Our Stories
Every journey leaves a story worth sharing. Here you’ll find reflections, articles, and updates—from personal encounters and faith-filled moments to cultural discoveries and behind-the-scenes insights. These stories capture the spirit of travel that connects us and remind us why the experiences we share continue to stay with us long after we return home.
Travel that Connects. Stories that Stay.
Another Chapter On The Silk Road
When our group set out along the Silk Road this autumn, we thought we were returning to a familiar story — one that TourMagination travelers, led by historian John Sharp, have traced for nearly two decades. We came to remember the Mennonite communities who journeyed across Central Asia in search of freedom and faith, eventually settling in Ak Metchet near Khiva, where they lived peacefully with their neighbors for 51 years.
Meet Fred & Shirley Redekop: Your Guides on the Portuguese Coastal Camino
When we think about what makes a pilgrimage truly meaningful, it’s not just the landscape or the destination—it’s the people who walk alongside you. For the upcoming Portuguese Coastal Camino tour, we’re thrilled to have Fred and Shirley leading the way. I connected with Fred & Shirley to get a glimpse of their hearts, their experiences, and what travelers can expect on this transformative journey.
Tracing the Untold Stories with Kimberly Schmidt
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to develop a brand-new tour—walking alongside a leading historian through castles, cathedrals, and cobblestoned towns, uncovering the stories that will shape the journey? That’s exactly what we experienced this past summer with Kimberly Schmidt.
Every Suitcase Tells a Story
A line that stays with us is shared by our museum guide at the Pier 21 Museum in Halifax: “Every suitcase tells a story.” It lingers in our minds as we wander through the halls, absorbing stories of the waves of immigrants who pass through Canada’s historic seaport, including Pier 21.
Unearthing Untold Stories: How Women & Peasants Shaped Anabaptism
Tour Expert Profile: Dr. Kimberly Schmidt
“Women had this interesting place in early Anabaptism... they could move around with greater secrecy and, in some ways, greater freedom than men.”
- Dr. Kimberly Schmidt, Professor Emeritus, Eastern Mennonite University
Cruising with New Friends
“Have you ever thought about being TourMagination tour hosts? I think you’d be a good fit,” John Sharp said to Rob and Monika Wismer. Tour leader, John Sharp, noticed the Wismers’ attentiveness to other travellers on the 2022 Bethany Community Church European Anabaptist Heritage Tour. The Wismers laughed, but didn’t think too much of it--until they received a call from Audrey Voth Petkau (former TourMagination owner).
Exploring Your Personal History
Who am I? Do you ever ask yourself that question? Part of the answer includes where you came from—not only your past but your family’s past. It is one of those things we cannot choose but are given, so why not find out more!
Tracing My Roots to the Alsace
Recently, I had the chance to explore my ancestral ties to the Alsace region of France, and it turned out to be an incredibly rewarding journey! Join us as we venture into the quiet village of Geisberg, where we uncover the ruins of an old castle, visit a quaint Mennonite church, and meet a local who knew of our family connections. Along the way, we made new discoveries, heard fascinating stories, and found artifacts—an experience that felt like a treasure hunt through history.