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December 28, 2010
Traveling with OAT: Changing lives and touching hearts
Like many of you, I travel for different reasons: for enjoyment and relaxation, to bond with my family and friends, to learn about the multi-layered people, cultures, and history of this incredible world we share. But most of all, I travel to enrich my heart and soul. And I know I’m not alone, which is why it’s so rewarding for me to hear from our travelers ...
Whether they’re seasoned travelers like Susan Giaccotto—a 6-time traveler from Farmington, Connecticut—who returned to Africa for a second memorable time with her mother, Norma … first-time travelers like teacher Marianne Berrett of Mendon, Utah, whose Small Ship Adventure in Egypt was a “profound journey into the heart” … once-solo travelers seeking friendship and adventure, like 16-time traveler Dorothy Hutchinson of Frederick, Maryland, and 14-time traveler Katie Damitz of Wheaton, Illinois—who met on an OAT trip a decade ago and have explored the world together ever since … looking to step out of their comfort zones, like Lisa McKinley and her mom, Dottie—2-time travelers from a farm in Minneapolis, Minnesota—who strengthened their bond and experienced several “firsts” during an adventure to Costa Rica … or fulfilling a dream, like Barbara Garrett—a 3-time traveler from San Clemente, California—who traveled to Vietnam to honor the memory of her late husband, Patrick, many of the travelers I’ve heard from this year have something in common (with one another and with me): They each travel with an open heart.
While their motivations and circumstances may differ, their passion for life and travel is inspiring. And when I hear about our travelers’ life-changing experiences, I’m reminded why OAT and Grand Circle Foundation exist: to change people’s lives—and touch their hearts—as only travel can. Of course, I look forward to hearing more heart-warming travel tales in 2011.
Has your life been changed while exploring the world with OAT? If so, I hope you’ll share your stories with me—and other travelers—by posting your comments below this Journal entry or email me at harriet@oattravel.com.
In the coming weeks, we’ll be spotlighting our new adventures for 2011, featuring Turkey and the Baltics. If you’ve explored any of these destinations with OAT, I invite you to send your stories and pictures to me at harriet@oattravel.com.
Harriet Lewis