Travel with SH Plans Spring Trips

Potala Palace in the 'Forbidden City' of Lhasa, Tibet

Travel with SH Alumni and Friends is sponsoring two tours--to Botswana, Africa, and China, including Tibet, this spring. Richard Ward, dean of the College of Criminal Justice, and Michelle Ward, professor in the College of Education, will lead the delegations.

"They were asked to host these trips because of their dozens and dozens of trips to these places and their network of personal friends and contacts there," said Grettle Payne, Travel with SH program coordinator. "This is an unusual opportunity that will most certainly be memorable."

The trip to Botswana, March 25 to April 3, 2004, will include an overnight stay in South Africa. Botswana's police commissioner, Norman Moleboge, will host the delegation.

Among the many unusual sightseeing activities will be a photographic safari in the country's national game preserve. Botswana is home to the world's largest elephant population.

Landlocked by surrounding desert, the world's largest inland delta is filled with hundreds of species of wildlife in its lagoons, lakes and hidden channels. Bird lovers can enjoy nearly 600 species. Botswana is known for its unspoiled wilderness, its rich culture and its peaceful people.

The China and Tibet tour, May 31- June 12, 2004, will include stays in Beijing, Shanghai and Lhasa. China has interested travelers since Marco Polo's time. China's long history spans both time and distance.

"Our itinerary will include three important centers of culture and tradition," said Payne. "We will visit the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, manicured private gardens, monuments, museums, shops and markets.

"In Tibet, we will see the Potala Palace, ancient monasteries and other historic sites, or enjoy a burger and buy a T-shirt at the Hard Yak Café! Tibet is full of surprises."

Richard Ward has been to Africa on numerous occasions and has traveled to China more than 50 times over the past twenty years. Michelle Ward has taught on three occasions in China and has visited Tibet five times.

"Their broad knowledge and many friends in these countries will make this much more than a tourist trip," said Payne.

Members of each delegation are responsible for their own airfare, which can be arranged through Fox Travel in Huntsville (800.456.3474). Currently coach air fare to Johannesburg is approximately $1600, although some education discounts may be available. Transportation will be provided from South Africa to Gabarone, the capitol of Botswana.

Airfare to China is approximately $1300 in coach. Passports will be required for visits to both countries. Exact dates of departure and arrival may change by a day or two, Payne said, and if so, travelers will be advised as early as possible.

The lodging, local travel, most meals, and other tour related fees for the Botswana delegation is $2,000 and for the China/Tibet delegation is $2,500, including the internal flights to and from Tibet. Lodging will generally be at three or four star hotels.

Payne said those interested in combining travel with professional activities, such as conferences, visits to schools, justice agencies or other sites will be accommodated where possible. Such activities may be tax deductible, she said, but advised participants to check with an accountant if they plan to claim the trip as a deduction.

Because the tour is limited to a small group and time is relatively short, it is important that you apply as soon as possible, Payne said.

For more information and registration forms, contact Payne at 936.294.4725, toll free 866.232.7528, extension. 4725, or by e-mail. For online information, visit www.shsu.edu/travel.

"These are truly unique travel opportunities to tag along with two of Sam Houston's most experienced globe trotters to Africa and China," said Payne. "We hope you will join us."

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SHSU Media Contact: Frank Krystyniak
Jan. 8, 2004
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