Road Scholar is the new name for the programs developed and offered by Elderhostel, Inc., the not-for-profit world leader in lifelong learning since 1975. Its mission is to empower adults to explore the world’s places, peoples, cultures and ideas, and in so doing to discover more about themselves.
Lifelong learning should be defined by one’s outlook, not by one’s age. Road Scholar develops and offers programs specifically for people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. In a world that seems to shrink smaller by the day because of technology, Road Scholar believes that true insight and understanding are still sparked by hands-on experience and open discussions that stimulate the senses, energize the body and challenge the mind. Sharing new ideas, challenges and experiences is rewarding in every season of life and the participants come together as a group of diverse individuals who share a passion for learning.
Road Scholar is educational—participants are considered students, not tourists. Their travel programs are for the enjoyment of learning; there is no homework, no exams or grades and no special educational background is needed or required. Programs are rated by activity level so that participants can select itineraries best suited to their intellectual curiosity, physical ability and comfort.
Discover nearly 8,000 educational tours in all 50 states and more than 90 countries, including intergenerational programs designed to share your love of learning and thrill of discovery with your grandchildren. Choose from land or ship-based itineraries around the world. Through special behind-the-scenes access, you get exceptional opportunities for learning and authentic experiences while exploring the world’s most fascinating treasures at a great value.
Road Scholar may be just right for you … all that’s needed is an inquiring mind, an adventurous spirit and the belief that learning and discovery are lifelong pursuits. A fellowship of learning and the joy of discovery are the hallmarks of the Road Scholar experience.
Pacific Islands Institute has been offering Road Scholar group programs in Hawai‘i and throughout the Pacific islands of Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia since 1989. Through its educational programs, Pacific Islands Institute is dedicated to providing positive cultural interactions; to ensuring our programs are culturally and environmentally sensitive; to involving local people in decision making; and to protecting, sustaining and respecting indigenous cultures and environments. This local company has been recognized with awards from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau and the Hawai‘i Ecotourism Association.
A sampling of Road Scholar travel programs provided by Pacific Islands Institute:
Hawai‘i National Parks: Island Life in the Pacific
This 16-day, 15-night program features national parks, historic sites, wildlife refuges and state parks on five Hawaiian Islands. Follow the journey of Pele, Hawai‘i’s volcano goddess, from Kīlauea’s current eruption in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, to Haleakalā on Maui for a bird’s eye view into the volcanic crater, enjoying black sand beaches, stunning waterfalls and fascinating remnants of ancient Hawai‘i along the way. Then on to Kalaupapa, on Moloka‘i’s peninsula, where Father Damien ministered to Hansen’s Disease patients; then to Kaua‘i where you will see Waimea, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and watch seabirds soar over the lighthouse and cliffs. End your stay in famous Waikīkī, including a visit to the USS Arizona, a moving memorial to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Led by former park rangers and local cultural historians you will gain unique insider perspectives as you experience Hawai‘i’s flora, fauna and cultural history.
Intergenerational South Pacific: The Future of the Oceans
On this intergenerational adventure starting with 3 nights in Tahiti and then cruising for 7 nights to the French Polynesian islands of Bora Bora, Tahaa, Raiatea and Moorea, you and your grandchild—or even three generations if their parent(s) wish to enroll—will have a hands-on, interactive experience of French Polynesia’s marine and island ecosystems. Explore coral reefs, hike rainforest trails and much more. This voyage on the MS Paul Gauguin is specially designed to be an exciting and memorable learning experience for all ages.
Following Captain Cook
The Cook Islands & Society Islands: On this 15- night South Pacific odyssey, spend 3 nights in Tahiti and then set sail on the MS Paul Gauguin to discover the isle of Huahine, renowned for its spectacular rainforests, experience the unique majesty of the Cook Islands, then return to the Society Islands of French Polynesia for days in alluring Bora Bora, Tahaa, Moorea and Tahiti.
Documenting the Past
The Easter Island Archaeology Project: Join archaeologists and other researchers for a hands-on exploration of one of the world’s most mysterious and fascinating places. Learn archaeological research techniques and contribute to a growing body of research to bring the mysteries of Rapa Nui into view.
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