Frequently Asked Questions for the Media

Here are some quick facts about Elderhostel, based on the questions we're most frequently asked. The rest of the website contains information about our programs - what they're like, how to register, what's included, and more. The options provided on the home page will point you in the right direction, but please feel free to contact us at

newsmedia@elderhostel.org

 for additional information.

Q: What year was Elderhostel founded, and where?
A: 1975, on the campuses of five colleges and universities in the state of New Hampshire. Six programs were offered among them that first year.

Q: How many programs does Elderhostel offer?
A: More than 8,000 - 6,700 in the U.S. and Canada and 2,000 internationally. They take place all around the U.S., Canada and in over 90 countries.

Q: How many attend Elderhostel programs?
A: More than 4 million people have attended our programs since our beginning. More than 160,000 adults participated in Elderhostel programs last year.

Q: How many people participate in programs in the U.S. and Canada? How many overseas?
A: Last year (2007), about 140,000 people attended domestic programs, while almost 24,000 people traveled to programs overseas.

Q: Who develops and runs the programs?
A: Elderhostel collaborates with independent educational and cultural institutions to develop and sponsor programs. Some examples include colleges, universities, museums, performing arts centers, scientific research institutes, national and state parks, and many others. Each institution has its own unique focus and resources, which makes each program distinctive.

Q: What are the most popular programs?
A: Many of our programs are popular for a variety of reasons, ranging from the subject matter of the courses, to the location, season and price. However, here are a few of the types of programs that are enjoying great popularity:

Intergenerational

programs in which Elderhostelers bring along a grandchild or other young companion. A new intergenerational program focusing on children's fantasy literature, with a spotlight on "Harry Potter," has been enthusiastically received since we offered the first sessions in Oxford, England in 2002.

one-day adventures that highlight the best of local culture in metro areas across the U.S.

learning combined with such activities as bicycling, wilderness canoeing or kayaking, horseback trail packing, hiking and more. These programs attract physically fit, active participants in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond.