Meet Harriet Lewis: The Woman Behind Overseas Adventure Travel
Harriet Lewis is an accomplished businesswoman and travel industry trailblazer. She is the co-founder of Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT), a company that has been offering small-group travel adventures for over 40 years.
As a young woman, Lewis had a passion for travel and exploration. She studied anthropology in college and spent many years traveling and immersing herself in different cultures. However, she struggled to find tour companies that offered the type of authentic, off-the-beaten-path travel experiences she was looking for.
In 1978, Lewis and her husband started OAT with a simple goal – to offer high-quality, immersive travel experiences to people like themselves. They started out by leading small groups of travelers to destinations like Africa, India, and South America. Today, OAT has expanded to offer adventures in more than 100 countries around the world.
The OAT Difference
What sets OAT apart from other tour companies is their focus on small-group travel and cultural immersion. Each group is limited to 16 people, which allows for a more intimate and personalized experience. OAT also partners with local guides and institutions to provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and customs.
Another key aspect of OAT’s approach is their commitment to sustainability and responsible travel. They work closely with local communities to minimize their impact on the environment and support local economies.
Harriet Lewis’ Impact
Lewis’ dedication to providing authentic travel experiences has had a significant impact on the industry. She was one of the pioneers of small-group adventure travel, which has since become a popular trend in the industry.
She was also an early advocate for responsible and sustainable travel practices. OAT’s commitment to sustainability has influenced many other companies to adopt similar practices.
Lewis has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the travel industry, including being inducted into the Adventure Travel Hall of Fame in 2016.
Conclusion
Harriet Lewis’ vision and leadership have made a lasting impact on the travel industry. OAT’s focus on small-group travel, cultural immersion, and sustainability have set a high standard for other companies to follow.
For anyone looking for an immersive, authentic travel experience, OAT is an excellent choice. And for those interested in entrepreneurship and leadership, Harriet Lewis is an inspiration and role model.
