History of the Tamarindo Touring Company
The Tamarindo Touring Company (TTC) has it root's deep in the communities of northern El Salvador. It is there our company was born. Our logo includes a depiction of the Tamarindo tree, which represents the strength, resiliency, growth, and beauty of the Salvadoran people.
When TTC President John Guiliano first arrived in El Salvador in the 1980's the country was experiencing a harsh civil war that would last for over 12 years. When the war ended, John went back to El Salvador -- this time by bicycle. He called his journey from New York to El Salvador, 'The Time to Heal Tour', a cycling and speaking tour that would take John over 5000 miles across North America and then back to El Salvador.
In that tour John developed the idea of creating a community for young people where they could heal and grow. A community that would provide resources and discipline -- a place where people with direction could create their own future. He would use cycling as a means to inspire. It's incredible what one bicycle could do.
Fifteen years later John's community, the Tamarindo Community in Guarjila, Chalatenango El Salvador has inspired hundreds of Salvadorans to a better life. John's work also led to the creation of a non-profit (501 C3) organization called the Tamarindo Foundation. The work of the foundation has created opportunity for economic development, healthcare and education for the poor and marginalized of El Salvador.
The work of the Tamarindo Community has also provided North Americans the opportunity to experience life in rural El Salvador and learn about its history and culture by living and working with Salvadorans in their communities. John and his Tamarindos have hosted visitors to Guarjila for over 15 years. High School and College students, adults and families - all have benefited from John's engaging personality, generous hospitality, superior storytelling, in-depth knowledge of the Salvadoran Culture and his Tamarindo Community's ability to run safe, interesting, and enlightening tours.
It is through our commitment to the people of the rural communities of El Salvador that the Tamarindo Touring Company was born.
In 2005 the company's co-founder, Tim Thoman, visited El Salvador. On his visit, the extraordinary beauty of the country and the ability of the Salvadoran people overwhelmed him. He saw the need to create hope by creating economic opportunity. On a coffee shop napkin Tim outlined what would be the beginning of the Tamarindo Touring Company. This story was profiled in the March, 2008 issue of the Indianapolis Monthly magazine.
Our goal is to provide an unforgettable, professional adventure experience for our clients. We are also dedicated to the communities of rural El Salvador. Our objective is not only to create jobs, but also create hope for families today and for generations to come. Come, get to know us. You will want to come back.