Elderhostel Has A New Name - Exploritas
Drops Age Level on All-Inclusive Guided Tours, Learning Vacations
Sep 20, 2009
The nonprofit travel and educational organization Elderhostel has arranged guided and individual tours in the U.S. and abroad for thousands of seniors. At one time the age requirement was 60 or older, then 55 or older. Now, with its numbers declining, it is changing its name to Exploritas and opening enrollment in its programs to all adults 21 and older.
“Exploritas is new, but the engaging programs, the spirit, the fun and camaraderie are the same that millions of people have experienced over the last 34 years with Elderhostel,” wrote President Jim Moses on the company website. He noted that the new name is a combination of “explore” and “veritas,” the Latin word for “truth.”
As part of its makeover, Exploritas programs are expanded starting in 2010, although popular programs such as intergenerational trips, “day of discovery” one-day programs, “road scholar” (more expensive small group trips aimed at boomers), and “adventures afloat” (cruises with an educational component), continue to be offered.
Elderhostel’s New Domestic Tours
New for 2010 domestically are “independent Explorations” in major cities such as New York, Santa Fe, Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and New Orleans. A press release says these programs include “structured lectures and activities,” but also allow time for people to go off on their own and look into their own interests at their own pace. There also is a chance for participants on each trip to discuss their “experiences and adventures.” These trips are under the general heading of Road Scholar, according to a spokeswoman.
Elderhostel’s More Flexible International Trips
Exploritas still offers programs around the world but they are adding shorter trips for those with limited time or budget. Some programs are linked so enrollees with more time and money can do two back to back. As an example, the company’s Hidden Rome and Hidden Florence tours “are eight-night experiences that offer a behind-the-scenes view of the city with private access to museums and palazzo. Participants can choose to explore one or both cities at a time depending on their needs,” a press fact sheet says.
Why Name Change to Exploritas?
The changes are intended to bring in more baby boomers. “We want people in their 50s to stop thinking it’s for someone who’s 75,” Moses told the Wall Street Journal, which reported the change on Sept. 19, 2009. The article said the average age of Elderhostel tourists currently is about 73.
As Exploritas, the outfit has about 8,000 offerings, including wonderful winter ski trips. Its redesigned website adds a social networking section where participants can keep up with people they have traveled with, share photos and stay updated on where their friends are going.
With its new name, Exploritas hopes to build on the “lifelong learning” theme it always has had and attract younger travelers while retaining its emphasis on both education and worldwide travel.
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