Genealogy travel research
Finding your ancestor's hometown
Tracing your lineage back anywhere in Europe, the United Kingdom, or the American continent (or any country where records were kept in any language using the Roman alphabet).
What's included?
- Family history research report with citations
- Research log showing the records that were searched
- Ancestry family tree with the raw GEDCOM file
- Google Earth presentation showing your ancestor/s hometown and other noteworthy landmarks
- Referrals for genealogical tour guides in the region
- 30-minute Q&A close-out session (additional time billed in 15-minute increments)
My genealogy travel research process
Launch
I’ll create a dedicated Sync.com folder to share all of the project documents with you. I keep client records on file for 7 years, but I recommend that you make a copy of all of the project files for safekeeping.
Verify
I’ll gather all of the genealogical records that you have that are relevant to the research goals. I’ll check any prior research or family trees to ensure we’re starting with the most accurate information about your ancestors.
Locate
I’ll search a variety of records from the United States to confirm your ancestor’s family relationships, immigration year, and hometown in their country of origin. If I’m able to locate you ancestor’s hometown, I will find the modern-day town name and and GPS coordinates to help you plan your trip itinerary.
Connect
If desired, I can provide recommendations for local genealogy tour companies and guides that can help you search more records in the home country, help you plan your itinerary, connect you with living relatives, and be your guide and translator during your trip.
Currently researching family histories in
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is genealogy tourism?
Genealogical tourism is a unique travel experience that combines your passion for family history with the thrill of exploration. By combining your genealogical research with travel planning, you can create a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
What types of genealogical records do I need to provide for research?
It’s helpful to provide any genealogical records you may have—birth, marriage, or death certificates, military records, immigration documents, photos of the people you’d like to research. Even anecdotal family stories can be useful.
What if I don't have any existing genealogical records?
If you don’t have any existing genealogical records, don’t worry. I will use a variety of resources and databases to begin building your family tree from scratch.
How secure are my personal and family information during this process?
Your personal and family information are kept strictly confidential during the process. All data is securely stored and only used for the purposes of the genealogical research.
How long does the research process typically take?
The research process duration can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of records. On average, you can expect the process to take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Is there a guarantee that you will be able to locate my ancestor's hometown?
While every effort is made to locate your ancestor’s hometown, it is important to note that success is not guaranteed due to factors such as gaps in historical records or inaccuracies in original documents.
What does the 30-minute Q&A close-out session entail?
The 30-minute Q&A close-out session is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the research findings, clarify any points, and discuss next steps.
How will the Google Earth presentation be delivered?
The Google Earth presentation will be delivered as a digital file that you can view on your computer. It will include interactive elements allowing you to virtually “travel” to locations associated with your ancestors.
What happens if more time is needed beyond the 30-minute Q&A close-out session?
If more time is required beyond the close-out session, additional time is billed in 15-minute increments.
Can you assist with planning the genealogy research trip to my ancestor's hometown?
While my primary focus is on genealogical research, I can provide referrals to trusted travel agencies and tour guides specializing in genealogy trips.
What is the GEDCOM file that’s included in the final deliverables?
A GEDCOM file is a universal file format for sharing genealogical data. It allows you to view and edit your family tree using most genealogy software.