Evergreen Club Travel for Over 50s | Affordable & Meaningful Stays
- We Hear You
- Nov 1
- 3 min read
For many travellers aged 50 and over, the search for meaningful, affordable lodging leads beyond hotels and resorts. Enter the Evergreen Club — a unique hospitality network offering homestays and B&B options that cater to seniors seeking connection, value, and authenticity. With membership, you gain access to a community of like-minded travellers and hosts across North America. Here's why this model works — and what you should know if you’re considering it.
What Is the Evergreen Club?
The Evergreen Club (also referenced as the “Evergreen B&B Club” in some older sources) was founded in 1982 and offers over 1,900 homestay locations in the United States and Canada. Evergreen Club. Membership works like this: you pay annual dues (for example, USD $120 for hosts in North America) and in return you receive a directory or online access listing members’ spare rooms. You can stay at another’s home for a modest daily “gratuity” ($20 for two people, or $15 for a solo traveller) which typically includes a breakfast and friendly hospitality. Evergreen Club As one senior-travel blogger noted:
“For more than four decades, Evergreen B&B Club has been providing seniors affordable accommodations … Comfortable lodgings in private homes with folks who care about you.” Real Food Traveler
Why It’s Especially Appealing for Seniors - Evergreen Club travel for seniors
Affordability – Instead of typical hotel rates, many guests report stays for USD $15–$20 per night including breakfast. bellaonline.com
Connection – Staying in a private home often leads to deeper local interaction, genuine hospitality and community. One reviewer noted hosting neighbours who took them sightseeing and treated them “like family”. bellaonline.com
Flexibility & Simplicity – Choose your stay based on preferences (private bathroom, pets allowed, etc.). Hosts specify their amenities and guests contact them directly. Evergreen Club
Community of 50+ Travellers – This model appeals especially to “empty nesters” or retired travellers who value experiences over luxury. Real Food Traveler
How to Use Evergreen Club Travel Smartly
Check membership details: Review the annual dues and gratuity fees — membership status and hosting obligations matter.
Choose hosts wisely: Use filters (private bath, pets, non-smoking) and read member profiles.
Plan your travel rhythm: Because this isn’t a commercial hotel chain, availability can vary; plan ahead and consider backup options.
Be prepared to host (if applicable): Some members host 3–5 times/year on average, helping keep the network alive. Real Food Traveler
Understand the trade-off: While cost-effective and community-oriented, you won’t always get the “luxury resort” amenities; it's about authenticity and connection.
What the Reviews Say & What to Consider
On the plus side, reviewers consistently highlight the value and hospitality:
One article described Evergreen as “the best-kept secret in affordable travel for seniors,” emphasizing the comfort of stays and savings. Real Food Traveler
Another review noted “savings of hundreds on one trip” after joining. bellaonline.com
However, potential travellers should be aware of limitations:
Because homes are private residences, room types and accessibility vary widely.
Some reviews of broader “travel club” models warn about hidden fees or expectations. Reddit
It may require flexibility in travel plans, as you’re working with hosts’ schedules rather than hotel availability.
Is Evergreen Club a Good Fit for You?
If you’re a senior traveller who:
Values meeting people and experiencing local life
Wants to stretch your travel budget without sacrificing comfort
Prefers slower, more meaningful stays over luxury resortsThen the Evergreen Club travel for seniors model is an excellent option.
If instead you prefer guaranteed nightly availability, full-service hotels, or chain-style amenities, you may want to use Evergreen as one component of your travel toolkit rather than your sole lodging method.
Final Thoughts
The Evergreen Club offers a compelling alternative for older travellers looking to travel smart, connect deeply, and spend less. With thousands of host homes across North America, it presents a unique community-based model that resonates with active seniors. Just be sure to review membership requirements, host limitations, and personal preferences as part of your planning.
For seniors including those at Innisfil Hearing, this model aligns beautifully with a broader wellness approach—travel well, live meaningfully, stay connected, and value experience over excess.
Need a hearing wellness check. Book in with us.
Comments