Transitions Abroad: A Brief History and Mission Statement

"Travelers and tourists, the distinction is simple: Tourists are those who bring their homes with them wherever they go, and apply them to whatever they see. They are closed to experiences outside of the superficial. Travelers, however, leave home at home, bringing only themselves and a desire to learn."

Those words were written in 1977 by Gary Langer, a 21-year-old budget traveler, in the first issue of Transitions Abroad magazine. In a few lines, he summed up what the magazine, and travel, would become in the next three decades. Transitions Abroad was created as the antidote to tourism, a magazine with the specific goal of providing information that would enable travelers to actually meet the people of other countries, to learn about their culture, to speak their language, and to "transition" to a new level of understanding and appreciation for our fascinating world. The title was also meant to suggest the changes in our perspective that result from such immersion. Transitions Abroad, from the very first issue, became the major tool that independent travelers could use to find the timely facts they need — where to go, who to see, where to stay, how to get off the tour bus and go beyond the postcards.

Transitions Abroad was founded by Clay Hubbs, editor and publisher of the magazine and former professor and study abroad adviser at Hampshire College, Amherst, Massachusetts. Dr. Hubbs was particularly knowledgeable about educational travel options, working abroad, and living abroad.

Now into its fourth decade, Transitions Abroad Publishing has spawned not only the renowned magazine, but also a selection of other essential resources for the person who wants to travel, really travel, without being a tourist. Transitions Abroad Publishing has created critically acclaimed books on Work Abroad and Alternative Travel.

For over 30 years, Transitions Abroad magazine was the only publication dedicated to work, study, living, and cultural immersion travel abroad. Its purpose was the dissemination of practical information leading to a greater understanding of other cultures through direct participation in the daily life of the host community. The magazine ceased publication with the January 2008 issue but the mission is continuing and progressing on the award-winning TransitionsAbroad.com website.

TransitionsAbroad.com has been developed by Gregory Hubbs to reflect the depth and quality of the articles, resources, programs and links gathered over the past 30+ years even as it extends the scope exponentially. We are committed to expand upon our pioneering publications and remain the most comprehensive Web portal for work, study, travel, and living abroad.

A Brief History of Transitions Abroad Publishing