Although the primary mission of the National Trust for Historic Preservation is to save historic places and revitalize America’s communities, their program offerings go beyond the 50 states. National Trust Tours have been operating for 35 years, focusing on destinations that explore the traditions and cultures of the world, with a special emphasis on the effect that art and architecture has had on them. And now, their more moderately priced Great Places tour offerings has expanded.
These more affordable tour options are characterized by shorter stays, free time within the course of the tour (with staff suggestions on how to spend your time) and guided touring with their experts. Destinations scheduled for 2008 include: Australia and New Zealand, Ireland, Austin, Poland and a river cruise through Belgium and Holland aboard the M.V. Heidelberg. Although these tours may still be too steep for some budgets, others may find these tighter packaged itineraries to be just right.