Leader Messages & Memories

Travel with us as VENT Tour Leaders share their most memorable experiences in some of the world’s greatest travel destinations!

January 22, 2021

TIME TO REFLECT

By Louise Zemaitis

This past year has been one like no other for me, as it has been for so many of us. Last winter at this time, I was sharing some of my favorite places in Belize with a wonderful VENT group, and looking forward to a special VENT safari in Tanzania with friends from the Cincinnati Zoo and Cape May. We did get to Tanzania, a dream come true, but the world was changing swiftly while we were away. Now I find myself on a surreal forced sabbatical.

Future adventure signs, Tanzania - Louise Zemaitis

Looking at the positives, I believe that having the time to reflect on my life (and finally clean my studio) has been a gift. For as long as I can remember, I have been forging ahead at full speed, not taking enough time to reminisce. Now, as each day passes, I become more sentimental as I read old trip reports and edit my photos. I enjoy walking to the mailbox and checking my email for notes from friends. Happy memories pop into my head during my daily bicycle rides as I meander around the streets of Cape May Point. All of this has made me realize that there is something that I really need to say.

VENT group at Lamanai, Belize, 2013 - Ruben Arevalo

Thank you!

Thank you to my fellow traveling companions who have shared in my life’s adventure. Without you, I would not have been able to become a professional naturalist/teacher/traveler sharing my passion for nature. Thank you to my mentors and fellow guides. I have learned so much from you all. Not just about facts, but how to be a good teacher and how to make learning fun. And thank you to my employers and the office staff who work tirelessly to help people realize their dreams.