Enclosed is the announcement of Ceiba Nature Tours 2006 trips… all four. Many of you, like me, are receiving big glossy catalogs listing dozens of trips. I love their color photos, which is why I included a few of my own! Choosing a destination can be problematic. Choosing a company to take you there is yet another decision. How to decide?

Cost? Some destinations are cheaper than others. High volume locations (Cancun), fixed itineraries, cruises or packaged tours with year-round departures, all lower costs. Some tour operators are cheaper too. CNT works only with the most well established and reputable companies with strong affiliations in the destination country. As with every other item you purchase there is a choice of price correlating to a level of expected quality and peace of mind. What is the experience you want to have? I know what I want and I personally plan and guide Ceiba Nature Tours trips to those destinations that are truly outstanding for the natural history experiences they provide. Your lodging may accommodate a few dozen, not hundreds. Your vacation is my vacation too! CNT is not the least, nor the most expensive, but my intent is to make our trips the highest value.

The CNT tour experience? Trips are designed for the traveler who does not want a big group experience, but appreciates the benefits of staff experience and expertise and freedom from travel logistics. Excepting personal expenses, trips are all-inclusive upon arrival, including the frequent (but necessary) tipping. Our standard is private rooms or cottages with private bath and three full meals each day. Lodging selection is based on location. (Are hummingbirds on the flowers upon opening your door each morning?) A full schedule of activities is included, but you may opt out and choose the hammock. Usually, dinners are together. Breakfast is flexible. Each itinerary allows some time for individual interests to be explored. Groups of ten are a mix of couples and singles. Myself and guide Tom Leckey, an outstanding birder and naturalist, are with you full time. Each early morning and afternoon, schedule permitting, Tom leads a walk – participation is always optional.

What about Ecotourism? This designation is often used, and misused. With twenty-five years experience as an environmental educator, I understand and believe in the intent of ecotravel. Nature travel should be low-impact and sustainable to the extent possible, while stimulating interest in the environment and local culture. Compromise may be necessary in balancing economic activity with natural and cultural biodiversity protection, but provide long-term benefits over other development choices.

Flights? No longer included in costs due to ever changing airline policies. I will make your arrangements at your request. Early reservations are encouraged and appreciated. CNT is required to make substantial deposits for lodging and in-country transport. Deduct $50 from the trip cost if your reserve prior to November 1.

Questions? Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or to ask for references. If you wish to be removed from our mail list, call the toll free number below and ask to be removed. I apologize for the inconvenience of your inclusion.

CNT has many guests, now friends, traveling with us on adventures year after year. We welcome you to join us in 2006.

Sincerely,
Linda Ingram