I haven't done extensive Elderhostel events but did do two: one was a day long seminar on Islam which was excellent with an intelligent group asking good questions. The other was several days in Sedona-Grand Canyon. Good program. People there were mainly middle-professional class, empty nesters and quite interested in the area - we got a lot of stuff on the geology. A number of couples or singles who arranged to go together. More discussions than doing.

I do have a friend who has gone overseas with Elderhostel and he swears by them. Very positive. I suspect the groups differ dependent upon the tour. I would suggest getting a feel by doing a short termer before investing in more involved travel with them.

Hope this is helpful.

Jo, back home in Sunnyvale CA after two weeks in Albania