Specialty Travel Resources

· International Ecotourism Society , 202-347-9203, Ext. 275, http://www.ecotourism.org/ . Ask ecotourism questions of organization members or become a member for $35 and use the Web site to find tour operators, eco-friendly lodging and specialized info by region.

· National Audubon Society, 800-967- 7425, http://www.audubon.org/ . The world- wide natural-history-focused "Nature Odysseys" work with companies that adhere to the society's eco-sensitive travel ethics.

· National Park Service, 888-467-2757, http://www.nationalparks.org/ . A site for anything and everything to do with traveling to national parks. Recreation.gov offers information on wildlife watching, hunting/fishing permits and information on Federal Recreation Pass programs, like the Golden Age Passport, which includes admission to national parks and discounts for those 62 and older; $10 for a lifetime pass.

· Nature Conservancy , 800-633-4734 , http://www.nature.org/aboutus/travel . Its "Conservation Journeys" division partners with eco-tour companies in some of the world's "Last Great Places" and highlights a few destinations annually (this year it's partnered with International Expeditions for trips to the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve and Honduras).

Educational/Language

· Interhostel, 800-733-9753, http://www.learn.unh.edu/interhostel . The University of New Hampshire-sponsored trips mix lectures and excursions for travelers over age 50.

· Lingua Service Worldwide, 800-394- 5327, http://www.linguaserviceworldwide.com/ . The independent agency represents schools for 10 languages with intensive programs in about 15 countries. Prices are listed in dollars for easy comparisons.

· Shaw Guides, 212-799-6464, http://www.shawguides.com/ . A comprehensive source with more than 5,700 listings for cultural, art, photography, language and cooking vacations, with links to more complete info.

· Smithsonian Journeys, 877-338-8687, http://www.smithsonianjourneys.org/ . Premier (and expensive) worldwide educational programs organized by the venerable Smithsonian, including trips based on Smithsonian magazine stories. Members only, but the $29-per-household fee can be applied to your trip.

· Study Abroad.com, 610-499-9200, http://www.studyabroad.com/ . Listings shouldn't be taken as endorsements, but the site is a good resource for undergrads looking for different study abroad options, with separate categories for non-students and those 55 and older.

Family

· Family-Reunion.com, http://www.family-reunion.com/ . "Mister Spiffy" offers hints on good reunion locations, organizational tips, entertainment suggestions and geneology guidelines, all with a sense of humor.

· FamilyFun.com, http://www.familyfun.com/travel . Disney-produced Web site with many non-Disney vacation ideas, plus travel checklists and tips for those with tweens.

· Family Travel Files, http://www.thefamilytravelfiles.com/ . Special features include a Vacation Ideas Directory (organized geographically) and a list of special events and festivals organized by state.