As we move into the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic, I am cautiously optimistic about the resumption of travel. Our daily lives have changed, our expectations have changed, travel has changed. What has not changed is the human yearning for new experiences – and to return to familiar places where one feels welcome.
USA
Tribute to HE Travel Founder Hanns Ebensten
As I start my 21st year as the owner of HE Travel, I would like to pay homage to our heritage. A look back at the history of HE Travel must start with Hanns Ebensten, who founded Hanns Ebensten Travel and ran the first gay tour in 1973, down the Grand Canyon.
Twenty Years: Looking Back and Ahead
20 years is a very long time. 20 years pass in an instant. I feel both emotions as I commemorate the 20th anniversary of my purchase of Hanns Ebensten Travel (later HE Travel), and as we gleefully put the year 2020 into the rearview mirror.
Thanksgiving Promise 2020
The American holiday of Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to reflect on a challenging year and to share gratitude. When travel came to a standstill back in March, none of us knew what to expect. However, we at HE Travel are very grateful for the support and encouragement we received from our clients and our travel partners around the world. This has made it possible to look ahead to offering memorable travel experiences in 2021 and beyond.
The Triumph of Election Integrity
Now that American’s Election Day is behind us, I would like to share some insights about the process. As I mentioned in last month’s newsletter, I am spending a couple of months working full time (including 16.5 hours on Election Day!) for the Election Division of the Salt Lake County Clerk’s office. This has been a fascinating year to have an inside look at the process that determines our national, state, and local leadership.
Phil’s Notes – October 2020 – Voting
Vote! This is the bedrock of a democracy. The outcome of the upcoming American election, as well as other elections around the world, will help determine when we can again feel confident exploring new corners of the world.
An election is an odd amalgamation of the micro and the macro. Each individual vote is a minute contribution to the whole, but together these votes determine who will lead us into the future.