In the travel world, magazines, blogs, and various publications supply endless recommendations on the best places to travel throughout the year. You’ll see “Top Ten” lists of favorites and highlights of new and emerging destinations.
One magazine in particular, AFAR, had a message in one of its 2018 publications that could resonate with a good number of us, I imagine. Its CEO and founder, Greg Sullivan, suggested to “travel where you’re needed.” Sullivan recapped that a number of areas — both in the U.S. and abroad — have been hit by disasters. Hurricanes in Texas, the Caribbean, and Florida, an earthquake in Mexico, forest fires and mudslides in California — the list goes on and continues to build into 2019 with the volcano eruption in Hawaii.
Events like these can have us locking the door and drawing the shades. We can provide support through donations or volunteer work, but AFAR points out there is another way to help: by traveling. And Michigan Alumni Travel agrees. Some of these areas don’t need us to stay away. What they need is more visitors, not less.
Fear is powerful, and I’m not saying to ignore risk. Nothing is risk-free any longer. If you’re unsure about a destination, ask a professional. Better yet, travel with a group. Michigan Alumni Travel has trips to some amazing destinations. But don’t let fear prevent you from exploring our world and connecting with and supporting its people. Taxi drivers, waiters, hotel staff — they all need our support. It will go a long way and provide an even deeper connection with locals when traveling to their hometowns.
One area I want to suggest is Greece. This small country suffered a financial crisis in 2009. Because of its instability, many travelers wrote it off and several tour groups stopped operating tours. The country is now stable and its doors are open for all to visit. They need us to visit. It’s not easy to overcome a setback like that, but the Grecians have overcome.
Its people did not lay down and die. Rather, they persevered and applied their energy to rebuild a better Greece. You can travel with Michigan Alumni Travel to Greece in 2019, and here are a few highlights you can look forward to:
- Explore the famed Acropolis
- Walk the ruins of the legendary city of Mycenae
- Relish gorgeous coastal views on the island of Hydra
- Marvel at the beauty and acoustics of the ancient theater in Epidaurus
- Hear the Aegean lap the coastline
There is still plenty of time for you to explore on your own or relax. Greek food, wines, dancing, and music are just a few of the things this vibrant country has to offer. Opa!
