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Inspiring readers to meet the people when
traveling and immersing oneself into the culture has been an important goal in
the mission of The Cultured Traveler over these last five years. As we
enter our sixth year of publication, I wanted to remind you that you could enjoy
cross-cultural exchanges even without leaving your home.
A number of organizations look for local families
to host home-stays for foreign exchange students. Some are here only for a short
time learning English, some on a semester or longer high school or college
exchange program.
If you don’t have the time or ability to be a
host family, the U.S. Department of State uses Citizen Diplomats to help shape
U.S. foreign relations "one handshake at a time." This program allows upcoming
leaders in politics and industry to spend time with their American counterparts
who open their homes and offices in the spirit of cultural understanding.
Whichever option you choose, opening up your home to others is a fantastic way
to discover another culture.
Whether you choose to travel abroad to meet the
people, or host them in your own hometown, the only way for our global village
to truly get to know and appreciate each other, is though one-on-one
communication. Understanding begins with knowledge and an open mind. Regardless
of economic situation, religious belief or the color of our skin, we citizens of
the world share more common values than we do differences of opinion. It is up
to us all to insure we live together in peace.
This
month's tour hosts review:
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InTouch Travel
Pick of
the Month |
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Location: Europe
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| Specialty: Personal introduction to local professionals who’ll share a day
in their life |
| Why
We Like Them: InTouch Travel is a fantastic way to meet local people who
share your interests and see life through their eyes. No matter what your
interests Andrea Nims can find a friend to share their day with you. Be it an
exploration of culinary delights, wine tasting, journalism, art, architecture or
historic immersion, a day in the life with a local expert is a treat not to be
missed.
|
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Article:
Paris Up Close: My Dinner with Andre |
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P.A.T.H. Finders Intl. |
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Location: Czech Republic |
| Specialty: Genealogical research, family reunion planning and short local
trips |
| Why
We Like Them: Devoted to assisting travelers find their roots in Eastern
Europe, Tom and Marie Zahn combine both American and Czech backgrounds to create
a perfect context for Americans looking to meet the people of their past.
Specializing in archival research, they have developed a team that can unearth
loads of relevant information and contacts ensuring a great experience. Their
local knowledge also allows them to create great getaways for the casual
traveler throughout the region. |
|
Article:
Oh The People You’ll Meet |
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|
Go Differently |
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Location: India, Thailand, Bali, Sri Lanka and Cambodia |
| Specialty: Small group cultural journeys and volunteer programs |
| Why
We Like Them: Dedicated to responsible tourism and making a
difference in the lives of the people they visit, Go Differently is a great
company for getting a taste of local life. Whether you’d like to volunteer with
Thai elephants, teach English in a rural village or experience life in a local
homestay, Go Differently can help you get there. Small group and individual
holidays at the beach, in the jungle or general cultural tourism and adventure
trips await you as well. |
|
Article:
WARNING: Meeting the people can seriously change your
life
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Culture Xplorers |
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Location: Peru, Mexico and Brazil |
| Specialty: Immersive journeys |
| Why
We Like Them: Providing curious explorers with an insider’s access into
the indigenous culture, Culture Xplorers trips focus on interaction and
participation in the living traditions and local festivals that make contact
with the community so very special. Most trips allow for a few days with a host
family and hotel accommodations are always small family run affairs with lots of
local color, chosen for their character and comfort. Small group size 4-12,
allow travelers to easily melt into the community and experience the unique
culture of each location up-close. |
|
Article:
Going Deep in Poland |
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AmeriSpan Unlimited |
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Location: Latin America |
| Specialty:
Volunteer/internships and language programss |
| Why
We Like Them: Offering a spectacular variety of volunteer opportunities,
internships and language programs, AmeriiSpan is a leader in Latin America.
Their volunteer programs are exceptionally accessible, with great rates and a
structured language course prior to the volunteer course included. It is
definitely work— but the selection of placement choices; from ESL teacher,
health care professional to social services worker ensure that anyone dedicated
to giving back to the worldwide community through volunteer effort, finds the
perfect opportunity for their talents. An outstanding choice if you have the
time and commitment to truly make a difference. |
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Article:
Non sono comunista! |
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Amizade, Ltd. |
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Location: Various locations worldwide |
| Specialty: Volunteer programs |
| Why
We Like Them: A diverse yet limited selection of set departure volunteer
opportunities around the globe. Opportunities in the U.S. with both Navajo
Nation and Yellowstone Park, conflict resolution in Northern Ireland, preserving
and creating historical memorial and research institutions form the German Death
camps and work with both Tanzanian and Ghanaian local originations, allow
traveler’s the chance to choose from a variety of unique ways to create lasting
impression around the world. |
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Article:
A Deepening Global Awareness: Volunteering Long-Term in Bolivia |
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G.A.P. Adventures |
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Location: Worldwide |
| Specialty: Small group culture, nature and active travel |
| Why
We Like Them: 1,000 adventure, 100 countries and 1
world is how G.A.P. Adventure bills it products. It is no wonder that they have
received numerous awards for their service. Average 9-10 people per group, these
adventures allow the traveler to experience the places they visit by using
diverse transport and local accommodations. A focus on sustainable tourism is
paramount and they have created the Planeterra Foundation to insure that they
give back to the community in a way that truly makes a difference. |
|
Article:
Giving back to the people and places we
visited |
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