Welcome to Authentic Travel and Tours, LLC! Our small group tours and workshops offer travelers a variety of places and activities to go off the beaten track, make connections from the past to the present, spend time with local people, and learn from local guides. Our goal is to create a perfect balance of fun and adventure, and to mix in some history, archaeology, and contemporary culture. Meeting and working with local people, artists and performers is always a highlight, as is walking in and absorbing the landscape. Follow our blog to receive updates on new tours. You can also like our Facebook page and will see announcements there as new trips are added.
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UPCOMING TRIPS 2025 The Outer Hebrides of Scotland April 24th-May 2nd (click on this link for more photos with text) The Outer Hebrides 2025
Ireland Past and Present May 5th-13th Ireland Tour 2025 From Prehistory to Present (click on this link for more photos with text)
Trip descriptions below:
Exploring the Outer Hebrides of Scotland April 24-May 2, 2025
Culture, history, art and folklore from prehistory to present
Are you ready for adventure? Join us memorable journey through the Outer Hebridean isles! History and mystery will unfold as we walk back in time, visiting ancient stone circles, Iron Age forts, and well-preserved archaeological sites. Stories of the first settlers, Vikings, and more recent history will bring the past alive in some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever see. The islands are known for their gorgeous beaches, cerulean waters, and rugged varying landscapes, and there will be ample opportunities to walk and photograph them. The tour will include visits to artists, galleries and weavers carrying on the tradition of Harris Tweed, where you will meet local people practicing their arts.
Our trip will take place on Lewis and Harris, two islands in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, located 24 miles off the west coast of the Scottish mainland. The islands are actually one continuous landmass but are often referred to as two separate islands because mountains divide them into a northern two-thirds (Lewis) and a southern third (Harris). Lewis and Harris are the largest and most northerly of the Outer Hebrides islands, and the largest island in Scotland. The islands have a strong Gaelic tradition, and many people are fluent Gaelic speakers.
The Callanish Stone Circles are truly a highlight of Lewis. They are housands of years old, and mysterious and awe-inspiring. We will explore several circles as you learn about how essential the landscape, moon, stars and seasons were to the first people to live here, and ponder the reasons why these structures were built.
Dun Carloway Broch is an Iron Age structure that gives you an incredible cross-section of the world 2000 years ago. Even long after its Neolithic residents left the abode, it’s speculated that the Broch would’ve been members of Clan Morrison in the early 1500s as a stronghold. Layers of history and occupation emerge in such places.
Local guides will help that history come alive and leave a lasting impression. On several of our days a local native person will join us to tell their stories and interpret the places we visit. We will also make several stops at out of the way studios, and talk with the creators of beautiful art, crafts and photography. Most of the sites are located in spectacular places, and the landscape begs to be explored and photographed. The Norse invasions happened over a long period of time, and many settled here. Most placenames reflect the Viking influence, and there are well-preserved places to visit, such as the Norse Mill, that bring to life the settlements.
On the west coast of the Isle, an abandoned crofting village is nestled into the highlands. The Gearrannan Blackhouse Village was built in the 1800s, and now you can freely explore the village and its historic architecture. The Blackhouse has also earned some notoriety on the ‘Call the Midwife Christmas Special’, starring as the location for the acclaimed featured episode. A local weaver will be demonstrating on the loom and is full of interesting stories.
We will hear of more recent times, the Clearances, and how people and culture survived despite a dark part of island history.
Our home base will be in Stornoway, the main settlement on Lewis, where we will stay in a lovely b and b in the town center. You will be able to walk everywhere, visit the harbor to see the fishermen bringing in a fresh catch, or visit shops and galleries.
Stornoway is home to Lews Castle, built in the 1800’s, which houses an excellent museum and café. The Grounds are an outstanding example of a mid-to-late Victorian ornamental and estate landscape, with fine elevated views over Stornoway and beyond to the sea. We will explore the grounds through the many trails and loops, and visit the museum to see some the the artifacts found on the islands.
Shops with locally made arts andcrafts and weaving abound.
An important part of the history was the establishment of the Harris Tweed trademark. As we explore the islands, we will stop at many of the sites on the “Tweed Trail”. Many are individuals who create in their studio and sell the beautiful woven goods directly.
It is fascinating to see the creativity of weavers as they weave the colors of the landscape..and it’s inhabitants!…into beautiful cloth. You may even get a chance to weave a bit of cloth yourself! The colors of the area are reflected in the unique dyes and materials used to create each product so you can take a piece of the Hebrides home with you. Join us and immerse yourself in the beauty, mystery, art, history and discovery of this amazing place called the Outer Hebrides. If you enjoy a personalized, authentic and “off the beaten track” kind of travel experience, this is the trip for you.
Your tour leader and guide: Your tour will be led by Joan Molloy Slack, who will guide the tour and interpret the range of fascinating things we will see and experience. She has been organizing and leading tours for 20+ years to Ireland, Scotland, France, and Mexico. In addition to leading tours, she is a teacher and ceramic and fiber artist, (www.joanslack.com), and holds a master’s degree in Prehistoric Ceramics and Visual Art. Joan will bring her knowledge of art history, experience as a museum curator, and her passion for history to our daily excursions. As a firm believer in sustainable tourism, she also seeks out the best local guides so that we may hear and see through their eyes as well.
“I began tour guiding 22 years ago through teaching college classes combined with tours in Art History to Mexico and Ireland. I also led independent travel experiences that included Ireland as well as Scotland and France, after researching prehistoric art and ceramics and attaining my Master’s Degree. My fascination with the people who were the first recorded artists, as seen in the cave paintings in France, or on ancient pottery designs or rock art carvings, continues to drive my desire to learn, explore and share my passion for what I have learned with fellow travelers. As I researched and traveled, I found that the best way to delve deeply was to seek out local guides, artists and historians who helped bring the stories of places alive. This never fails to create a rich, meaningful and life-changing experience. Layers of story, place names, deeper meanings and human connection create a rich, multi-layered tour with memories that remain long after the travel is over. I bring this element to all of my tours, and it makes all the difference in what feels authentic versus an overview. I am so looking forward to sharing amazing people, places and experiences with you!”
What past participants say:
“My travel experience with Joan leading the group was above and beyond my expectation. Joan’s research into so many areas of interest about the sites and folklore made the trip stimulating and insightful without being overloaded. I highly recommend Joan Slack as a tour guide. You will have a wonderful, memorable time. I did.” J.H.
“Joan organizes her trips like she creates her art: beautiful, practical, and full of meaning. I’d never been on a group trip before. Joan’s voyage to Orkney in Scotland was a joy, every day. It’s one of the very best adventures of my life.” C. P.
“If you want dependability combined with unique experiences, attention to details and wonderful connections, this is a great tour to take. Each day has been planned for a balance of activities, a good pace and plenty of enjoyment. Joan’s background and knowledge really makes for a deeper understanding of everything we see.” K.M.W.
Trip details:
The tour is based in Stornoway, Scotland, which has a small airport. Glasgow is the best airport for connections with Loganair. You can take a ferry to Stornoway should you be adding some prior travels, but otherwise flights are advised. One option is to stay overnight in Glasgow after overseas travel. There is a Holiday Inn right across from the airport.
The trip begins on April 24th, so plan to arrive by that day. If you are interested in arriving a day or 2 early, please let me know and we can discuss lodging choices. Extra days are at your expense. Departure is May 2nd from the Stornoway airport.
We will be staying at Stornoway B and B , a cozy and comfortable guesthouse within walking distance of restaurants, shops and pubs https://www.stornowaybedandbreakfast.co.uk/
A gourmet breakfast is provided every day, as well as a buffet. Our host is a chef, so have a look at the amazing choices!
https://www.stornowaybedandbreakfast.co.uk/breakfastmenu
One advantage of this accommodation is that guests have access and use of a lounge with full kitchen, should you want to prepare your own dinner or get take-out after our outings. It will be a great spot to reflect on our days!
Cost: The cost for this tour is $2995
What is included in the price:–
- Lodging for April 24th-May1st at the Stornoway B and B. Price is based upon 2 people sharing a room with a double or twin beds. There is an additional charge for a single room- please contact for rate. Single rooms may have limited availability and are on a first-come, first-served basis.
- All ground transportation in a minibus after arrival at hotel and until last day of trip. We will have our own private driver in a mini bus for day trips
- Full cooked gourmet breakfast and buffet every morning with tea and coffee
- All custom tours and guides, admission fees, walking tours, and special events in itinerary
- guided presentations at site visits, and gratuities
- customized special events and demonstrations
- Drop-off at airport on May 2nd
Price does not include:
- lunches and evening meals We have opted not to make meals all-inclusive due to personal preferences and dietary issues and this allows people to choose a range of options, freedom to sample a variety of restaurants and cafes. On days out we stop for lunch at a café. (Expect meals to cost 8-12 for lunch, and 12-40 for dinner, depending on the restaurant or pub and beverages) As mentioned, a kitchen is available for evening meal preparation
- travel to and from Scotland and any travel outside of tour dates.: transportation by bus or taxi to other destinations is not included.
- Transportation from the airport on arrival, due to members of the group arriving at different times. The airport is a 5-10 minute drive, and taxis cost about $12-15
- insurance for health, luggage, transportation, cancellation/interruption. We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance
- any extra or “optional” sightseeing, tours, taxis, or tickets
Please contact Joan at 715-550-0858 with any questions or e-mail joanslack33@gmail.com
Registration:
Deposit: Space is very limited, and registrations are on a first come-first served basis. Please register as soon as possible. A deposit of $995 is due with registration, with the balance of $2000 due February 1st, 2025. (You may opt to pay the entire amount if you wish) Checks should be made payable to Joan Slack. You may also pay your deposit with PayPal or Venmo (send to joanslack33@gmail.com ) We recommend that you register soon to secure a spot as space is very limited! Registrations will be on a first-come, first served basis, and a wait list will be developed once the limit is reached.
Paperwork: All participants must fill out the registration form and waiver of responsibility to register. To copy and send by mail, send to Joan Slack, P.O. Box 383, La Pointe, WI 54850. You may also photograph once complete and send via e-mail to joanslack33@gmail.com
Once we receive your registration, you will be sent specific information on what to bring, packing and travel tips, and more specific trip information. Your deposit will be held until the trip is full. If the trip needs to be cancelled, a full refund will be given, and this determination will be made well in advance of the trip. Please get travel insurance to cover your trip cost and flights should you need to cancel.
Refund Policy
All cancellations must be in writing and received before the deadlines listed below. The following charges may apply:
- Up to $100 charge plus any unrecoverable deposits up to March 1, 2025.
- After March 1st, any unrecoverable payments to accommodation, tour guides or transportation providers and a $100 charge
- After March 10th, no refund will be allowed. Travel insurance can protect you if unforeseen issues cause you to cancel
- The tour cost is per person based on currency valuations as of August, 2024. We will do everything possible to maintain costs and itinerary, but they are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control or large fluctuations in currency values. The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or provider conditions at our discretion. We may add other attractions/activities depending upon weather altering the itinerary, for the comfort and safety of participants
Registration Form
Name:______________________________________________Birthdate:_____________
Address:__________________________________________________________________
E-mail address:_____________________________ _ Home/Cell phone
Room preference: Single Double Triple Roommate(s) preference:___________________
Emergency contact: Name, relationship, phone, e-mail address:
Please list any food allergies, preferences or other health concerns. List prescription medications you are using in case of an emergency, or make sure your traveling partner has a copy. (Use the back side)
WAIVER OF RESPONSIBILITY
The Tour Leader (hereafter referred to as “TL”), Joan Slack, gives notice that all
arrangements made by her as agent upon the express conditions that she shall not be responsible for any damage, injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned either by reason of any defect of vehicle, or through the acts of default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger, or in carrying out the arrangements of the tour, or otherwise in connection therewith, nor does she accept responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delays or other changes in means of transportation or other services, due to sickness, weather, strikes, or other causes. The right is reserved to make such alterations, deletions, additions, or modifications in the itinerary, program, or accommodations as may be found necessary by the TL. While every effort is made to assure safety, the TL, and agents of the TL will not be acting in a supervisory capacity during the tour and accordingly do not accept responsibility for the activities or safety of participants. In addition, TL shall bear no responsibility for medical or other expenses resulting from illness, injury, or accident which occurs on the tour. Participants are encouraged to be adequately insured, both for health and travel. No illegal drugs or firearms are permitted. Participants are expected not to deviate from the established itinerary without prior approval from TL. If for any reason a participant must leave the tour before completion, no refunds will be allowed. TL reserves the right to ask a participant to leave the tour due to behavior that may endanger the safety of the group.
My signature certifies that I have read the “Waiver of Responsibility” and that I agree to the
conditions thereof.
______________________________ ___________________
Name Date
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Ireland Tour 2025 From Prehistory to Present (click on this link for more photos with text)
Authentic Travel and Tours, LLC presents
“From Prehistory to Present” A cultural tour of Ireland
May 5-13, 2025
Join us for a small group tour along the west coast of Ireland! The trip will include cultural history and folklore, as well as art and archaeology, as we explore hidden places, walk with local guides, and experience an in-depth look at a spectacular place. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the inland areas are graced with the 12 Bens mountains, numerous loughs, green pastures and lively towns. Highlights will be:
- Exploring the landscape of Connemara: beaches, seascapes, mountain vistas, and gardens
- Discovering the past through visits to ancient archaeological sites, with the layers of the past revealed by a renowned archaeologist
- Learning about the vibrant cities of Galway and Clifden through locally guided walking tours, visiting galleries and seeing local art, and seeing some of the major historical sites, and of course, sampling their fresh seafood and delicious local fare
- Visiting castles and abbeys, and learning their history and stories with local guides
- Exploring the unique landscapes of the Burren and Aran Islands, both with prehistoric dolmens, Iron Age forts, and monastic sites
- Experiencing the local arts and crafts: weaving, knitting, pottery, glassblowing, jewelry
From prehistoric settlements and standing stones to Victorian gardens and castles, the western coast of Ireland provides a fascinating overview of the people, history and culture in Ireland. You will learn about the past and make connections to the present through guided walks and site visits. With local guides to interpret the history from 5000 BC, we will walk with them to explore this spectacular region, learning about everything from megalithic tombs and Bronze Age forts, to monks, pirates and land barons. History will come alive as we visit sites in the hidden landscape, learn about the people of the past, and experience the culture alive today in the music and arts.
We will begin in the lively city of Galway, where you’ll discover its history and secrets with a guided walking tour. From Viking raids to the Spanish Armada, Cromwell’s siege of the city and enslavement of the population, our guided walking tour will open your eyes to what life was like inside and outside the walls of ‘The City of the Tribes ‘for the past thousand years. The city has a rich history, a thriving traditional music scene, and an array of galleries, markets and locally made products such as woolens and knitwear. It also has a variety of fabulous restaurants and pubs to explore.
We will explore Inishmore, one of the Aran Islands, for a day. Our ferry will take us to meet local historian and folklorist Dara Molloy, who will provide insightful narratives and interpretations of very special places, such as the 7 ancient churches, ringforts and dolmens, and the magnificent Dun Aengus cliff fort dating from at least 3,500 years ago. The rich history and deep spiritual aspect of this place is very profound, and Dara brings it to life with his knowledge and love of the lore and legend,
We will spend a day in the Burren, so named for its unique limestone landcape, which is not only starkly beautiful, but also holds a plethora of ancient and medieval sites.
We will begin at Kilmacduagh monastic site, learn about ancient dolmens and their stories, and visit the Burren Center which provides a wealth of background. The Burren also is home to World Heritage site Caherconnell Stone Fort, which provides a tour of a Bronze Age stone fort and life within it. Our visit will also include a sheepdog presentation by the local landowner. Ongoing fort excavations have shown that sheep and dogs have been a constant feature of life at Caherconnell for centuries.
There will be free time to explore Galway’s hidden lanes, historical sites, seaside promenade, and array of shops and restaurants. You will be able to hear some lively music in the pubs as well!
Next, we will head north to Connemara, with our base the charming village of Clifden. A visit to Aughnanure Castle will give us a unique look at life in Gaelic Ireland. One of the wildest features of the Castle is a trap door in the floor of the banqueting hall which allowed for a surprise attack and instant disposal of unwanted visitors into the fast-flowing river below! You’ll hear stories of the infamous Grace O’Malley, known as the “pirate queen”, who called the western coast and isles her domain.
The Connemara region is a place of stunning landscapes, lively towns, and a human history beginning before 5000 BC. Spectacular white sand beaches border the western edge, with mountains, loughs, bogs, waterfalls and lush valleys to the east.
You will receive an orientation to the town, and a guided walk with Kathleen Villiers-Tuthill. She will tell stories of famine, war, religious conflict, street riots and political rallies in this 200-year-old town. You will learn about John D’Arcy, the founder of Clifden, and later will see his castle. Kathleen is the author of several books and has a wealth of knowledge about the history and heritage of her native Clifden.
Clifden is known for it’s fresh seafood of all kinds, and there are many excellent restaurants, and live music in several pubs.
We will also enjoy a visit to Kylemore Abbey, where you will have time to explore the history, Victorian gardens and magnificent castle-like mansion.
Acclaimed archaeologist Michael Gibbons will walk us through the earliest history of the region, telling stories of the past and bringing alive the people who have lived here for thousands of years. Michael will take us time traveling through the earliest settlements to more recent history, all while walking with him to the sites. Not only is he an expert in his field, he also is an amazing historian and storyteller!
There will be free time for local walks, shopping, and listening to local musicians in Clifden pubs.
Both Galway and Clifden have a variety of excellent restaurants and pubs. You’ll find imaginative dishes featuring mouth-watering beef, Irish salmon, sea trout, oysters, tender Connemara lamb and locally caught fresh fish and seafood. With our hotels right in town, you can explore with local walks, shops, galleries, bookshops, beaches, restaurants and pubs during free time.
In this small group tour that is designed for an authentic experience, you will see things and meet people that are not possible on your own. Your leader has been to these places and worked with our guides, and guarantees an incredible adventure. We keep numbers low, usually from 10-12 people, both for the freedom, flexibility, and camaraderie that small groups engender, and also so that guests may enjoy a more personal and authentic travel experience. This helps make your trip genuinely special and different from conventional tours, large buses, and too little time in one place. Less moving from hotel to hotel means you can settle into a rhythm of rich and deeper experiences, with less packing and time on a bus.
Please join us for a unique and unforgettable travel experience- in-depth, authentic, and off the beaten track!
Your tour leader and guide: Your tour will be led by Joan Molloy Slack, who will guide the tour and interpret the range of fascinating things we will see and experience. She has been organizing and leading tours for 20 years to Ireland, Scotland, France, and Mexico , with a specialty in Irish Art and Culture tours. In addition to leading tours, she is a teacher and ceramic and fiber artist, (www.joanslack.com), and holds a master’s degree in Prehistoric Ceramics and Visual Art. Joan will bring her knowledge of art history, experience as a museum curator, and her passion for Ireland to our daily excursions. As a firm believer in sustainable tourism, she also seeks out the best local guides so that we may hear and see through their eyes as well. She is an Irish/American dual citizen, and her family comes from a small town called Rathcabbin in Tipperary. You can read about her travels and research in Ireland on her blog at www.authentictravelandtours.com
“I began tour guiding 22 years ago through teaching college classes combined with tours in Art History to Mexico and Ireland. I also led independent travel experiences that included Ireland as well as Scotland and France, after researching prehistoric art and ceramics and attaining my Master’s Degree. My fascination with the people who were the first recorded artists, as seen in the cave paintings in France, or on ancient pottery designs or rock art carvings, continues to drive my desire to learn, explore and share my passion for what I have learned with fellow travelers. As I researched and traveled, I found that the best way to delve deeply was to seek out local guides, artists and historians who helped bring the stories of places alive. This never fails to create a rich, meaningful and life changing experience. Layers of story, place names, deeper meanings and human connection create a rich, multi-layered tour with memories that remain long after the travel is over. I bring this element to all of my tours, and it makes all the difference in what feels authentic versus an overview. I am so looking forward to sharing amazing people, places and experiences with you!”
Logistics:
The tour begins and ends in Galway city on May 5th, where we will stay at the centrally located Hyde Hote, which is steps away from the bus depot. You will need to travel to Galway from either Shannon or Dublin airports, both of which have frequent direct airport bus shuttles from both airports. There is a train connection from Dublin as well. The Shannon bus is 1.5 hours, Dublin 2,5 hours. If possible, try to arrive a day early so that you can recover from travel and be ready to enjoy the trip, or add on some days in Dublin or other areas before the tour. Options would be to stay near your airport on arrival or hop on a bus to Galway directly off your flight. CityLink and GoBus from Dublin run frequently all day, as do Shannon buses. (Lodging prior to or after the tour dates are your responsibility)
Participants will be dropped off in Galway near the coach station on the morning of May 13th. I am happy to help with information and contacts for travel arrangements, or if you’d like to extend your stay before or after the tour.
In Galway, our stay is with the Hyde Hotel, located steps from Eyre Square, enabling us to walk easily in the city center. Our lodging in Clifden will be Foyle’s Hotel, which has been managed by the Foyle family for over a century and has an old-world charm. Both hotels have a restaurant and pub, as well as lovely sitting rooms where you can have a cup of tea and reflect upon your day.
We will be walking outdoors on many of the days. Participants should be able to walk for 2-4 hours on uneven terrain at times. If you have any concerns about mobility issues, please contact us before registering. You will need to transport your own luggage in hotels so travel lightly! Weather can be unpredictable, so good rain and foot gear will make your outdoor time most enjoyable, as we will carry on with the itinerary no matter the weather. May is one of the driest months in Ireland, and temperatures will be in the 60’s. More details, travel and packing tips, information on sites, and an itinerary will be sent to you upon registration. Transportation to Inishmore in the Aran Islands will be by ferry and ground transportion will be with local drivers in a minibus.
Interesting site information :
Hyde Hotel https://www.hydehotel.ie/en/
Foyle’s Hotel https://www.foyleshotel.com/
Galway City https://www.galwaytourism.ie/
Dara Molloy, Aran Islands guide https://www.daramolloy.com/
Caherconnell Stone Fort https://caherconnell.com/
The Burren https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/eden/the-burren/
Inishmor, Aran Islands https://www.aranislands.ie/inis-mor-inishmore-island-aran-islands
Aughnanure Castle https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aughnanure_Castle
Michael Gibbons http://walkingireland.comClifden http://www.visitclifden.com/index.php/galleries/history-heritage/
Grace O’Malley http://www.mayo-ireland.ie/en/about-mayo/history/grace-omalley-the-pirate-queen.html
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Cost: The cost for this tour is $2850 What is included in the price:–
- Lodging for tour dates at the Hyde Hotel in Galway and Foyle’s Hotel in Clifden. Price is based upon 2 sharing a room with a double or twin beds. 3 people can share a room with 3 beds if available. There is an additional charge for single room- please contact for rate. Single rooms may have limited availability and are on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is an extra charge for a single room.
- All ground transportation, including buses and ferry after arrival at hotel and until last day of trip. We will have our own private driver in a small bus for day trips
- Full Irish breakfast and buffet every morning with tea and coffee
- All custom tours and guides, admission fees, walking tours, and special events in itinerary
- guided presentations at site visits, and gratuities
- customized special events and demonstrations
Price does not include:
- lunches and evening meals We have opted not to make meals all-inclusive due to personal preferences and dietary issues. This also gives people the freedom to explore and sample a variety of restaurants. (Expect meals to cost 5-12 Euro for lunch, and 12-30 for dinner, depending on the restaurant or pub and beverages
- travel to and from Ireland and any travel outside of tour dates. The tour begins at the hotel in Galway and ends in Galway: transportation by bus or taxi to other destinations is not included
- insurance for health, luggage, transportation, cancellation/interruption. We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance
- any extra or “optional” sightseeing, tours, taxis, or tickets
Please contact Joan at 715-550-0858 with any questions or e-mail joanslack33@gmail.com
Registration:
Deposit: Space is very limited, and registrations are on a first come-first served basis. A deposit of $850 is due with registration, with the balance of $2000 due February 1st, 2025. (You may opt to pay the entire amount if you wish) Checks should be made payable to Joan Slack. You may also pay your deposit by credit card, plus 3%service fee (call Joan at 715-550-0858) or PayPal for a 3% service fee (send to joanslack33@gmail.com ) We recommend that you register soon to secure your place!
Paperwork: All participants must fill out the registration form and waiver of responsibility to register. To copy and send by mail, send to Joan Slack, P.O. Box 383, La Pointe, WI 54850. You may also photograph once complete and send via e-mail to joanslack33@gmail.com
Once we receive your registration, you will be sent specific information on what to bring, packing and travel tips, and more trip information. Your deposit will be held until the trip is full, at which time you will be notified. If the trip needs to be cancelled, a full refund will be given, and this determination will be made well in advance of the trip. Please get travel insurance to cover your trip cost should you need to cancel.
Refund Policy
All cancellations must be in writing, and received before the deadlines listed below. The following charges may apply:
- Up to $100 charge plus any unrecoverable deposits up to March 1, 2025.
- After March 1st, any unrecoverable payments to hotels, tour guides or transportation providers and a $100 charge
- After March 15th, no refund will be allowed. Travel insurance can protect you if unforeseen issues cause you to cancel
- The tour cost is per person based on currency valuations as of August, 2024. We will do everything possible to maintain costs and itinerary, but they are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control or large fluctuations in currency values. The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or provider conditions at our discretion. We may add other attractions/activities depending upon weather changing the itinerary
Name:______________________________________________Birthdate:________________
Address:_____________________________________________________________________
E-mail address:_____________________________ Home/Cell phone_________________
Room preference: Single Double Triple Roommate(s) preference:___________________
Emergency contact: Name, relationship, phone, e-mail address:
Use the opposite side to list food or other allergies, and any health concerns. List prescription medications you are using in case of an emergency, or make sure your traveling partner has a copy.
WAIVER OF RESPONSIBILITY
The Tour Leader (hereafter referred to as “TL”), Joan Slack, gives notice that all
arrangements made by her as agent upon the express conditions that she shall not be responsible for any damage, injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned either by reason of any defect of vehicle, or through the acts of default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger, or in carrying out the arrangements of the tour, or otherwise in connection therewith, nor does she accept responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delays or other changes in means of transportation or other services, due to sickness, weather, strikes, or other causes. The right is reserved to make such alterations, deletions, additions, or modifications in the itinerary, program, or accommodations as may be found necessary by the TL. While every effort is made to assure safety, the TL, and agents of the TL will not be acting in a supervisory capacity during the tour and accordingly do not accept responsibility for the activities or safety of participants. In addition, TL shall bear no responsibility for medical or other expenses resulting from illness, injury, or accident which occurs on the tour. Participants are encouraged to be adequately insured, both for health and travel. No illegal drugs or firearms are permitted. Participants are expected not to deviate from the established itinerary without prior approval from TL. If for any reason a participant must leave the tour before completion, no refunds will be allowed. TL reserves the right to ask a participant to leave the tour due to behavior that may endanger the safety of the group.
My signature certifies that I have read the “Waiver of Responsibility” and that I agree to the conditions thereof.
______________________________ ___________________
Name Date
Testimonials from past tour participants:
Hear what people have to say about out trips:
“Our trip to Ireland with Joan was like no other. A focus on cultural and historical tours gave us a unique look at Ireland rather than simply visiting the typical tourist spots. Where else could you hike across the ocean floor at low tide to explore an island with a renowned archaeologist as your guide? An experience not to be missed!” JZM
“My travel experience with Joan leading the group was above and beyond my expectation. Joan’s research into so many areas of interest about the sites and folklore made the trip stimulating and insightful without being overloaded. She is a seasoned guide with great “in country” connections and a sincere love of the land she travels. I highly recommend Joan Slack as a tour guide. You will have a wonderful, memorable time. I did.” J.H.
“Joan organizes her trips like she creates her art: beautiful, practical, and full of meaning. I’d never been on a group trip before. Joan’s voyage to Orkney in Scotland was a joy, every day. It’s one of the very best adventures of my life.” C. P.
“If you want dependability combined with unique experiences, attention to details and wonderful connections, this is a great tour to take. Each day has been planned for a balance of activities, a good pace and plenty of enjoyment. Joan’s background and knowledge really makes for a deeper understanding of everything we see.” K.M.W.
“If you have never been on a small group tour, go with Joan. If you have been with someone else, go again with Joan. Her planning, arrangements, and site selections are perfect! You will meet warm, friendly and local people from all walks of life with talents to share. I still have a Bridget’s Cross, made by Joe from our trip, hanging by my door. Happy travels!” A.H.
Authentic Travel and Tours is owned by art history scholar, artist, teacher and writer Joan Molloy Slack, and tours are created and led by her. Assistant leaders, co-leaders and local guides enhance the guiding of each tour. Joan believes that including local people and guides on day trips is essential in creating unique experiences and authentic travel. Her background in research and experiences in the tour locations has enabled her to meet and study with many local guides who are now friends and colleagues, and she shares these very special relationships with you on her tours. She has posted many of her essays about her experiences around the world on the “blog” pages, and we hope you enjoy them!
Authentic Travel and Tours, LLC 