Thinking Tours Issue

Thank you for highlighting volunteer vacations through Earthwatch and Global Volunteers (“For the Turtles, Not the Tan,” Jan. 9). I have been on several projects with both, and people should know that there are many Earthwatch projects that are much less strenuous, with comfortable accommodations. At my more advanced age I prefer small hotels and pleasant restaurants. Another possibility for such vacations is the Oceanic Society (telephone [800] 326-7491, Internet https://www.oceanic-society.org), with whom I have taken expeditions to Costa Rica and Monterey Bay. UC Davis has programs, too, although I have not yet tried one: https://urep.ucdavis.edu.

MAE-DELL LACY

Encino

*

I was pleasantly surprised to find Susan Spano’s article on the leatherback turtle project in Costa Rica. In 1997, as an undergraduate at Purdue, I had the pleasure of being part of that project for three months. I applaud Spano’s honest account. Luxury comforts and scientific research rarely go hand in hand. But the rewards of making a contribution are worth the sacrifice.

DAVID ZUB

Costa Mesa

*

It was interesting to read about art workshops written by someone on the East Coast (“Where to Set Your Easel, Whether Dabbler or Devotee,” Jan. 9), but California painters would appreciate more information about local artists who give workshops. My parents have taken several wonderful watercolor workshops with Orange County artist Timothy Clark, telephone (949) 661-7135, Internet https://www.tclarkart.com. They included painting trips to Italy, Hawaii and Yosemite. Clark is an excellent teacher as well as a highly regarded artist.

VIRGINIA LAMASCUS

Covina