LRTPublicityLouise Rhind-Tutt

According to Keith Bellows, editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler magazine and father of three, a passport is the new diploma — it opens the door to travel, the world’s greatest learning tool. In his new book, Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life: From Your Backyard to the Ends of the Earth, Bellows shares destinations to expand a child’s horizons, shape their perspectives and enable them to experience different global cultures.

From the treetops of Costa Rica to the Grand Canyon to Loch Ness, Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life
explores the world, plumbing the heart of each special place and presenting it through a kid’s eyes. Each chapter
contains contributions by regional experts, experienced travelers and travel writers who offer tips on how to
communicate each location’s value to children. From following whales in Quebec’s Saguenay Fjord to exploring a
Crusader castle in Cyprus to studying the biodiversity of the Galápagos, the book offers scores of ideas on how kids can experience the wonders of the world.

“The world is the greatest classroom we have,” writes Bellows in his introduction. “I’m convinced that any parent
willing to give the gift of travel offers the gift that keeps on giving. Children who learn to travel will travel to learn.
And they will do it all their lives.

In addition to descriptions of each location and advice on how children can experience the world on their level,
Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life offers scores of tips, ideas and opportunities for fun activities, and
background for potential visitors in the information boxes throughout the book.
• “Insider Tips” tap into the local smarts of the people in each location.
• “Know Before You Go” suggests books, movies or music that give a sense of the location.
• “Connections” lists organizations working in the field that can provide more in-depth information.
• “Fast Facts” are nifty trivia that will surprise the kids (and you).
• “Buy Worthy” suggests authentic products that express a sense of place.
• “Get Involved” features volunteer opportunities and important charities in the region.
• “Yum” and “Nest” offer kid-friendly food and accommodation options.
• “Objects of Wonder” captures cool culture that fascinates children —and expresses the local zeitgeist.
• “Words of Wisdom” are intriguing ways to jump-start conversations with your child.

Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life is an invaluable travel planner filled with ideas on how to get kids excited about the world, gain an appreciation of travel and different traditions, and value the diversity and wonders of our planet.

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Keith Bellows has launched 30 magazines, television and radio properties and has lectured around the world. He is editor in chief of National Geographic Traveler magazine and senior vice president/editor in chief of National Geographic Travel Media. A graduate of Gordonstoun School in Scotland and Dartmouth College, Bellows has appeared on NBC’s “Today” show and ABC’s “Good Morning America.”