Why did I change the company from Travel with Paul to the Big Blue Marble?

I (Paul Heller, founder of the Big Blue Marble) changed the name for two reasons:

(1) Many people thought I was a travel agent or a tour guide rather than a publisher and lecturer. At first, this did not concern me too much because I thought I would like to do travel consulting. However, over time, I've discovered that (even though it may not be as lucrative) I am more comfortable and enjoy teaching and writing more than helping people plan their trips. Therefore, I changed the company name to the Big Blue Marble because it doesn't seem to have any association in the public's mind with travel consulting or tour guide services.

As you'll notice, however, if you look at my Postcard page, I am offering free limited consulting services to anyone who signs up for my postcard. I am offering this as a test to see if I can find a way to provide limited consulting service in a way that I'll find enjoyable (and feel skilled at). In 2006, I may offer paid travel planning services again.

(2) The Big Blue Marble better reflects my philosophy of travel than Travel with Paul. Travel with Paul sounds like I am leading people around like a tour guide. The Big Blue Marble?reflects my desire to show travelers a new way to see the world like a local rather than a tourist. The name comes from what the astronauts said that the Earth looked like from outer space-- a big blue marble. In keeping with this spirit, I promote travel experiences that break down barriers between people. I believe that once people learn about each other, the world will become a Big Blue Marble rather than a patchwork of artificially imposed borders.

What do you think of the name change?? Let me know by sending an e-mail to paul@thebigbluemarble.com.