Tours start Sept. 6 and Sept. 10. Saga Holidays, a leader in group holidays for travelers over 50, works with the Smithsonian Institution to create its Smithsonian Odyssey Tours. Led by scholars and experts, the trips boast lectures as well as informal discussions on topics such as history, science and the arts. Departures are scheduled June-September. This Minnesota-based company sends teams of volunteers to nearly 70 communities in 18 countries, including Italy, Costa Rica and the Cook Islands.
Projects vary, and no experience is required.
This summer, teams will head to the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Mont., to help finish Blackfeet Cultural Park. Volunteers will spend two weeks building basic structures, planting trees and landscaping. Departing June 17, the eight-day tour features visits to key Sioux War sites such as Fort Phil Kearney, the Rosebud Battlefield, Dull Knife and Little Bighorn. It will be led by military historian Gregory J.W. Urwin. I is for in-line skating.