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14 Best Senior-friendly Travel Groups

These senior-friendly travel companies offer tours and travel experiences as diverse as their clients.

The benefits of travel, whether it's a refreshing weekend getaway or a month-long trip to a new destination, are undeniable. And for retirees and seniors who have time and a travel budget, the opportunities are nearly endless — their own city, state, country, and even the whole world are all waiting to be explored.

It should be recognized that seniors are as diverse as any other generation, perhaps even more so as their years of experience have taken them in many directions. While their interests, abilities, values, and habits may vary, it can safely be said that for many, travel is in their plans.

Seniors travel to visit family, learn about the countries of their ancestors , or explore new destinations. Many seek immersive experiences, educational opportunities, or adventure. And travel companies are responding to their needs and wishes by offering tour options ranging from independent to fully guided, budget to luxury, and group to individual. The 14 organizations listed below are either aimed specifically at mature clients or feature experiences that are flexible enough to accommodate a variety of travelers.

Walking the World

Operating out of Grand Junction, Colorado, Walking the World offers walking and hiking tours mainly for travelers over the age of 50 who want to be immersed in the destinations they choose. Experienced hikers will enjoy its Rocky Mountain National Park tour , for example, with treks of up to 10 miles on some days during the eight-day itinerary. Meanwhile, the Ireland trip covers 11 days of exploring fishing villages, rolling green hills, the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park. Daily walks range from four to eight miles and are described as gentle to moderate.

Road Scholar

Originally launched as Elderhostel in 1975, the company rebranded in 2010 as Road Scholar , recognizing the values and interests of lifelong learners who have participated in their lectures, tours, field trips, and educational experiences over the years. Participants are typically over the age of 50 and ready to learn from travel or focus on a specific interest. Trip themes such as grandparent adventures (special types of trips you can take with your grandchild), cruises, urban exploration, art and history, historical sites, and academic topics can be browsed by destination, activity level, and interest to help clients select their ideal tour experience.

Adventures Abroad

While Adventures Abroad largely caters to travelers over 50, tours are open to adults of all ages, and operate on every continent except for Antarctica. The company's "soft adventure" trips, which concentrate on the culture and history of a destination, don't include strenuous activities, though a reasonable degree of fitness and the ability to walk are required. Trips are rated from one to three based on physical activity, with the first level featuring only leisurely walks and level two meaning more time on your feet each day. Level-three trips might include walks or hikes on uneven ground for three to seven hours, though at a leisurely pace. Specific trips are suggested for each activity level for easy planning.

An adventure travel company designed for people ages 50 and over, ElderTreks offers small-group adventures — think wildlife safaris, hiking trips, cultural journeys, and other unique expeditions — in more than 100 countries. The tours are rated by activity level, ranging from one to five. At level one, travelers should be able to walk for one to two hours, whereas at level five, they'll need to be capable of hiking for eight to 10 hours.

Ariel Skelley / Getty Images

Senior Cycling

Specializing in bicycle tours for active adults ages 50 and up, Senior Cycling limits groups to a maximum of 13 participants. And they are always accompanied by the "sag wagon" in case someone needs a break from riding. Trips are rated at two levels: intermediate (for the occasional rider who prefers bike paths and flat terrain for 20–40 miles per day) and advanced (for those who are at ease with up to 50 miles per day, hills, and traffic). Custom tours can also be arranged for families or groups of friends.

Firebird Tours

With a focus on clients ages 50 and over, Firebird Tours offers small group trips to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East that deliver value, comfort, and quality. Themes for guided tours include gastronomy, history, architecture, and the Northern Lights , as well as theater and opera. Private family tours are also available, with destinations and activities suitable for a wider age range depending on the group.

Seniors interested in active vacations should check out Backroads , based out of Berkeley, California. While tours are open to all ages, the majority of participants tend to be over 50. Guided biking, walking, and hiking tours to a variety of destinations are geared toward adults, but also include options for families traveling with "teens and kids," "older teens and 20s," and those in their "20s and beyond." The company's Dolce Tempo tours offer a more relaxed pace, and include trips such as the Easygoing E-bike Tour in California wine country and the Easygoing Multi-adventure Tour in New Zealand.

Overseas Adventure Travel

With a variety of trips available to destinations on every continent, Overseas Adventure Travel makes a great choice if you're interested in seeing the world via small-ship cruises. In addition to guided land tours for groups of eight to 16, OAT offers sailings through the Norwegian Fjords, along West Africa's coast, and throughout the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas. Mature travelers are often attracted to the flexibility of the trips and the ability to personalize activities. Recognizing that many of their customers travel alone — including a whopping 85 percent of their female clients — the company has created its getaways with solo travelers in mind, whether they're first-timers or experienced adventurers.

EF Go Ahead Tours

Operating out of Cambridge, Massachusetts, EF Go Ahead Tours offers a selection of small group tours for 10 to 22 guests. The senior-friendly trips focus on interests such as food and wine, adventure, and safaris, as well as specific destinations and seasonal events (think Oktoberfest in Germany, annual holiday markets in Europe, or St. Patrick's Day in Ireland). Traveling alone? The company's solo tours provide private rooms and personalized experiences especially geared toward those traveling by themselves. Clients can also gather their own group and take advantage of the services of EF's professional coordinators.

Kensington Tours

If you're looking to create a fully customized, privately guided trip based on your group's specific needs and travel preferences, look no further than Kensington Tours . Their expertise in more than 100 destinations worldwide makes planning easy, whether the goal is a culturally immersive experience, enjoying fine wine and dining, discovering the history of a place, or relaxation. While these arrangements are ideal for mature travelers who appreciate ease and luxury, the company also provides experiences for multigenerational travel in countries like Thailand, Japan, Iceland, and South Africa, featuring kid-friendly trips that come with private vehicles, local guides, and dining options fit for the whole family.

Intrepid Travel

A leading adventure tour operator known for its efforts to make travel accessible to all, Intrepid Travel offers a good mix of bespoke and ready-made itinerary options that can be adapted to suit your group's comfort level. Intrepid's Accessible Tours are especially inclusive, with trips that are designed for every type of traveler. Whichever trip you decide to book, you'll have access to local destination specialists to help you choose the perfect places to stay as well as organize transportation, activities, and guided tours, depending on your needs. The company's Walking & Trekking trips, suitable for a range of fitness levels, are especially popular with seniors, though adults of all ages are free to join in.

YMT Vacations

In business since 1967, YMT Vacations designs all-inclusive trips with mature travelers in mind. Prices cover hotel accommodations, guided sightseeing tours, baggage handling, and the expertise of tour directors and driver guides. Destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, North America, Central and South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, among others, and the company arranges travel for popular events such as the Rose Parade in California. A number of river cruise and transatlantic sailing options are also available.

Grand European Travel

Grand European Travel is an AARP-preferred travel provider (check the website for members-only discounts) that promotes itself as a one-stop shop to help clients plan their desired travel experiences. The company represents a collection of 30 travel brands — including the likes of Trafalgar and Insight Tours — which, altogether, cover seven continents. Offerings range from budget to luxury getaways, and everything from cruises to land tours. Thinking of taking a multigenerational trip? Browse the company's family experiences section, stocked with tours fit for all ages, whether you're into all-inclusive European river cruises or exploring U.S. national parks.

Country Walkers

Country Walkers aims to introduce travelers to new landscapes and cultures around the world by traveling on foot. Established in 1979, the Vermont-based operator offers walking tours in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America. Tour types include guided (in a small group of up to 18) and self-guided (in a private group of up to 12), providing a great option for independent exploration. Travelers can choose from five levels, starting at "easy walking," which includes a daily distance of two to six miles for up to four hours per day. "Moderate walking," the mid-range option, suggests four to 10 miles and up to six hours of walking per day. Trips at the "challenging walking" level might go up to seven hours a day on foot, covering anywhere from six to 14 miles. Guests of all ages should be able to find a destination and tour that's best suited for their interests and fitness level.

Educational Tours For Senior & Mature Aged Travellers

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Morocco tour for senior travellers

Visiting Morocco

Morocco is a gateway: step through and discover a world of colour, diversity and wonder to Meknes , Rabat and more unlike anything you have experienced before. Rich traditions and heritage are explored and visited on a small group tour for mature and senior travellers couples and solo travellers.

From $7,772 USD

Canals and Railways in the Industrial Revolution Tour | Tours for Seniors in Britain

Visiting England, Scotland

A small group tour of Wales , Scotland & England that traces the history of the journey that is the Industrial revolution . Knowledgeable local guides and your tour leader share their history with you on this escorted tour including Glasgow , London , New Lanark & Manchester , Liverpool and the Lake district .

From $10,584 USD

Scottish Islands and Shetland small group tours for seniors

Visiting Scotland

An escorted small group tour for couples and solo travellers of the Scottish isles including the isle of Skye draws on local guides to share their knowledge of the destinations in this unique part of Scotland . UNESCO world heritage site are visited as breathtaking scenery and authentic experiences are shared in a group of like minded people on this guided tour of remote Scotland.

From $9,426 USD

Bach Classical European Music Festival small group tours

Visiting Germany

Enjoy the best of Bach travelling with mature couples or solo travellers in a small group tour . We take time to appreciate not just the music but also to explore Bach's history and influences in Germany. The program spends 16 days visiting the locations that where influences on his life as well as attending the Bach Music festival in Leipzig .

From $8,702 USD

The Stans Small Group Tour: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan

Visiting Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan

This Odyssey is designed for the adventurous traveller, a couple or solo traveller on a small group tour who is prepared for a range of accommodation styles, for walking excursions and some long travel days in 3 Central Asian countries. The program combines experiences with great scenery, ancient and modern histories, family visits and lifestyles that differ dramatically.

From $10,926 USD

Rural France | Small Group Tour for Seniors

Visiting France

On this small group Rural France tour, we spend 24 days exploring France beyond its bustling cities, travelling off the beaten track. We will explore the pastoral and provincial splendour of French rural towns which have resisted the dual siege of the automobile and the property developer. Our small group will visit many of France’s beautiful towns where within their walls the villagers conduct their daily lives much as they have done since Napoleonic times.

From $12,391 USD

England’s villages small group history tours for mature travellers

Visiting England

Guided tour of the villages of England. The tour leader manages local guides to share their knowledge to give an authentic experience across England . This trip includes the UNESCO World heritage site of Avebury as well as villages in Cornwall, Devon, Dartmoor the border of Wales and the Cotswolds.

From $9,622 USD

Egypt tour: escorted small group history & cultural tour of Egypt

Visiting Egypt

Our small group program for senior and mature couples and solo travelers takes us to contemporary feats such as the Aswan Dam and also to current crucibles of the Egyptian experience such as Tahrir Square. Proof, were it needed, that Egypt’s role as the pivot of civilisation is far from ended. There is the opportunity to visit our Morocco , Jordan or Iran tours before embarking on this tour of Egypt.

From $7,143 USD

Tour of Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan

Visiting Bhutan, India

Join Odyssey Traveller on this small group tour in the Indian subcontinent, taking us from the verdant tea gardens of Darjeeling nestled in the Himalayan mountain range, to the hilltop monasteries of the former independent kingdom of Sikkim, and finally to the pristine and beautifully isolated mountain landscape of Bhutan .

From $7,531 USD

Malta & Sicily - Mediterranean Islands small group tour

Visiting Italy, Malta

For centuries Malta & Sicily , held the key to the Mediterranean. Unlike other European tour companies, Odyssey provides a tour leader and local guides to share detailed itineraries about the destinations on these small group journeys. For mature couples and solo travellers. A reasonable single supplement is charged.

From $6,621 USD

Ancient History of Jordan | Escorted Small Group Tour

Visiting Jordan

Explore Jordan , visiting its capital city, Amman Jordan, the ancient Desert Castles , Petra and the Dead Sea on a small group package tour for mature and senior travellers travelling as a couple or Solo .

From $3,881 USD

Discover Portugal

Visiting Portugal

Join Odyssey Traveller small group journeys with like minded people on this immersive 18-day escorted tour of Portugal . This travel experience takes us from the capital of Lisbon , through Portugal's many historic cities and key UNESCO World heritage sites.

From $7,355 USD

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If less than 30 days before your tour starts you are unable to travel as a result of Government travel restrictions, Odyssey Traveller will assist you with a date change, provide you with a credit or process a refund for your booking less any non-recoverable costs.

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Peace of Mind Travel

The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

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Introduction from Mark

Mark Banning-Taylor

Chairman & Owner of Odyssey Traveller (est. 1983)

With older adults of any age group joining Odyssey Travellers Small Group Tours now from countries all over the world, we continue to appreciate and enjoy your positive contribution to our small group tour programs of typically between 6 to 14 people of like minded people provide the companionship that make a great tour, a memorable one . We remain committed to you participating in our programs from wherever you live and however you choose to reach us via google, social media, such as facebook or twitter or in person.

Odyssey is unique and adaptable and we have a full programme online for seniors seeking to travel of over 180 tours available for you to book with departure dates and prices through to December 2022. We also have published more than 600 articles and country profiles to read and learn about a current or future proposed destination.

Odyssey small team’s ongoing commitment to looking after you was recently tested with the Coronavirus. Our service standards and ability to be flexible and think of innovative solutions in challenging times is reflected in our mantra of “treating others how you would like to be treated yourself”. This remains core to our approach in taking care of the details for you from the time you book to the end of the journey whether as a couple or single travellers on any sightseeing trip on our seniors coach tours All that we do is focussed on the older person and the small group journeys you seek to enjoy.

For those travellers looking at our pages for the first time, we say welcome, and to our regular travellers and members of our unique loyalty program, we say thank you and welcome back.

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6 Best Senior Travel Groups

Senior travel groups, designed exclusively for curious older globetrotters, offer an unparalleled opportunity to venture on unforgettable travels, forge new friendships, and unlock the magic of exploration.

• Road Scholar  – Road Scholar is a non-profit organization that offers educational travel adventures for seniors. They provide a wide range of trips, including cultural explorations, outdoor adventures, and learning experiences worldwide.
• ElderTreks – ElderTreks specializes in adventure travel exclusively for people over 50. They offer small group tours to exotic and off-the-beaten-path destinations with a focus on cultural immersion and wildlife experiences.
• Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) – OAT is a travel company that caters to older travelers seeking immersive and active adventures. They offer small group tours to destinations globally.
• Saga Holidays – Saga is a British travel company that focuses on holidays for people over 50. They offer a variety of trips, including cruises, cultural tours, and beach vacations.
• Walking the World – Walking the World is a senior travel group that specializes in guided walking tours, offering enriching adventures for mature travelers seeking to explore the world’s natural wonders on foot.
• G Adventures – G Adventures is a globally recognized adventure travel company offering small group tours with a strong emphasis on sustainability and authentic experiences.

All these travel groups are tailored to cater to the diverse interests and desires of mature travelers.

What to Look for in a Senior Travel Group

When searching for a senior travel group, consider the following key factors to ensure an enjoyable and fulfilling travel experience.

Itinerary and Destinations

Look for a travel group that offers diverse and well-planned itineraries to destinations that align with your interests and preferences, whether it’s cultural exploration, nature-focused trips, or a mix of both.

Check the group size to ensure it is comfortable for you. Smaller groups often allow for more personalized experiences and flexibility during the trip.

Travel Pace and Physical Requirements

Assess the travel pace and physical demands of the trips offered to ensure they match your fitness level and mobility needs.

Tour Guides and Expertise

Review the credentials and experience of the tour guides leading the trips, as knowledgeable guides can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Accommodations

Check the quality and suitability of accommodations provided during the trip to ensure they meet your comfort standards.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Check the package details to understand what’s included (e.g., meals, activities, entrance fees) and what additional expenses you might need to budget for.

Group Dynamics and Social Activities

Consider the social aspect of the travel group, as meeting like-minded individuals can greatly enhance your journey, so look for groups that offer ample opportunities for group interactions and social activities.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Read reviews and testimonials from previous travelers to gauge their satisfaction and overall experience with the travel group.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a senior travel group that aligns with your interests, preferences, and requirements, making your journey a memorable and enjoyable one.

Best Senior Travel Groups

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast yearning to dive into the past, a nature lover seeking the embrace of untouched landscapes, or a curious soul eager to discover the world’s hidden gems, these groups promise interesting and purposeful travel experiences.

Road Scholar

Road Scholar is a non-profit educational travel organization catering to seniors and their families (grandchildren). They offer educative and immersive adventures in diverse destinations worldwide with programs in nearly 80 countries and 50 states, on land and by ship. Participants engage in small-group learning experiences, exploring cultures, history, nature, and more. Expert-led programs provide unique access to renowned sites, while fostering camaraderie among like-minded travelers.

Tailored for mature adults, Road Scholar journeys accommodate various activity levels and interests, allowing participants to discover new horizons, build lasting friendships, and embrace a lifelong love of learning through curated educational travel experiences.

Read WHAT IS SKIP-GEN TRAVEL AND WHY IS IT TRENDING?

ElderTreks is an adventure travel company dedicated to offering extraordinary and specialized trips for people over 50. As a pioneer in senior adventure travel, ElderTreks focuses on providing small group tours to off-the-beaten-path and exotic destinations worldwide.

Their itineraries are designed to offer unique cultural encounters, wildlife experiences, and active adventures tailored to the interests and physical abilities of older adults. With a strong emphasis on cultural immersion and sustainable travel, ElderTreks provides an enriching and safe environment for mature travelers to explore the world, form lasting connections, and create treasured memories.

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT)

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) is a travel company specializing in small-group adventures for seasoned travelers seeking immersive and active experiences.

With a focus on exploring lesser-known destinations worldwide, OAT offers journeys designed to connect participants with local cultures, traditions, and people. Their itineraries often include off-the-beaten-path destinations and unique activities, allowing travelers to engage deeply with the places they visit.

OAT emphasizes sustainable and responsible travel, striving to benefit local communities and the environment. Their experienced trip leaders and small group settings foster camaraderie among travelers, creating a sense of community and a shared passion for discovery and cultural understanding.

Saga Holidays

Saga Holidays is a British travel company that specializes in providing vacations and tours exclusively for people aged 50 and over. With over 65 years of experience, Saga Holidays offers a wide range of holiday options, including escorted tours, ocean and river cruises, stays at handpicked hotels, and more.

Their itineraries cover various destinations, catering to different interests and preferences, from cultural explorations to leisurely beach vacations.

Saga Holidays aims to provide exceptional service and unforgettable experiences tailored to the needs and desires of mature travelers, ensuring they can explore the world with like-minded peers in a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

Walking the World

Walking the World, a close-knit team of avid explorers traverses the globe in search of life-enriching adventures, and their delight lies in crafting remarkable walking journeys.

Their tailored experiences intertwine active travel, cultural immersion, and savoring delectable global cuisines. Throughout these expeditions, trekkers encounter untold beauty, foster newfound friendships, rekindle the primal joy and wonder within, and rejuvenate muscles eager for the challenge.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a renowned adventure travel company that offers small group tours to various destinations worldwide. With a commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, G Adventures focuses on providing authentic and immersive travel experiences.

Their tours cater to a wide range of interests and ages, including adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. Led by knowledgeable and passionate local guides, G Adventures tours allow travelers to connect with local communities and support local economies.

Whether it’s trekking through remote landscapes, experiencing unique cultures, or engaging in meaningful wildlife encounters, G Adventures is dedicated to creating unforgettable and socially responsible travel experiences for all.

Read 10 SAFEST CITIES TO TRAVEL AS A WOMAN OVER 50 .

Also read 5 SURPRISING PLACES TO TRAVEL IN 2023 FOR SOLO WOMEN OVER 60 .

Remember to research each travel group carefully, read reviews, and consider your specific travel preferences and needs before choosing the best one for you.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you used senior travel groups in the past? Will you be booking your next travel adventure with a travel group? Tell us about it in the comments below.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

OAT will not work with your travel agent. You have to make all your own bookings and if there is a problem, you most likely will call and get a different person every time.

I would NOT recommend G Adventures. They cater to a younger crowd, often times the accommodations are like hostels and may be uncomfortable for older people. Also, if one has limited mobility, lots of walking and vehicles driving long distances are not adequate for older people.

Tags Travel Tips and Plans

Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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How to Find Educational Trips for Retirees Who Love to Learn

Dear Savvy Senior,

My wife and I are planning to travel much more frequently in retirement and are very interested in educational trips and adventures. Can you recommend any groups or firms that specialize in this type of travel geared towards retirees?

Love to Learn

Educational travel, which combines travel with in-depth learning opportunities has become a very popular way of travel among retirees. Here are a few good places to turn to find these types of trips in the U.S. and abroad.

Tour Organizations

One of the best places to start is with Road Scholar ( RoadScholar.org ), which invented the idea of educational travel for older adults in the mid-1970s. The Boston-based organization offers 5,500 learning adventures in all 50 states and 150 countries. 

You can search for learning adventures by location, interest, activity level, and price. Road Scholar also offers “Choose Your Pace” senior travel tours that allow participants to adjust their level of challenge on a daily basis. And for skip-gen vacations, they offer tours designed specifically for grandparents traveling with their grandkids.

Recommended: 5 Activities For Outgoing Retirees Who Don’t Do Loungy Life

Another excellent option is Smithsonian Journeys ( SmithsonianJourneys.org ), a nonprofit travel group affiliated with the Smithsonian Museum. They lead 350 educational trips a year on every continent that are led by experts from a variety of fields — academia, the diplomatic corps, scientists, and curators, among others. 

If you’re seeking more adventure, you may want to consider ElderTreks ( www.ElderTreks.com ), which offers 50-plus travelers small-group adventures by both land and sea in more than 100 countries. Their trips center on adventure, culture, and nature, letting you get up close and personal with the locals. 

Academic Travel 

Another good source for educational trips is colleges and universities. Some of my favorites include Cornell University’s Adult University ( SCE.Cornell.edu/travel ), which offers a half-dozen educational trips and courses in the U.S. and abroad, each lasting a few days to a week or more. And Stanford Travel/Study ( Alumni.Stanford.edu ) offers educational travel journeys to more than 80 countries each year. 

Most college/university trips are led by faculty who share their expertise, along with regional experts and local guides, and you don’t need to be an alumnus to participate.

Also check out the Traveling Professor ( TravelingProfessor.com ), a small-group touring company led by Steve Solosky, formerly a professor at the State University of New York. They offer a dozen or so tours abroad each year and take between 8 and 16 people. 

Cruising Options

If you enjoy cruising, consider Grand Circle Travel ( GCT.com ), which offers educational travel aboard small ships, and Naturalist Journeys ( NaturalistJourneys.com ), which specializes in nature and birding tours. 

American Cruise Lines ( AmericanCruiseLines.com ) also offers more than 35 river and coastal itineraries in the Northeast, Southeast, Pacific Northwest, and along the Mississippi River. And it has themed cruises (Lewis and Clark, Mark Twain, Civil War, etc.) for people with specific historical, literary, or other interests. 

And Viking River Cruises ( VikingRiverCruises.com ), which is geared to older travelers, focuses on European art, history and culture. Each cruise makes one to two port stops a day as the ship winds its way up or down Europe’s most famous rivers like the Rhine, Seine, Danube and Douro. A free sightseeing tour is included at all stops, and special-interest excursions are available for additional fees. Viking offers tours in the United States too. 

Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org.

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Traveling With Road Scholar (Formerly Elderhostel International)

An avid freelance writer, Tamsen has penned multiple published articles along with books using her advanced degrees and certifications.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Do you want to add some education to your travels? Road Scholar , formerly Elderhostel International, is a world leader in educational travel for adults. Even with the name change, however, it is still the same great service that will let you discover and learn about the world via travel.

A Brief History of Elderhostels

Founded by Marty Knowlton and David Bianco in 1975, Elderhostel International began as just an idea as the two men spoke after Marty returned from a European walking tour that lasted four years. During that time, Marty traveled with only a backpack, staying in youth hostels.

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Creating Senior Hostels

After returning home, the former educator and free-spirited activist told David Bianco, a university administrator, about his journey. He also talked of the affordable youth hostels where he met fellow travelers and of the folk schools of Scandinavia. In the folk schools, senior citizens shared their skills and traditions with the younger generations, passing down their country's folklore, music, dance, and folk art. He told of seniors throughout Europe being active in their communities, and the two men wondered why American seniors quietly disappeared into retirement.

Inexpensive Elder Hostels and Education

It was then that David Bianco decided that his campus did not need a youth hostel. It needed an elder hostel instead. The two men developed a program combining inexpensive accommodations with interesting not-for-credit classes. The first year, 1975, five New Hampshire universities and colleges hosted 220 senior citizens in campus elderhostels.

Growing Into Elder Hostels in Europe

Word of Elderhostel programs quickly spread, and by 1980 there were programs in every state and most provinces of Canada. The following year Elderhostel offered international learning programs in Great Britain, Scandinavia, and Mexico.

Growth of Programs

As Elderhostel International continued growing in numbers, they introduced types of travel learning adventures including:

• Programs for grandparents and grandchildren
• Day of Discovery one day programs
• Road Scholar series of adventurous learning programs

Today, Road Scholar offers a vast array of different programs in more than ninety countries, all fifty states, and aboard ships. Travelers no longer stay in college dorms; instead, accommodations are in hotels and inns throughout the world.

Elderhostel International Becomes Road Scholar

Although the Elderhostel International Corporation still exists as the parent company, beginning in 2009 all the programs of Elderhostel International became known as Road Scholar. Remaining a not-for-profit 501c corporation, Road Scholar depends on private donations.

Learn Through Travel

Road Scholar excursions are appropriate for seniors who enjoy travel and who want to explore interests or learn about different cultures or locations. Though many of the trips are meant to be active, there are some trips designed specifically for lower activity seniors.

Road Scholar Offers Thousands of Learning Adventures

Each year, Road Scholar offers more than 8,000 learning adventure programs in ninety countries throughout the world including:

• The United States
• The Middle East
• The South Pacific
• The Caribbean
• South America
• Central America

Types of Road Scholar Programs

The following is a very small sampling of the thousands of educational adventure programs offered by Road Scholar.

Adventures Afloat

Adventures Afloat provides a wonderful way to gain knowledge, explore new areas and have fun. Adventures take place aboard riverboats, ocean liners, and small ships. Popular Adventure Afloat programs include:

• Enchanting Rivers of Europe: Amsterdam to Budapest - small ship
• Discovering the Jewels of the Mediterranean: Athens to Istanbul - small ship
• Beyond the Pharaohs: Egypt Past and Present - riverboat
• Ancient Portugal: Life Along the Douro River - riverboat
• The South of France by River: Wine and History from Sarlat to Bordeaux - riverboat
• Voyages to Antiquity: Athens to Rome - ocean liner
• An Insider's Perspective of the London Theater Aboard the Queen Mary 2 - ocean liner
• The Southern Caribbean and Panama Canal: A Journey Through History and Nature - ocean liner

Independent City Discoveries

Independent City Discoveries combine independent discovery with structured learning. These programs include accommodations, lectures and field trips by local experts, outlines for self-guided tours and some meals. Programs include:

• Mystical Lands: The People and Culture of India and Nepal
• The Greatest Road in Europe: Camino De Santiago
• Exploring Natural Wonders: The Real Costa Rica

Day of Discovery

Day of Discovery programs are one-day programs in various American cities such as:

• Molly Brown: A Look at Life and Legend, held in Colorado
• Sidewalk with a View: An Exploration of Downtown Los Angeles Architecture, held in California
• Preserving Museum Treasures at the Mütter Museum, held in Pennsylvania

Intergenerational Adventures

Intergenerational adventures include special programs for grandparents and grandchildren, or families with children:

• Family Ties: Grandparents, Grandchildren and Great Times held in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania
• Adventures on the Sea of Cortez: People and Wildlife
• Rocky Mountain New Year: A Family Ski-In, Ski-Out Adventure in Park City, Utah

Women-Only Programs

Women-only programs provide a variety of educational travel adventures such as:

• Wilderness Canoe Camping Trip in Maine
• Sedon'a Healing Arts for Women: Yoga, Tai Chi, Ayurveda, and More
• Hiking Adventure for Women: The Magic of Glacier National Park

Small Group Programs

Small group programs limit the number of participants to ten to twenty-four. The programs are grouped into eight activity levels. Examples of these types of programs include:

• Wolves in Winter: Track the Pack in the Minnesota Northwoods
• Autumn Whales and Seabirds, Exploring Tide Pools, Lighthouses of Grand Manan
• Walking the English Countryside: the Cotswolds and Cornwall

Individual Skills Adventures

Examples of individual skills adventures include:

• Learn to Play the Appalachian Dulcimer in West Virginia
• Photography and Natural History on the Oregon Coast
• A Culinary Voyage in Victorian Cape May, New Jersey

Cost of Traveling

The cost of the trips through Road Scholar vary widely depending on:

• The location and experience you choose
• Whether you book travel through Road Scholar or another provider
• Whether you qualify for a scholarship or grant
• If you select an experience that is on a special sale

The "Value Promise"

Road Scholar makes the claim that their excursions are around 20% less expensive per night than comparable trips from other providers.

Pros and Cons

Reviews appearing online of the Road Scholar experiences are largely positive, yet some criticisms appear. Among the negative comments, the purchase of additional insurance is mentioned as a negative aspect of the program as is rude staff; however, the positive comments far outweigh the negative comments on Yelp . Stride Travel reviewers give a cumulative 4.5 out of 5 with 87% of reviewers recommending Road Scholar. Again, reviewers on the site mention problems with the additional insurance as a concern. Insurance is brought up again by reviewers on SiteJabber , though the overall reviews are mostly positive.

The Insurance Issue

Optional trip protection is offered through Road Scholar, and it's a fairly standard policy. It reimburses you if a covered problem prohibits you from taking the trip or forces you home early. Most of the negative reviews mentioning the insurance are about people who had to cancel their trips but hadn't purchased the trip protection, and as a result, felt taken advantage of when their money wasn't refunded. Trip protection is typical when booking trips through any provider, so this is not an issue exclusive to Road Scholar.

Travel Opportunities for Seniors

Since its beginning, Elderhostel International was, and still is, dedicated to continued learning through travel. The organization is one of few that encourages seniors to travel the country, as well as the world, and provides many programs to help seniors do just that.