We went on an afternoon whale-watching cruise among islands in the Bay of Fundy and visited a cranberry bog with a park naturalist. We also enjoyed an evening's performance of Roosevelt-era folk music by a local schoolteacher, and other presentations and excursions. Over the years, Elderhostel has remained successful because it has adapted to the changing needs and desires of folks 55 and older. At first, dormitory lodgings often meant cafeteria food, bathrooms down the hall and sometimes separate quarters for men and women, even spouses. As new programs were added, more each year offered accommodations at conference centers, lodges and motels, and university sites with private baths.
Some domestic programs continue to offer classes in three subjects, but most have changed.
The framework became more complex as field trips were added so hostelers could learn about a particular region, as occurred during our Campobello week. International programs, introduced in 1981, have always had a different format from domestic ones. They last longer, are of varying lengths, may include stays in more than one city or country, and have such general themes as the art of colonial Mexico or the imperial cities of Potsdam and Berlin in Germany. International participation has grown in double-digit percentages every year, except during the Gulf War. Now, Elderhostel also offers volunteer programs through Habitat for Humanity, Oceanic Society and other organizations.