On The Road | Glenn Abbott

About Glenn

Glenn retired from teaching World History for over 30 years at Seneca High School in Oconee County in 2006.  He always had a passion for travel.  Glenn decided to share his passion withhis students, and in 1986, started organizing trips for his students to New York City.

 "It was amazing to see them experience the wonder of a big city for the first time. "

Highlights included The World Trade Center, a Broadway Play, the Statue of Liberty, guided tours from SoHo to Central Park as well as Art and History museums. For many students, experiencing a Broadway play was the highlight of the trip.  After 9/11, our school quit doing student tours, and I began using Good News Travels where he was able to continue managing trips.  When Glenn decided to retire John Tribble, owner of GOOD NEWS TRAVELS approached Glenn about the opportunity to manage tours for GNT. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity.  

"This job has allowed me the opportunity to share experiences with other teachers and students. "

We chatted with Glenn about his experience as a Good News Travels Tour manager...

Best Trip

I never tire of going to New York City. It is the one destination that everyone should experience.  Washington DC is also a favorite destination. I have also managed some adult groups on a Circle Tour of Michigan, the Colorado Trains Tour,  and a tour to San Antonio. Other student destinations have included Chicago, Chattanooga, and Charleston, SC.  Each tour is unique. I enjoy the challenges of the expected and the unexpected.  I have always viewed travel as an adventure and an experience not to be missed.  

Travel Musts

I cannot travel without my cell phone, my tour manager notebook (when managing trips), a comfortable pair of shoes, and rain gear. 

Gettysburg | Remember and Reflect

The Battle of Gettysburg is often described as being the turning point of the Civil War. It was also the battle involving the largest number of casualties during the war. So many men died fighting for what they believed was right. Today, the town of Gettysburg honors these fallen soldiers while educating visitors on the history of the site. Check out these three attractions on your visit to this historic place:

• Gettysburg National Military Park: Tour the battlefield and discover the significant sites of this dramatic event! Take part in an evening campfire or a specialized battle walk, and reflect on the sacrifice made by so many Americans at the “Friend to Friend” Memorial. The Military Park is an awesome way to not only learn about the history of Gettysburg, but to earn a greater respect for those who helped to shape our nation into what it is today.

• Gettysburg Museum of History: The Gettysburg Museum of History, the most famous in Gettysburg, is home to over 4,000 artifacts. With exhibits on the Civil War, both World Wars, JFK, and Elvis, there’s sure to be something there that will interest you. It has even been featured on shows such as American Pickers for its rich display of American history.

• Gettysburg National Cemetery: The cemetery is a beautiful memorial to those who have lost their lives defending our freedoms as Americans. Some graves hold a number of unidentified soldiers, while others are marked with names. There are numerous other monuments, including the New York Monument, as well as the monument to Lincoln’s Address.
  

If American history is of any interest to you, and even if it isn’t, Gettysburg is sure to leave you in awe. Make a point to visit some of these sites on your next visit to Pennsylvania! 

Travel Technology | What's New?

Most people are aware of how simple it has become to book flights and reserve hotel rooms online or how many apps are out there to make travel easier. Travel and technology seem to go hand in hand these days. Here are four emerging technologies you may not have heard of that are sure to revolutionize the way everyone travels:

• Wearable Translators: Language barriers don’t have to be an issue anymore! Wearable translators allow instant communication between you and anyone you encounter. While they are still relatively new to the market, costing a few hundred dollars on average, they are becoming more and more common. Mobile apps require Wi-Fi or cellular data , but wearable translators come preprogrammed to translate everyday conversations without any sort of connection.

• Artificial Intelligence: Artificial intelligence has slowly been making its way onto the scene for several years now – the most notable development being personal assistants such as Siri, Okay Google, and Alexa. You ask a question, and they respond. The same is being done in the travel industry. Online “chatbots” talk to you, discover your preferences, and help to make your travel planning go smoothly.
  

Smart Luggage: New developments in luggage make travel safer and more convenient. Smart Luggage Locks allow you to lock your suitcase from a mobile app. Losing the key is no longer a worry. Smart locks such as these are approved by the TSA, who are able to unlock your suitcase without having to break it open. New suitcases and backpacks have also begun installing batteries within the luggage, allowing users to charge their mobile device from anywhere!

• RFID Protective Wallets: As more card readers begin to implement “tap-to-use” technology, it becomes increasingly common for identity thieves to steal your card information while the card is still in your wallet or purse. RFID protectors prevent this from taking place and keep your information safe from others. 

The future of travel is happening now, and each day we are progressing even more. It’s never been easier to experience the world! Why wait?

Top 5 Things To Do Before You Travel

Between 48 to 72 hours before departure most of the planning has ended and packing is done. So, what can you do in the meantime? Here are five tips for a trip with less stress, and a smooth return.

1. Pay your monthly bills. | Depending on where you are going, internet access can be limited or non-existent. Pay your bills in advance, and have something less to worry about.

2. Check for outlet compatibility.  |  You remembered to pack all your gadgets and chargers....now what?  They don't fit? You can get a universal travel adapter online prior to departure, they will be much less expensive.

3. Call your bank and credit cards to let them know you are traveling. | Most credit cards have been upgraded to "chip technology." and you may not need to contact them.  If you don't have the chip yet, it is always helpful for them to know so your funds aren't frozen en route.

4. Make a copy of your passport and other identification documents.  |  Life is unpredictable. Because of that, you should make a copy of your passport, driver's license, and other relevant travel documents. Keep a set in your home, and one in the safe of your hotel room

5. Check if your phone will work where you are going.  |   Not all phones work at the same frequency ranges.  Get in contact with your cell phone provider and confirm your phone will work where you are going. If it does, ask about any roaming charges. { calls made over Wi-Fi can also be charged roaming fees}.  Also ask about a SIM card for that location.

Check-in for your flight and GO!    Some airlines will automatically check you in for your flight "x" hours before it's departure. Others will let you take care of it. If you check-in at home it might save you time at the airport (especially if you are only taking a carry-on).  Safe Travels!

Students Send Happy Birthday Wishes!

HAPPY 10th BIRTHDAY Georgia Sea Turtle Center!

Another GNT student field trip a success!  Students are visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center where they are having a "wonderful day!' June 2017 commemorates the Georgia Sea Turtle Center’s 10th year in operation and they are hosting a party free to the public on Saturday, June 10: 2-5 p.m.  Center admission will be waived from 2-5pm, there will be a community birthday card to sign, cupcakes and the center will be“decorated,” showcasing ways you can reduce plastics. The afternoon will include creature features, live music, and a special “Dunk the Doc” fundraiser. 

Travel Teaches How To Prepare Students For Life!

Student travel helps build self-esteem, independence, tolerance and cultural awareness, while breaking down barriers to a child’s personal, educational and social development. Patterns and habits embraced when traveling at an early age are known to influence future.  I am interested in a field trip!

"Respondents of all types confirm that students who travel are more motivated to seek further education, progress in their social competences and improvement of a wide array of abilities."

According to The SYTA (Student Youth Travel Association) in their recent study of the Student Travel market, research confirmed the importance of travel in the life of a child.  Most importantly, teachers state that student travel prompts a transformation, through which students grow their ambitions to know, learn and explore.  In addition to improved intellectual motivation and curiosity, teachers highlight increased individual self-esteem, better self-expression, teamwork skills and adaptability. After participating in a trip, students wish to travel more, which naturally starts a new cycle of learning opportunities as a part of their future tours.  Finally, familiarization with new cultures increases young peoples’ tolerance and respectfulness.  When experienced at an early
age, this has the potential to positively influence them throughout their life.  Content and Research SYTA.org.
 

Amazing Grace: The Musical Debuts in Washington!

 WASHINGTON D.C. – As the first stop on its upcoming national tour, AMAZING GRACE, the inspirational Broadway musical will be the first production – of any kind – to christen the new, state-of-the-art World Stage Theater at Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. The production is slated for an eight-week run with opening night scheduled for November 18th 2017. www.museumofthebible.org/amazinggrace

The World Stage Theater at Museum of the Bible is a world-class, performing arts theater located inside the forthcoming 430,000-square-foot museum. Located just two blocks from the National Mall, the 472-seat venue will showcase a first-of-its-kind, digital mapping system that will transform the theater space into a virtual canvas, surrounding the audience with an environment that enhances what they see on stage.

Running Down the Hill

“When Clemson players rub that Rock and run down the Hill, it’s the most exciting 25 seconds in college football.”
Brent Musburger, ABC Sports 

Tradition at Clemson University isn't something that is taken lightly. From tiger rag, to singing the alma mater, to rubbing the rock Clemson has traditions that will last a life time. The most exciting 25 seconds of college football is a tradition which started out of convenience in the beginning, but now has turned into something bigger. Since 1942 the football team has been running down the hill to enter Death Valley at the start of each game. The dressing room for the football players was at the Fike Field House, which was closes to the east end zone. Because of the location it made more sense for the players to run down the hill to get into the stadium. For some people rubbing a rock and running down a hill seems insignificant, but to the Clemson Tigers it's a tradition.

Disney's Pandora: The World of Avatar

Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World & Groups Daily

SUMMER of 2017, Disney Parks and Resorts, will go live with a new expansion to Disney's Animal Kingdom: Pandora—The World of Avatar.

In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing the mythical world of Pandora to life. The expansion will feature two new signature attractions for guests to explore the world of Pandora. Guests could fly over the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee on Avatar Flight of Passage, or enjoy a family-friendly boat ride through the bioluminescent forests on Na'vi River Journey.

Visit Groups Daily and The World of Avatar

Savannah Tour of Gullah Culture

Day Clean Journey tour guide Amir Jamal Toure is known for his engaging style and thorough knowledge. — Photo courtesy of Day Clean Soul

Savannah is known for its eclectic heritage and Southern charm. From its antebellum mansions and mossy, tree-lined streets to the fountains and statures scattered throughout the city, the city is filled with attractions and historical hotspots.

The Pin Point Heritage Museum offers informational and interactive programs designed to capture Gullah/Geechee culture firsthand. Located in an old oyster and crab factory on the banks of the Moon River, the museum tells the story of an African -American community that thrived in isolation for nearly 100 years and was founded by first generation freedmen. In addition, some of the museum exhibits explore the lives of former residents such as U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

Another great way to learn about Gullah culture in Savannah is to take the Gullah/Geeche tour offered by Day Clean Journeys. The name Day Clean itself is a Gullah phrase meaning “new day” or “dawn.” Led by tour guide and historian Amir Jamal Toure, the two-hour tour takes guests to several spots around Savannah, including the First African Baptist Church, one of the first black churches in North America and a stop on the Underground Railroad, and Factors Walk, an area near River Street that once was the center of the city’s slave trade. The tour also visits the Garden of Eden restaurant, which specializes in soul food and Southern fare.