Road Scholar is an exciting new learning-travel opportunity for adults of all ages. Developed by the not-for-profit Elderhostel organization – well known and respected for its lifelong learning programs for age 55+ adults – Road Scholar is designed to serve individuals who desire more opportunities for independent exploration, yet still want an educational focus coupled with the convenience of a pre-arranged travel experience.

2. What makes Road Scholar unique?

Road Scholar programs provide an educational, congenial atmosphere conducive to self-guided learning. In contrast to traditional Elderhostel programs, which are geared toward group activities and a structured curriculum of lectures, excursions and meals, Road Scholar programs have fewer scheduled activities, meals, and excursions – giving participants more independence to explore on their own. Group size is also smaller, with a maximum of 23 for Road Scholar programs, as compared to the maximum of 50 for many Elderhostel programs. Keeping group size limited to 23 or less permits access to special places and opportunities not open to larger groups. In addition, Road Scholar uses 3- and 4-star hotel accommodations for all its programs, in contrast to the use of mainly modest-but-comfortable lodgings for Elderhostel programs.

3. What are Road Scholar programs like?

Road Scholar programs are designed to appeal to adults of all ages, and especially so to those who enjoy an independent and active adventure. While each program includes a daily group lecture or presentation, the itinerary always includes options for special activities or excursions and self-directed exploration.

Study topics are geared to individuals who are interested in contemporary culture and the events of recent decades. For example, Road Scholars can travel to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos to examine those countries’ complex transitions from traditional cultures to modern economies and the impact of the Vietnam War. Or, they can immerse themselves in the vibrant European, Cajun and Creole customs, festivals, cuisine and music of New Orleans. Physical adventure might include an exploration of the Alaskan wilderness that takes Road Scholars to remote lodges in the tundra, or a rafting adventure in West Virginia, in which participants navigate whitewater while studying geology and natural history. In all Road Scholar programs, participants have some scheduled daily lectures or presentations as a group, then are given choices for afternoon excursions, special excursions or lectures, or free time for independent exploration.

4. Who is a ‘Road Scholar?’

Active, inquisitive adults of all ages may participate in Road Scholar programs. However, our expected participants are those in their 50s and 60s who prefer a learning-travel experience with more independence, fewer scheduled activities, smaller group sizes, and flexibility to spend some mealtimes on their own.