Learning and Living in Mexico

Increasing numbers of seniors are combining travel with learning opportunities through organizations such as Elderhostel and Interhostel. Many courses of instruction include learning a foreign language. In addition, an independent language school in Cuernavaca, Mexico, is attracting a growing number of senior travelers.

The Center for Bilingual Studies, founded in 1979, offers seniors a 10% discount off the $100 registration fee and 10% off the $175-per-week tuition, regardless of length of stay. A minimum of two weeks is required. The months of June, July and August are excluded.

Several American universities bring student groups to the center every year to study for college credit.

Living arrangements are made by the school: Students stay with local middle-class Mexican families, thereby immersing themselves in the language. The cost, including three meals each day, is $15 per person for two persons sharing a room, or $22 for a private room. If arrangements prove unsatisfactory for any reason, a transfer to another home is easily arranged.

Study programs run 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays, with optional additional courses from 2 to 4 p.m. New classes begin each Monday year-round, and a wide range of supplemental activities are available. Some of them are part of the teaching program, while others are modestly priced day tours to nearby cities and towns.

Leisure activities available include golf, tennis, bowling and swimming. For a brochure with complete information, contact Spanish Studies, P.O. Box 1860, Los Angeles 90078, (800) 426-4660.

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In 1977, a group of 15 senior ski buffs formed a ski club that they christened the “Over the Hill Gang.” OTHG membership has since grown to 3,400 members in 49 states and 13 countries, with ages ranging from the 50s into the 90s and composed of men and women, couples and singles. The success of the group has led to the inclusion of other sports in the program so that trips are now available for hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, climbing, sailing, horseback riding, ballooning and even bungee-jumping.

OTHG membership benefits include discounts on air fares, rental cars, resort lodging and tickets at more than 80 ski areas; cancellation and medical evacuation insurance on international group trips; a quarterly newsletter, and opportunities to participate in events sponsored by regional chapters.

For information, a copy of the current newsletter and a 1994 schedule of events, write to OTHG, 3310 Cedar Heights Drive, Colorado Springs, Colo. 80904.

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Another discount offer from Palm Springs for travelers over the age of 55 comes from the Golden Palm Villa, a 21-unit, single-story resort in the city center. Regular rates range from $60 for a standard room to $70-$90 for a one-bedroom apartment with kitchen. Larger kitchen apartments are also available at additional cost. Mature travelers get 10% off these rates.

Shuttle service to and from the Palm Springs airport is included at no extra charge. The Golden Palm Villa has two swimming pools, two spas, barbecues, color TV and laundry room. For information and reservations, call (800) 833-5675.