What Our Clients Say About 206 Tours...

From: Fr. Crowley
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2012 11:06 AM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: Medjugorje || May 6 -14,2012

Dear Rinda:

Thank you for your e-mail received. The Pilgrimage went very well thank God. All of the Pilgrims enjoyed a very good experience. While many of them had been there previous - it was evident that they came away with a deeper appreciation of what Medjugorje is all about. The group bonded very quickly and we all enjoyed a great sense of unity and sharing. Slavenka our Tour Escort was excellent. Her interaction with the Pilgrims and her profundity of wisdom and knowledge made the Pilgrimage all the more special.

Dragica and Marinko could not have been more kind. They are the essence of "hospitality'. It was my first time staying with them and I was deeply touched. We all had the privilege of attending Ivan's vision at his Chapel on Sunday, May l3. It was a special moment! I too received a special grace during that vision. Ivan mentioned afterwards that Our Lady had prayed for each priest individually during his apparition. What more can I ask for? They were a rather private couple. All in all I was happy with the Pilgrimage. If there was anything negative I wanted to express it would be the lack of time to process the whole experience. Thank you again Rinda for making this possible. With much gratitude and thanksgiving.

Fr. Pat Crowley, ss.cc.

From: Mary Ann Wertz
Sent: Wednesday, May 16, 2012 4:23 PM
To: 'Samantha Godfrey'
Subject: Medjugorje | May 6-14, 2012

Dear Cara,

The whole thing was outstanding in every way. Our guide, Dragan, was really special and went out of his way constantly to make our experience perfect. He even took us up Apparition Hill a 2nd time because we wanted to go in the evening. The Pansion Sulic was great and we loved the staff esp Irene the lady who served us and a girl named Rose who helped us with anything we needed. We also had perfect weather which helped. Everyone wants to go back! But we want to visit Lourdes before we return to Medj.

We relished every minute……….Praised be Jesus and Mary!

Thanks for everything – 206 is a gift!

MaryAnn

From: Mary Williams
Sent: Wednesday, May 16, 2012 5:00 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Cc: Larry Williams
Subject: Medjugorje || May 6 -14,2012

Rinda,

The pilgrimage is a wonderful renewal of faith--Charlie and Gertie Carpenter are deeply spiritual, thoughtful and organized. Marenko's and Dragice's pension was outstanding--- as always! Father Pat Crowley was available to each of us and - at times was the only English speaking priest hearing confessions--he was a blessing! Especially appreciate flying Lufthansa --head and shoulders above the rest!

But, Rinda, your personal attention to adding our granddaughter, Rory K. Finn, to the pilgrimage at such a late date was a special gift. It had to be orchestrated by Blessed Mother!! Thank you so much.

Will always consider 206 tours for future pilgrimages.

Konnie (Mary C. ) Williams

From: Fr. Leo Manglaviti
Sent: Monday, May 14, 2012 9:21 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: San Giovanni Rotondo, Assisi and Rome || May 1 -10,2012

Rinda,

The pilgrimage was most wonderful, especially the people. Gaia Meuti is a real gem - knowledgeable, good-humored, and reverent. The other guides were also very good, especially Mary Ann.

Also, the staff and services of the Quirinale Hotel and the Savoia Regency Hotel were outstanding.

It was a deeply faith-filled and joyous experience.

Blessings,
Fr. Leo, SJ

From: DUNG NGUYEN
Sent: Thursday, May 10, 2012 3:36 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Welcome Home || Fatima, Spain, Lourdes, Paris, Nevers and Lisieux || April 25 - May 7, 2012

Dear Rinda,

Our first pilgrimage with 206 Tours was wonderful. The hotels were great and in excellent location. The cities we visited were picturesque and so special with the witnesses of the saints throughout the centuries . We enjoyed the trip very much. Thank you especially for Father Mariusz Olbrys who we love dearly because of his kindness, thoughtfulness, and his love for the Lord and His saints. We would like to hear from you if there is any trip in the future accompanied by Father Olbrys so that we can joint him. We're looking forward to the next journey with 206 Tours.

Best regards,

DanThanh Le and Dung Nguye

From: Betsy Williams
Sent: Sunday, May 06, 2012 9:13 PM
To: 'Amanda Fortunato'
Subject: Pilgrimage to Italy & Sicily with Fr. Rich Toohey & Fr. Marc Solomon

Hi Amanda,

My pilgrimage to Italy was fabulous! Luca, our tour guide was excellent , he went above and beyond for our group. He was extremely organized, knowledgeable, and very pleasant to be around. All the sites we visited were so beautiful. I loved going to daily mass.

Although the hotel we stayed at in Palermo was fine, the area in which it was located, was a little sketchy. All the accommodations were above average.

For me, the papal audience was the highlight. We packed a lot in in two weeks, it was all fantastic.

I did have to fly home separate from the group, and my connection from Rome to JFK was a bit tight, but I made it. It was indeed a memorable pilgrimage.

Thank you and God bless,

Betsy Williams

From: Waldemar Betancourt
Sent: Wednesday, May 02, 2012 12:54 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: San Giovani Rotondo, Assisi and Rome - Apr 17- 26, '12

The pilgrimage to Italy was an experience that exceeded my expectations by far. I had planned such for slightly over 4 years, and was not sure with whom or with what company I was to pick in order to invest a considerable amount in cash (to travel and to expense), and if such would be 100% thrust worthy in their offerings. But after travelling, arriving, staying, visiting, and returning back, I was overwhelmed with the service received.

I would never had imagined or thought that our small group would encounter in the Holy Sites, the very special secluded areas visited such as the restored Abbey of Monte Cassino, the tombs of martyrs, the relics of saints such as Catherine of Siena, San Padre Pio in Giovanni Rotondo, Saint Francis in Assisi, St. Claire in Assisi, and the visit inside St. Michael’s Grotto, the Porziuncola, and others.

I would never have imagined that we were to celebrate and have a complete Mass next to the burial sites of St. Benedict and Saint Scholastica, or to have an everyday Mass celebration in the Basilicas, Cathedrals, or even in the Tombs of St. Callisto. Also, we were granted time for ourselves to wonder around the different places, and even in Rome.

The Wednesday Papal audience was something I would have never imagined, even the guide was very helpful and knowledgeable when she instructed us where to sit, thus having the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, ride just in front of us!

Also, the group members were very friendly, and felt as if each member was part of the family.

The Guide, Karin, was excellent, superb, friendly, dedicated, very knowledgeable, always aware to our needs and concerns, highly professional, willing to help us with any situation that would arose.

Father Damien was superb and very accessible to guidance, offering facts and data of the different sites we visited. Also was available for personal counseling.

The whole trip was great, extraordinary, unforgettable! We had such a wonderful group of people to travel with, including the drivers, and the Museum Guides!

I will certainly opt to take a spiritual journey with 206 Tours in the future, possibly to the Holy Land in 2013 or 2014.

Waldemar Betancourt

From: Mary Johnston
Sent: Tuesday, May 01, 2012 12:33 PM
To: Milanka Lachman
Subject: Portugal, Spain & France

My Dear Milanka,

First of all, the Lourdes trip was over the top. It was so great that I want to do the 12 day trip again next year.

I have to say, this was the best trip I have had. I thought I could never top the Holy Land, but this did it. People ask me what was the best thing, and I tell them, "the next day", because it just kept getting better all the time. Our guide and I really clicked and he said he would plan a trip for me for next year. I told him to get it planned because I want to get flyers out ASAP.

Milanka, I just can't express how great this trip was, of course being with Penny is always wonderful. Both priests were great. All the people were wonderful. One man may got to Poland with me. I really can't say what was the highlight because is all was so wonderful. I know the bus ride was long for some people, but I ask what would want to cut out? My answer is NOTHING!!!!

The only problem I had was I fell in my room in Lourdes and had to go to the hospital, but even that worked our great. By noon of the day I fell, I could not put any weight on that leg, the next morning there was no pain at all. But of course, we were in Lourdes.

Our guide, Jesus is such a wonderful young man. After I fell, I told him "I fell for you!"

I am still absorbing the entire trip, I am the type of person who needs to take this type of trip at least twice to really be able to absorb it all. So I am already looking forward to next year!

Thank you again for all you do for people like me; without you and your company, I would not be where I am in my faith life, I am still a baby crawling, but at least I am at that point!

Prayers,

Mary Johnston

From: Carol Saracinskas
Sent: Tuesday, May 01, 2012 5:46 AM
To: Amanda Fortunato
Subject: Pilgrimage to Italy & Sicily with Fr. Rich Toohey & Fr. Marc Solomon

I wanted to write you/206 Tours a personal thanks for providing our group with a wonderful vacation and memories. It was organized and for the most part was perfect.If anyone did not have one of the best times of their lives it was their fault, so thank you again, Carol Saracinskas Father Rich Toohey trip

From: Fr. Joseph Nahas
Sent: Monday, April 30, 2012 6:53 AM
To: Cara Manise
Cc: Penny Abbruzzese
Subject: Santiago... Fatima... Lourdes etc.

Dear Ms. Manise and everyone at 206 Tours,

Christ is risen!

Thank you so much for considering me as Spiritual Director for the Spain/Portugal/France Pilgrimage and for the stipend, which I received upon my return. The trip, locations visited, lodgings, and our tour guide (and driver) were exceptional. Everything was top-shelf, and every pilgrim was blessed and grace-filled by all of the shrines and holy places we visited. The comments by one and all throughout the trip were of amazement.

On a personal note, I would like to extend my gratitude to Penny, whose holiness and kindness I am sure you are well aware of; she kept everyone at ease throughout the trip. I (and the whole group really) were very impressed by the professionalism and accommodation of Jesus, our tour guide, who is a very conscientious and personable lead. On that note, I would like to send him an email if you would be so kind as to forward me his email address. Miguel, our bus driver, was also a pleasure, always on time, and a dexterous driver. Last but not least, thank you for your hard work. Don’t think because you are in the background, you are forgotten. I well realize the effort and difficult task you had in putting this trip together. God bless you for your diligence.

Believe me, from take-off to landing, everything was wonderful.
Again, I send you my gratitude, prayers and blessings.

Keep up the good work. I am a humble servant,

In Jesus and Mary,
Fr. Joseph A. Nahas

From: On Behalf Of MaryLou Slome
Sent: Saturday, April 28, 2012 7:03 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Lourdes, Lisieux, Nevers and Paris || April 16-23, 2012

Good morning, Rinda,

Where do I start???? It was an amazing trip!!! Thanks to you and your exceptional worldwide staff!

I have been on several pilgrimages before, but never on one with so much attention to detail! Our tour guide, Jesus, was attentive to every need of his "flock" as Jesus was in the gospels. He was cheerful, easy going, and eager to please and help us. He was especially reverent as he assisted as altar server at some of the Masses. (There were times in the tour that my 87 year old Dad needed to walk more slowly, have a cab or stay behind because of the walking and Jesus was very accommodating to him.)

The guides at each site were amazing---filling us with added details, stories, and facts of the places we were visiting! In Nevers, we were especially blessed to have Isabelle as our guide-----she was so inspiring----she brought me to tears! She gave such a powerful tour----her words were like homilies!! Several of us {including the accompanying priest and my Dad, the deacon} commented how we wished we had recorded her words for future listening!

Having priests as part of the tour was wonderful. Our priest in Paris, Fr Charles, turned out to know my grandfather in New Hampshire many, many years ago...in fact my grandfather---a local doctor----brought him into the world some 70+ years ago...what wonderful stories he had to tell!

Thank you for the reverent priests throughout the tour!

Organized prayer and movies on the bus were constantly keeping us on focus to our next destination.
The hotel accommodations were very comfortable and well located for touring the sites. The food was delicious. Occasional lunches at the convents were a treat---very fresh and yummy!!!
Breakfast at Le Marceau Bastille in Paris was terrific!

My only complaint/worry was when we arrived in Lourdes at our hotel. Our arrival there preceded the other tour with Jesus, which was to join us. We didn't know this and us newcomers became worried when the front desk staff did not know if/when Jesus would arrive...and there was no sign/note was on the bulletin board to give information.

Your company's attention to detail in their booklets and preparation recommendations was very helpful!
I would love to travel with you again....and will start saving right away!

Thank you for my new "prayer family"---we all met such wonderful people!!

Would you be so kind as to send me 4 tour booklets citing all the varieties of available tours you have to share with friends---several co-worker in my parish wanted to learn more about 206tours.

Many, many thanks and God bless you all, much love,

Mary Lou Slome

From: Walsh, Teresa A
Sent: Friday, April 27, 2012 2:24 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Poland April 10-18, 2012

Dear Rinda,

This Pilgrimage was the best...I came back refreshed in mind, body and soul.
being able to be at the Cathedral for mass on Divine Mercy Sunday was wonderful. And the group of people in our group were the best. Father Kaspar and all the people from Alaska were so supportive and I feel now that I have made friends for life with most of them. Thank you so much. I look forward to traveling with you on another Pilgrimage next year....God willing.

God bless you and all the folks at 206 Tours and thanks again.

Teresa

From: Mary Mitchell
Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2012 9:14 PM
To: Yaritza
Subject: Pilgrimage to Medjugorje with Wayne Weible April 12-20, 2012

Hi Yaritza,

It was a lovely pilgrimage.
I especially liked our tour guide in Medjugorje. She was very nice and knowledgable.

I will recommend your company, if someone asks.

God bless you,

Mary Christiansen

From: Bob Acacio
Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2012 2:30 PM
To: Yaritza
Subject: Pilgrimage to Medjugorje with Wayne Warble April 12-20, 2012

Hi Yaritza,

Our trip was wonderful! Even though it rained 7 of the 8 days we still experienced everything we hoped to and left with an intense sense of Peace. We look forward to our next trip.

Thanks for your help,

Bob Acacio

From: Gail Paranzino
Sent: Saturday, April 21, 2012 8:59 PM
To: yaritza@206tours.com
Subject: Our Trip to Medjugorje with Fr. George Nixon

Yaritza:
Our trip to say the least was perfect. Our hosts in the village welcomed us as if we were family. We were lucky
enough to have a priest (Fr. George Nixon) traveling with us. To express all that happened and how spiritually
uplifting it was would take volumes. Instead I send these pictures (Each worth a thousand words..:-)).

God Bless
Peter & Gail Paranzino

From: sue
Sent: Friday, April 20, 2012 2:59 PM
To: 'Yaritza'
Subject: Medjugorje with Fr. George Nixon April 9-17, 2012

Dear Yaritza,

I just got back from the most wonderful visit to Medjugorje.
Our accommodations and tour guide was the best ever.
I loved Marinko and Dragica and their kind hospitality, not to mention the great food!
I wanted to take Dragan home with me in a suitcase. He was a great guide and FUNNY!!!
He made the rainy week comfortable and enjoyable.
I wish I could repeat the 7 days all over again.
This was my 8th visit to Medjugorje and they have all been so very different.
This was in the top 3! So thanks so much for putting together a great Pilgrimage.

God Bless,
Sue Wilkinson

From: Deacon Patrick LaBella
Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2012 10:17 AM
To: Liz Shea
Subject: Medjugorje pilgrimage with Al Barbarino group

Dear Liz,

The pilgrimage was indeed and wonderful reflective experience. Our guide was wonderful, she was very knowledgable and informative on the history of not only Medjugorje but also of the past history of the surrounding region. We had spirituality and faith sharing each day which was a nice opportunity for the pilgrims to express their feelings of what they were experiencing throughout their time there. Al was wonderful as were the host family. In all this was truly a lovely faith filled holy time for us all.

Be well and my best to all the staff.

Best always,
Deacon Patrick LaBella

From: Martinez, Eliliana
Sent: Tuesday, April 17, 2012 4:47 PM
To: yaritza@206tours.com
Subject: Fr. Frank's Nelson's Pilgrimage to Poland, Prague & Salzburg March 19-28, 2012

this tour with father Fran Nelson was fantastic. I love Poland and the people. To be in the birth place of John Paul II and Santa Faustina. To be able to see where the Divine Mercy came alive it was amazing. I love the group, the Filipino sisters and brother from Califonia are incredible. Thank to father Nelson for his guidance during this pilgrimage. We were bless with the weather and I made many friends this group was great. Thank to 206 tour for all your service. God bless you all.

Eliliana

From: Linda Elsner
Sent: Sunday, April 08, 2012 3:59 PM
To: Yaritza
Subject: Fr. Frank Nelson's Pilgrimage to Poland, Prague & Salzburg March 19-28, 2012

Dear Yaritza,

This was my first visit to Europe, and without question the most moving, enjoyable, spiritual journey of my life. I was sometimes overwhelmed with feelings of awe, gratitude, humility and grace. To walk where saints have walked, to visit their resting places, to feel their presence- it was an amazing experience. The visit to Auschwitz and Birkinau brought me to my knees-I put away my camera after a few photos because I felt somehow that I was intruding-that this excursion into the horrors that men wrought should not be experienced through a camera lens, but with my eyes, and all my senses. I will never forget that day. Fr. Frank provided much spiritual guidance-his daily masses were so comforting. Chris, our guide, was so knowledgeable, and so compassionate- a gentle man who taught me to love the countries we visited. I am so grateful for this wonderful opportunity.

Thank you,

Linda Elsner

Dear Rinda,

Thank you for the chance to give you feedback on Tour #111 The Holy Land – March 17-26, 2012.

We booked with 206 Tours simply on the strong recommendation. Owing to a sudden family situation, it was essential we go much earlier and that we return through the USA.

This all happened because 206 Tours lived up to their world-wide reputation and not only took us on board quickly, but delivered the best organised, best conducted and most spiritual journey we could ever have experienced. My wife, Clare, and I will never be the same again.

But why were we so impressed and taken aback spiritually? Well, it all started on Day 1 at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv and leaving the same Airport on the final day was only a transition to the rest of our lives. Spirituality was the focus throughout the pilgrimage – and the sacred sites we visited, plus the commentary that our wonderful Tour Guide, Nidal Jonaidi, gave us were so stimulating and so memorable. The depth of Our Lord’s love for us, how much He suffered for us, and how much He wants us to persevere to the end started to seep into our minds in a way that simply stemmed from being on such a wonderful pilgrimage.

(Incidentally, Nidal’s ongoing links back to the Old Testament were a highlight of each day and he is to be commended.)

On the day-to-day organisation, not one thing came adrift! And that’s a compliment one could rarely give with over 30 people being cared for over 10 days or more. Timing, comfort and enjoyment were the key elements day by day – Nidal did his job and he enjoyed it; our driver, Imad, did his job in a most professional way; and all the hotels gave top service in every department.

To top off our journey, we travelled with happy, vibrant people from the USA – Australia and the USA have always had strong ties and every person on the pilgrimage was a pleasure to be with. We thank you, 206 Tours, for being so very, very professional.

As if all the foregoing was not enough, suddenly we have your President, Milanka Lachman, and Linda....with us! And what a bonus – little wonder Milanka was inducted into The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem and that she made such an impression on His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. And we became 206 Tour pilgrims without even knowing these wonderful things about your President.

Before I finish, Fr. Mickey Bancroft gave us wonderful liturgy each and every day – we could only contemplate a pilgrimage with a Priest on board, and Fr Mickey reflected the love of Christ for us every moment of the journey. We were truly blessed and we will pray for him, our pilgrim friends and all at 206 Tours with special enthusiasm that comes from ‘Down Under’.

As members for over 50 years of a Parish staffed by Order of Saint Augustine, we especially commend your choice of St Augustine’s words, The world is a book, those who do not travel read only a page,”

Yours in Augustine

Kevin (and Clare) Hadley

Fr. Mickey Bancroft, 206 Tours Pilgrims & Linda Antonelle (206 Tours Director of Sales)

From: Elizabeth Stewart
Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 10:05 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Welcome Home || The Holy Land || March 17-26 , 2012 (you can post/share this)

March 29, 2012

Hi Rinda and Milanka,

As a frequent, global traveler I seldom participate in group tours. This Holy Land program was an exception because of logistics and the renowned reputation of 206 Tours. This was a beautiful pilgrimage made more special with the support and leadership of Nidal and Father Mickey. I truly appreciate Nidal's knowledge and passion, his objectivity and his patience with us. Father Mickey was just as wonderful -- providing spiritual guidance and support along the way. In addition, our driver Imat, was highly reliable --keeping us safe and on schedule. These are exceptional individuals -- humorous, kind, and knowledgeable. It is a privilege to have made this spiritual journey with them.

It was both a surprise and blessing to have met Milanka and Linda onsite. We were able to express our gratitude for their program personally. These pilgrimages are not just a business -- these are also part of the mission for the 206 folks. Their passion and commitment is evident in the thoughtful design and planning of the itinerary, their constant attention to their pilgrims, and the kindness they have for their local providers. Safety, satisfaction, and value -- these are the attributes that they aspire for in their program for their pilgrims/travelers. And they have exceeded all expectations.. on a daily basis, no less.

I truly appreciate this journey and I look forward to many more with 206 Tours.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth M. Stewart

Nidal (206 Tour Escort), Milanka Lachman (206 Tours Founder & President) Elizabeth Stewart (206 Pilgrim) & Linda Antonelle (206 Tours Director of Sales)

From: Marie Guay
Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2012 11:18 AM
To: Yaritza Rodriguez
Subject: Pilgrimage to Medjugorje with Doreen Duquette Oct 31-Nov 11, 2011

Dear Yaritza,

The trip was better than I ever imagined it could be. Doreen was fantastic. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to travel with. If I ever have the blessing of being able to go back to Medjugore again, it will be with Doreen. She is truly an asset to your company. Slava and the family we stayed with were exceptional. It was the experience of a lifetime with the best people. God is good. Thank you for a wonderful experience.

Many blessings,
Marie

From: Daria Faber
Sent: Wednesday, March 07, 2012 12:51 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: The Holy Land || February 21- March 1 , 2012

Dear Rinda,

The trip was great. Everything was perfect. I am so happy that we picked 206 tours. Our guide, driver, and the priest were superb. Please use them again, if they are available. We don't know when we can travel again, but 206 will be at the top of our list.

Thank you for everything,
Daria Faber

From: Escalon, Juliet
Sent: Monday, March 05, 2012 6:18 PM
To: 'Rinda Kanidinc'
Subject: The Holy Land || January 16-25, 2012

Hi Rinda and Mike,

Blessedly awesome!!!!! These are the words to describe our pilgrimage to the Holy land last Jan 16-26, 2012 thru Tour 206. Fr Vinny Chirichella provided a spiritually filled pilgrimage experience – from the morning prayers, rosary, daily Mass at the different Churches to our nightly prayers - they were so special. Fr Vinny’s homily were inspired by the Holy Spirit. Despite his youth, we felt his anointing by God – we can feel the holiness. Waleed, our pilgrim guide is the best! He is so knowledgeable re: the Bible. Both my husband and myself has been studying the Journey of the Bible Timeline by Jeff Cavins so this pilgrimage brought to life the salvation history of my amazing Catholic faith. Our scheduled visits just seemed to be so smooth in almost every way with Waleed’s coordination of the different scheduled visits and knowing to adjust as needed. No wasted time – only time well spent. We also had the best, accommodating and thoughtful driver - Mamoud. I really felt this pilgrimage is God’s gift to us and the rest of the pilgrims are gifts to us, too. We all connected and cared for each other. Every single one was great! I felt like I have another family. This has been one of the best pilgrimage I have been blessed with. During the whole pilgrimage - despite being supposedly winter in the Holy land – a light rain occurred only for one day the whole trip – and it happened when we were either inside the restaurant eating yummy food or inside the church. The spread of food in front of us was incredible! The hotels were great especially the Maccabean Hotel at Tel-Aviv. The food was delicious. The flights and connections went smooth. It was just awesome! Thank you for the experience and would definitely recommend to others to book their pilgrimages through your group.

From the very start prior to the flight Mike Alessi from Tour 206 was so helpful. I knew then that this would be a great pilgrimage and it was! May our gracious God continue to bless your tour company so that you can bring more of God’s people closer to Him.

Warm regards,
Juliet B. Escalon

St. George Monastery

From: lisa carlone
Sent: Saturday, March 03, 2012 7:12 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: The Holy Land || February 21- March 1 , 2012

Dear Ms. Kanidinc,

This pilgrimage was truly a gift from God. We were blessed with warm, hospitable people; beautiful weather; and excellent accomodations. I would recommend 206 Tours to anyone. It was a life-changing experience.

Thank you, and may God continue to bless you in this work.

Kind regards,

Lisa M. Carlone

From: Fr. David J. Klein
Sent: Friday, March 02, 2012 9:42 PM
To: Amanda Fortunato
Subject: Diocese of Camden - Holy Land- February 2012

Dear Amanda,

I can only say the pilgrimage from February 7-16, 2012, with Fr. Hughes was one of the better pilgrimages I've had the pleasure of taking.

Everything was handled well from beginning to end, and I have strongly recommended 206 Tours to others who have expressed an interest in traveling to the Holy Land. I have been to Israel four times, and I think the accommodations on this trip were among the best, as were the restaurants providing lunch and dinner. That would be especially true for the Leonardo Hotel in Jerusalem.

George Said is an excellent guide, and I enjoyed some of the things that were different on this pilgrimage than on others, especially praying the Stations of the Cross early in the morning followed by Mass at the Holy Sepulchre. Having done that in the middle of the afternoon on previous trips, it is not nearly as prayerful as the early morning experience. The new location for baptismal renewals at the Jordan River was also a much appreciated experience than that at Yardenit.

The bus driver Yaser was excellent as well.

It was also a great pleasure to have met Gabriel at his home in Jericho. That was another "first-time" experience. The gifts of a stole and a cross are much appreciated, and a very special part of this year's pilgrimage I will not soon forget.

God bless all of you at 206 Tours for the wonderful experience of this Holy Land pilgrimage.

Fr. David J. Klein

Gabriel Khano, 206 Tours representative in Jerusalem with our beloved priests of the Camden Diocese

From: Marlene Yaniglos
Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2012 10:20 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Welcome Home || Guadalupe and Mexico City || February 2-7, 2012

We had a wonderful time, very spiritual and awesome. Travel to Mexico City and Our Lady of Guadalupe, San Miguel del Milagro and other churches was so deeply spiritual. Our group was so good and Father Gilbert is the best spiritual director. We enjoyed praying and touring with him. Please let us know when he has a group going anywhere, and we would love to travel with him. Thanks for all you do.

Marlene & Jim Yaniglos

From: Agnes Di Gruccio
Sent: Tuesday, January 31, 2012 1:30 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: The Holy Land || January 16-25, 2012

Dear Rinda,

It was an amazing trip. A trip of a life time. Walking in the foot steps of Jesus and on the shore of Galilee Biblical stories came to life, people and places took place in my imagination. Being there was a powerful experience. It has made my directiion and spirituality more stablle and close to Jesus. I was extremely impressed with everyone kindness and concern. Our tour Guide Walee was wonderful He was knowledgeable kind and available.We all had the most unforgettable time ever with so many blessings for all of us.

Thank you,
Agnes

From: Kristin Walker
Sent: Monday, January 30, 2012 7:45 PM
To: Milanka Lachman; Sandra Savic-Lippold; Yaritza; Patrick McKenna
Subject: Pilgrim’s Place Pilgrimages – Guadalupe - January 2012

Dear 206 Team:

Our group had such a special time in Mexico...truly a blessing for each one of us. I am sending some group photos... It has been such a pleasure to work with you guys...I look forward to many more years of life-changing pilgrimages to come! You remain in my daily prayers; please keep me and Pilgrim's Place in yours.

Many blessings,

Kristin Walker
President/Executive Director
www.pilgrimages.com/pilgrimsplace

From: Fr. Vincent Chirichella
Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2012 11:35 AM
To: Rinda 206
Subject: The Holy Land || January 16-25 , 2012

Rinda,

The trip was amazing! Our tour guide Waleed was incredible. When I go back I will use only him if he is available.
I will send you a more detailed e-mail about the total experience Hotels, Food, etc. everything was great.

Blessings....
Fr.Vincent

From: Chito Perez
Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2012 12:23 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Medjugorje || January 15-23, 2012

Dear Rinda,

Thank you for your letter dated Jan 26, 2012 and for the opportunity to provide feedback about the pilgrimage.

The reason I went to Medjugorje was because Pope John Paul II "invited me". I was reading the book on Blessed John Paul II entitled "Why He is a saint" by Slawomir Oder and Saverio Gaeta. In the book, Pope John Paul II commented to one of his friends that Medjugorje is the spiritual center of the world. This "invitation" was good enough for me to visit Medjugorje, even though I knew that the Church had not "sanctioned" the apparitions there. I had no expectations of Medjugorje. Two of my friends tried to dissuade me from going. However, JP II's invitation was good enough for me to book a pilgrimage with Tours 206, who arranged our pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe in April 2011. After the pilgrimage, I now understand why John Paul II said what he said about Medjugorje.

The pilgrimage was such a blessing and I could feel graces flowing wherever we went. It was so thick, one could slice it like butter. Everyday just got better and better. We had daily Masses in English, mountain hikes to Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain, daily Rosary in the Church, the International Mass daily, and Eucharistic adoration twice. The piety of the locals was also something to behold. The long line of confessions including many young people was an inspiration and the reverence during Holy Mass and Eucharistic Adoration was quite moving.

We also met many English speaking "locals" including Patrick and Nancy Latta, Joseph, Alexandra. They told us about their lives before Medjugorje and spiritual experiences and conversions. These stories were truly moving.

Our daily schedule was set up professionally by Slavenka who explained where we were going each day the day before. The pace of the pilgrimage was designed to give us lots and lots of time to pray by ourselves and with the local faithful.

The accommodation was excellent. The Pansion Dubrovnik was right across St James Church so we could visit Our Lord and Our Lady whenever we had free time and we took full advantage of it. The staff of Pansion Dubrovnik were all excellent and went out of their way to provide for our needs and "wants", like ice cream. The wine and food was excellent too.

Our spiritual leader, Fr. Robert Villa was great. He made himself available to all for spiritual direction, Mass celebrations and Confessions. While we were taking a walk a group of 4 young Italians asked him if Fr. could hear their confession in Italian. Since Fr Robert spoke Spanish he could also understand Italian and 4 souls received supernatural virtues and many graces at their Confession.

Slavenka is a truly great guide and we were fortunate to have her. She was punctual, helpful, very cheerful, informative with lots and lots of first hand experiences/stories and has a great sense of humor. When Sean's luggage went missing, she arranged to get it to Sean on the following day. She knew everyone and made all the arrangements without our noticing it. She was never in a hurry, made good suggestions and all went very smoothly. The most important asset she has is that she is a soul of prayer and we also benefited from this.

The best thing about the pilgrimage for me was the graces I received from Jesus through Our Lady and through the Church. The pilgrimage has also become a good talking point to raise the topic of Confession without being too direct or confrontational with people I know and meet.

Now for the negatives - there were none. Even the 4 hour stopover in Frankfurt was a blessing - we had time to pray before getting to Medjugorje!!

We were blessed with perfect weather through the week we were there. The little snow that fell on Friday was all melted by the next day.

Thank you so much for making this trip a memorable experience which I'll never forget. Thanks also to Mike Alessi who made all the flight and accommodation arrangements for us.

I just noticed that It is now 11:40 EST or 20 minutes to 6 in Medjugorje.

May Our Lady continue blessing your fantastic work in Tours206. We will keep you in our prayers. Thank you for keeping us in yours.

Kind Regards,

Chito and Pilar Perez

Jan 26, 2012
Tours 206 pilgrimage to Medjugorje Jan 15 to 23, 2012.

From: Fr. Robert Villa
Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2012 12:38 PM
To: Rinda
Subject: Medjugorje : January 15-22 , 2012

Rinda,

First of all, I want to thank you for having the confidence in me to be part of the Medjugorje tour this last week. It had been my dream, since I was 13 years old, when I first heard of the apparitions, to one day be able to go on pilgrimage there. I consider it a miracle that this was fulfilled in an unexpected time.

This was a very uplifting pilgrimage. Although I was not expecting a miracle to happen, it did happened! What was the miracle? To be in a place where the people truly manifest their committed love to Christ and his Church. I never thought a place like this could exist under the skies. I fell in love with the faith of the Croatian people. As a priest, this was very hopeful and spiritually uplifting. I received a very concrete message in Medjogorje: “The church is very much alive and has the power to transform the world.” This is what I brought back to my parish and my ministry. Thanks to this pilgrimage, I have new hopes and dreams for my ministry.

The group of pilgrims was very pleasant and friendly. In five days we grew into a tight family. It was amazing to see how we all looked after each other and made sure we were all benefitting from the graces of the pilgrimage. Every moment was very well planned and thought out. And of course, Slavenka made a huge impact on us. She embodies what a tour guide on a pilgrimage ought to be. I pray she continues with this ministry for many, many years.

Once again, thank you for trusting in me and I hope God gives me the opportunity to work with you again.

In Christ,
Father Robert Villa

From: Fr. Raymond McDaniel
Sent: Friday, January 20, 2012 11:39 AM
To: 'Liz Shea'
Subject: Italy

Dear Liz,

Everything on our pilgrimage was just great! People came back tired but refreshed in their Catholic faith, which is all we can ask for. Everything worked out beautifully.

Fr. McDaniel

From: Araneta, Alicia D.
Sent: tuesday, january 03, 2012 3:12 pm
To: amanda fortunato
Cc: sandra@206tours.com; 'linda antonelle'
Subject: spiritual army of god the father: poland czech republic, medjugorje & italy december 2011

Hi Amanda,

Our pilgrimage was a very enriching one. We were able to attend the midnight mass inside st. Peter's basilica officiated by the pope. We thank fr. Sabino for his connections and charm. How many people can be given that chance -- it was the first time for our driver [in 50 years] and our tour guide [in 29 years] too! We were all so thrilled. Victor, april, fr. Sabino and myself were seated close to the altar.

Victor and april, frank batino and marilyn batino were the four brave souls who climbed the steep, rocky/muddy apparition hill in medjugorje the first day when there was a water/mud runoff because of the rain. I got up to the foot of the apparition hill to wait for them. Didn’t want to risk not making it all the way because i know victor will not leave me behind. Mother mary heard victor’s prayers for the others as it was sunny the next day.

Slavenka was so kind to take the pilgrims back there again – most of them made it to the top and they were really thrilled!

The audience with vicka was awesome – i wish i recorded all the testimonials! I have many, many more – but will have to tell you that next time.

Everyone in the group was extremely pleasant, helpful and appreciative - no complaints, no whining, no gossiping. It was a joy to witness everyone was taking care of each other – and very happy. We prayed and sang and watched movies in the bus. Fr. Sabino’s homilies each day touched our hearts.

Our guides: yanush was good and took care of all of us. He suggested and consulted with victor and myself . We were quite pleased. Slavenka is our favorite. Her spirituality and her knowledge of everything about medjugorje is very evident. She is extremely pleasant and helpful. Jim wayda had problems with his luggage. Slavenka had it delivered right the very next day.

Our other tour guide, marguerite, was great and very, very pleasant to be with. The pilgrims decided that we need to tell her how much we appreciated all her guidance and patience [with taking our group photos and giving us comfort breaks] with a little gratuity, on the day we left rome [through valentina]. Valentina took time to take care and accommodate of all our needs – 11 pilgrims were lost in rome and like a good shepherd, went out there to find all her sheeps!

All our drivers were great – very precise in each and every curve and turn, safely taking us to our destinations. Our favorite was angelo, our driver in italy.

Now on the accommodations –
1. Prague – 3.0check-in was cumbersome – we had to sign a form and put our passport numbers before we can get our keys.
2. Krakow – 4.0. Staff here were very efficient and pleasant all the time.
3. Medjugorje – 3.5. Pension dubrovnik served the best food, soups, etc. The pension house is right across the church. The people of medjugorje are special, their spirituality and devotion to mother mary is very, very contagious. We all like to go back, given another chance – soon!
4. San giovanni rotondo – 5.0 . A patio overlooking the beautiful mountains of san giovanni. We enjoyed some after dinner coffee and hot chocolate in the lounge after dinner. Staff was courteous and efficient.
5. The ferry. The cabins were tiny – we had to keep moving our luggages if we need to move to the bathroom, etc. But i checked with the night person in charge and found out that all cabins are the same – no upgrade. I was told that may be the other ferry will have some larger cabins.
6. Rome – 3.0. Fr. Sabino and tour guide, valentina, was not very pleased with the service on the 1st night. The banquet manager did make it up each night until our departure. The hotel was gracious to provide us a room and some party implements [paper plates, spoon and fork, plastic tumblers] to celebrate our christmas party and prayer buddy revelation.

All in all, 206 tours proved how much they love their clients!

Blessings and mucho hugs to you all,

Alicia d. Araneta

from: Caroline Studdard
Sent: Wednesday, January 18, 2012 7:52 AM
To: Liz Shea
Subject: Pilgrimage to Italy with St Peters Catholic Church & Fr. McDaniel

Dear Liz,

Thank you for your note welcoming me back from the wonderful pilgrimage to Rome. I definitely feel more spiritually enriched as well as receiving affirmation of my Catholic faith. The Catholic Church was always the uppermost part of my life and seeing and hearing its history in person in Rome and all the places visited was so comforting. I visited the Holy Land last year at this time and it was the same feeling for me to be able to be where Jesus walked and then visit where the faith was carried on to Rome and beyond.

Our guide, Gaia was wonderful. She shared and witnessed her love of the Catholic faith with all of us and made the places we visited more vivid. Her vivacious personality and loving care for us was delightful. Of course our spiritual director, Fr. Raymond McDaniel was the icing on the cake as well.

There isn't anything of the trip I would suggest you change, it was all perfectly planned out for all of us. Johnny, our bus driver, was outstanding, I and the others were so amazed at his ability to maneuver the bus in all the tight and high places we visited. St. Peter's was awesome, but I was most moved by the visit to Luciano to view the Miracle of the Eucharist. Please don't take that trip out of the itinerary.

Thank you again for a wonderful pilgrimage, I will highly recommend your tour to my friends.

God Bless you and all of the team,

Caroline Studdard

From: Donna Hess
Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 4:39 PM
To: Liz Shea
Subject: Italy with St Peters Catholic Church & Fr. McDanielLiz:

I am still on the "high" from my trip. It was absolutely wonderful. My favorite experience was to see the Eucharistic Miracle in Lanciano. It was a very touching experience. Assissi was perfect. I have nothing negative to say about the trip. Gaia was the perfect tour guide.

Thanks,
Donna Hess

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