The older adult years offer some wonderful opportunities. Many people find that they finally have time for travel or education. But many older adults hesitate when they think of college classes.

One of the best ways to enjoy educational opportunities is through Elderhostel. This is a non-profit educational organization that is open to anyone aged 60 or over. If you are over age 60 but your spouse is between 50 and 60, he or she can still participate. Courses are noncredit, with no exams, grades, or homework. Some courses take place in regular classroom type situations, at any of around two thousand settings around the world. Some courses are in the field - in a national park, on a Native American reservation, or in the wild.

If you're used to going first-class all the way, Elderhostel may surprise you. The word "hostel" is from the dormitory-like settings where youths in Europe often stay when traveling. If you're taking a field trip with Elderhostel, you'll usually get student housing and student food.

Many older adults love Elderhostel, and many are return participants. For more information and a free catalog, write: Elderhostel, 75 Federal Street, Boston, MA, 02110.

If it turns out that you are interested in that new college degree or that new career after all, don't let age discourage you. Most college professors are delighted to have seniors in their classes. Many colleges and universities allow adults over 65 to take a certain number of courses for credit each semester for free. Others offer reduced rates for seniors. Many offer scholarships to older adults. Contact your local college or university enrollment office for more information.

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