I met a lady yesterday who recommended ‘Elder Hostel’ for European travel for us ol’ folk. I may just have to go see for myself, how beautiful some of these places are.
(Did you know there are 256 castles in Switzerland?)
256 seems to ring a bell with us nerdy types. :)
If you want to travel first class the Paradores of Spain are just the ticket.
“The Spanish Paradores are hotels for luxury accommodation in Castles, Palaces, Fortresses, Convents, Monasteries and other historic buildings. There are also modern hotels, built in traditional style, in areas of outstanding beauty.”
The government decided to turn all these wonderful building into hotels so that they would not fall into disrepair as no one could afford their upkeep. They are wonderful places quite unlike any hotel you have ever visted. Over 60s get a 30% discount and only one has to be over 60 if they share a room.
Elder Hostels are a wonderful way to travel especially if one is alone. She will have lots of fun and it will not break the bank.
I first heard about them many years ago when an 85 yo single friend of ours in the USA, said she was going on holiday with the Elder Hostel. I believe they slept in the dormitories in the University of Wisconsin and each day had a couple of hours of a course of their choice - she chose ART, as she was a volunteer guide, one day each week, at the NY Metropolitan Museum of Art.
During the rest of the time they could travel as a group to various events or simply do their own thing. They use the University´s facilities during the vacations, both the University and the old folk benefit.
They cater for just about every type of holiday imaginable, a great choice for your friend.