Diana Lynn is the Elderhostel Coordinator at the Bermuda Biological Station for Research at Ferry Reach, St. George's and gives us an immense insight into the Elderhostel programme.

"Elderhostel is a non-profit organisation committed to being the preeminent provider of high quality, affordable educational opportunities for older adults. We believe learning is a lifelong process; sharing new ideas, challenges, and experiences is rewarding in every season of life,'' she explained.

Founded in 1975 by Marty Knowlton, a social activist and educator, and David Bianci, an administrator at the University of New Hampshire, Elderhostel began on five campuses in New England.

In Bermuda, the programme began in 1982 and focuses on ecotourism. From the beginning it was popular and Ms Lynn has run a successful programme for nine years. She has two assistants, Liz Pedro and George Outerbridge.

Elderhostel visitors to Bermuda live on campus at the BioStation and enjoy their hearty meals at the facility's expansive dining hall.

They are interested in Bermuda's maritime history and the northern most coral reef system in the world. Bermuda's reefs provide magnificent sea gardens full of rainbow coloured fish. Another focus is Island life and Bermuda's flora and fauna.

Courses are taught by BioStation staff and guest lecturers from around the Island and the world. Schedules include lectures in the morning and field trips, (walking, boating, or swimming and snorkling) in the afternoon. Biking tours include all day biking and there are evening programmes all for one low price.

Boston is the home base of Elderhostel. They offer residential education programmes throughout the US and around the world. They have a world wide network of about 2000 participating institutions.

There are programmes in every American state and Canadian province as well as over 70 foreign countries. Elderhostel participants enrol in over a quarter million programmes annually.

Elderhostelers come together as an assortment of diverse individuals who share a common passion for learning. This bond creates a positive group spirit and rich environment for personal and intellectual growth.

Ms Lynn has educational degrees in anthropology, zoology and art and considers herself somewhat of an entertainer rather than just a host.

"I try to provide an environment for transformation. It is exciting watching people making connections they have never made before. For example, I find teaching an 80 year old how to snorkle around Bermuda's reefs so exhilarating! I enjoy helping others discover the Island's beauty and no one is ever too old to discover,'' she said smiling.

When Ms Lynn was asked about her background in senior relations she advised: "This is a new field. I grew up with my grandmother and naturally I was around older people from a young age. In this job you cannot suffer from ageism and you must have a keen interest in outdoor education and the ability to share joy with older people.'' Ms. Lynn explained that individuals 55 years of age and older are eligible. A spouse, or an adult companion, may attend with an age-eligible participant Elderhostel encourages diversity and welcomes people of all races, colours and religion.

Asked about her view point on the aging process Ms Lynn responded, "I don't view it. Age is a part of evolution. The mind expands even if the body breaks down. I believe it is important to put more energy into the body rather than less to allow your mind to expand.

"Do whatever it takes to keep the vehicle going! Do daily enjoyable exercise.

Try to stay strong yet flexible. Take to heart all the advice your mother and grandmother gave you.'' Ms. Lynn is always on the look out for mobile volunteers to assist with field trips and social events. If you are interested please contact her by calling 441-297-1880, fax is 441-297-8143 and email: dlynn y bbsr.edu. You can check out their web page: www.bbsr.edu/Education/Elderhostel .

Coordinator: Diana Lynn has a passion for learning. "I try to provide an environment for transformation.'' Bio visitors: These Elderhostel travelers, led by George Outerbridge, (centre), enjoy exploring Hamilton's Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

Their learning bond creates a positive group spirit focusing on intellectual growth.

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