Let me preface this review by saying that I am not one to typically write reviews (whoops, sorry)…read more But after attending my fist NowAge Tour, with Melissa, I knew I had to share my experience.
Last weekend (11/10), a friend and I decided to attend the Witches:1692 walking tour in Salem, conducted by Melissa. Having always been interested in the Salem Witch Trials, we knew this was the tour to take. Rather than being inundated with static facts, Melissa took an analytical, rational and empathetic approach, when recounting the events, leading up to the Salem Witch Trials. It's quite easy to get roped into a large tour that feeds into the hype and witch hysteria, as it's been painted for tourism reasons. Unlike their fellow Salem Witch Tours, NowAge keeps their groups rather small/ intimate. You have the opportunity to pick Melissa's brain at every turn - and boy, was Melissa knowledgeable.
The tour consisted of visiting 10 different landmarks, within Salem, with a briefing of its history and significance, as it pertained to the trials. What caught me by surprise, and made me even more appreciative of the experience, was Melissa's take on how said landmarks/ events have shaped the way Salem, and surrounding towns, have "moved forward." Whether it be creating this "Witch City" (Salem) or hiding/ burying it's past. I love a tour that's really going to make you "think" afterwards and draw your own conclusions.
It was the first REALLY cold evening we had in a while and I have to call out Melissa's thoughtfulness, with regard to that. We were all freezing, but Melissa wanted to be sure she gave us enough attention and information, without making us feel rushed or frozen! I mean, she was cold too and just kept it flowing.
Highly recommend, if you're looking for a tour that has insight and context when it comes to the Salem Witch Trials. I will be back for another tour - when it's warmer! Thank you, Melissa!!!!