I just returned from a 2-week tour of Vietnam with Brian and Sheryl of Essential History Expeditions. When I initially read the itinerary on this trip, it immediately piqued my interest and I signed up. But there was no way that I could ever imagine what an educational, cultural and pleasing experience of the senses this would be. We did not just go to typical tourist sites in Vietnam, instead we traversed the country starting in the south in Ho Chi Minh City and making our way up through the Central Highlands, stopping along the coast, winding up mountainous regions eventually ending up in Hanoi and then almost to the Chinese boarder in the Tonkinese Mountains of Sapa. We visited sites in the cities, in villages and along rivers- the Mekong, the Perfume and the Red Rivers. We learned so much about the history of this country through Brian's expertise and his military knowledge - he immersed us in the history at the very sites where it took place - at battle grounds, prisons, forts and fortresses, Presidential palaces, Vietcong hand dug tunnels and trenches... Between Sheryl and Nhu, a Vietnamese tour guide who traveled with us, every detail of the trip was planned and executed - from the travel from place to place to the hotels and restaurants and sites to see. Whether traveling by van, SUV, boat, or cyclo - our vehicle awaited us at the very hour it was scheduled. The accommodations at each hotel we stayed at were superb and each restaurant a unique atmospheric and new and tasty experience for the palate. I can't say or write enough about this tour company and about Sheryl and Brian - not only their attention to detail and their knowledge, but also their warmth, enthusiasm and their genuine concern for each participant who travels with them. read more

My wife and I had the fortunate opportunity to embark on Essential History Expedition's "The D-Day Longest Day" tour from England to Normandy to the Liberation of Paris. The tour was primarily geared from an historical military perspective and to immerse ourselves in the planning, execution, and impact of the WW II Normandy invasion to liberate Europe from the German occupation. What an absolute treat! Sheryl was flawless in setting up the logistics and keeping us informed every step of the way, both before, during, and after the actual tour. Choosing to spend a few extra days on our own in London and Paris, she made all our additional arrangements for accommodations and travel. It was seamless. Brian is an absolute font of knowledge. As we progressed through the various historical sites, his narratives and endless stories made the events of the Normandy invasion come alive. I truly do not know how he retains the plethora of dates, names, and related facts. I am at a loss to recall a single question he was unable to answer, many of which were posed from some very knowledgeable members on the tour. Brian's own distinguished military career added to the relevance of his presentations. The free time at the hotels and group dinners allowed for some one on one conversations both with Sheryl and Brian as well as the other members of our group. You don't have to be a military "nut" to enjoy this trip. My wife is from New Zealand and she was fascinated with the various aspects of this historical event. There is plenty of local culture to partake of if you just want to sit back and enjoy the exquisite countryside and hospitality. This tour is a keeper! Five stars does not do it justice. read more

My wife and I just returned from an amazing ten days in Cuba with Brian and Sheryl. It was truly a life-altering experience. One of the things that had attracted me to EHE initially was the promise of visits to the major Spanish American War sites in Cuba with a retired West Point instructor. Little did I suspect that Brian is in fact something of a Renaissance Man who was just as comfortable taking a group of us through the Museum of Fine Art in Havana as he was conducting our tours of Siboney, Las Guasimas, El Caney, and Kettle and San Juan Hills. Meanwhile, Sheryl handled the logistics of the trip with the dexterity of someone who has been traveling to Cuba for decades. EHE asked us in advance of the trip to be flexible given the nature of travel in Cuba, but there was really little patience required of me that was not the fault of an airline or airport security, and Brian and Sheryl were always able to help work out the minor issues that did arise. The restaurants and hotels they chose for our group were all top notch; the Iberostar Grand Trinidad hotel was memorable beyond expectations, and the farm to table restaurant we visited in Pinar del Rio was out of this world. I would be remiss in not mentioning our outstanding Cuban guides, Hiroshi and Eliar, who did a terrific job of familiarizing us with life in Cuba, and our masterful bus drivers, Nestor and Lester, who amazed us with their skill at maneuvering a bus through both difficult terrain and city streets. I am missing Cuba already, and would be ready to return next year - with Brian and Sheryl, of course! Que Pais! read more

My wife and I just returned from an amazing ten days in Cuba with Brian and Sheryl. It was truly a life-altering experience. One of the things that had attracted me to EHE initially was the promise of visits to the major Spanish American War sites in Cuba with a retired West Point instructor. Little did I suspect that Brian is in fact something of a Renaissance Man who was just as comfortable taking a group of us through the Museum of Fine Art in Havana as he was conducting our tours of Siboney, Las Guasimas, El Caney, and Kettle and San Juan Hills. Meanwhile, Sheryl handled the logistics of the trip with the dexterity of someone who has been traveling to Cuba for decades. EHE asked us in advance of the trip to be flexible given the nature of travel in Cuba, but there was really little patience required of me that was not the fault of an airline or airport security, and Brian and Sheryl were always able to help work out the minor issues that did arise. The restaurants and hotels they chose for our group were all top notch; the Iberostar Grand Trinidad hotel was memorable beyond expectations, and the farm to table restaurant we visited in Pinar del Rio was out of this world. I would be remiss in not mentioning our outstanding Cuban guides, Hiroshi and Eliar, who did a terrific job of familiarizing us with life in Cuba, and our masterful bus drivers, Nestor and Lester, who amazed us with their skill at maneuvering a bus through both difficult terrain and city streets. I am missing Cuba already, and would be ready to return next year - with Brian and Sheryl, of course! Que Pais! read more

It is a shame that rating Essential History Expeditions is limited to only five stars. EHE earns a constellation of positive recognition. Brian is learned in history of great depth as well as the ability to impart such knowledge in a clear and enthusiastic manner. His knowledge is not limited to the topic at hand, in this case EHE's D-Day tour, but of eclectic history over the ages. We passed a street in France and when someone mentioned the name of the street Brian entertained us with an impromptu mini lecture on the person after whom the street was named, who they were and what they did that earned a street. We visited Mont Saint-Michel whose groundbreaking occurred in the 10th century and the ribbon cutting ceremony centuries later and yet once again Brian provided great insight into the history and events surrounding this island commune. Sheryl, Brian's most capable and gracious business and life partner, made a complex trip look easy. A most worthy and appreciated skill. Be it lodging, box lunches, transportation (impromptu or otherwise), it all just magically happened(!). I have never been so well cared for on a hosted trip. I learned so much from this trip of a lifetime while being well cared for and socializing with well matched people of similar interests all of whom immensely enjoyed the camaraderie. We all were guided through the shadow of history of very brave people, soldiers as well as civilian; Allied as well as Axis and we were honored to do so. I encourage you to experience Essential History Expeditions. It could be your trip of a lifetime as well. read more

My husband and I just returned from an EHE excursion to South Africa, and I can't say enough about our experience. We thoroughly enjoyed the safari, where we were able to get close to animals we have only ever seen in captivity -- leopards, elephants, kudu, hippos, giraffes, and many, many impalas, just to name a few. Watching these animals in their natural habitat was extraordinary. The main part of the tour focused on Nelson Mandela and his incredible "Long Walk to Freedom." We were able to visit sites that were important in the apartheid struggle, including Mandela's house in Soweto, Liliesleaf farm, the Palace of Justice in Pretoria, and several of the prisons where Mandela spent his 27 years in captivity. Along the way, we developed relationships with the local guides and people, who enriched the experience with their first-hand knowledge of the culture and history of South Africa. Brian has an astounding wealth of knowledge about the history of the country and was able to make insightful and meaningful connections from the past to the present. I feel like we should have received college credit for everything we learned on this trip! Sheryl ensured that every possible logistical detail was attended to, which allowed us to fully relax and enjoy the whole trip. Along the way, we indulged in the local food and wines, which were outstanding in every way. This was an incredible learning experience and a wonderful, memorable vacation all in one. It will stay with us forever. Thank you, Brian and Sheryl, for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! read more

I've often wished I could once again listen to memorable lectures and banter with a special professor. I would think "If I had that opportunity again, I would get so much more out of it now; I would know to truly appreciate it." With EHE and Brian DeToy you get that chance, with a wonderful vacation thrown in. Brian is more than a poised, confident and enthusiastic guide; he is an educator. He is careful to tailor his presentations so that all members of the audience, whatever their age or background, will come away with a memorable experience. If you prefer to sit back and listen or jump up and reenact a historical figure, there is something for everyone here. Brian is seemingly indefatigable as well; he can lead a recreated patrol through the hedgerows of Normandy then hold court into the evening hours displaying a masterly command of a wide range of topics. Regarding the vacation aspect of the trip, EHE is a bargain considering the quality and depth of the experience. The scouting trips Brian and his wife Sheryl take before result in wonderful local food and accommodations for their clients' trips. Sheryl competently manages all aspects of the day-to-day experience so that Brian can concentrate on sharing his knowledge and passion of the area and its history. My wife and I have taken two trips with them so far with our Cuba adventure coming up this October. EHE trips will continue to be one of the experiences we very much look forward to in the coming years. read more

Just returned from South Africa, where Brian and Sheryl led a phenomenal trip following in the steps of Nelson Mandela. This was my second excursion with EHE; my husband and I did the WWI battlefields tour last summer. Both trips were beyond fabulous!! Stated very simply, there is no better way to learn about history and actually experience it than on a trip with EHE. Brian's in-depth knowledge of historical events, why they mattered, and how they shaped and influenced current times is really astounding. He is an engaging and charismatic storyteller, funny and passionate, conveying both details and the bigger picture of the sweep of history. Sheryl ensures that every logistical detail of the trips is flawlessly attended to; she is warm and open and treats every traveler like a family friend. Show up and Sheryl takes care of the rest!! In South Africa, we also experienced other cultural highlights, including the Cape of Good Hope and the magnificent wine country in Stellenbosch, as well as an optional two-day safari in Sabi Sands. EHE is a real treasure; take a trip and you will kick yourself for waiting so long to do it. I am already signed up for additional trips with Brian and Sheryl in 2020 and 2021, and wish I could do more. Really wonderful!! read more

Sadly YELP only goes to 5 stars, because this company really deserves ten stars. Over the years I've been on many tours with all the major companies, have done some tour leading myself, and worked in the tourism industry for two of the biggest companies in the US, but I've never had a better experience than my first trip with Essential History Expeditions and their Cuba military history tour last month. Brian and Sheryl have put together a great company that insures the near-perfect travel experience. Our tour leader Brian's connections in Cuba got us very nice hotels and a comfortable travel bus, and an excellent driver and local guide. And Brian knows every inch of the country, so we saw things the other tour companies don't stop at. Plus, he found us some excellent local places to eat some of our group meals, which really made the trip feel like you were getting to know the local people and country close-up. And thank you for the bottles of water on our bus each day! If you want to go to Cuba (or anywhere else), don't go with any other company. I'll definitely be taking some of Brian and Sheryl's other tours in the near future. read more

I just completed an Essential History Expedition trip to Cuba led by its Co-owner and guide, Brian DeToy. All I can say is: Wow!This was my 5th trip to Cuba and my first with Brian. By far this was the best. Brian is a caring and knowledgeable guide who has a great sense of humor and is very flexible in meeting requests of tour participants. We followed Cuban military history from Havana to Santiago; covering significant events and places from the early Spanish conquest to the Bay of Pigs and the 1962 Missile Crisis. But Brian made sure we had a chance to experience all aspects of Cuban culture and history from food and architecture to Ernest Hemingway and Classic Cars. You don't have to be a military history buff to enjoy this trip. The hotel accommodations were always very comfortable, had great amenities and were always centrally located. The restaurants for dinner, which were both state owned and private(paladars) were always first rate. I highly recommend Brian and Essential History Expeditions for your Cuban travel. I look forward to more trip offerings and future travel with this great company. Pat S. Oradell, NJ read more

History comes to life within all of your senses on a tour with Essential History Expeditions. A magical and professional team of travel experts take care of every detail in order to allow for total immersion. Our tour of Vietnam was beyond my expectations of learning and experiencing in a very visceral way. Brian is an exceptional historian with a gift of language and knowledge that keeps you totally engaged. His passion for sharing historical events, dates and details allows clients to open their minds and absorb the information with contagious thirst. Sheryl's planning and organizational detail along with an amazing agenda and wonderful places to stay provide a stressless and wonderful experience. Very quickly you feel as though you are traveling with family. Even if you are only curious about history of An particular area, you will be more than pleasantly surprised how you will be "pulled In" and want more. Sheryl and Brian will have another repeat customer in me and I will recommend them without pause. Diane Statkus, Sr. Agile Project Manager, IBM, Massachusetts read more

We ended our Civil War tour at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. This is where it all came together for me. We had walked the battlefields, had seen where brother had fought brother, had heard Brian tell us their stories, and yet I still couldn't wrap my head around the justification for so much bloodshed. Here at the cemetery, Brian shared his love for his cadets who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. And I finally understood the heart of a soldier. I am so grateful for their dedication and courage and I hope that we can continue "to take increased devotion to that cause which they here, gave the last full measure of devotion". We each had chosen a stone from somewhere on the battlefields and at the cemetery we placed that stone on the grave of a fallen soldier and spent some quiet, sacred time honoring and thanking him for his sacrifice. One of the teens carefully weaved a wreath of fallen leaves around the headstone of her unknown soldier. It was very moving to see that all the youth on the trip had taken Brian's lessons to heart. read more

You simply will not find a better "team" than Sheryl and Brian. Sheryl's attention to detail is unsurpassed - her goal is your comfort at all times. Brian's expertise and his ability to share his depth of knowledge and commitment to our country in a way anyone can understand is truly a gift not to be missed. My husband and I spent 11 days with Essential History Expeditions exploring the history and sites of D-Day. Brian's experiences as a U. S. Army Ranger (Col. ret.) and professor at West Point, along with his intimate knowledge of war, are shared with a passion that is palpable. Our new understanding of the D-Day operations is beyond anything we imagined.Sheryl's compassion for her fellow travelers overflows -she anticipates your every need and is ready to provide whatever it is you need. I simply cannot imagine choosing any other leaders now that I know what an educational trip can provide. If you are considering a trip - don't miss this organization. If you do, you will miss something to treasure for the rest of your life! read more

My second trip with Brian & Sheryl and the same fantastic experience. The coordination, communication and planning of the 75th Anniversary D-Day trip was perfect. And again, with multiple heads of state attending numerous events, there were unanticipated changes and last minute notifications for security reasons. Brian and Sheryl adjusted and provided a superb and seamless experience. I don't know how they did it, but we were able to board a ferry in the UK on the evening of June 5th, cross the channel and land in France on the morning of June 6th! With thousands of people attending the events, we were able to visit every beach, the sites of the two major airborne drops, Bayeux and Mount Saint Michel. A huge shout out to Sergei our driver who managed to maneuver a full sized bus everywhere we went. The experience was poignant and moving but also uplifting to view and hear first hand what this generation was able to accomplish for us and the world. Thank you Brian & Sheryl for including me in another lifetime event. read more

I recently took Essential History Expeditiion's tour of the Antietam and Gettysburg battlefields. I have visited both battlefields before, but I wanted to take a more in-depth tour than those offered at the sites. I chose this tour after seeing Sheryl and Brian's presentation at a local travel store. The tour was phenomenal, even better than I expected. Brian's knowledge of the events at both sites is amazing and he presents the events of the battle in a such a way that the battles almost come to life. For example, as we walked the route of Pickett's Charge, learned how topography played an important role in the battle. The tour also includes three nights at a lovely Bed and Breakfast and dinners at some of the best restaurants in the area. I highly recommend this tour. I hope to take another tour with Brian very soon. Cuba and Normandy are at the top of my list! read more

I have made two trips to Cuba. The most recent visit with Brian De Toy and Essential History Expeditions was far and away the better of the two. Brian has extensive experience in Cuba and his encyclopedic knowledge of the military, social, and political history of the island contributed to a fuller understanding of the nation and its people. His ability to successfully team with Cuban guides enabled the group to see things not on most itineraries. I was impressed with his flexibility to meet the special interests of a group of fortification and coast artillery enthusiasts. Brian's extensive academic training, experience as an instructor at the college level, insight gained as a career Army Infantry officer, and field experience on the ground makes him an interesting, enjoyable, and personable companion and guide. read more

Essential History Expeditions is the real deal if you care about history. With Brian DeToy and Sheryl Shafer, you get it all: a guide who is a superb teacher - Brian makes it all vitally interesting and relevant - and a tour manager in Sheryl who is quietly and graciously capable of handling any problem or concern. You will have no worries with them. All you'll be required to do is to love every minute of your tour. We just completed the Normandy and Battle of the Bulge tours, and the moments of true inspiration and emotion were too many to count. Though it is a guided tour, and you will be in a van or bus, you always feel you are sharing important and memorable experiences with a group of friends. And we had the most fantastic food and wine, in beautiful settings! GO!! You will love it. read more

We just got back from the D-Day/Normandy trip with our family. Since our five kids are now between ages 27 & 17, it was likely our last vacation with the whole family. Two friends of our children joined us. Perfect falls short of describing it. There were excellent accommodations, comfortable transportation to the sites, tasty meals, completely thorough presentations of the history with a personal touch and fine company to share. It all went off like clock-work - even bathroom breaks. Sheryl & Brian have this wired and are experts at their craft. Worth every dime and beyond our wildest expectations - we were thrilled to have this experience for our family. It was a stress-free trip and the standard by which all other vacations will be judged. read more

Just returned from Essential History Expeditions tour of D-Day sites with Brian and Sheryl. It was amazing. They not only shared their expertise and incredible stories of WWII heroism, they also shared themselves, creating a warm and welcoming environment. We learned about D-Day during the day at various sites, hearing incredibly moving stories about the soldiers and learning about the strategies that helped move the invasion, and then gathered around meals at night to process and discuss what we had learned. Brian and Sheryl were always available to answer questions and discuss difficult issues surrounding the war. It was a wonderful experience all around! read more