewing the trip with my Doctor, the Doctor said it would be much too strenuous with our physical limitations. We informed the company more than 3 months prior to the start of the trip but they refused to return our refund.

Date of experience : July 14, 2022

My mother in law purchased a trip with insurance. She cancelled the trip 8 months before because of medical issues and has since passed away. We called road scholars to see if we could go on her trip , get a credit or receive the money back from the scheduled trip that she had insurance on. Road Scholars was totally useless. The trip could not be transferred and we received no money back! Do not get insurance on a trip that you are using vouchers for… total waste of money! We weren’t even able to use her several thousand dollars that she had in credits. Shame on them for lack of customer service.

Date of experience : July 27, 2022

Don't book if you might get sick!!! No pity

I booked a trip for self and partner, and as we are older, I booked the insurance offered. We were not able to take the trip, as my partner found that his neuropathy deteriorated to the point that he could not keep up with the activity level that Road Scholar required. Unfortunately, Road Scholar was only willing to refund half the fees, and the rest was only available as a credit to future trips. Since we cannot take a future trip I asked to be able to transfer the fees to someone else. They refused. The insurance company, AON, for reasons best known to them refused any compensation. Shame on both companies. BYW, they also do not have any links on their site to this trip or the previous one we took, so I cannot leave a review there.

Date of experience : June 19, 2022

I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are sorry to hear you were unable to attend your adventure. As a not-for-profit organization, our cancellation and transfer fees are not meant to be punitive. They cover the commitments we have made on your behalf with our providers and the administrative costs associated with your enrollment. There are costs associated with every enrollment, no matter how early someone enrolls. These include administrative costs and reservations we have begun making in your name for the different components of your program. Because of these costs, our fees apply from the moment you enroll in the program, and are charged regardless of the reason for cancellation. Having had the optional trip protection plan you were able to file a claim and received a credit towards a future program. Unfortunately, this credit is not transferable to someone else, but we do have options. If you are not able to travel in person at this time we do have some wonderful online adventures. Please feel free to contact us at 877-426-8056 for further details. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Road Scholar flight bookings

I booked a trip and arranged my air travel through Road Scholar. I just discovered that Road Scholar travel never paid for my flight although I paid in full already. I am in danger of having my flight reservation canceled. Trying to speak to anyone at Road Scholar is a nightmare. Their travel agency is only open 3 days a week and you have to go through Road Scholar to get through to them on those other days. I have been on hold for 1 hour. I will never use them again.

Date of experience : September 05, 2023

Dear Kathleen, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. The day after a holiday can be very busy for our Contact Center, which can contribute to increased wait times. To try and help, we do provide a callback option so you don’t have to hang on the line. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused and see that we were able to connect with you to help get your airfare finalized. We hope that you enjoy your upcoming adventure. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Excellent experience

We are very experienced travelers, and this was our first time with Road Scholar. We recently completed a trip to Israel, Jordan and Egypt in March 2023 and it was wonderful. The hotels were first class and much better than I anticipated. The guides were excellent in each country. The group was 23 people. The buses they used were all exceptionally clean, very spacious comfortable and safe. A couple of days prior to the end of the trip many of us learned that our flights home had been cancelled by the airlines, due to a labor strike in Germany on Lufthansa. Road Scholar immediately rebooked everyone who had arranged their flights through RS. We are looking forward to our next trip on RS.

Date of experience : March 27, 2023

Spent over $1100 on deposit and trip…

Spent over $1100 on deposit and trip insurance. We had to cancel because the trip was too strenuous for us. We got nothing back. Probably our fault for not doing due diligence but beware.

Date of experience : December 08, 2022

Dear Kevin, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are sorry your selected adventure was not a good fit. Our cancellation and transfer fees are not meant to be punitive. They cover the commitments we have made on your behalf with our providers and the administrative costs associated with your enrollment. Transferring at no cost is a possibility for some programs, but not all, depending on the adventure and the time of the requested transfer. Our transfer and cancel policy is reviewed during enrollment before the deposit is requested, and is included in the enrollment confirmation notice/email. Since you purchased the optional trip protection plan you can file a claim to seek reimbursement for your cancellation fees. Depending on when you purchased the optional trip protection plan you may be eligible for the cancel for any reason benefit, which provides a credit towards a future program if your claim is not approved for cash reimbursement by Aon Affinity. Please feel free to contact us with any questions at 877-426-8056. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Road Scholar is GREAT for seniors!

I went to France for 6 weeks with Road Scholar and everything about this trip was perfect! Lovely, caring tour leaders, incredible support, and so many amazing educational adventures! Of course, this was PARIS, so beauty was everywhere, but be aware that Paris is a big city, with all the problems and quirks of urban life. Nevertheless, the HISTORY and ART of Paris are mind-bending-ly wonderful. I plan to travel again in 3 months with Road Scholar. My only warning is that if you are over 70 and have mobility issues, some trips are not for you. Road Scholar rates every trip for mobility so PAY ATTENTION if you can't walk far, or need a walker!!

Date of experience : November 30, 2021

Great if you don't have a problem...

Road Scholar offers great trips and guides -- if you don't get sick or have another problem. Our previous RS trip in 2019 was fabulous. Not so our recent experience. Both my partner and I contracted Covid (5 days apart) on our recent trip to the Galapagos and Machu Picchu. My partner was feverish/ill and was told there was no way to see a doctor or get medication as we were on a catamaran in the Pacific. However, we needed to have confirmation by a physician to validate our claim with the insurance company. He was given a handout about RS Covid policy, but neither of us were directly told a couple facts to be sure our claim wouldn't be denied (which it was). Could we have been more diligent in reviewing the document? Perhaps, but when you are ill, have no access to medical care and are trying to navigate a new situation, additional support would have made all the difference (rather than saying"did you get the handout?"). We both flew home within a day of each other, at an additional cost to our existing tickets. My partner missed all but a few days of a 17 day trip and I missed over a week. After a month of dealing with both Road Scholar and the insurance company (Aon), we received a small credit from Road Scholar towards a future trip. We had an upcoming trip scheduled with them this fall, which my partner has already canceled. We are exploring our options for a more equitable reimbursement through our state's Consumer Affairs Department, among others. While I appreciate empathy from Road Scholar staff, I don't need their emotional support. This was a costly trip and their offer of a small credit in no way comes close to compensating us for what was lost in money, time and emotional distress. No responsibility was taken for their Covid policy, which forced us to isolate and drop out of the trip. Because I had to isolate while traveling to the next destination (before returning home), I was required to take cabs at my own expense to and from the airport, which I would have had to do at least twice more as we traveled to other locations on the itinerary (while following their quarantine policy). The lack of guidance and clarity provided at the time we tested positive was undoubtedly "company policy," but was the antithesis of customer service. I will probably take one more Road Scholar trip, as I don't want to forego the credit. Unfortunately, I will be doing it without my partner...

Date of experience : December 13, 2023

Dear Debra, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are sorry to hear your recent experience with us did not meet your expectations. We see that our office was in communication with you on several occasions to try and help address your questions about your insurance claim with Aon. We understand how upsetting it can be when an unexpected illness arises during your travels, especially when we visit remote locations with limited access to medical facilities. And of course we understand your frustration with the insurance company denying your claim, which is why we provided you and your partner with a goodwill voucher to acknowledge the unfortunate circumstances. We do hope that you’ll consider putting this to use toward a future enrollment that will yield a more positive experience. Sincerely, Road Scholar

Road Scholar is 100 tops in every way

Road Scholar is 100 tops in every way! My PRAGUE experience was so gr8, I immediately booked another trip and eyeing another 4 next year! Their offer & promises surpassed all expectations! It was an overall fantastic trip! My first booking had 2 B canceled due 2 lack of enrollment. The organization did exactly what was promised: Keeping in touch in a timely manner & prompt refund! Margrit

Date of experience : May 10, 2018

The key word above is “recent”

The key word above is “recent”. I have been on 4 RS trips and enjoyed each one. I would rate then 4.8 to 5 stars! My most recent experience with RS is less than 1 star, however. Reason: Covid vaccine mandate. 🤯

Date of experience : February 10, 2023

Dear Sandy, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. The health and welfare of our participants and staff are the most important considerations. We do have a team dedicated to safety around our adventures, who also consult medical professionals to ensure we are up to date on all information. Creating this policy was not an easy decision for us and we hate to disappoint anyone who wants to join a Road Scholar learning adventure. We do hope to relax this requirement at some point, but we do not know when that will be at this time. If there are any changes to this requirement we will be sure to inform all of our participants and update our materials accordingly. If you are interested, you can stay up to date on all requirements by going to our website to Travel Updates and COVID Information. We hope to see you on a Road Scholar adventure in the future. Sincerely, Road Scholar

We were scheduled for a hiking trip in…

We were scheduled for a hiking trip in August which was cancelled less than two months before the start of the trip citing they did not have the staff. Now I am out flights, shuttle fees and extra nights I booked for hotels. BEWARE

Date of experience : July 01, 2022

Road Scholar.org -Lots of travel options

Shopping and scheduling my May 2017 trip was easy, however there are so many options I had to choose my top 3 then go with only one. The trip was as advertised, well planned, good quality guide, lodging and food. We had some free time daily, at least one hour. The trip are rated by activity level, phone staff know the answers to questions and they have a repeat travelers.

Date of experience : May 29, 2017

Our trip to Egypt

Our trip to Egypt was cut short by a week because of the Covid-19 situation. I had purchased trip insurance through Road Scholar for that trip. Obviously, it had to be cut short, but Road Scholar assured us that we would be reimbursed for the part of the trip we missed. That did not happen. They have sent me many requests for donations, and nothing about reimbursement. After almost 2 months are requesting some remuneration, they finally offered a small credit toward another trip....but it had to be by June 5th. Um...we are still in the middle of a pandemic, so that's not going to happen. They have not offered one penny of my money back even though I bought my insurance from them. Yes, they're an educational travel group...and boy! did I get an education.

Date of experience : May 20, 2020

There is a nonrefundable deposit

Please know that Road Scholar will always keep a nonrefundable $100 deposit. I cannot find that buried in all the paper and fine print but they state it is there??? I paid for trip cancellation 170, it was under 10 days, and they agreed it was a valid health reason. I was verbally told all would be refunded. I guess that person made a mistake. That is not true. Cannot trust this company...if for UN coveted reason they will put that money on a future trip. But if you don't pay for another trip, they will always keep at least 100.. they will keep more rhe closer to your date. That is very clearly spelled out. Do not try to get them to answer phone. They will not Do not believe "they will hold your place and call you back" They will not Do not believe they will promptly answer emails. They will not I can imagine what adisaster it woukd be if I needed to contact while traveling

Date of experience : August 25, 2023

Dear Jane, I am responding on behalf of Road Scholar. We are sorry you had to cancel your program and for any frustration not being able to reach us may have caused. We do call on every callback request the same day it was received, as well as, try and respond to any emails in a timely fashion. We try to be as transparent as possible with our transfer and cancel policy. This is posted on our website, reviewed during enrollment before the deposit is requested, and is included in the enrollment confirmation notice/email. Our cancellation and transfer fees are not meant to be punitive. They cover the commitments we have made on your behalf with our providers and the administrative costs associated with your enrollment. Transferring at no cost is a possibility for some programs, but not all, depending on the adventure and the time of the requested transfer. Since you purchased the optional trip protection plan you can file a claim to seek reimbursement for your cancellation fees. Depending on when you purchased the optional trip protection plan you may be eligible for the cancel for any reason benefit, which provides a credit towards a future program if your claim is not approved for cash reimbursement by Aon Affinity. Please feel free to contact us with any questions at 1-877-426-8056. Sincerely, Road Scholar

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Nicole Becker

Destination consultant, worked at holbrook travel since: 2017, favorite travel memory: going on a night hike through the primary rainforest at selva verde and watching her kids get excited about the cool frogs the guide was pointing out. who would have thought that something so small could be so great.

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Nicole has a degree in Political Science and History from Butler University in Indianapolis, IN. Go Dawgs! Nicole was born in Caracas, Venezuela and spent much of her childhood traveling from place to place as her father worked with the Agency for International Development. Nicole previously worked at Holbrook from 1998-2004 as a member of the Customer Service team. She loves working with Holbrook Travel as it gives her the opportunity to help spread the joy of travel and showing how small our world really is. In her free time, she enjoys scrapbooking, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. While raising three kids, Nicole also trained and earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Program Manager

Worked at holbrook travel since: 1993, hidden talent: party planning.

[email protected]

800-451-7111 x330

Anna grew up in Rio, Brazil and holds a Bachelor of Arts in art from Southwestern University in Texas plus two years of industrial design from P.U.C.-Rio de Janeiro. She joined the Holbrook team in 1993 and worked her way up to customer service manager. Anna is now a member of the program development team, a position that allows her to be involved in product design from concept to reality. She has been to England, Channel Islands, Canada, Ecuador, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, and South Africa. One of her fondest travel experiences is snorkeling with her son among whale sharks and sea turtles in the Yucatán. During work breaks she is usually seen enjoying the back deck, hoping to spot birds and other animals in the surrounding forest.

Etel Castillo

Associate director of program quality, worked at holbrook travel since: 1998, favorite travel memory: when i came to the usa for the first time. we went to walt disney world and i was mesmerized. it was a real wow moment.

[email protected]

800-451-7111 x323

Etel attended Jacksonville University on an academic and sports scholarship and Florida State College at Jacksonville. Etel was born in Trujillo, Honduras and was raised in St. Lucia.  At Holbrook, Etel is responsible for quality control and incident management. Etel has visited many countries around the world including Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Cayman Islands, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominica, Ecuador and Galapagos Islands, El Salvador, Falkland Islands, Guatemala, Guadalupe, Honduras, Peru, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Montserrat, St. Lucia, and Uruguay. Her favorite place to spend her free time is the beach, because she loves to fish, swim, and snorkel. 

Kimberly Heiss

Worked at holbrook travel since: 2022.

[email protected]

800-866-7111 x332

Kimberly joined Holbrook Travel in 2022 where she works as a Destination Consultant in the Road Scholar department. A favorite recent travel experience for her was birding in Northern Costa Rica, where she got to see and hear a pair of Great Potoos. Kim’s past travel experiences include Mexico City, Istanbul, Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice, Paris, Cairo and London. She has a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in Illustration and a master's degree in Landscape Architecture. When she is not in the office, she is probably outside walking.

Laurie McLaughlin

Vice president of customer services, worked at holbrook travel since: 1987, 3 words that describe me: loud, caring, late : ).

[email protected]

800-451-7111 x311

Laurie holds bachelor's degrees in general business administration and physical education from Mississippi State University. She has been to many places in the world, and while traveling she has been known to accidentally drive on the wrong side of the road, nearly giving her co-workers mini heart attacks.When she's not at the office, you're most likely to find Laurie playing tennis or spending time with her great nieces and nephews.

Deb Savarese

Worked at holbrook travel since: 2004, on the weekend i am: out in the yard, watching gator sports, or reading on my kindle..

[email protected]

800-866-7111 x363

Deb joined Holbrook in 2004. She started out as the receptionist for Holbrook and then moved to the Road Scholar department in the fall of 2006. She is the Destination Specialist for Road Scholar programs that travel to Argentina, Belize, Chile, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Galapagos, Guatemala, Honduras, Peru and the Yucatan. She has traveled to Belize, Chile, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras and Peru.

Fran Whitlock

Specialty travel consultant & air specialist, worked at holbrook travel since: 1992, foreign languages: english, southernese.

[email protected]

800-451-7111 x319

Fran has been in the travel industry since 1978. She studied travel at Prospect Hall College in Ft. Lauderdale and received her CTC (Certified Travel Consultant) designation in 1990. Fran was born and raised in Florida but lived in Germany for seven years before returning to the sunshine state. At Holbrook, she fulfills the roles of air specialist and travel consultant, working with groups and individuals to craft personalized travel experiences both by land and air. She loves to relax with family, travel, and be outdoors, and has visited Costa Rica, Peru, Panama, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands. 

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Road Scholar Shares Senior-Friendly Tips for Traveling to Europe

A guest post from

This week on my blog, I’m featuring a European travel guide for seniors written by my friends at Road Scholar , the travel organization that hosts educational European trips for ages 50+ .

While I’ve yet to take a Road Scholar trip (but definitely plan to in the future), I talked to friends who recently went on Road Scholar vacations. S&S went on “The Best of Portugal” and D&J went on “Hiking the Cinque Terre.” Both couples enjoyed their Road Scholar travels. You’ll hear firsthand about their trips and why they recommend Road Scholar European travel programs. I’ve interspersed their photos and insights below. 

Exploring the Douro River is part of “The Best of Portugal” Road Scholar program (Photo provided by S. Hirshon)

The Roads Scholar difference

Road Scholar is a nonprofit organization that brings together a diverse cohort of travelers, immersing them in an experiential learning program with careful pacing to meet the needs of all participants.With a mission to inspire adults to learn, discover, and travel, Road Scholar’s European travel programs for seniors help members deepen their understanding of not only themselves but different cultures, geography, history, and people across the world.

Whether you’re retired and looking to travel with a partner or looking for a solo traveling adventure, there are certain things to keep in mind to ensure your European adventure goes smoothly, especially as a senior. From choosing the right destination to packing all the essentials, there are various senior-friendly travel tips to keep in mind.

If you’re looking to travel to Europe, Road Scholar has a variety of programs to meet your needs. There are additional tips to keep in mind to help you prepare for a European excursion. Keep reading to see how you can make the most out of your time abroad.

Guide to European Travel for Seniors

1. plan the best time to go.

The first tip for traveling to Europe as a senior is to plan for the best time to go. Overall, the timing often depends on personal preference and availability. However, it’s generally recommended to travel during the shoulder season, the months of fall and spring. The shoulder season offers milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and often better prices due to lower demand.

There are several factors that determine when to travel to Europe, including:

• Weather:  Overall, the weather in Europe mimics that of the United States but can vary significantly by region. The summer months of June, July, and August bring warm weather and longer daylight but attract more tourists with larger crowds and higher prices, while the winter months can be cold and dreary with wet conditions.
• Festivals:  Europe is incredibly culturally diverse, with unique festivals and events occurring throughout the year. If you have a particular cultural event you want to partake in, consider planning your trip around that time, such as Oktoberfest in Germany or Carnival in Venice.
• Budget: As with any travel plan, it’s important to remember your budget. Prices for travel fluctuate throughout the year, with higher prices on flights, accommodations, and attractions during the peak season and lower prices during the offseason.

By keeping factors like budget, weather, events, and availability in mind, you can find a time to travel to Europe that works for you and any travel companions.

S&S went on Road Scholar “The Best of Portugal” with an activity rating ‘keep the pace.’ “RS has clearly stated activity levels which they adhere to. So if a senior does not want an active pace they can look at the description to locate the correct trip for you. RS offers very detailed information about all aspects of their trips” noted S. (Photo provided by S. Hirshon)

2. Research destinations

Although Europe is the second-smallest continent, it has 44 countries recognized by the United Nations. This means there are a lot of destinations to consider when traveling to Europe. To narrow down the country or countries you want to visit on your European trip, keep these considerations in mind:

• Interests: First, consider your interests, whether it’s art, history, architecture, nature, music, or food. With a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, Europe has a lot to choose from, and narrowing down what you want to see can help you commit to a destination.
• Culture and language: Traveling abroad can be intimidating with cultural and language barriers. Depending on your comfort level, you can consider traveling to a destination where you don’t speak the language or choose destinations where English or other common languages are the primary languages.
• Budget: Each region in Europe can vary in price, so it’s important to research the costliness of your potential destinations. For example, Switzerland and Scandinavia can be expensive, while others like Greece, Spain, and Portugal can be more affordable.
• Travel style: Your travel preferences will also play a role in your chosen destination. Do you prefer large, bustling cities, or quaint villages? Do you prefer outdoor adventures like hikes or urban sightseeing? Each European country offers an array of activities and attractions that mesh better with different travel styles.

A view from above in Lisbon, Portugal: “I loved that RS focuses on educating the traveler about the country and sites that are visited. Each place had a well informed, enthusiastic guide to explain the significance of the site. We were also given two lectures – one on the history of Portugal and the second on current Portugal, including present day political and social issues. We were very active ie. walking 3-4 miles a day on uneven surfaces and hilly terrain. No endless riding on a bus,” said S. (Photo provided by S. Hirshon)

3. Pack the essentials

An important travel tip for visiting Europe is knowing what to pack. Below are some packing essentials for seniors traveling to Europe:

• Layered clothing:  Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s important to pack clothes you can layer to stay comfortable while traveling.
• Comfortable walking shoes:  When traveling to Europe, you can expect a lot of walking as you tour museums, attractions, and city centers. With that said, pack comfortable walking shoes with plenty of cushioning.
• Travel documents:  Make sure all travel documents, including IDs, passports, travel insurance, and other documents, are packed and secured.
• Medications and prescriptions:  Ensure you pack all medications and prescriptions that can last the entirety of your trip, as well as medical documents, to ensure your health is in check when traveling,
• Adapters and chargers:  Electrical outlets are different in Europe, so pack the compatible adapters and chargers to ensure your electronics remain charged.
• Daypack: Rather than carrying a heavy backpack throughout the day, bring a light daypack or cross-body bag to store essentials like cameras, maps, and guidebooks.

D&J went on Road Scholar “Hiking the Cinque Terre” in Italy: “We have a friend who did this trip last year and told us it was fabulous. There was so much we enjoyed including the excellent knowledgeable guides; visiting places that we never would have even known about if we went on our own and the great diverse group of people. RS made it so easy — every day planned perfectly,” said D. (Photo provided by D. Morgan)

4. Consider trip protection

Traveling abroad can be expensive, and the last thing you want is to miss your trip and lose the money you spent on it. Investing in trip protection can help you get a refund for your money should an unexpected event arise, whether it’s a medical condition or another life event like a wedding.

Road Scholar offers trip protection to protect your program payment. If you book a European educational learning program with Road Scholar, optional trip protection can protect you if you need to cancel your trip for a qualifying reason, leave the program early, and for other events, whether it’s due to illness or injury. With trip protection, you can have peace of mind knowing your investment is protected if you need to cancel your trip or if it’s interrupted.

“Our group included the age range of 59-78. We hiked every day and we all did well. On a couple of days where there were sections of hiking that were more challenging, they gave us the opportunity for alternate activities. Also, there was no pressure to attend every day if you didn’t feel up to it,” added D. (Photo provided by D. Morgan)

5. Look into European travel trains

An often overlooked way to travel Europe is by train. Europe has an expansive train network that easily connects countries by rail, allowing travelers to explore new countries and regions with ease. Some of the most common trains include Eurostar , which connects London, Paris, and Brussels; ICE , a high-speed train connecting major German cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt; and TGV , which connects major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Travelers can also get Eurail , a train pass that allows travelers on most European trains with a single ticket. Road Scholar also offers European train adventures , allowing you to explore Europe with an expert guide by rail.

With these senior-friendly tips for traveling to Europe, you can confidently discover new areas, whether it’s to world-renowned museums in Paris like the Louvre or quaint villages in Austria like Hallstatt.

More global travel with Road Scholar

Are you ready to book a European vacation for 2024? Or have you already completed a Road Scholar trip and had a blast? LMK what you’re thinking either way. I’d love to know where you’re headed for your next vacay.

BTW Road Scholar also hosts great trips within the United States . Plus they just introduced new Floating Campus Voyages in the Mediterranean beginning 2025. Ooh, ooh, ooh I’m so ready to travel again — all the programs sound fab!

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• Join thousands of Israelis at the Western Wall to welcome the Jewish Sabbath
• Journey to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea, and float in its buoyant and therapeutic waters
• Stay on a Kibbutz and talk with residents about their life in a collective community

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Travel themes.

• National Parks
• Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

Attractions.

• Ruins & Archaeology

Trip includes

• 13 nights of accommodations
• 33 meals (12B, 9L, 12D)
• 13 expert-led lectures
• 23 expert-led field trips
• 1 hands-on experience
• 1 performance
• An experienced Group Leader
• Customary gratuities throughout the program
• Road Scholar Assurance Plan

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Afternoon: Welcome to Israel. We’ll transfer from the airport to our hotel in Jerusalem via private motorcoach.

Dinner: In the hotel dining room, we’ll enjoy a buffet welcome dinner with coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Activity note: Walking about 1 mile throughout the day along cobblestone streets; many unavoidable stairs in the City of David.

Activity note: Walking about 1 mile throughout the day. Driving approx. 3 miles; up to 1 hour depending on traffic.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Activity note: Walking about ½ mile throughout the day; mostly indoors. Driving approx. 5 miles; about 1 hour. Modest dress required at Western Wall Sabbath service.

Activity note: Minimal walking for group activities; distance dependent on personal preference.

Activity note: Minimal walking for group activities. Driving approx. 70 miles; about 2 hours.

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Activity note: Walking about ½ mile throughout the day; cobblestone streets and some unavoidable stairs in Zefat. Driving approx. 90 miles; about 3 hours.

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Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Road Scholar .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Road Scholar Reviews & Ratings

Other road scholar reviews, not a good bicycle trip.

Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, th...

Travel Section Incompetent, Unhelpful, and Won't correct error

I booked a tour to Italy for May 2024. I cancelled in Oct. for a lot of reasons. Before I enrolled, I asked if Road Scholar would book the flights so that on the las...

Jane Johnson

There is a nonrefundable deposit

Please know that Road Scholar will always keep a nonrefundable $100 deposit. I cannot find that buried in all the paper and fine print but they state it is there???...

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Tour operator, road scholar.

Road Scholar, the not-for-profit leader in educational travel since 1975, offers 5,500 educational tours in all 50 states and 150 countries. Alongside local and renowned experts, experience in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, from cultural tours and study cruises to walking, biking and more.

Programs For Whatever You Love to Do:

Much more than a tour, a Road Scholar program is a true learning adventure. Whether you join us in Seattle or Santiago, Beijing or Berlin, Road Scholar programs all share four unique attributes:

--Exceptional opportunities for learning and exploration through special behind-the-scenes access to the world's most fascinating treasures, led by our passionate and knowledgeable instructors.

--The shared fellowship of learning and warm camaraderie, whether a solo traveler or with a companion.

--Comfortable accommodations and appetizing meals.

--Excellent value.

Explore Your Mind and the World:

There are no grades or tests on Road Scholar programs. All that's needed is an inquiring mind, an adventurous spirit, and the belief that learning and discovery are lifelong pursuits.

Established in 1975, Road Scholar offers participants once-in-a-lifetime experiences delivered by local and world-renowned experts. Experience in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, from cultural excursions and study cruises to walking, biking and more.

Our Most Popular Tours:

Adventures Afloat Cruises: On these educational cruises, you’ll traverse some of the world's most spectacular waterways, offering you a convenient and rewarding way to learn and explore aboard ocean liners, riverboats and small ships.

Independent City Discoveries: Combine structured learning with independent discovery — each program includes hotel accommodations and some meals, lectures, expert-led field trips and detailed outlines for four self-guided excursions.

Grandparent Travel: Discover and explore together with your grandchild through interactive learning experiences and field trips. Both you and your grandchild will share the joy of learning with other grandparents and their grandchildren, bridging generations and opening doors to discovery and friendship.

National Parks: From Denali to the Everglades and countless beautiful, historic places in between, field trips to America’s National Parks reveal what tourists can’t see on their own, with specialized experts showing you how to track wildlife or lead you to the spot with the most awe-inspiring view.

Outdoor Adventures: From hiking in the Grand Canyon to exploring France by barge and bicycle, to sharpening your golf or tennis skills, these active programs exercise the body and the mind.

Service Learning: From tutoring school children or helping restore a crucial forest habitat for wildlife, to assisting with artifact restoration and museum curatorial work, Service Learning adventures are an opportunity to make a difference in the world.

Small Groups: Love to learn in a small-group setting? Check out this collection of programs that have 10-24 participants.

Why Road Scholar?

You Can't Beat Road Scholar's Remarkable Value : Our all-inclusive prices have no hidden costs. Compare the price of one of our programs to what it would cost to duplicate the experience on your own (if that's even possible) and you'll see what we mean by "remarkable value."

Lifelong Learning and Lifelong Friends : When you participate in a Road Scholar program, you will not only expand your mind, you will be in the company of other people who believe that learning is one of the best parts of life.

Instructors Who Inspire: Road Scholar instructors are both experts in their field and lifelong learners themselves who are excited to answer your questions, hear your opinions and share in your experience.

Solo Participants Love Our Programs : Road Scholar programs are renowned for being inclusive, warm and welcoming for solo participants. We can either match you with a roommate or, on most programs, you can choose to room on your own.

Think Outside the Tour : The educational focus of Road Scholar programs makes us completely different from a commercial travel tour. Road Scholar programs offer educational experiences that answer the what's, the why's and the how-to's.

You Go Where Others Can't : We've been offering educational experiences since 1975 and we've made connections with educators and other local "insiders" all around the world, creating learning opportunities that show you the world in a way that just can't be done on your own or on a "tour."

We've Covered All the Bases : From expert-led lectures and field trips to comfortable lodgings and meals, we handle all the details, including the ones you might not anticipate. We've taken the worry out of the planning, so you can focus on your learning experience.

Peace of Mind Through the Road Scholar Travel Assistance Plan : The Road Scholar Travel Assistance Plan, which is purchased on behalf of every participant, provides 24-hour emergency assistance in the unlikely case of a medical emergency.

Scholarships for Those in Financial Need : Each year, Road Scholar awards $250,000 in scholarships toward programs in North America for those who do not have the financial means to participate.

Our Donors : Each year, thousands of donors contribute to our Annual Fund, helping to cover the gap between the tuition we charge and the actual cost of our programs.

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