What is Road Scholar?
Road Scholar programs are the next generation of learning and travel opportunities. Each program has been thoughtfully designed by people like you, who view travel as a means for discovery and a journey toward wisdom. Road Scholar casts you in the role of active participant, with hands-on activities and behind-the-scenes experiences that would be difficult or impossible to arrange on your own. Our programs not only open doors in a literal sense, they also open doors to lifelong learning with the power to change the world one viewpoint at a time.

Who is a 'Road Scholar'?
Road Scholar is for adults of all ages who want to discover the world in new, experiential ways. Road Scholars enjoy exploring on their own, but also welcome the camaraderie of sharing the journey with a small number of like-minded travelers who are passionate about learning and exploration. If you believe that moving beyond your comfort zone and stepping out of life's routines can lead to new insights and life-changing personal discovery you're a Road Scholar.

How is Road Scholar different than other organizations?
The short answer is opportunity and flexibility. Resident experts lead each program and open doors that are often closed to commercial groups and tourists. Free time incorporated into each program gives you the chance to pursue the experiences that matter most to you. But, to really understand what makes Road Scholar unique, we invite you to explore the Road Scholar website and then join us for a program to fully experience the world of difference Road Scholar offers.

What do you mean by "resident experts"?
As you explore the landmarks and landscapes of your chosen destination, academic authorities, professional specialists and native experts will be at your side to guide and enlighten you. People like Dr. Cyril Wecht, a leading forensic pathologist who will share his expertise in "Criminal Forensics: Extracting the Evidence"; Naturalist Guide, author and lecturer Peter Alden, who will lead "Antarctica: The Peninsula, South Georgia & Falklands"; geologist Stan Beus and anthropologist/archaeologist Chris Coder, both premier experts, will join you as you explore these ancient lands, sacred to the Hopi and Navajo. So, while the average traveler may be content with seeing the sights, you'll revel in the rare insights that these noted authorities have to share.

How large will my group be
By definition, Road Scholar groups are small - never more than 23 - to ensure personal attention and exceptional access at each destination.

What about accommodations and meals?
Accommodations are handpicked for their quality, regional flavor and central location. Meals, some with the group and some on your own, present you with delicious, local fare to give you yet another taste of the culture youre visiting.

What about free time to explore on my own?
Road Scholar programs combine scheduled and free time to give you the fullest, richest experience of each place you visit. Presentations and field trips explore the heart and soul of a place but we know that you'll want to explore your interests on your own as well. So we build free time into each program to give you the flexibility to pursue the things that interest you.

Is Road Scholar a not-for-profit organization?
Yes. Our status as an educational not-for-profit organization affords us unique access to people, officials and sites that are often off-limits to commercial operators and tourists. We offer extraordinary programming, accommodations and meals at remarkable value because we're not in this for the money. We're in this because we love learning and adventure as much as you do.

Is Road Scholar associated with Elderhostel?
Yes. Road Scholar is a part of Elderhostel, one of America's most respected not-for-profit organizations. For 30 years, with programs that span all 50 states and more than 90 countries, we've helped millions of people live the idea that learning is a lifelong adventure.

Where can I find out more about Road Scholar?
Please visit our website at www.roadscholar.org for more information, to sign up for free catalogs, or to enroll in a program online! You can also Introduce a Friend to this exciting new concept!