Mejdi Tours, made up of an eclectic team of Arabs, Jew, and Christian peace-builders, has created a travel experience with the potential to re-define travelers’ perspectives, bringing guests a greater understanding of the complex history and culture in the Middle East.

This year they’ve teamed up with National Geographic Expeditions to offer a 12-day trip through Israel and the West bank guided by both Israeli and Palestinian peace-builders. On the trip you have a chance to meet and hear the stories of a range of people, from rabbi’s to refugees, all in the effort of creating a balanced narrative. Just take a look at Day 3 of the Mejdi Tours itinerary: as you make your way through Jerusalem, you’ll learn the significance of the Mount of Olives from a local rabbi, at Dome of the Rock you’ll hear from an imam concerning its Muslim roots, and finally later in the day you will explore the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a important Christian pilgrimage destination, with a local pastor.

Mejdi is the brainchild of Dr. Marc Gopin, Aziz Abu Sarah, and Scott Cooper. Marc is a professor at George Mason University and director of its Center for World Religions, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution. Also an ordained rabbi, Marc has over 25 years experience in the world peace-building and conflict resolution. Aziz, an entrepreneur at heart, has worked in the world of tourism for over 10 years and co-founded Al Tariq – The Palestinian Institution for Democracy and Development. Scott built up years of experience in the banking and financial markets to help peacebuilders and investors identify the best business models that will harness growth, change, and success.

One eager student, Ziata, who joined in on one of their academic tours, blogged, “Tolstoy once said that everybody wants to change the world, but nobody wants to change themselves. Our whirlwind experience completely rocked our worlds and made us wonder of our own roles in our societies. Such a change on a personal level can bring about a change on a broader, national or international, level.”

Trips begin in October 2012 and run through May 2012.

Also check out these destinations and tour operators similar to Mejdi that we’ve featured in previous issues: The Holy Land Trust, The Top 10 Countries for Sustainable Adventure Tourism (Israel is #2), Exchange Tourism during Ramadan Creates Equality in Jordan

Try his signature Sea Cave Nature Tour, which takes you to caves not many people know how to find.   You’ll explore three caves, if the tides allow.  This coastal area is teaming with life – harbor seals, as well as a multitude of creatures such as crabs, fish, birds and algae, are all on display.  We loved the sea stars, purple sea urchins, and flower-like green sea anemone, which feast on crabs and snails.  Click here for a video of harbor seals making their way into sea near Mendocino.

A recent paddler remarked, “We experienced slow, medium, and slightly rough waters in different parts of the trip, and Craig very skillfully guided us all through them… he managed to keep an eye on everyone and we loved how he loves Earth – always stressing respect and care for the environment.”  Craig also offers kayak surfing lessons, a nice idea for day two and a definite contrast to the predominantly smooth paddling of the caves.

End your visit with a trip to one of the area’s boutique wineries and a stay in one of the local B&B’s – Craig can recommend the best!
For more information call 707-937- 0700 or send an email through the contact form here: http://www.kayakmendocino.com/contact.php.

Hint: This national park supports a wide range of ecological diversity, but the flamingos and other water birds are the major attractions. The lake’s abundance of algae attracts the large population of flamingos, while the ecosystem as a whole provides for approximately 56 different species of mammals including the white rhino and buffaloes.

Details: This month’s photo was taken in 2010 on a School for Field Studies’ Community Wildlife Management Program by Evan Tipton. Evan is an editor at OTR and intern with Xola.com. Be the first to send an email to editor@travelofftheradar.com with the correct answer and we will send you a surprise from Eagle Creek!

Previous Winner: Congratulations to Pam Kraske, who won a OneSeed Expeditions mug and 15% off their choice of a 2012 expedition offering.