About Us

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Max Travel Abroad LLC, co-owned by Dr. Cindi H. Fries and Mr. Bob C. Fries, is dedicated to providing transformative experiences that empower travelers to engage with local cultures and communities.

 

Dr. Cindi Fries is an Associate Professor Emeritus with over 28 years of experience in teacher education, specializing in international programs that facilitate cultural immersion. During her tenure at Northeastern State University, Oklahoma, she developed an innovative teacher education program that offered students opportunities for study abroad and practical experience in international K-12 schools abroad.

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After retiring from university teaching, in 2022 she and her husband founded Max Travel Abroad LLC to continue their passion for travel by creating immersive experiences that help others explore Europe with confidence.

 

Mr. Bob Fries, a real estate investor and entrepreneur, brings his Austrian-American heritage and fluency in German, Spanish, and English to our tours. Growing up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he embraced his family's Austrian traditions, sharing personal narratives that deepen travelers' understanding of Austrian culture and history, including the experiences of his parents and Jewish relatives during and after World War II.

 

For over a decade, Dr. Fries and Mr. Fries planned and led small, faculty-led study abroad groups of 5-18 students through Central Europe, particularly Austria, Germany, and Italy. These programs prioritize practical exploration and academic enrichment, equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their international journeys independently.

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What Matters to us: We Talk the Talk and Walk the Walk

 

At Max Travel Abroad, we recognize that true travel goes beyond being a tourist and sight-seeing; it should involve experiential learning, intercultural immersion and fostering global citizenship, within the framework of responsible, sustainable tourism. 

 

On our guided tours, we utilize high-speed and regional trains, as well as local city transportation, to enhance your travel experience. We dedicate time to instruct our travelers on becoming independent explorers of Europe, equipping them with the skills to navigate public transportation systems confidently.  Visit our tours page to discover the tour experiences we offer.

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Our philosophy focuses on creating travel experiences that include immersive learning opportunities that enhance intercultural competencies.

 

Our meticulously crafted small-group travel programs balance insight and learning with fun, enabling travelers to enjoy connecting with their surroundings while adding value to the local community and minimizing their tourism impact

 

Recognizing the challenges of mass tourism on local populations and rising living costs in popular destinations, we guide travelers to hidden gems alongside iconic sites.

 

By emphasizing public transportation and engaging with local communities and agencies, we intend to promote sustainable tourism practices and responsible travel, creating authentic experiences which foster cultural exchange and mindful exploration.

 

Whether enhancing language skills, participating in short-term travel programs, exploring historical narratives, or engaging with local cultures, Max Travel Abroad seeks to empower travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of each destination.

 

We believe our approach cultivates intellectual curiosity and empathy, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of our shared humanity and honoring the unique stories that shape our world.