Elderhostel: Frequently Asked Questions

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Questions

1. How did Elderhostel get started?
2. Who are Elderhostelers?
3. How long is an Elderhostel Program?
4. What if someone has a disability?
5. What if I can't afford the cost of attending?
6. What does a typical program consist of?

1. How did Elderhostel get started?

Elderhostel schools of Scandinavia founder Marty Knowlton, a social activist and educator, was impressed by the way in which the availability of a network of modest accommodations encouraged and nurtured an adventuresome hostelling spirit in European youth. He also observed the very positive impact a residential setting had on adult education programs offered by the folk high schools. In 1975, five colleges and universities in New Hampshire offered the first Elderhostel to 200 pioneer participants. The program is now a network of more than 1800 colleges, universities, conference centers, environmental education schools, museums, state and national parks, and other academic and cultural institutions throughout the United States, Canada, and in 45 countries overseas. (Back to questions)

 

2. Who are Elderhostelers?

At one of our typical programs, you will find 20-50 participants from all walks of life and from all across the United States.

 

The Boston office has periodically surveyed hostellers to find out who these active, educationally curious folks are. Based on their latest survey, here are some key facts about the people we serve:

• Sixty-one percent are female. Thirty-nine percent are male.
• Fifty percent are 70 years or older. Thirty-one percent are between the ages of 65 and 69. Nineteen percent are 64 years or younger.
• Seventy percent are married. Twenty percent are widowed.
• Sixty-nine percent are retired completely.
• Forty-six percent have a four-year college degree or more. Twenty percent have a Masters Degree.
• Sixty-seven percent attended their most recent Elderhostel program with a spouse or relative; twenty-seven percent with a friend.
• Seventy-eight percent were completely satisfied with the last Elderhostel they attended; only two percent were somewhat dissatisfied.
• Twenty-seven percent traveled between 200 and 500 miles to their last program. Twenty-five percent traveled between 500 and 1000 miles. Thirty-two percent traveled more than 1000 miles. (Back to questions)

3. How long is an Elderhostel Program?

Programs are usually one week in length, beginning on Sunday afternoon and ending Saturday morning. The program wraps up on Friday, often with a "farewell" gathering. After Saturday's breakfast, hostellers begin their journey home. We do offer some shorter programs, called "snapshots" to give people a "taste" of the Elderhostel program. (Back to questions)

 

4. What if someone has a disability?

Participants with physical disabilities are welcome. However, as the physical limitations of individuals can vary, so do the physical characteristics of each program. Generally, we need to be notified well in advance and will make arrangements for these individuals. Most accommodations are approved for those with diabilities.  (Back to questions)

 

5. What if I can't afford the cost of attending?

Hostelships (scholarships) are available to help those people who cannot afford the cost of attending Elderhostel. Hostelships are not intended as travel grants and are normally used "close to home." (Back to questions)

 

6. What does a typical program consist of?

• A six-night program beginning Sunday afternoon and ending Saturday morning.
• Two courses, each meeting 1 ½ hours per day for five days (7 ½ contact hours each, or 22 ½ hours per week total instructional time).
• Housing in a local motel, in a lodge, or in a cabin.
• 17 meals provided (Sunday dinner through Saturday breakfast).
• Maximum enrollment of 50 (including commuters); minimum enrollment of 20 (unless program can operate with fewer than 20 participants).
• A variety of extracurricular activities. (Back to questions)