On Recent Events

Good News Travels has been traveling to New York City with groups for many years. NYC is a vibrant city full of beautiful people and places, and it holds a special place in our hearts. We extend our deepest condolences to those affected by the recent attacks on the city.  Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved. It is such a sad and confusing time, but if there is one thing we know for sure, it is that New York is resilient and will stand strong even in this difficult time. 

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!