Exploritas, formerly known as Elderhostel, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing fun and educational travel experiences for adults 55 or older. Founded in 1975, Elderhostel aims at providing life-long learning opportunities for Americans who want to stay active after they retire. The two founders, impressed with the youth hostel model in Europe as well as with how integrated (rather than isolated) seniors were not only with their communities but with the next generation, wanted to encourage American elders to remain culturally engaged and active.

Learning is the goal of each Exploritas program. Every year Exploritas offers almost 8,000 different programs at prices geared toward retired people who may be on a fixed income. The programs often provide participants with both education and adventure. And though each trip is led by instructors who are authorities on the area being visited or the topic being explored, participants are encouraged to contribute their own knowledge and experience as well.

Exploritas programs vary from 1-day “Day of Discovery” programs for local residents to further explore their own locales to longer trips to cities and places of interest all over the U.S. and the world. The following are some of the most popular Exploritas programs:

Adventures Afloat includes programs like trips to Scotland to visit and learn about the fjords and islands of the country; trips down the Amazon to study the history of the Incans; and a tour of the rivers of Europe.

Independent City Discoveries offer in-depth explorations of some of America’s cities. The programs include hotel rooms, some meals, talks by local experts, field trips, and tips for self-guided tours.

Outdoor Adventure programs include sports-oriented trips in the U.S. and all over the world. Whether water sports or winter sports—or hiking, biking, and golf—activity levels are always defined so you can select the appropriate challenge.

Women-only and Grandparent Travel offer specially oriented trips and activities.

Exploritas even has a scholarship program. Funded in large part from the $3 million of donations collected every year, about $300,000 in scholarships are awarded annually for the North American programs, helping Exploritas meet its mission of keeping programs affordable and available to all older adults who wish to participate.