People. On our tour, I walked along medieval roads, visited astounding palaces and cathedrals, saw famous works of art, and sampled traditional food from each country--all fabulous. What I remember most are the people I met.
My tour group--it's important for me to feel comfortable with traveling companions and my group was the best! I was especially lucky because there were several 'kindred spirits' that live close to me in the U.S. and I've been able to keep in touch since our return.
Our group's leader, Etelka, was everything to hope for. She enriched each experience with her warmth, energy, and knowledge.
All of our local guides were extremely generous in sharing their time and knowledge as well as their own heartfelt experiences of their country's history.
The local residents I met in Tallinn, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg were hospitable and friendly. I pondered the not-too-distant past, Estonia occupied by Germany and Soviet Russia, Russia under Bolshevik and Soviet rule, and could only feel extreme admiration for these people's courage, strength, and dignity during what were very hard times.
While I haven't met them, I appreciate Rick and his travel team for doing so much 'up front' preparation that made our trip so memorable.
In meeting people from parts of the world other than my own, I continue to discover that, while customs and culture may be different, we share many similarities. We all care about our countries, our family, our work, and our friends.
Thank you, Rick, for providing the opportunity for me to have this amazing travel experience. I can hardly wait to plan a new trip!
My tour group--it's important for me to feel comfortable with traveling companions and my group was the best! I was especially lucky because there were several 'kindred spirits' that live close to me in the U.S. and I've been able to keep in touch since our return.
Our group's leader, Etelka, was everything to hope for. She enriched each experience with her warmth, energy, and knowledge.
All of our local guides were extremely generous in sharing their time and knowledge as well as their own heartfelt experiences of their country's history.
The local residents I met in Tallinn, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg were hospitable and friendly. I pondered the not-too-distant past, Estonia occupied by Germany and Soviet Russia, Russia under Bolshevik and Soviet rule, and could only feel extreme admiration for these people's courage, strength, and dignity during what were very hard times.
While I haven't met them, I appreciate Rick and his travel team for doing so much 'up front' preparation that made our trip so memorable.
In meeting people from parts of the world other than my own, I continue to discover that, while customs and culture may be different, we share many similarities. We all care about our countries, our family, our work, and our friends.
Thank you, Rick, for providing the opportunity for me to have this amazing travel experience. I can hardly wait to plan a new trip!
Weddings!
These 'new beginnings' seem a fitting way to conclude....
Love was in the air during our time in St. Petersburg. Walking through the city, we had the pleasure of seeing these joyous couples celebrating their marriages. |
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