Presentations For Hire

As if this blog didn’t contain enough information about the world of travel, I also offer in-person travel presentations to libraries, schools and groups. Yes, you heard right – I’m for sale!

Each slideshow presentation revolves around a central theme and is jam-packed with my original photos. You also get to hear me prattle off about each one, sharing facts, stories and my signature sense of humor in the process. If you’re interested in learning more, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Current List of Presentations

For Schools:

Geography in Pictures

This prIMG_3590esentation has been conceived to bolster your school’s efforts to teach the subject in a way that is visually stimulating and complicit with TEA guidelines. This program introduces students in grades 1-5 to essential geographical terms and concepts. It will teach them to identify:

 

  • Their city
  • Their state
  • Their country
  • Their continent
  • Their neighbors

In addition, by means of original photography it will also visually acquaint them with common geographical terms such as oceans, rivers, lakes, peninsulas and much more. Through images, maps and real-life examples, your students will gain deeper familiarity with the basics of geography. By the end of the program they will see quite plainly that geography is much more than just lines on a map.

Travel As Inspiration

igoTurkey 317

This program explores the role of setting in creative writing and reading, with the goal of creating inspiration for both. Through a series of photos taken from across the globe, students will be given the opportunity to use their imagination to create stories and ideas that will stimulate their enthusiasm for the written word. The vivid imagery will help them visualize the role of setting in conflict, plot and character development. All in attendance will enjoy this virtual journey across the world and be motivated to seek inspiration in their own ‘worlds’ as well.

For Libraries & Groups

Second Best: The World’s Greatest Lesser-Known Travel Destinations

A Peaceful Courtyard in Antigua, Guatemala

This presentation focuses on less-famous but must-see places to visit across the globe, & includes professional-quality photos, a brief overview of each destination and why it’s worth seeing. Covering 7 locations across all 7 continents, attendees will benefit from the practical logistics of getting there and getting around, and receive a visual treat in exploring the hidden gems of the travel industry. My firsthand experience will expand the horizons of even seasoned travelers.

India’s Golden Triangle & Beyond

It may look doctored, but this image is 100% untouched

This presentation features an in-depth look at the history and beauty of Northern India’s primary cities: Delhi, Agra & Jaipur, and the monuments that make them so noteworthy. In addition, I will also share photos and insights about the nearby city of Jodhpur & the tiger reserve at Ranthambore National Park, pushing the ‘golden triangle’ into a ‘golden trapezoid’. If you’ve ever wished for an up-close look at the exotic subcontinent of India, you won’t want to miss this presentation.

Southern Africa Explorer 

No filter needed on the Zambia side

This program takes attendees on an expedition through the fascinating region of Southern Africa; highlighting the abundant animal life and natural wonders through six nations. The journey starts in the game reserves of South Africa, before heading northward to Zimbabwe & world-famous Victoria Falls. After exploring this region, we cross a thousand miles of the Indian Ocean to visit the Seychelles Islands for a look at this unique tropical archipelago.

The Wonders of Down Under

Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia

This presentation covers highlights from the East Coast of Australia and a circle tour of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island. Full of facts and photos, attendees will gain insight on everything from cities like Sydney & Melbourne, to the Outback, Great Barrier Reef & the majestic Southern Alps.

 

Rio de Janeiro & the Costa Verde

View from Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This presentation begins in the amazing city of Rio de Janeiro, visiting Sugarloaf Mountain, Ipanema Beach, the Botanical Gardens & of course, views of famous Corcovado with its Christ the Redeemer Statue. From there the slideshow moves to idyllic Ilha Grande, an unspoiled gem just south of Rio. Finally, we visit historic Parati, with its quaint center and natural setting. A must-see for anyone considering a trip to Brazil.

The Witty Traveler’s Guide to Visiting Alaska.

Creek Street, Ketchikan

This lighthearted presentation provides insights of not only what to see, but what to expect for visitors to the 49th state; including logistics, suggestions, and inspiring photographs–all with a touch of humor. Whether cruising or by land, this presentation will cover what you should know.

 

The Witty Traveler’s Guide to Lima & The Sacred Valley

View of the Andes, Ollantaytambo, Peru

This program takes attendees from the capital of Peru to the ancient heart of Inca culture—Cuzco and the Sacred Valley. This lighthearted presentation features high-quality photos, historic background, and anecdotes from my travels to this Inca wonderland. Llamas sold separately.

 

The Witty Traveler’s Guide to Cruising Antarctica & Cape Horn

Blue Iceberg, Near Elephant Island, Antarctica

This presentation features a chronological journey from Buenos Aires, down to the Falkland Islands, across to the Antarctic Peninsula and around Cape Horn and Chilean Patagonia. The program features highlights of ports of call, interesting facts about the White Continent, and scads of photos—all in a humorous style.

 

Introduction to Wanderlust

The Meteora, Kalambaka, Greece

This program offers attendees insights on how to enhance their enjoyment of all aspects of travel, from the planning stage to reliving the memories years later. It features insider tips as to where to go & how to research a destination to go along with anecdotes & stories from my own travels across all 7 continents. As always, there will be lots of photos to support the themes being presented.

7 Comments

  1. wendykarasin says:

    I just happened upon your site and I’m not usually a travel blog reader (although I do love to travel!). It is fascinating, chock full of information (as you mentioned) and highly organized and readable. I love it.

    Like

    1. Ben Pastore says:

      Thank you so much for taking the time to give me feedback. I appreciate your kind words

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      1. wendykarasin says:

        It is my pleasure.

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      2. Ben Pastore says:

        I always make it a point to return the favor those do something nice for me. So I took a look at your blog enjoyed it very much. I was particularly interested in your book project, as I’m in the midst of one as well. Sadly I can also relate to the theme as for the past few years I have dealt with the same issues with my wife’s parents Who are no longer with us. I wish you the best & as a new follower, look forward to reading more

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      3. wendykarasin says:

        Ben, I don’t know you, but I like you. I shall keep you posted on the book, my goal is to have it out by Spring, 2015. It is quite a process (but isn’t everything)!

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      4. Ben Pastore says:

        Thanks, likewise. I feel your pain 😉

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