Why are some of these tours more expensive than tours offered elsewhere?

The fee is based on the number of travelers, the destinations included, and accommodation choices. We offer small-group, boutique tours with an emphasis on unique accommodations and visits to places that are not open to larger groups. While it is less expensive to take 50 people on a tour, it is an entirely different experience, limited to public gardens, restaurants, and hotels that can handle large crowds. Our tours typically host less than 20 people and sometimes less than 15.

Our tours include an English-speaking local expert guide and an NC horticulture professional who take care of you every step of the way.  We only offer Travel Study Adventures tailored to the interests of Extension Master Gardener volunteers and each adventure is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other passionate gardeners. In addition, travelers may earn (at their local agent's discretion) continuing education hours to meet their annual requirements.

 

How many hours of Extension Master Gardener continuing education credits will I receive?

This will be up to the Extension Professional who directs the Master Gardener program in your county. An estimation of the amount of time participants will spend on guided educational tours and presentations by expert guides during bus travel will be included in the description of each tour. 

Many things go into an agent’s decision as to how many hours of continuing education credit to award for a particular tour. In order to ensure that volunteers have a wide variety of training experiences, some agents do not allow more than 10 hours of credit for a particular experience no matter how much time the volunteer spends. Before you sign up for the tour, check with your agent to determine what credit you may earn for going on the travel study adventure and what documentation they will require.

You may also be able to earn service hours by presenting information on your experience to other volunteers in your county.  Check with your agent.

 

Who should I contact for more information?

Please direct any questions to:

Ray Eaton, Discover Garden Tours ray@discoverourtours.com 816.842.7500