Re: Elderhostel
BBB - Elderhostel has changed over the years. Many people agree with your friend about the choice of the word parts "elder" and "hostel."
Originally Elderhostel catered to people who were not looking for an elegant trip, who were willing to stay in college dorms or other places that were not 5 star. Then and to this day they attract people who usually travel, are college educated, are aware of events in the world, and who want to meet with local people whereever they go.
There is also an educational component to Elderhostel. Besides learning about the place(s) you are going, you will learn about the problems they may be experiencing, visit local schools, visit a university and the list goes on. Elderhostel focuses on educating you, the tourist/visitor; in fact, they make a point that you are seen not as a tourist but as a student.
When you look at their brochure you will notice that they offer classes in many different areas: science, music, history, arts, birding, theater, and so forth. They also offer camping trips, kayaking trips, golf, and much more. They offer cruises, international tours, intergenerational programs, and the list goes on. I do not know if they still offer it, but they used to have adult camps similar to the ones you went to as a kid.
Since their inception they have become more and more expensive. This is due in part--at least I think so--to the wishes of the Elderhostel guests. They wanted to stay in places that offered more amenities, private rooms with private baths, and to go on more luxurious vacations. Remember Elderhostel started before the baby boomer generation, when people had less to spend on vacation. With the coming of the age of baby boomers who have more disposable income, the nature of the offerings changed to meet what the baby boomers wanted.
They still offer both types of venues--local to international. Some trips are less expensive than others and offer fewer amenities.
Elderhostel has maintained a very strong following to this day.
Would I recommend Elderhostel: Yes.
But as with all tour companies, please check into not only what they have to offer but evaluate how they do things, how many will be in the group, etc.
Hope this brief synopsis helps you.
HB
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