NATIVE AMERICAN TOURS “ADVENTURES IN HERITAGE”

BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

 

Thinking of yourself as a visitor or guest instead of as a tourist will give you a good starting point for being a responsible traveler. While on your tour, it is important to remember that the Earth is sacred to Native Americans and should be treated as such. Be respectful and do not disturb protected areas. Always ask permission before photographing anyone on pueblos and reservations and never photograph a religious ceremony. Dispose of your garbage properly and whenever possible take your waste with you when you leave. Do not, however, take things like artifacts, plants or rocks from tribal lands.

You will have opportunities on your journey to purchase Native American jewelry and art, but you will want to confer with your guides first since the market is overwhelmed by mass-produced fakes. Though it is illegal under current law to sell goods under the label "Native Made" if they are not, three quarters of the market still consists of foreign and domestic imitations. Buy directly from the artist whenever possible and please do not be tempted to bargain them down for their wares. Most handmade products are very labor intensive and for many Native Americans, this is their livelihood!

Your tour operator should be able to help you determine what to bring on the trip. The climate will vary greatly depending on where you are headed but as a starting point, you should remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a sunhat for daytime and a fleece jacket and a sweater for layering in case temperatures dip at night. Dress casually (t-shirts and jeans) and make sure to stow a solid pair of walking shoes. When it comes to fashion, dress sensibly since over-exposure of bare skin may be offensive to your hosts.

Your accommodations will be a big factor in determining what else you need to bring. Ranging from established hotel chains to log cabins in national parks to tipi camp circles, accommodations provided by a Native American tour operators vary depending on the operator and the trip. If you will be camping, you may need to bring camping gear. Some operators will provide this gear for you while others will not. Be sure to check. As for food, some operators offer three meals a day while others only provide lunch. If you have special dietary concerns, ask ahead of time to determine if they offer alternative meal options.

If you are traveling on an international scale, you will need a valid passport and sometimes a visa. Make sure to obtain these items well in advance of your travel dates. Before you leave, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection web site for information on duty rates, policies on items bought while traveling and the latest information on security screening measures. To protect against baggage loss, trip cancellation or interruption and unexpected health emergencies, consider obtaining travel insurance.

Perhaps the most important thing you can do to prepare for your trip is read up on the areas and tribes you will be visiting. If possible, learn a few words in the native language. Many travelers prefer to dive into their adventures without doing such research but when it comes to this kind of cultural travel, knowledge and awareness are crucial. Not only will this enhance your enjoyment of the trip but it will also provide you with an opportunity to ask informed questions of your guide and this will provide a foundation for meaningful interaction.

Now go make those plans. Don’t just read about history. Live it!

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Humility is probably the most difficult virtue to realize.

— Thomas Yellowtail, Crow

Experience life by traveling with friends and family!

NATIVE AMERICAN TOURS “ADVENTURES IN HERITAGE”

 BY CLAY LARROY

It doesn't matter if you take a trip across the state line or the border, being far from home can be exciting and also a bit stressful. When considering traveling, it is important to think of the best mode of travel. Traveling by car can offer many more sights and opportunities for side trips. Traveling by train can offer a chance to relax and get some work done if they wanted. Planes can cover ground fast but don't allow much movement and one cannot get off the plane in flight. Each mode of travel has its own advantages and disadvantages to be considered. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Cherokee. Navajo. Apache. Sioux. Shawnee. Iroquois. The names of these brave tribes spark the imagination and conjure up all sorts of connotations, with different associations for different people. You want to know more. Where did these people live? How did they live?? Living history! These are the buzzwords in Native American travel. Nothing happens in a vacuum; the days of the past have helped to shape our lives as they are today. Native American travel allows us to explore that history. Perhaps you"re interested in genealogy and have traced your heritage back to the first people of America. Now imagine a visit to the very roots of your family tree!

From tracing Custer and Sitting Bull"s movements on the Little Bighorn battlefield to a priceless education in the lifestyle and culture of those who came before us, travel in this category has much to offer. You"ll find the thrill of adventure, the allure of history and unbounded potential for personal growth as well. Bring a dream journal! You might find that your subconscious mind becomes quite active on your Native American journey.

While this article discusses tours and travel revolving around visits to Native American lands, it is important to note that there are a number of organizations offering long-term volunteer opportunities to live and work on these lands. Individuals interested in such a hands-on experience would likely be helping to construct homes on reservations ravaged by a severe housing crisis or involved in indigenous youth education programs. This type of travel can be incredibly rewarding, especially for the solo traveler who is interested in exploring the relationship with the land which is a hallmark of Native American travel.

While it is possible to plan a trip to Native American lands independently, joining a tour ensures that you have access to areas which may be off limits to the public. As with any type of specialty travel, tour operators come in all shapes and sizes. Trips vary from half-day outings to 14-day full immersion treks. To ensure an authentic experience, it is best to select a tour operator who works directly with the Native American people you will be visiting. This not only ensures that your hosts are paid fairly for sharing their land and time with you, but it usually means that you will have an indigenous guide to bring the tour to life. Since the last thing you want is to join a "drive by" expedition which promptly whisks you through the tribal lands to the gift shop on the other side, you might consider a tour company directly owned and operated by Native Americans. Though the group size will vary depending on the tour operator, the more authentic and therefore desirable tours involve smaller groups. These operators are generally committed to the spirit of cultural exchange and encourage a deeper understanding of the Native American way of life.

The best place to begin planning your Native American vacation is with your travel consultant. Capable travel consultants have a wealth of inside information on tour operators that will prove invaluable as you plan. Using the best possible tour operators will protect your investment in your vacation. Provide your travel agent with your budget and geographical preferences, so that he or she can search for the best possible values on air and ground packages.

First ask yourself, what is the scope of the trip? The United States offers a great diversity of destinations for exploring Native American culture. In fact, the U.S. is home to more than 550 indigenous nations, reservations, pueblos, rancherias and villages. Most tours operate out of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, the Dakotas, Colorado, New York and Tennessee. These states are steeped in Native American history and, depending on where you live they could even make for a nice day trip in the car. Since many of the tour operators in the U.S. are based in the southwest where the winters are temperate, just about any time of year is a good time to go. Why not take a family trip over the holidays this year instead of fighting the summer crowds?

Many people associate Native American culture with North America but Central and South America have a lot to offer as well. Touring outside of the United States allows you to visit ancient Mayan, Aztec and Incan civilizations. Some of these sites are located near popular tourist destinations, giving you a chance to visit the beach and combine your Native American vacation with a more traditional one. Keep in mind, flying to a foreign country does increase the complexity and planning time needed for your trip.

Another key consideration for your planning will be the fitness level of your group. Many Native American tours combine history and culture with hiking or bike riding while others transport groups on horseback or in Jeeps, so you will want to consult with your travel companions to make sure everyone is comfortable with any physical activity involved. Some tours are adults-only affairs while others cater to the young ones, so if you are bringing children, be sure to inquire about your tour operator’s policy.

Feel free to ask your travel consultant lots of questions and make sure that the tour operator’s service is a good match for your interests.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Children learn from what they see. We need to set an example of truth and action.

- Howard Rainer, Taos Pueblo-Creek (2012)

Travel to experience life and create spectacular memories!

JEWISH HERITAGE TOURS

BY CLAY LARROY

Traveling can be a great way to meet new people and experience other cultures. New friends are waiting to meet you in places you have only dreamed of traveling. It can be a wonderful way to see all that the world has to offer. Travel can be a hobby and an adventure that will lead you to unexpected places.  When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Academic Study

While many people choose to incorporate their heritage tour into a traditional vacation as one important part of a varied itinerary, some people choose to concentrate solely on studying their Jewish heritage on their trip and take what is often called an Academic Study Jewish Heritage Tour.

An academic study tour will be much more concentrated and educational than the common Jewish Heritage Tour. Emphasis will be on education and discovery, and leisure time is minimal. For those who wish to gain as much as they can from their tour in a short period of time, an academic study tour may be the way to go.

Choosing a Heritage Tour and Guide

If the idea of a Jewish Heritage Tour peaks your interest, but you are not sure where to visit, ask yourself some questions and discuss these issues with your travel consultant to find a trip that best fits your expectations.

Are you interested in the history of your personal ancestors? If so, you should consider visiting those places from where your family originated. For example, if you know that your relatives emigrated from Russia, you may consider doing a heritage tour in Russia.

Is there a particular area of the world you have always wanted to see, regardless of the Jewish heritage found there? Why not visit a long desired destination while discovering the history of the Jews who lived there in the past and the culture of the Jews who live there in the present. Examples might be a trip to the Great Wall of China coupled with historical spots, or a luxury vacation in the Mediterranean with a short heritage tour in Italy.

Are you someone who feels very disconnected to your religious roots? Consider a visit to Israel, where the history of Judaism is the deepest. Or perhaps you are interested in learning more about this faith, even though it is not your own? Immersing yourself in the culture is a great way to do this, so visiting one of the main locations of Jewish culture may be a good choice.

Once you’ve chosen your tour destination, you need to pick a specific tour.

Your travel consultant will assist will choosing an appropriate Heritage Tour. Many agencies and tour guides specialize in these tours, and booking your tour with a specialist is the best way to ensure that you will get an authentic, educational, comprehensive tour of this kind.

If you know which area of the world you would like to tour, your travel consultant can compare the prices and the itineraries of the tours to see which best accommodates both your budget and interests. Some agencies offer customized tours with personal tour guides. A travel consultant will also know a tour organization’s reputation and legitimacy, which is paramount in selecting an operator.

Independent Travel

While going through an established tour organizer is probably the best way to go on a Jewish Heritage Tour, there is always the option of having your travel consultant assist you with planning and booking an independent tour. There are many books available that will guide you through a particular region, pointing you to the areas of interest for those on a heritage quest.

Some advantages to planning your own tour include the ability to completely customize your tour, change your plans on a moment’s notice, and take advantage of the opportunity to spend as much (or as little) time at any one place as you wish. A Jewish Heritage Tour can be very emotionally taxing. Some people may wish to leave a particularly disturbing stop on the tour (such as those locations associated with The Holocaust) quickly while others may be fascinated and wish to spend more time there to really absorb their emotions. Creating your own tour gives you that freedom.

A word of caution for the do-it-yourselfers: There are many regions of the world where a traveler is much safer traveling with a tour group than without. An established tour will not only take you to the best points of interest, it will keep you away from unsafe locations for foreigners. If you are making your own plans, make your safety a priority and know where it is safe to go and where it is best to stay away - researching current travel advisory and safety considerations is another part of the planning where your experienced travel consultant will be invaluable.

Making the Most of Your Tour

How do you make the most of such a remarkable experience? First of all, document it. Take pictures and video. One tip for making sure you keep track of what you photograph is to take pictures of signs with descriptions on them before you take any photos in the area. Even if it is just the name of a building, you will be able to identify the places in your pictures much more easily this way. When taking video, tell the story of the place as you are filming.

Keep a journal. If you are filming video, your narration will be one type of journal. However, thoughts and emotions can build up during the day, and spending the time to write them down in the evenings once you’ve retired to your room will help you get the most out of each day’s experiences - and remember them more easily. Yes, you will be tired, but reflections on what you learned and how it affected you are best written when fresh. These records will be invaluable for you as memories, and may also help to contribute to your family’s narrative.

When in Rome (or Israel or Poland or China) do as the Romans do. Experience the culture by taking part in their local activities. Try the foods of the area - it’s easy to imagine that common Jewish foods in China will be very different from the cuisine in New York City. Wear the traditional dress when appropriate. Immerse yourself in the experience.

A Jewish Heritage Tour will be unlike any vacation you’ve ever taken. You will visit places that will break your heart, and you will meet people who will make your heart soar. You will learn history, connect with your roots, and have a deeper understanding of your faith, all within the few days of your journey. You will be changed.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

"If you don't know what you're living for, you haven't yet lived.”

– Rabbi Noah Weinberg, of blessed memory

         Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!

JEWISH HERITAGE TOURS

BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

Experiencing the beauty and culture of an unfamiliar area of the world is always a remarkable experience. For those who are purposely exploring a culture through the window of their faith, it can be even more remarkable. Embarking on a Jewish heritage tour is one way for Jews, and others interested in Jewish tradition, to see how the tradition has lived, survived and thrived in destinations throughout the world.

By taking a trip that focuses on Jewish heritage, a traveler can visit the places, past and present that are important to Jews as a people and to the traveler as a person of faith. The Diaspora has a center, but no boundary. Israel, Russia and Poland are important destinations, but many other counties throughout the world that are filled with the rich history of the Jewish people: China, Budapest, Italy, France, the United States, Africa, South America - just about every corner of the world has something of interest for those exploring their Jewish heritage and history.

A Jewish heritage tour involves much more than simply visiting the synagogues or Jewish museums of an area. Educated, informative tour guides will lead travelers to important places rich with Jewish customs, history and culture that a casual traveler may never find without professional, guided assistance.

Travelers on a Jewish heritage tour need not worry about their entire trip being one long history lesson without any fun along the way. Many tours include other aspects of the region, like fine restaurants, first-class hotels, shopping and local recreation. A good tour will balance the traveler’s thirst for knowledge and desire for an enjoyable vacation.

It is important for many Jews to continue to observe their religious customs, even while on vacation. Many tours are able to fully service their needs, offering Kosher meals and access to synagogues for worship. They can also accommodate those who want to avoid Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath) travel and every type of traveler: families, couples, singles, honeymooners, students, and even non-Jews who are interested in learning about the history and culture of the people can all find a tour that fits their interests.

Popular Jewish Heritage Tour Destinations

While the Jewish people have lived in and contributed to many cultures throughout history, there are certain regions where they have had a concentrated influence, and their stories in these regions are inherent to understanding the heritage of the Jewish people. These destinations are some of the best places to start or include in a tour.

Israel

The Jewish race can trace their roots back to Israel, the land of Abraham, father of Israel. A heritage tour of Israel will take travelers through Jerusalem, Masada, Galilee, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and the Golan Heights; the whole of Israel is abounding with Jewish heritage and culture. A coordinated heritage tour through the Holy Land helps travelers pinpoint the essential places to visit. Tours will also often include stays at a Kibbutz, a voluntary Israeli commune, where travelers experience first-hand one of the modern aspects of Jewish life in Israel.

Russia, Germany, Poland and the Holocaust

Before the Holocaust, the Jewish culture in Russia, Central and Western Europe thrived. The Holocaust destroyed not only families, but also attempted to destroy the evidence of Jewish life in the country. In the years since, what was lost of Jewish life has been reconstructed where possible and memorialized where it cannot be reconstructed. Travelers to Europe can visit Berlin, Warsaw, Krakow, Auschwitz, and many of the other cities where the atrocities of the Holocaust attempted to annihilate the Jewish heritage. Many of these sites are now shrines, and monuments of repentance and memorial now dot the landscape.

Budapest

Many people may not realize that Budapest has the third largest population of Jews in Europe. The Jewish culture in Budapest is not just historical; it is a modern, living, breathing way of life for nearly 100,000 Jews. The history of the Jewish people in Budapest dates back to Roman times, and travelers have much to discover in this beautiful city, including Jewish people’s contributions to its economy, politics and culture. A Jewish Museum has a wealth of information on the Jews of Hungary, and a stirring Holocaust Memorial stands in honor of the victims of the Holocaust.

New York City

In the United States, New York City is a city rich with Jewish heritage. In addition to touring the boroughs where the Jewish families live and work, travelers can tour the Museum of Jewish Heritage, a building designed in the shape of the Star of David.

China

China? Yes, China. The country has a long and interesting Jewish heritage, and travelers have much to learn from a tour of the region. For over 800 years the Jews and the Chinese co-existed peacefully in Kaifeng. Over the centuries, however, the Jews were assimilated into the Chinese culture and in 1866, the synagogue in Kaifeng was eventually destroyed. There was a new influx of Jews to Shanghai during WWII as 30,000 took refuge, but then after the war, many left for Israel. Much evidence of the Jewish culture in China still exists, however, and can be experiences on a tour through the country.

Italy

Italy has one of the oldest Jewish populations in Europe; the history of the Jews in Italy goes back over 2000 years. They have left their mark on Italy’s architecture, history, art, philosophy and cuisine, and a heritage tour of Italy will take travelers to synagogues, Jewish cemeteries, the Jewish Museum and the old ghettoes dating back to the 16th century.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

"I don't speak because I have the power to speak; I speak because I don't have the power to remain silent" – Rabbi A.Y. Kook

Enjoy and travel to create great family memories!

HOLYLAND TOURS “IN THE FOOTSTEPS”

BY CLAY LARROY

Traveling can be a great way to meet new people and experience other cultures. New friends are waiting to meet you in places you have only dreamed of traveling. It can be a wonderful way to see all that the world has to offer. Travel can be a hobby and an adventure that will lead you to unexpected places.  When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Jerusalem remains the primary destination for most trips to the holy land. The city is a key religious site for Christianity, Judaism and Islam, the so-called "faiths of the Book". The Abrahamic religions all derive from a common, ancient and Semitic tradition arising from this region of the world. As a result there are few destinations anywhere that can match the convergence of historical, religious and cultural significance of Jerusalem.

Most tour operators will make sure that key sites in the city are a part of your experience. In the section known as the "Old City", you will find the souk, or city market. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is the traditional place of the Crucifixion and the Tomb, still stands, the cornerstone having been laid in 1149 by Crusaders. Visitors can walk the Via Dolorosa, the original Stations of the Cross. Others believe the Garden Tomb in East Jerusalem to be the place of the Tomb. The Wailing Wall in the Jewish Quarter and the Citadel (the Tower of David) are a part of nearly every itinerary. Inside the confines of the Church of All Nations is the Garden of Gethsemane. Mount Zion, the traditional location of the Last Supper is close to the nearby King David’s Tomb. Outside of Jerusalem, however, Israel is a continuum of archeological and religious treasures. Many tours take in dozens of sites such as the Sea of Galilee, Qumran and Tiberias. Bethlehem is just five miles south of Jerusalem. Now in the hands of the Palestinian Authority, the town is not always open to inspection, but when it is, no pilgrim will want to miss the location of the birth of Jesus. Nazareth, the location where Jesus spent much of his early life, is also very common stopping point on most itineraries. Many tours take in Caesarea, where Peter began his ministries. Many Roman artifacts such as the old Ampitheatre and aqueduct remain intact. The Mount of the Beatitudes overlooking the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River provide opportunities for many tour operators to allow travelers to cruise on the Sea or to be baptized in the River.

The paths traveled by the early apostles also offer opportunities for travelers to immerse themselves in a religious pilgrimage. Travelers to Greece will find the ancient city of Corinth, where the early church received the canonical Letter to the Corinthians.

In Turkey, one can travel to the fortified monastery of St. John where tradition tells us the Book of Revelations was authored. Here are many magnificent churches visited by Saint Peter and Saint Paul as the Christian religion moved from being a Jewish sect to a religion of the Gentiles.

On Turkey’s Eastern Mediterranean coast is the city of Antakya, in biblical times called "Antioch". In 1963, the Vatican designated the Church of St. Peter in Antioch as the world’s first Cathedral. Not far away is Tarsus, the birthplace of the Apostle Paul. Here also is the city of Ephesus where grave of John is supposed to be at the Basilica of St. John. It is in Ephesus, where Paul wrote the Epistles to the Ephesians and where St. John the Evangelist is traditionally thought to have brought the mother of Jesus. The Virgin Mary’s house is located in Ephesus and is recognized by the Vatican as an important Christian shrine. It is also in Turkey that legend says Noah’s Ark came to rest after the Great Flood on Mount Agri (Ararat). Finally, Rome and Vatican City remain a center for many Christian pilgrims, both Catholic and Protestant.

The high season for travel to the Mediterranean region generally runs between May and October. The earlier and later shoulder seasons see fewer crowds and generally cooler temperatures, as the summer months can be very hot. The winter months are the least expensive season in which to go and excellent values can be found during the winter, exclusive of the spike in pilgrimage travel that occurs in Israel during the traditional Christmas season. Some tour packages include air, while others are priced "land only". Your travel consultant can assist you with achieving the greatest possible value with regard to your transportation. Other considerations will be whether to elect to do a pre or post tour extension if you choose an escorted tour, giving you an opportunity to spend time on your own exploring your destinations. Some tour operators reserve the right to cancel particular tours, or you may decide to change your own plans. Be sure to determine the policies of the tour operator you choose and to purchase travel insurance to protect against unforeseen interruptions or circumstances. Again, your travel consultant is your best guide.

Spend some time reviewing the materials provided by your travel consultant and be comfortable with what is, and is not, include in the price of your tour. Consider the issues of departure taxes, visas, gratuities and meals. You may also want to upgrade your accommodations. If you are traveling by yourself, determine what the "single supplement" charge will be, or whether the tour operator can find a suitable roommate for you.

Tours to the holy land inevitably mean a great deal of walking. Many of the sites you will visit are either roughly paved or unpaved. It is a good idea to prepare yourself by being in as good a physical shape as possible prior to leaving on your trip. If you or any of your travel companions have any physical impairment, be sure to let your travel consultant know. Bring comfortable clothing, but pack as lightly as possible. Your tour operator will provide you with a list of recommended items to bring, but a good pair of walking shoes, already broken in, is a must! A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are also very important must-haves as you will spend a great deal of your time out-of-doors.

Make sure that your travel documentation is in order well in advance of your date of departure. Your travel consultant can assist you with the requirements of the countries that you intend to visit. You will typically need a passport valid for at least six months from your planned date of return home. In addition, some destinations will request to see a return airline ticket. Visas are required of some nationalities by some countries, so inquire with regard to your particular circumstances and planned itinerary. Travel documentation is a bit different for Israel than for some other destinations. In particular, some Arab countries will not allow you to enter if you have visited Israel. Therefore, have the customs official in Israel stamp your entry permit rather than your passport.

Finally, safety is always an issue of concern when visiting the Middle East, especially Israel. In general, the situation has been much better over the recent past than in the years just prior to 2006, despite the recent conflict between militant factions in Lebanon and Israel. If the events in one region appear too unstable for you, shift your focus to one of the other biblically significant areas. While there are no guarantees of safety, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit the holy land each year without incident.

With the assistance of a good travel consultant and a bit of planning, your own, personal pilgrimage can be safe and spiritually most rewarding.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

At the center of the universe dwells the Great Spirit. And that center is really everywhere. It is within each of us.

Black Elk

Live, Love and Travel to create memories that will last a lifetime!

HOLYLAND TOURS “IN THE FOOTSTEPS”

 BY CLAY LARROY

In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am providing valuable information about wonderful vacation destinations. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

For well over 2000 years, the peoples of three faiths have revered the near Middle East as a holy land. No area of the world has been more gifted with religious significance. Christian pilgrims have traveled to Israel, Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Greece and Italy to achieve a fuller understanding of their religious heritage. The first pilgrims traveled a difficult path on the dangerous roads of the old Roman Empire. Today’s travelers will find their journey somewhat easier to achieve, but no less rewarding in the doing. It has often been said that travel is a journey of the soul as much as the body. Nowhere is this truer than in travel that expressly seeks out the core of a religious tradition.

More and more travelers are discovering the important role the geography and culture of the Middle East played in the development of their religions. This TRO Activity Index Guide focuses on the Christian tradition in the Mediterranean region. Other TRO Activity Index Guides look to the Jewish heritage or to other geographic areas of pilgrimage. This TRO Guide will acquaint you with the basics of planning, booking a preparing for a trip to the holy land: that area of the Mediterranean important to the history and heritage of Christianity. Many of the most important events in Christianity occurred long before it was the religion of the Roman Empire, but when it was instead a little known but growing sect.

Early in your trip research, determine what type of travel to the holy land you wish to undertake, and the destinations you wish to visit. If you want to delve back to the pre-Christian era, Egypt holds many of the early origins of the faith in its fantastic array of antiquities, as does Israel. The life of Jesus is the story of Bethlehem, Jerusalem and the Jordan valley. The life of the early church spans a much wider area, however, through Israel and Jordan to Lebanon, Turkey, Greece and Italy, the first regions of travel for the early apostles and Church.

You will also want to decide if you want to travel independently or with a group. Your travel consultant can arrange an independent fly/drive itinerary for you in almost any destination. An independent itinerary has many advantages in that your time is your own and you can pace the trip to suit your own preferences without the confines of schedules and timetables. A hosted or escorted tour is another option, providing guided tours of the destinations involved. Hosted and escorted tours can be arranged privately, so that you are not with other travelers, or as part of a larger group. In the hosted or escorted option, you have the advantage of a knowledgeable guide and the efficiency inherent in having someone familiar with the setting arranging your itinerary. Group tours tend to be less expensive in general than independent or private tours. Escorted group travel permits the traveler to experience a destination while letting others worry about logistical details of the itinerary.

Many of the sites you will visit will have a maze-like quality to them, and vast historical and religious significance. Your travels will be significantly enhanced by the presence of a knowledgeable multi-lingual guide. Regardless of the type of tour for which you opt, investigate the quality of the guides that will be available to you so that you can quickly and efficiently negotiate the ins and outs of the encounters you will have. In the end, it is a matter of personal preference and budget.

Should you decide to use a tour company, you should also discuss with your travel consultant the character of the tour companies available. Many tours to the holy land are run by secular tour operators providing excellent programs complete with well-trained guides. Other tour companies are "faith based" and often use ministers or lay-evangelists to guide and conduct the tour. Some tour companies offer a variety of options such as tours specially designed for Catholics or Protestants. The character and ambiance of these groups can be very different, so communicate early on your preferences with your travel consultant.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

The Holy Land... What an experience. I will never forget this day.

Justin Timberlake

Enjoy life and travel often, the more you travel, the more memories you create!

ECO TOURISTS, “RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL”

BY CLAY LARROY

We lead such busy lives working, going to school, taking children to different activities that often we do not stop and talk to our children. We usually do not have time to sit around the dinner table and ask our children what they did today. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

More than green sentiments, what these diverse ecotourism activities have in common is a real commitment to sustaining the people, culture and wildlife that make their destination unique. But consumers should beware that the buzzword "ecotourism" is all too often thrown around carelessly. Many tour operators bill themselves as eco but in reality do not live up to the label. That’s why it’s important to understand ecotourism before you make your travel plans, and also why it’s important to use a travel consultant who is familiar with tour operator reputations. By making responsible consumer decisions before and during your travel, you can help change the face of tourism and make it a force for empowering people around the world, rather than exploiting them.

Here are some questions you can ask to determine if your eco lodge or tour operator is really committed to the principles of ecotourism, or is just greenwashing you. First, ask your travel consultant to assist with determining if the tour operator has a written policy concerning the community and the environment. Can they point to any concrete contributions they’ve made to the community, such as conservation projects or partnerships with community charities? Do they heat their buildings using solar or other renewable energy sources, also considering that firewood contributes to deforestation? Do they treat their own wastewater, or do they pump it out into local wetlands? If they can answer these questions satisfactorily, it shows they take ecotourism seriously.

But remember that a genuine Eco tourist establishment must be equally committed to people as to plants and wildlife. Inquire how many locals they employ, and what positions they fill - are they managers or bellboys? What percent of their products and services come from within a 25 miles radius? Do they offer local tour guides? A local guide, in addition to being an unparalleled source of information, can help you interact with the locals in a culturally sensitive manner. What opportunities do they offer you, the visitor, to become involved in the community (such as volunteering at a local school or clinic)? Do they offer a library, workshops or other resources that encourage visitors to educate themselves about the local culture? The more you know about the destination, the more you will appreciate your stay.

Tour operators often have access to remote, environmentally sensitive areas that may be difficult or impossible to reach for tourists traveling independently. Some operators may offer day excursions starting from a nearby town or hotel. If you sign up for a complete Eco tour vacation package, be sure to ask what exactly is included in the cost and what will be an additional expense (i.e., park entrance fees or tips for guides and drivers). Most Eco tour companies offer small group or family excursions. If you will be traveling in a group with people previously unknown to you, many tour operators can match you according to similar age, interests or fitness levels.

Your eco lodge or tour operator can recommend what clothing and gear to bring, and your travel agent can help you with visa, passport, medical, and insurance arrangements, if needed.

To get the most out of your ecotourism vacation, read up on your destination as much as possible beforehand. If you can study the language or learn a few useful words and phrases, even better. Travel slowly and immerse yourself in the destination and its people. Sit outside and sip a local beverage while watching daily life flow by, or join a group that allows you to contribute something. If it’s safe, walk through the streets beyond the designated tourist zones and talk to the locals, who might appreciate the effort. If you do volunteer work with children or the poor, don’t go in with the attitude that you are saving the world - you may learn far more from them than they will from you!

When you return home, you’ll find that a new, global perspective can be the most valuable souvenir of all... more than any picture you snapped or trinket you bought on the street.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.

– Freya Stark

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

ECO TOURISTS, “RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL”

BY CLAY LARROY

The preparation for a vacation is almost as exhilarating as the vacation itself. I love printing out the tickets and confirmations while thinking about how much fun I will have on vacation. I enjoy researching all the sights at the location I will see once I arrive at my destination. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

The costs of traditional tourism are rising, and we are not just talking about the price of airfare and hotel rooms. Tourist development frequently comes at the cost of the cultural and environmental integrity of the local population. In this way, the mass-market tourist industry is often guilty of destroying the very destinations it seeks to promote.

Ecotourism differs from mainstream tourism in that it helps sustain, rather than exploit, the natural beauty and cultural diversity of tourist destinations. Ecotourism is a broad term and often misused, especially in travel advertising. The most widely accepted definition is that offered by the International Ecotourism Society, which defines ecotourism as: "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." Ecotourism promotes an interdependent relationship between tourists and tourist destinations, allowing tourists to contribute something to the communities they visit, in addition to taking away a richer travel experience. In this way, ecotourism promises to reunite the positive idea of a traveler, with the mostly negative label of tourist.

The Ecotourism trend is taking off due to a new generation of responsible travelers who are increasingly unsatisfied by the artificial, packaged-paradise travel experience that most tour operators offer. Coming from modern consumer cultures, these travelers crave authenticity. They want to experience the culture beyond the resort, to step out from behind their camera lenses and have meaningful interactions with the local people.

Contrary to popular belief, ecotourism is accessible to everyone. Ecotourism is often wrongly associated with adventure and wilderness travel, and the popular image of Eco tourists as youthful backpackers with dreadlocks can be misleading. In reality, many Ecotourism options are available for people of all ages and levels of physical fitness. And don’t think you have to venture far from home - city, state, and national parks can be models of ecotourism. You can be an Eco tourist just as easily in New York City as in Timbuktu.

The first step in planning an ecotourism vacation is finding eco-friendly accommodations. Your travel consultant can assist with finding reputable Eco tour, tour operators and packages that include eco-friendly lodging. Eco lodges range from 5-star luxury hotels to simple thatched huts. For the budget traveler in tropical climates, some even offer the economic option of a hammock slung between two palm trees! Many eco lodges have spas, where you can help (or at least not harm) the planet while enjoying a traditional herbal steam bath or massage. Note that smaller eco lodges may require booking well in advance.

For exploring your destination, ecotourism offers many exciting alternatives. In addition to well-known outdoor Eco tours (trekking in the Amazon, biking in the Outback, or cruising around the Galapagos), ecotourism includes volunteer tourism. Some of these tours, awkwardly dubbed Pro Poor or Poverty Alleviation tours, give tourists an opportunity to assist in international aid projects, such as distributing food and medicine or teaching English to children. Other volunteer tours involve tourists in environmental projects: elephant conservation in Thailand or researching Mexico’s endangered coral reefs.

Another off-beat option is a farm stay. Some farm stays are simply Bed and Breakfasts on a farm. Others educate their guests about organic farming techniques and allow them to participate in daily farm life.

Many tour operators will also arrange special interest tours. Themes include painting, yoga, meditation, bird watching, pottery, crafts and indigenous peoples. In the later case, it’s especially important to hire an experienced local guide or tour company. They will help you navigate culturally sensitive terrain and avoid offending or intruding on the indigenous community.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.

– Marcel Proust

Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!