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Exploration: Whether
we journey to the farthest reaches of our planet in search of new
discoveries, or we strive for a deeper understanding of other
cultures’ perspective on life, both journeys require relying on faith
and trusting in the humanity of those you encounter.
Travel is meant to
broaden our knowledge, and open our minds and hearts. By exploring
different cultures we come to recognize the common ground all humanity
shares. Striving to understand the differences that make us unique
allows for compassion and the reward of making new friends.
There are many places
on earth that are still undiscovered – lost cities, sunken ships and
the hidden histories of millennia ago. Certainly we all have numerous
experiences to discover within ourselves, as well.
This month’s Tour
Hosts can create experiences that satisfy our natural desire to broaden
our horizons and inspire us to greatness. Explore America in the
footsteps of Lewis and Clark, meet and greet the sea’s great creatures
via kayak in Canada, or visit Cape Horn at the “bottom” of the
world. Space can also provide the curious with enjoyment, be it the
passive viewing of a celestial dance or the actual physical leaving of
our atmosphere – it is a marvel of our age that the final frontier is
available to tourists for a price.
I hope you explore and
discover all the possibilities that our wonderful world holds. Cultural
Travels is a great place to start.
This
month's tour hosts review:
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Bestway Touts and Safaris
Pick of
the Month |
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Location: Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Americas and Europe
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| Specialty: Journeys without frontiers;
cultural history tours |
| Why
We Like Them: Bestway’s
philosophy of breaking political and traditional boundaries by introducing
travelers to the people and cultures in the countries they visit allows all
parties to discover their similarities, as well as their differences. With
journeys to such previous closed destinations such as Libya, Iraq, Iran and
Central Asia, the company’s tours allow Westerners a look into the lives of
cultures far different than their own.
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| Article:
Cultural Explorations: A Journey to Iraq |
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Carpe Diem Travel Limited |
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Location: Cambodia
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| Specialty: Small, personal groups to
Cambodia, off the tourist path
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| Why
We Like Them: Owned
by a British/Dutch couple who are both residents in Cambodia, Carpe Diem brings
the true feel of the country alive
for its clients. Explore more than just the highlights and see the land from the
inhabitants’ perspective – motorbikes – for some excursions.
Accommodations are in locally run hotels and guesthouses, allowing a first-hand
view of typical Cambodian life. Tour group size is limited to eight people, and
short breaks and private trips can be arranged.
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Cruceros Australis |
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Location: Cape Horn, Patagonia |
| Specialty: 3, 4 and 7 day cruises
through the Straits of Magellan and Cape Horn |
| Why
We Like Them: The
expedition vessel, MV Mare Australis, is a first-lass way to experience the
legendary Cape Horn, last landfall before Antarctica, in style and comfort.
Cruises come complete with onboard lectures on the region’s flora, fauna,
geography and history. In the field during daily hikes, travelers can view
wildlife and nature up close, making this the perfect trip for anyone longing to
explore a far region of the earth.
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| Article:
Southern Patagonia, Land of Myths |
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Sea Kayak, Inc. |
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Location: Baja California and Canada |
| Specialty: Up close and personal
experiences with nature via kayaks
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| Why
We Like Them: This
family-run company’s trips feature local guides who know all about their
specific environment, allowing a friendly group of travelers to experience
first-hand nature in all her splendor. While most trips are camping, Sea Kayak
also offers a lodge-based trip through Canada’s Inside Passage.. |
| Article:
Exploring Nature: Black(fish)Magic |
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Twilight Tours, Inc. |
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Location:
Various
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| Specialty: Eclipse tours and
astronomical events
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| Why
We Like Them: Twilight offers organized
trips to view some of nature’s most dramatic spectacles,
seldom seen or recognized in our busy world. The next
celestial event is scheduled for June 2004 as Venus transits
the sun, with optimal viewing form Southern Africa. The last
time this event happened was 121 years ago, so this event is
a see-it-now-or-forever-hold-your-peace doing. |
| Article:
Transiting the Sun in 2004 |
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Space Adventures |
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Location: The wild blue yonder |
| Specialty: Space flights: orbital,
sub-orbital and the International Space Station |
| Why
We Like Them: One-of-a-kind
adventures! Whether your desire is to fly at mach speeds, orbit the globe in
shuttle-like vehicles, or spend a week in space, this company can take you where
very few have gone before. A little closer to home, the company offers underwater
expeditions to the Titanic’s resting place. |
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