julie

We have been everywhere, done most everything and are now up for ideas. My husband wants to try Elderhostel or RV's? Anyone done that? What kind of folks does one meet, how are the facilities, food, cultural experiences? Have been especially intriqued with some of them in South and/or Central America where one opts for a "cultural immersion", whatever that means? Ideas, anyone.??

Susan

I don't any personal experience with Elderhostel, but I know of a couple of people who have had really good experiences with them. One took a trip to Santa Fe, the other has done several trips and really enjoyed them. I'm not quite in that age bracket yet, but it looks like an interesting possibility for the future. Love to hear more about it.

Thyra

There was a posting earlier today called <BR>"secret" Jews of Belmonte <BR>It was posted by someone who had a very interesting experience through Elderhostel. You might do a search on that and then contact one of the posters. My parents got a lot of information on Elderhostel a few years ago and the programs looked very interesting and specialized, things that were off the beaten track and the prices at that time were great. Good luck.

Donna

My dad did Elderhostel excursions once or twice a year for a dozen years and very much enjoyed them. He reported that, often, the "facilities" were plain but okay, food from one end of the spectrum to the other, some "cultural experiences" better than others with a few outstanding and the occasional one real boring. As for the folks one meets - "all kinds".

Julie

I have not personally experienced Elderhostel but have a friend who took one to Isreal and couldn't stop raving about the experience. I'd definitely give it a try. Personally I wouldn't want to be immersed in the culture of South America. Went scuba diving in Honduras and would never return but of course that is just one experience. I'm sure there are others who have had a better time. Good luck.

Dave

My wife and I have done three Elderhostels in the US and one in Spain and Portugal. <BR> <BR>Minimum age is 55, but the average usually is 65-70. Most people on the trips are very nice by the nature of the concept - they are learning trips for the more active. And they are reasonably priced. <BR> <BR>There are hundreds of programs and trips listed in two catalogs, US and international. The topics cover everthing - from actual sports (like skiing) to lectures to cruises. You would be amazed by the diversity of offerings. They are mostly sponsored by educational institutions. With every course the accommodations are listed - from dormitory to hotels. We pick those that are listed with private bathrooms. The guides and lecturers are excellent - that's what you go for. <BR> <BR>The food is good and adequate, but not great. You don't go for the food. <BR> <BR>I don't think that "cultural immersion" has any special meaning besides learning the culture intensively. <BR> <BR>We have been to South and Central America six times, and I will tell you that some that some of the programs there look wonderful. <BR> <BR>