On 17 Oct 2005 11:59:02 -0700, wrote:

I might remind everyone that there are reputable tour groups such as
David Levy's & of course Sky & Telescope & Astronomy Mags.

Being in the Travel business for just a few years and another member of
my family being in it since the 1960's you quickly learn that you
shouldn't pick fights with anyone because you never know who might be
looking to go on a tour and they can decide not to go with your group.

The customer may not be alwasy right but he is your bread & butter and
if you can't provide him or her with enough information etc. they can
and will find another company to do business with. Your loss and their
gain.

I'm sure that's good advice. But I'm not in the travel business. I've
been asked to be the astronomy leader for a couple eclipse trips by
"reputable tour groups". Some in the business have asked me to expand my
participation in specialized areas and I may do that but up to now I've
never had any other business connection. The agency that approached me in
the US is a very large tour operator that puts together some of the eclipse
packages the retailers you mention sell, and is quite "reputable".

I'm not aware that I've picked any fights (certainly not with Anthony in
the branch of the thread where you posted this). There were some posts
that I disagreed with but I wouldn't have characterized the ensuing
discussion as fights. I carefully review my posts before posting them to
avoid being offensive but if there's something I've done I'll certainly
reconsider and apologize if my words were inappropriate.

I have to say, however, that the activities that I've been involved in over
the years regarding international understanding and friendship are far more
dear to me than any potential to get into business. If I had to make a
choice I would not sacrifice these activities or my principles for the
potential to make money off my volunteer work. If that turns off some
people who might otherwise travel with me in some future tour then I'm
willing to accept that.

Obviously, it's good that I've stayed in academia and out of business. I
have a feeling I'd be a lousy businessman. ;-)

Mike Simmons