by Sheri Leigh

From earliest times, man has decorated his living space. First, it was simply painting the caves we took refuge in, then as we evolved into builders, we have gone from simple functional shelters, to magnificent castles and palaces, to modern skyscrapers and elaborate homes. Not only our living spaces, but also our houses of worship, museums and commercial buildings are all designed not only for function, but also to be pleasing to the senses.

This month's issue, celebrates the art of design and highlights famous as well as obscure, yet no less dramatic, architecture. From the Greeks, Romans and early Italians, to the magnificent mud mosque of Djenne, Southern Spain's Moorish architecture to the modernism of the 20th century, form not only follows function, but frequently creates the space that function needs to fit.

All our Tour Hosts, are leaders in proving travelers the best possible experience is visiting these various works of construction arts, and to introduce the inquisitive into the conservation and design techniques needed to create and maintain these masterpieces for future generations.

I fear that we have only scratched the surface of all the wonders available, but hopefully, this introduction will inspire our readers to venture forth, to discover and explore the unlimited possibilities available in our wide and varied world. 

Name: National Trust Tours
Location: Worldwide
Specialty: Land, rails and cruise tours, to destinations of historic significance
Why We Like Them: Over 35 years National Trust Tours, a division of the Nation Trust for Historic Preservation — the leader in preserving our national heritage, has been taking us to the far corners of the world to explore the national treasures of many countries. Dozens of tours to international destinations, led by study leaders who are specialists in the field, National Trust Tours are a great learning and vacation experience for travelers who wish to gain an in-depth knowledge of historic sites. The Nations Trust also operates Historic Hotels of America, for those looking to sleep in restored and notable locations. All in all, a great choice for this month's Tour Host Pick.

Name: Anglatin Ltd.
Location: Latin America, Europe, So Pacific
Specialty: Arts, humanities, cuisine and nature tours
Why We Like Them: Bridging the Anglosaxon and Latin cultures, Anglatin has a wide selection of short trips, fully guided tours and self drive packages throughout Latin America and beyond. Whether you are looking to add a few days on to a prescheduled journey, or looking for a fully escorted group trip, Anglatin's knowledge of its destinations allows them to help you add an additional component to your journey. Arranging social gatherings and meetings with locals, your enjoyment is sure to be increased by Anglatin's assistance in getting in touch with local hosts.
Article: Pablo Neruda: The Architect and His Houses, Thirty Years Later

Name: Guerba World Travel Ltd.
Location: Africa, Asia, Europe and So America
Specialty: Adventure trips to cultural destinations
Why We Like Them: Great guides and specialized trips insure the culturally adventuress travelers a perfect trip. Travel style is primarily adventure, but some trips offer softer adventures and a bit more comfort. Guerba subscribes to responsible tourism principles and gives back to their destinations at every opportunity. Small group size assures individual attention and special opportunities not available on larger group departures.
Article: Mud brick mosque of Djenne, Mali

Name: Circa Tours
Location: Spain, France
Specialty: Escorted and independent tours focusing on art, architecture, heritage, gardens, wine and cuisine
Why We Like Them: Whether you are looking for Roman and Moorish ruins or the marvels of modern architecture, fine food and wine, or mixing with the locals to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and location, Circa Tours can lead you on your way. Dozens of fabulous tours to gardens and castles, and itineraries focusing on art and architecture or cruises and cuisine, crafted for independent travelers or groups, Circa Tours is a leader in the creation of custom tours to France and Spain.
Article: Art and Architecture of Modern Spain

Name: Art Deco Trust
Location: Napier, New Zealand
Specialty: Walking tours of Napier
Why We Like Them: The Art Deco Trust was created to protect and promote the spectacular architecture of this unique city. Rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in the 1930's Napier is an astounding example of Art Deco and 1930 architecture. The Trust organizes walking tours year-round and a special deco weekend annually.
Article: Deco Down Under

Name: Natchez Pilgrimage Tours
Location: Natchez, Mississippi
Specialty: Historic homes tours
Why We Like Them: A perfectly preserved antebellum city, Natchez is a great place to experience the pre-civil war splendor of the South. Many of the Natchez homes are open all year, but a special Pilgrimage takes place in the Spring and Fall with a number of other special events. Whether you visit during these special events, or anytime through the year, Natchez Pilgrimage Tours can assist in planning all your sightseeing as well as accommodations in the areas historic hotels.
Article: The Story of the Pilgrimage in Natchez Mississippi

Name: Scottish Dream Tours
Location: Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England
Specialty: Custom designed and small group tours.
Why We Like Them: Whether you are two people wishing a custom designed tour or prefer a group tour limited to 15, Scottish Dream Tours can accommodate your needs. With over two dozen scheduled tours to some of the most spectacular sites in the United Kingdom, the Yorkshire dales and Scottish Highlands, and such themed tours as Castles, Whiskey, Pubs and Tea rooms, Shannon Tate and his team of agents, will create the perfect trip for your needs.

Name: Heritage Conservation Network
Location: United States and International locations
Specialty: Historic preservation and conservation workshops
Why We Like Them: Dedicated to preserving less well know and private structures, this non-profit origination has been helping conserve architectural wonders by placing volunteers side-by-side with professional conservationists. These workshops create an environment for learning about the local cultures as well as helping preserve sites of historic interest.

Name: Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust
Location: United States, Europe and Japan
Specialty: Architectural tours to Wright designed and inspired locations
Why We Like Them: Wright Way Tours offers a selection of International tours as well as domestic trips and walking tours of homes and other designs by the famous architect. His home and studio in Oak Park is open daily and walking tours of the neighborhood and nearby Chicago and his work there are highlights of the Trust.