This week we’d like to introduce you to Jan, a high school guidance counselor who has visited 37 countries (and counting!) after catching the infamous travel bug.  She exemplifies the Susan Sontag quote, “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” 

As an amateur artist, she enjoys the challenge of replicating crafts she finds around the world in her own studio.  She’s developed a deep appreciation for color used in other cultures and enjoys incorporating them into her pottery.  As adventurous as Jan is, she’ll be the first to admit that though she loves to try local foods, she draws the line at trying a Peruvian specialty–guinea pig!

Favorite destinations: Vietnam & Cambodia

Place you most want to visit: Anywhere!  Perhaps some Eastern European countries: Poland is currently pretty high on my “list.”

Favorite part of travel: Every time we arrive home safely!  During the actual trip, however, there’s nothing better than enjoying the company of our travel-mates, meeting the local people, soaking up the sights, learning the history of each country and immersing ourselves in the culture, art, music and food.

Favorite travel story: My husband and I were enjoying an evening walk in the French countryside south of Paris.  Hearing noises behind us, we turned to see a runaway llama being chased by a young circus worker.  We helped him wrangle the llama and then later visited the “mom and pop” circus in the local village.

Best Explorica experience: We have had so many! One that comes to mind is the Explorica Teachers’ Convention in Peru.  We were so moved by the reverent majesty of Machu Picchu that we decided to lead a group to Peru, the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador during June 2014.  Magical!

Best travel tip:  Always travel light!  During free time, try to see and go where the local folks hang out.  There’s no better way to explore than on the advice of a local. Plus…you just might make a new friend!

World travel: The Jan world tour

Jan would like to share some of her favorite destinations with you in hopes of inspiring the creation of your own world tour. Check out some of her top picks, along with our Teacher Convention options, and begin your trip around the world with Explorica!

India & Southeast Asia tours Travel to the Far East to experience unfamiliar cultures through an adventure filled with  royal palaces, holy temples, lush jungles and bustling cities.

European Combination tours Travel through time and explore the vibrant lands of Europe, where war and royalty reign over the rich history within.

France tours Experience the bright lights of Paris or visit the rural countryside to be immersed in a history of royal treasures, momentous battles and more.

Galapagos & Machu Picchu Take a walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and venture through the cradle of the Incan civilization.

Teacher Conventions Travel with teachers that share your wanderlust; accumulate enough Travel Points and you’ll be on your way!