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Visit the Most Iconic Sites Around the Globe with Roads Scholar Travel Tours

Traveling around the world is a dream for many, but it can be difficult to know where to start. Roads Scholar Travel Tours offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most iconic sites around the globe. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and carefully crafted itineraries, Roads Scholar Travel Tours makes it easy to experience some of the world’s most amazing places.

Experience World-Class Sites with Expert Guides

Roads Scholar Travel Tours offers a variety of tours that take travelers to some of the most iconic sites in the world. From exploring ancient ruins in Rome to discovering hidden gems in India, there’s something for everyone. Each tour is led by an expert guide who knows the area inside and out. They provide insight into local culture and history, as well as tips on how to get the most out of each destination. With their help, travelers can make sure they don’t miss any must-see attractions or experiences.

Enjoy Comfortable Accommodations and Carefully Crafted Itineraries

Roads Scholar Travel Tours takes care of all the details so travelers can focus on enjoying their trip. All accommodations are carefully chosen for comfort and convenience. Each tour includes transportation between destinations, as well as meals and activities that are tailored to each group’s interests. The itineraries are designed to maximize time at each destination while allowing plenty of time for rest and relaxation.

Discover Something New with Every Trip

Roads Scholar Travel Tours offers something for everyone, from first-time travelers to experienced globetrotters. Each tour is designed to give travelers a unique experience that they won’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins or discovering hidden gems, every trip is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.

With Roads Scholar Travel Tours, travelers can explore some of the world’s most iconic sites with ease and comfort. From expert guides and comfortable accommodations to carefully crafted itineraries, every trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Road Scholar Hiking and Cycling Trips - Senior Travel Forum

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I am an active widowed 75 year old. I have done cycling trips with 2 cycling companies, 1 well known, but too much "togetherness" and being at a certain place at defined time, and the other I love for its independence during the cycling, as direction are done with chalk arrows. However, the older I get, the travel to the first hotel has caused me some anxiety, going from airport via train/bus, changing trains mid way, etc. so much planning with schedules and not being well versed in a language. RS is very organized, handles travel arrangements, but the cycling is in a group, IBT style, with little independence. I am considering a hiking trip with RS, which looks as though you can walk on your own, but still be part of the group. Can one skip some of the lectures, meals, and explore on your own occasionally? Can you hike along with your own thoughts, and not have to be chatting with someone all the time. I am a friendly person, but really like being on my own, but like the safety of a group, and having things planned. I'm trying to find an active trip with a company where I have some freedom too. Any thoughts?

I’ve done 2 hiking trips with Road Scholar and a total of 10 Road Scholar programs.

Both of the hiking trips were the hike with the group variety.

One was in Yellowstone in 2009 and it would not really have been doable to strike out on your own as the hotel was not near the trailheads and there is no public transportation in Yellowstone so you’d not be able to get to/from a TH if that makes sense.

The second was in 2016 and was in England, based in Salisbury and Bath. They have changed the focus of the one a bit (thank goodness, lol). It would be possible to do your own thing on one like that one except on the transit day from one town to another.

In fact I had fallen in London before the hiking program and had a seriously swollen knee so was not able to participate on all the hikes. I managed every other day so stayed in town on the other days and saw things in both towns.

I will say that most of the participants felt the mileage was higher than advertised (mostly 8 mile days) altho the leader and owner of the company insisted not.

Where are you thinking about hiking?

I will add as a rule you can generally skip any meals or activities on a Road Scholar program. You’d let the leader know so the don’t wait for you and off you go.

Activity based programs are harder to strike out on your own just because you’ll often load up in a van and go out for the day. I’m thinking about both the hiking programs and birding programs I’ve done.

Thanks so much! Yes, I realize the hiking/biking independence has its limitations,due to schedule of transport. It is the other parts of the day that I would like to sometimes do independently, and of course I'd let the leader know. it was interesting to know about the mileage. One of the things I am somewhat concerned about is others moving too slowly with a group, I am in good shape, and I imagine if you sign up for active trips others hopefully would be as well. I was looking at the hikes in Switzerland area. In 2003, the first year I was on my own, I took a bike and barge trip from Amsterdam to Bruges. It was similar to RC, everyone in a group, with someone stationed at turns, and a sweep at the end. I found it confining, but tolerable. The part I minded the most was being on the barge every night, eating dinner with the same people, for 10 days, lol. I love people, but when I go away, I like to be in a reflective mindset, away from my usual routine and peeps, and relish some independence.

I generally do my own airfare so I can spend time before and after on my own.

I would call and talk to the Road Scholar office to confirm airport pick up for the program you are interested in.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Bicycling: Day Trips To Paradise

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• Enjoy a variety of riding options over quiet, paved rural routes and converted rails-to-trails with scenic landscapes
• Explore historic towns, French cafés, local cheeses and wines, covered bridges and the charm of lovely Vermont and Québec villages
• Expert cyclists will provide insight into the history and natural wonders of scenic North Country

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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Road Scholar .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tour operator, road scholar.

Road Scholar, the not-for-profit leader in educational travel since 1975, offers 5,500 educational tours in all 50 states and 150 countries. Alongside local and renowned experts, experience in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, from cultural tours and study cruises to walking, biking and more.

Programs For Whatever You Love to Do:

Much more than a tour, a Road Scholar program is a true learning adventure. Whether you join us in Seattle or Santiago, Beijing or Berlin, Road Scholar programs all share four unique attributes:

--Exceptional opportunities for learning and exploration through special behind-the-scenes access to the world's most fascinating treasures, led by our passionate and knowledgeable instructors.

--The shared fellowship of learning and warm camaraderie, whether a solo traveler or with a companion.

--Comfortable accommodations and appetizing meals.

--Excellent value.

Explore Your Mind and the World:

There are no grades or tests on Road Scholar programs. All that's needed is an inquiring mind, an adventurous spirit, and the belief that learning and discovery are lifelong pursuits.

Established in 1975, Road Scholar offers participants once-in-a-lifetime experiences delivered by local and world-renowned experts. Experience in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, from cultural excursions and study cruises to walking, biking and more.

Our Most Popular Tours:

Adventures Afloat Cruises: On these educational cruises, you’ll traverse some of the world's most spectacular waterways, offering you a convenient and rewarding way to learn and explore aboard ocean liners, riverboats and small ships.

Independent City Discoveries: Combine structured learning with independent discovery — each program includes hotel accommodations and some meals, lectures, expert-led field trips and detailed outlines for four self-guided excursions.

Grandparent Travel: Discover and explore together with your grandchild through interactive learning experiences and field trips. Both you and your grandchild will share the joy of learning with other grandparents and their grandchildren, bridging generations and opening doors to discovery and friendship.

National Parks: From Denali to the Everglades and countless beautiful, historic places in between, field trips to America’s National Parks reveal what tourists can’t see on their own, with specialized experts showing you how to track wildlife or lead you to the spot with the most awe-inspiring view.

Outdoor Adventures: From hiking in the Grand Canyon to exploring France by barge and bicycle, to sharpening your golf or tennis skills, these active programs exercise the body and the mind.

Service Learning: From tutoring school children or helping restore a crucial forest habitat for wildlife, to assisting with artifact restoration and museum curatorial work, Service Learning adventures are an opportunity to make a difference in the world.

Small Groups: Love to learn in a small-group setting? Check out this collection of programs that have 10-24 participants.

Why Road Scholar?

You Can't Beat Road Scholar's Remarkable Value : Our all-inclusive prices have no hidden costs. Compare the price of one of our programs to what it would cost to duplicate the experience on your own (if that's even possible) and you'll see what we mean by "remarkable value."

Lifelong Learning and Lifelong Friends : When you participate in a Road Scholar program, you will not only expand your mind, you will be in the company of other people who believe that learning is one of the best parts of life.

Instructors Who Inspire: Road Scholar instructors are both experts in their field and lifelong learners themselves who are excited to answer your questions, hear your opinions and share in your experience.

Solo Participants Love Our Programs : Road Scholar programs are renowned for being inclusive, warm and welcoming for solo participants. We can either match you with a roommate or, on most programs, you can choose to room on your own.

Think Outside the Tour : The educational focus of Road Scholar programs makes us completely different from a commercial travel tour. Road Scholar programs offer educational experiences that answer the what's, the why's and the how-to's.

You Go Where Others Can't : We've been offering educational experiences since 1975 and we've made connections with educators and other local "insiders" all around the world, creating learning opportunities that show you the world in a way that just can't be done on your own or on a "tour."

We've Covered All the Bases : From expert-led lectures and field trips to comfortable lodgings and meals, we handle all the details, including the ones you might not anticipate. We've taken the worry out of the planning, so you can focus on your learning experience.

Peace of Mind Through the Road Scholar Travel Assistance Plan : The Road Scholar Travel Assistance Plan, which is purchased on behalf of every participant, provides 24-hour emergency assistance in the unlikely case of a medical emergency.

Scholarships for Those in Financial Need : Each year, Road Scholar awards $250,000 in scholarships toward programs in North America for those who do not have the financial means to participate.

Our Donors : Each year, thousands of donors contribute to our Annual Fund, helping to cover the gap between the tuition we charge and the actual cost of our programs.

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The Scoop: What to Know About Road Scholar

This nonprofit tour company has an inspiring educational focus..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

Part of what we do here at TourScoop is use our (human) travel expertise to vet tour companies so you have an easy way to get a bunch of trustworthy information all in one place. Today we’re digging into Road Scholar, a popular tour company that’s been around for nearly 50 years. Read on to find everything you need to know to confidently make the decision about whether it’s a good fit for you.

Road Scholar (previously known as Elderhostel) is a tour company with a difference: Since 1975 the company has been run as a nonprofit organization with an educational mission as its primary focus. That means a few things: since it’s a nonprofit, Road Scholar offers excellent value (tours aren’t priced for profit). I also like that it’s unusual among tour companies because it offers both financial aid and caregiver grants. And since it’s education-driven, the tour operator attracts a particularly curious and educated group of travelers, including many retired educators. 

Road Scholar’s 4,000 offerings include small group tours, grandparent-grandchild trips, cruises, private jet adventures, and tours focused on passions including birding, food and drink, and history.

TourScoop Takeaways: Road Scholar

• Continents Covered: 7
• Price Range: Typically, U.S. programs cost $380 per day and international tours cost $413 per day, though there’s variation. Road Scholar’s educational travel programs range from $799 for a six-day program in North Carolina to $50,000 for a three-week private jet program. Road Scholar also offers online lectures that range in price from free to $25. 
• Tour Size Average: Road Scholar’s small group programs max out at 24 travelers, but the company also runs larger programs with hundreds of participants who are then broken into small groups for activities. 
• Tour Types: Coach, ship, plane, train

How to Book

Road Scholar tours can be booked directly through Road Scholar ; via Travelstride , a tour specialist OTA (online travel agent) that offers more than 1,500 Road Scholar trips; or through a travel agent such as AAA .

Credibility Check

Road Scholar is a BBB accredited charity that meets the standards for charity accountability. It has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Facebook . Tour-focused online travel agency TourStride past guests gives Road Scholar a 4.4 out of 5.

Tour Destinations

Road Scholar operates tours on seven continents and to nearly 100 countries. In the U.S., it offers itineraries to most states, and internationally, its most popular destinations include Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, and Italy. 

Road Scholar offers hundreds of programs on a variety of topics, with thousands of departures annually. Since it’s a nonprofit organization with an educational mission, everything it does is about learning, and it weaves in educational visits, lectures, and events into every trip.

On the website, you can filter trips by hobbies or what you want to learn about, from Military History to Native American Studies, Birding, Pickleball, or another topic. You can also filter the course catalog by activity level, from “Easy Going” to  “Outdoor: Challenging.”

Road Scholar also offers Adventures Afloat (cruises), skip-gen programs geared to grandparents and grandchildren traveling together, and virtual tours that range from one-hour lectures to multi-day online adventures. 

Tour Guides

As an education-focused tour organization, Road Scholar refers to its group leaders and instructors as faculty . Faculty members–many of whom have been working with Road Scholar for a decade or more–are local experts with years of experience in travel and academics. Group leaders receive initial training and receive yearly professional development to ensure they’re at the top of their game. 

In addition to faculty, tour participants meet a broad range of experts on tour, experts that range from shrimp boat captains to award-winning authors. 

Inclusions/Extras

Road Scholar programs are all-inclusive and have no optional extras or hidden expenses. The price of a tour includes: 

• Accommodations, 
• Experienced Group Leader
• Expert-led lectures and field trips
• Most meals (some meals during free time not included)
• Gratuities throughout the program, including group leader gratuities
• Road Scholar Assurance Plan   (24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during a program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation)

Flights to and from the tour are not included in base program prices, bu Road Scholar will book flights for participants traveling internationally. Flights booked through Road Scholar also include complimentary airport transfers.

Typical Travelers

If you don’t count kids in the mix on the Grandparent and Family programs, the average age of a Road Scholar participant is 72. But trips generally include a wide range of older travelers from people in their 50s through 90s. About 30% of participants are solo travelers, and of that 30% about 85% are women traveling on their own. Road Scholar trips are generally reported to be very welcoming to solo travelers. 

Communication 

Once you’ve booked a tour with Road Scholar, the sends regular emails leading up to trip departures. You can also access your trip information online: once you’re enrolled in a program, all trip information is accessible via your online account.

Road Scholar’s U.S.-based contact center (800-454-5768) is open 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (ET), Monday through Friday. Monday is the contact center’s busiest day, so to avoid long wait times, call midweek or at the end of the week if you can). Road Scholar has callback feature, which allows you to save your place in the queue without having to wait on the phone–a representative calls you back as soon as it’s your turn in line.

Loyalty Program

Because Road Scholar is a nonprofit organization, discounts are not offered, including for repeat travelers. But the company is dedicated to making travel affordable for more travelers, and offers financial aid and caregiver grants . 

Private Options

Groups made up of between 18 and 24 people can reserve private departures of existing itineraries with Road Scholar. If you organize a group of 20 or more, you can take advantage of group discounts or free travel for one person. 

Sustainability Efforts

Road Scholar offsets some of the carbon emissions created through travel on its programs. It invests in projects including rainforest preservation in Brazil, methane gas recapture in Florida, and reforestation in Kenya. The company also tries to use sustainability certified hotels, locally owned services, and restaurants that serve locally sourced meals whenever possible.  

Health and Safety Practices

Road Scholar has partners on the ground worldwide who monitor all areas visited by the company. If concerns arise, Road Scholar will find replacement content or cancel the program, depending on the severity and location of the issue.

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