TCC NorCal Chapter members met at Trader Vic’s in Emeryville for their holiday luncheon on Saturday, Dec. 7. Lucy Hsu, a school teacher who has visited every United Nations country, presented to the Northern California Chapter information and photos of her trip to Socotra and Yemen. We learned much from her experiences, including the importance of hiring a reputable, local guide. Her first trip to Yemen took a dangerous turn when photos of military personnel and equipment landed her in hot water for five hours even as her disreputable guide insisted “no problem.” On the other hand, speaking softly and respectfully allowed Lucy to observe and photograph local tribesmen who normally refuse any pictures. At the end of the Socotra presentation in particular, we were primed to head to the airport and travel to this magical island before it’s discovered by the rest of the world.
Please mark your calendar with the following NorCal Chapter events in 2025:
- March 1, Basque Cultural Center — Michael Sholer
- June 7, Basque Cultural Center — Tom Hixton/Kevin Sarmento on Malayasia
- Sept. 20, Basque Cultural Center — Barry Hoffner on “Inspirational Travel Stories from All Over the World”
- Dec. 6, Holiday Luncheon — TBA
