2017 will be the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. I have been asked by my church to consider organizing a group tour that will trace the major areas of importance to Martin Luther's ministry - predominantly in Germany and Switzerland.

Does anyone have any experience with putting together tours such as this? Are their certain travel agencies that you can recommend that will help me put together a self developed itinerary for about 30 people? I have received some preliminary information from Global Tours, but they want us to join up with one of their existing tours. This may be the best way to go, but I'm looking to your folks on this board for any ideas and advice. Thanks.

I am strong supporter of intelligence gathering! Sounds like a trip should be in your near future to scout out first hand and establish local points of contacts.

Good luck planning. I look forward to hearing about your progress.

Contact Furlong travel in UK. They are a husband and wife team, long in the travel business and very helpful and knowledgeable outside the 'norm' of usual vacations. Your request maybe a little outside their normal sphere but they have many years of experience of organising tours of this size and are just expanding their horizons from the private tour to broader spectrums. We have travelled with them and find they are extremely professional and knowledgeable. They may not be able to help directly but will know, or find out, people to help and a way to move forward.... If you are looking for help on the other hand side of the pond! Best wishes in this venture. They are off to a major travel fair on 5-8 November and shortly after off to Ecuador and Galapagos, but I am sure they will respond as soon as they can.