M. A. S. (A Texas Resident)

Received on 26 March 2007

Gentlemen:

Little did I know when I answered a tiny ad in the Dallas Morning News that started with the word "Turkey," the adventure that I had in store.  Within 24 hours, I had surrendered my passport photo, my credit card, and I was on my way to Turkey in three weeks.  The initial apprehension of danger that I originally had about going to a Moslem country in the Middle East proved to be totally nonexistent.  There is more danger on the streets of Dallas!

Since I am a seasoned traveler, I had some knowledge of what is to be anticipated from a guided group tour.  Not this one!  It was everything I knew before magnified about 100 percent.  I drove to Tyler for a one-day seminar on Turkey in preparation for the trip.  I had an extensive printout of the important cities and historical events.  I had the itinerary, hotel and flight information promptly. Because of Dr. K's profound knowledge and enthusiasm for Turkey and his vast experience, we were treated to the BEST of the BEST.  The itinerary, the guides, the hotels, the meals, the meetings with locals, the lectures were all exceptional.  Even the weather cooperated!  Dr. K's continual little surprises from candy to a test with 80 multiple-choice questions (!) were always fun and challenging.  He was prepared for every emergency in the bags he dutifully carries.  He had emergency supplies, stamps, banners, cameras (even a memory card for my camera that actually fit!), printed paper directions for all ports in Arabic and English stating where we were staying so we could find our way back if we got lost anywhere!  The attention to detail from oriental rugs to pottery to ancient ruins from every century imaginable was really amazing.  At each site we were prepared beforehand and reviewed afterward.  We laughed that "no stone was left unturned," and in a country that is full of ruins and stones, this was formidable.  We were also treated to an understanding of modern-day Turkey as well.  Dr. K's grasp of the subject is beyond reproach. 

Finally, his passion for Turkey was mirrored in his passion for the students and travelers in his care.  He treated everyone like family.  Always encouraging, always charming, never addled or angry * and he was definitely challenged by some of his family!  What a great treasure you have at Tyler Junior College.  I am amazed that you could offer such an opportunity.  I feel so fortunate to have noted the small ad that day.  I want to go again!  You should give Dr. K a medal.  He is a real gem!  A great teacher and a great humanitarian, and he's fun too! 

I have a whole new respect for Tyler Junior College that they could offer something of this magnitude.  It was the trip of a lifetime for me.  Give us more!  Thank you. Thank you.

Very truly yours,
 

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