Our Team in the Field
Tour leaders are an integral part of the Worldwide Quest and Quest Nature Tours experience. They bring a particular expertise in some - and sometimes many - elements of the destination you are visiting and the theme we are exploring. They work with our expert local guides and naturalists to help you see and experience more and to create a context for the observations you will make. Our leaders take care of logistical concerns in order to maximize your experience. Last but not least, they ensure your safety and comfort. We carefully select our leaders and match them to tours based on their experience, their interests, and their compatibility with the destination and tour theme. Meet our exceptional group of leaders below and see where they're heading next.
Naturalist
Alan Watson
As a former faculty member in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, Alan Watson taught nature interpretation, environmental stewardship and a conservation field course. With over 25 years of experience leading nature tours, Alan has guided groups in southern Ontario, Canada's Maritime Provinces, Trinidad and Tobago, the Lesser Antilles, Costa Rica, Brazil, Tanzania, and the Galapagos.
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Local Guide
Alexander Alvarado
Alexander Alvarado grew up in Copán Ruinas on the western part of Honduras, where he began leading bird-focused tours in the mid-2000s. Since then, he has become one of the top naturalist guides in Honduras.
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Naturalist
Andrea Kingsley
Prince Edward County-area resident and expert naturalist and biologist Andrea Kingsley has over 35 years of experience in field biology and guiding through various environmental consultant jobs, teaching, and research projects. Many of her projects both in Ontario and across Canada have involved birds and she is highly experienced at field identification by sight and sound.
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Marine Mammal Researcher
Andrew Trites
Dr. Andrew Trites is the Director of the Marine Mammal Research Unit at the University of British Columbia and oversees a research program that involves captive and field studies of seals, sea lions, whales, and dolphins. His research spans the fields of ecology, nutrition, physiology, and animal behaviour—and is designed to further the conservation and understanding of marine mammals and resolve conflicts between people and marine mammals.
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Entrepreneur
Angela Dacey
Angela Dacey has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years with her company Heaven & Earth Inc. Her mission is to “Inspire and Uplift the Spirit” in all her endeavours both personally and professionally. She has been interviewed around the world in all forms of media for her knowledge and insight.
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Polar Scientist
Anita Dey Nuttall
Anita Dey Nuttall is a Polar Science and Policy Engagement Officer and is on the faculty of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Alberta. Anita is a past chair and current member of the Canadian Committee for Antarctic Research. She teaches resource management and environmental policy and has interests in science policy issues, the history and contemporary nature of national Antarctic programs, geopolitics, and sovereignty in the circumpolar regions.
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Conservation Ecologist
Ann Haynes-Sutton
Ann Haynes-Sutton is a conservation ecologist who has spent her working life in Jamaica. She is the senior author of “A photographic guide to the birds of Jamaica” published by Princeton University in 2009, and has been leading bird and natural history tours in Jamaica and other islands for many years.
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Urban Explorer
Ann Kirkland
Ann Kirkland founded Classical Pursuits in 1999 and directed the company until 2021. She has been leading trips for Classical Pursuits and Worldwide Quest for more than 20 years. Ann loves walking, reading and good conversation. She is curious about the unique gifts of each culture, including the stresses and the synergy that can occur when they bump up against one another.
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Ornithologist
Bonnie Chartier
Bonnie Chartier was born and raised in Churchill, Manitoba. She has been involved in Churchill’s tourism industry since its inception and was instrumental in introducing the world to Churchill’s Polar Bears, Belugas, birds, and natural history. Bonnie’s familiarity with the Churchill region is boundless and guests quickly appreciate her tremendous wealth of knowledge!
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Wilderness Guide
Boris Wise
Boris Wise is a passionate naturalist, wilderness guide, and excellent photographer. He began his career guiding in Southeast Alaska, where he worked for 10 years before sailing on his first expedition cruise ship in 2010. Boris is a seasoned polar expedition explorer having sailed throughout Arctic Canada, along the coasts of Greenland, Antarctica and throughout Svalbard many times, among other places. He spends much of his professional and personal time exploring with his wife Eva Westerholm.
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Professor of Biology
Brent Sinclair
Brent Sinclair is a Professor of Biology at Western University. Brent’s research on the physiology and ecology of insects and other arthropods has led him to spend more than a year of his life in the Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic.
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Bruno Tremblay
Professor Bruno Tremblay, McGill University, is an associate professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences. His current research focuses on the presence of sea ice and snow at high latitudes and their effect on global climate and climate change. Bruno will discuss Antarctic ice sheet history and sea ice trends.
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Author
Bryn Turnbull
Bryn Turnbull is the bestselling author of The Paris Deception and three other historical novels, including The Berlin Apartment, just published in August 2024. She studied English at McGill University and has an ML in creative writing from the University of St. Andrews.
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Executive Director at Ontario Nature
Caroline Schultz
Caroline Schultz has recently retired as Executive Director at Ontario Nature, having directed their programs and operations from 2005 to 2025. She previously served as conservation director for the Canadian Nature Federation for 10 years, leading the organization’s national advocacy, science, and stewardship programs.
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Tour Leader
Carolyn Whitaker
Carolyn Whitaker is a seasoned tour leader with Women’s Travel Network. She uses her corporate leadership and organizational skills to ensure that each tour experience is worry free. Her sense of humour and passion for travel will make your tour fun and eventful.
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Ornithologist
Catherine Jardine
A graduate of the University of Guelph, Catherine Jardine is a staff ornithologist and data analyst with Birds Canada, based at the organization’s National Data Centre in Delta, B.C. She has conducted field projects in remote locations around the world and is the Bander-in-Charge at the Iona Island Bird Observatory.
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Cheryl Bozarth Soll
Cheryl Bozarth Soll is a member of Nature Alberta’s Board of Directors, representing the Northern region of the Province. She holds a Conservation Biology Degree from the University of Alberta and has worked in the fields of ecological education, urban planning and event management.
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Naturalist
Chris Earley
Chris Earley is the University of Guelph Arboretum’s Interpretive Biologist and Education Coordinator and a self-proclaimed 'nature geek'. He teaches workshops at the Arboretum, and participates in research around the world. Chris has led many previous Quest trips around the world.
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Zoology Professor
Chris Harley
Chris Harley is a professor in the Zoology Department and in the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries at UBC. He studies the forces that create ecological patterns in space and time in coastal ecosystems. Chris is particularly interested in how species interact with one another and respond to temperature, ocean acidification, and other challenges in their environment.
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Conservation Biologist and Wildlife Ecol
Cole Burton
Cole Burton is an Associate Professor and the Canada Research Chair
(Tier 2) in Terrestrial Mammal Conservation in the Department of Forest
Resources Management at UBC. He is a conservation biologist and wildlife
ecologist with broad interests in using science to inform biodiversity
conservation and human-wildlife coexistence.
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World Traveller
Cynthia Hoy
Forty-five years of travelling (and almost as many countries) as a
single, couple, mother, daughter, friend and employee, from back packer
and independent traveller, to expat and being part of a tour group, has
imbued Cynthia Hoy with a keen desire to instill a curiosity of
the world and a love of travel and adventure in others. She loves
meeting new people, learning about different cultures and making new
friendships.
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Author & TV Personality
Dan Riskin
Dan Riskin, PhD, is a television personality, scientist, and author. He is best known in Canada as the co-host of Discovery's flagship science program, Daily Planet, and elsewhere as the host of Animal Planet's hugely successful show about parasites, Monsters Inside Me. He is passionate about wildlife, especially the underappreciated creatures that he thinks deserve a closer look.
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Retired Chef
Daniel Lamy
Daniel is retired from a successful career which included roles of Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director, with Hilton International and the Starwood Group of Hotels. His business travels took him to many locations throughout the USA , Canada and Internationally. Working in hospitality allowed Daniel to follow his passions of ethnic cooking, international cultures and ancient history. Daniel is always willing to share his years of culinary knowledge and expertise, to enhance the Tour experience.
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The Urban Birder
David Lindo
David Lindo, also known as "The Urban Birder" is a broadcaster, writer, naturalist, photographer, public speaker, and tour leader. Through TV appearances, writing, talks, and travel, he inspires people to re-look at their urban environments and believes wildlife in urban areas is so easy to engage with; All we have to do is open our eyes, ears, hearts and minds and soon we will be linked into the nature around us.
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Historian
David Mendel
Historian David Mendel is a renowned speaker and expert guide who has
given tours for many visiting dignitaries, including heads of state and
royalty. The author of best-selling guidebooks, he was honoured as
Tourism Personality of the Year, in 2014, and awarded the Medal of the
Quebec Historical Society, in 2015. He is a longtime resident of Quebec
City and loves sharing his knowledge and passion for his home.
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David Saussy
David Saussy is a co-founder of the Symposium Great Books Institute and a longtime Classical Pursuits leader. He has a BA and MA from St. John’s College in Santa Fe and Annapolis, where he studied the history of science and mathematics, music, ancient Greek and modern French; and Eastern Classics, with a language concentration in ancient Chinese.
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Entrepreneur
Deb Kozlowski
Deb Kozlowski is the founder and owner of Deb K Fitness, which helps men and women over the age of 60 reach (and surpass) their health and wellness goals. Making a difference in people’s lives is very important to Deb. She does it in her practice and now will have the ability to maintain it as a trip leader for WTN.
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Founder of Women's Travel Network
Debbie Ross
Debbie Ross, founder of Womens Travel Network has been providing travel services to her customers for over 30 years. Her travel around the globe has been extensive. Be it relaxing holidays, trekking or sports related, she has first hand knowledge of many varied travel experiences.
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UBC Professor
Dolph Schluter
Dolph Schluter, FRS, FRSC is a professor of Evolutionary Biology and University Killam Professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of British Columbia. He is the winner of the 2023 Crafoord Prize, one of the major international science prizes awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and the Lund-based Crafoord Foundation, for his work on the origin of species. He was awarded the Royal Society’s 2021 Darwin Medal for major and fundamental contributions to the understanding of how species originate.
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Dr. Diane Srivastava
Dr. Diane Srivastava is a tropical community ecologist with particular interests in the impacts of changing climates and land use on freshwater food webs. She has 35 years of field experience working on insect and plant systems around the world, but especially in Costa Rica and Brazil. Dr. Srivastava is a Professor in the Dept of Zoology, University of British Columbia, and Director of the Canadian Institute of Ecology and Evolution.
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Dr. Karen Danylchuk
Dr. Karen Danylchuk is a Professor Emerita at The University of Western Ontario, where she taught and researched in the field of Sport Management in the School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences. Throughout her 38 years at Western, she also served in a variety of administrative roles. Prior to working at Western, Karen taught and coached at Hong Kong International School and McMaster University. Karen has published extensively and has presented her research globally.
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Bear Biologist
Dr. Martyn Obbard
Martyn Obbard is an emeritus research scientist and the former resident bear biologist with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and adjunct professor at Trent University (Peterborough, Ontario). His field work focused on Polar Bears and Black Bears, and he has published many papers detailing the demographics, genetics, and movements of these species.
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Ecologist
Dylan White
Dylan White grew up in the city but fell in love with wild places and the creatures that inhabit them long before he could walk. It is this lifelong passion for experiencing, conserving and learning about nature has motivated his work. He is a professional ecologist with 10 years of experience on more than 175 diverse projects, and moonlights as a wilderness and wildlife guide.
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Educator
Erick Villagomez
Erick Villagomez is an educator, researcher, and designer with academic and professional interests in human settlements. He is the founding principal of Metis Design|Build, Editor-in-Chief of Spacing Vancouver and a regular contributor to the award-winning Spacing Magazine. He is currently a Lecturer within UBC's School of Community and Regional Planning.
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Erin McCloskey
An executive member of the Nature Alberta board in the role of Secretary, Erin McCloskey has worked with various wildlife conservation and ecotourism companies around the world, as a guide, expedition leader, research assistant, and nature interpreter.
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Polar Explorer
Eva Molin Westerholm
A veteran Svalbard explorer and animal-loving outdoor enthusiast, Eva Molin Westerholm considers herself very lucky having explored many countries of the world in the last 15 years. The polar regions are of particular interest to her, and she cannot wait to share whatever can be found out there – whether it be a whale, bird, or the flora – nothing is too small to inspire investigation.
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Fundraising Professional
Faye Wightman
Faye Wightman is a UBC grad, BSN’81 (Nursing). Her life work has focused on the not-for-profit sector, as she has worked as a leader and change agent focusing on philanthropy, management, and governance. An avid traveller and alumni engagement leader, she has visited 40 countries, including India, China, Bhutan, Iran, Australia, and numerous countries in Europe and Central America.
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Naturalist
Gabriel Foley
The Coordinator for the Maryland Breeding Bird Atlas, Gabriel Foley grew up on a small farm in southeastern Ontario, where his curiosity cultivated an appreciation and wonder for nature. After receiving a diploma in fish and wildlife conservation from Sault College, he headed west to Saskatchewan to pursue undergraduate studies in Biology. Subsequently he completed graduate studies on the Common Nighthawk. He is an obsessive birder and outdoorsman and is passionate about sharing his love of nature with others.
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Geology Professor
Galen Halverson
Galen Halverson is a professor of geology at McGill University. He
reads the history of our planet from ancient rocks in order to
understand how the Earth system has behaved over billions of years. His
current research focuses on tectonics, climate change and the evolution
of ocean chemistry in deep time and the conditions under which complex
life originated.
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Horticulturalist
Gary Lewis
UBC alumnus Gary Lewis is the owner of Phoenix Perennials, a cutting edge retail nursery in Vancouver, and an expert on perennials and horticulture. He is one of Canada’s most knowledgeable plant experts with a deep and special interest in rare and unusual herbaceous perennials. He recently published The Complete Book of Ground Covers.
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Scholar
Gary Schoepfel
Gary Schoepfel has been a leader with Classical
Pursuits from the start. He's former VP of the Great Books Foundation and is a
faculty member at Harrison Middleton University faculty. A worshiper of
the Bard, lover of beers, bibliophile, fair in the kitchen, and kayaking
enthusiast, Gary thinks that all that myths tell us is already buried
deep in our bones.
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Naturalist
Gavan Watson
Gavan Watson is a third-generation naturalist and a second-generation Quest tour leader. While completing his PhD at York University, he developed and taught a popular experiential natural history course. Now at the University of Guelph, he works to enhance the quality of teaching and learning on-campus.
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Local Guide
Gilberto Flores Walter
Gilberto Flores Walter is a passionate Honduran naturalist guide and
has spent over a decade leading small groups to Honduras' top
biodiversity hotspots. He also plays a key role in Finca Las Palmas, a
family-owned private nature reserve dedicated to sustainable coffee
cultivation, birdwatching, ecological research, and ecotourism.
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Naturalist
Glenn Barrett
A Past President of the Hamilton Naturalists’ Club, Glenn Barrett has a degree in Wildlife Biology from the University of Guelph and worked in outdoor education programming for several educational institutions before beginning what has now been a 30+ year fulfilling career as a Wildlife Technician.
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Naturalist
Graham Sorenson
Graham Sorenson developed his interest in and love for the natural world through his undergraduate studies, years as a field biologist, and Master's degree at the University of Windsor, Ontario. His passion for birds took off during undergrad when he was a field research assistant on Kent Island, just south of Grand Manan. Now based in new Brunswick, Graham was recently promoted to Science in the North Project Manager with Birds Canada, where is now focuses on the conservation of Boreal and Arctic birds and habitat.
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Greg Appleyard
A member of the board of Nature Alberta, Greg Appleyard, PhD, is a retired food safety lab director with broad interests in history and biology. He has a keen interest in wildlife ecology, epidemiology, and citizen science. An avid hiker, Greg also enjoys amateur landscape photography and international travel.
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Archaeologist
Greg Hare
Greg Hare has lived in the Yukon for more than four decades, spending
30 years working as a field archaeologist with the Government of Yukon.
He has worked throughout the territory and has published numerous
articles on the human and natural history of Yukon. Greg is one of the
pioneering researchers in the Yukon Ice Patch Project and one of the
founders of the emerging field of Glacial Archaeology. He is an
enthusiastic ambassador for the Yukon has led a variety a professional
and conference tours of southern and central Yukon.
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Biologist
Greg Sharam
Greg Sharam is a wildlife biologist, spending his summers in the Canadian Arctic, working on large mammals: grizzly bears, muskox and caribou. He completed graduate work at UBC with a PhD (Zoology) in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, and an MSc (Botany) in the Yukon Territory. His interests include wildlife biology and conservation.
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Gregory Mackie
Gregory Mackie is an Associate Professor in UBC’s Department of English Language and Literatures specializing in Victorian and Modernist literature, drama, and book history. His book Beautiful Untrue Things: Forging Oscar Wilde’s Extraordinary Afterlife (2019) examines a lost archive of Wilde forgeries that flooded the rare book market in the 1920s.
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Professor of Biology
Greta Binford
When you listen to Greta Binford talk about biodiversity, the tree of life, biogeography, Gondwana, migratory pathways for monarch butterflies or many other topics, it is easy to understand why she was Oregon’s Teacher of the Year in 2011. She takes scientific facts and principles, and tells them like stories, in a way that anyone would find fascinating. Professor Binford has traveled the globe finding fascinating flora and fauna and of course, her favorite- spiders.
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Life Coach
Heather White
Heather White, BA’03 is a highly sought-after speaker, trainer, writer, and executive life coach. She has worked with hundreds of executives and entrepreneurs, providing practical and applicable support and guidance as they pursue their goals both personally and professionally.
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Walk Leader
Horacio Santos
Born and raised in Portugal, Horacio Santos has led walking trips to various destinations. Horacio’s love for the
outdoors and enthusiasm for immersive travel is present in his style of
guiding.
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Master Winemaker
Howard Soon
UBC alumnus Howard Soon is the longest serving winemaker in Canada,
creating 37 consecutive vintages and winning countless awards for his
winemaking. As the head winemaker at Sandhill from 1997 to 2017, his
collaborative relationships with growers and non-interventionist
approach have consistently led to award-winning, single vineyard wines. In 2019, Howard was named a member of the Order of Canada (C.M.) for his influence on the wine industry.
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Naturalist
Ian Shanahan
Ian Shanahan has guided throughout Canada and internationally from the Tropics to the Arctic. Over 13 seasons as an interpretive naturalist in Ontario’s Presqu’ile and Algonquin Parks, his initial passion for birds spread to all life forms. Now, Ian captures his nature explorations through field sketching, photography, and writing.
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Jane Macdougall
UBC Art History grad Jane Macdougall, a long-time columnist for The National Post, currently writes a reader engagement feature for Postmedia publications that appears in over 100 publications and platforms including the Vancouver Sun. You can join her in The Bookless Club where she spawns conversations that build community. Her professional career includes morning drive rock radio, weather forecasting for BCTV, and even hosting a game show! Her recent travels include Korea, Algeria, and Mexico.
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Professor, Biological Sciences
Jane Waterman
Jane Waterman is a professor in Biological Sciences at the University of Manitoba, where she specializes in behavioural ecology. She has taught courses such as Biology of Mammals, Animal Behaviour, Ecology, Ornithology, and Conservation Biology, and offers field courses in the biology of African mammals. Her research focuses on the factors that influence the evolution of sociality and mating systems and the majority of her research focuses on sociality in ground-dwelling squirrels. For the past 30 years, Jane has also studied sociality in the Polar Bear.
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Fine Artist
Janice Mason Steeves
Janice Mason Steeves is represented by galleries in Canada and the U.S., with work in public, corporate, and private collections in Canada and internationally. As well as an active one-on-one Art Mentoring program, Janice teaches painting workshops in Canada, the U.S., and Europe. She has also been awarded artist residencies in Spain, Ireland, Sweden, and Iceland.
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Ornithologist
Jean Iron
A veteran nature guide, Jean Iron is past President of the Ontario Field Ornithologists and retired school principal. She is active in trip leading and contributing to the written record of bird sightings.
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Horticulturalist
Jeff de Jong
Jeff de Jong is a horticulturalist, garden writer, and photographer based in Victoria, BC. He is the host of Gardening 101, a weekly radio show on CFAX 1070.
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Lepidopterist
Jessica Linton
Jessica Linton is a consulting biologist who specializes in butterflies. Based in Ontario, her work has a heavy focus on species-at-risk including butterflies, the wildlife group about which Jessica is most passionate. She has over 10 years of experience conducting butterfly surveys, behavioral monitoring, and migration studies.
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Johanna Klinsky
Johanna Klinsky is the Director of Strategic Improvement for a network of 57 schools across England. She brings her zest for life, passion for travel and is looking forward to the great discussions that will be had on this trip.
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Jon Beasley-Murray
Jon Beasley-Murray is a professor UBC and chair of UBC’s program in Latin American Studies. His research interests include Latin American cultural, literary, and political history and global latinidad.
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Photographer and Expedition Guide
Josh McGarel
Based in Squamish, British Columbia, Josh McGarel brings a unique blend
of outdoor expertise, photography skills, and expedition experience to
his role as a guide. Josh guides trips across Vancouver Island, the Chilcotin, and the Yukon
for Mosaic Earth Travel and loves sharing his passion for the outdoors
and neverending curiosity with our travellers.
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Field Biologist
Josh Vandermeulen
Josh Vandermeulen is a professional Field Biologist and is an active and well-known member of Ontario’s naturalist community. He regularly travels the province in pursuit of his two core interests, field herpetology and ornithology.
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UBC Alumni
Judy Rogers
Judy Rogers is a former Chair of the UBC Alumni Association (2011 – 2014). She is a recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Excellence in Public Service in BC and was recently awarded the Order of Canada for her outstanding contributions to municipal government and the community. Judy is based in Vancouver and is an active lover of the outdoors. Judy is a veteran of many walks, including as host of the alumni UBC Travel Club’s “Peru’s Sacred Valley” walk in 2018. Judy will be accompanied by our UK-based walking guide.
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Award-Winning Writer
Julia Zarankin
Julia Zarankin is an award-winning writer and lecturer who regularly teaches courses to lifelong learners about Russian and European culture and literature. She regularly shares her passion for cultural history with Toronto audiences at Hot Docs Curious Minds, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, and the Royal Conservatory of Music.
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UBC Associate Professor
Julian Dierkes
Julian Dierkes is a prolific commentator on contemporary Mongolia
through the media but also on the Mongolia Focus blog that he publishes. A Canadian ambassador once reported that
Julian’s blog posts are read at the Mongolian cabinet table. He came to UBC in 2002, first as an assistant
professor and now as an associate professor and the Keidanren Chair in
Japanese Research at UBC’s School of Public Policy and Global Affairs.
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Military Historian
Julian Whippy
Julian Whippy is our accompanying military historian. He has a military background, having served with the Royal Anglian Regiment as a member of the Territorial Army. A badged member and validator within the Guild of Battlefield Guides, Julian lectures on military history.
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Professor
Julio de Paula
Julio de Paula, native of Brazil, is a Professor of Chemistry at Lewis & Clark, where he has taught courses in physical chemistry, general chemistry, inorganic chemistry, environmental chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and nanoscience.
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Art Historian and Artist
Justin Newell
Justin Newell, art historian and artist, has lectured extensively on Western painting, sculpture, and architecture (from 1300 to 1963) at UBC and various Vancouver colleges, as well as leading art history tours to Venice, Florence, Rome, Paris, London, and other art centres of the world, weaving his knowledge of history, art, political events, and famous sights into his presentations. Justin recently taught the course "Venetian Painting: from the Renaissance to the Rococo Period" for UBC Extended Learning.
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Director of Quest Nature Tours
Justin Peter
Justin Peter is a Principal of Worldwide Quest and Director of its Quest Nature Tours branch. Prior to joining the company, Justin was the senior naturalist at Ontario’s world-renowned Algonquin Park, where he coordinated the park’s interpretive program and acted as lead howler for the celebrated Public Wolf Howl events.
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Kaitlyn Gaynor
Kaitlyn Gaynor is an assistant professor of Zoology and Botany at the University of British Columbia. Kaitlyn is a wildlife ecologist and conservation scientist who studies animal behavior, predator-prey interactions, and human-wildlife coexistence.
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Kari Richardson
Born and raised in Calgary, Kari Richardson adorns many hats. She is a mother of 3 amazing young adults, is a professional artist and past owner of 3 incredibly successful bakeries to currently working as the Director of Partnerships for an Alberta-based children’s charity. Her attention to detail and calm, positive, free spirit will make you feel welcome and excited to join her on the next adventure.
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Naturalist
Katsu Sakuma
Born in Tokyo, Japan, Katsu Sakuma had already established himself in the paddling business before moving to Canada with his family in 1999. It was therefore a natural move to begin his career in Canada as a canoe guide in Algonquin Park. With an active interest in natural history and wild spaces, he expanded his activities to Vancouver Island as well as the Yukon River. Since 2007, Katsu has worked as a Seasonal Park Naturalist in Algonquin Park during each fall colour season. He is passionate about connecting Canadians and visitors to our country’s vast wild spaces!
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Professor
Kevin James
Kevin James is Professor of History, Director of the Centre for Scottish Studies, and holder of the Scottish Studies Foundation Chair at the University of Guelph. A graduate of McGill and Edinburgh Universities, he publishes widely on Scottish tourism history, and has appeared in print, radio, and on television, including on BBC Scotland's hit tv show 'Grand Tours of Scotland.'
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Naturalist
Kyle Horner
A graduate of the University of Guelph, Kyle Horner is a consummate environmental educator and well-travelled, lifelong naturalist who can proudly say he’s been birdwatching since before he could walk! He has also worked as a field technician for a variety of research projects. He is currently the NatureCounts Engagement Coordinator at Birds
Canada, where he helps to build awareness and adoption of that
innovative bird data platform. In 2024, Kyle published a book on turtles of North America.
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Urban Planner
Larry Beasley
Larry Beasley, CM is an internationally known urban planner. Formerly
Chief Planner for the City of Vancouver, he is largely credited with the
transformation of its downtown core along New Urbanism lines, known as
Vancouverism or "The Vancouver Model". His two books, “Ecodesign for Cities and Suburbs” (Island
Press) and “Vancouverism” (UBC Press) are excellent references in
anticipation of the tour. Larry's partner, Sandy Logan is the Principal Associate of Beasley & Associates and will also be joining us on tour.
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Motivational Speaker
Laurie Flasko
Laurie Flasko has a deep passion for travelling with an open bucket list
for new adventures. Experiencing new cultures, finding hidden gems, and
those special moments that create lasting memories are high on her list.
Laurie is a customer service trainer at work and speaks internationally
on the Kindness Advantage.
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Director of Worldwide Quest
Laurielle Penny
Laurielle is one of the principals of Worldwide Quest, managing director, designer of new programs and planner of Signature Moments. She works principally with our Cultural Explorations portfolio and with customized travel programs for cultural institutions and affinity groups.
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Mineralogist
Lee Groat
Lee Groat is a Professor in UBC’s Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences
department. Since 2012 Prof. Groat has led an annual 17-day course in
Iceland for senior undergraduates covering the geology, climate, flora,
fauna, and human settlement of Iceland, and factors that are impacting
them today. Lee is a keen student of the Iceland sagas and is learning
Iceland. Past travellers have enjoyed stories of his adventures in
geology in Canada and abroad.
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Lesley Green
Lesley Green has travelled a great deal and understand the joys of new adventures that last a lifetime in ones memory. Lesley feels it’s important when we travel to have someone who cares, is kind, a good listener, well organized, enthusiastic, and flexible.
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President of Worldwide Quest
Lewie Gonsalves
Lewie Gonsalves, our peripatetic president, has over 40 years’ experience researching and organizing trips throughout the world. As well as designing and leading our President’s Tours, Lewie is also chief designer of our Private Journey collection of tailored tours.
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Liam Singh
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Liam Singh grew up with a deep fascination for the ecosystems and organisms of western North America, honing his naturalist skills along the rocky intertidal beaches around Victoria, BC. Liam has taken his passion for biodiversity worldwide through both his work assignments and personal travels. An excellent birder, Liam’s interests also extend to reptiles, insects and marine invertebrates, in addition to photography and art.
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Liron Gertsman
Liron Gertsman is an expert naturalist and guide as well as an award-winning photographer. A graduate of the University of British Columbia’s biology program, Liron is based in BC and has explored and guided across all corners of this magnificent province.
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Lisa Coulter
Lisa Coulter graduated from the University of Guelph in 2013 with a Bachelor of Applied Science with a major in Adult Development and Family Wellbeing and a minor in French Studies. She has travelled across Canada from northern Quebec to Ontario to
Northwest Territories to British Columbia, leading immersive
science-based education programming in local Indigenous communities.
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Canadian Writer
Lisa Pasold
Lisa Pasold is a Canadian writer who divides her time between Paris and
New Orleans. She is currently the host of Discovery’s travel show,
“Paris Next Stop.” She has published a novel and three books of poetry.
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Life Coach
Lori Dalton
Lori Dalton is an enthusiastic tour leader, personal life coach and gifted speaker. She uses her excellent people skills to ensure that everyone is enjoying, learning and growing while on tour with her. Her joie de vivre makes every journey with her fun-filled and stress free.
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Olympian
Lorraine Stubbs
Lorraine Stubbs is a two-time Olympian, having competed for Canada in Dressage at Munich ’72 and Montreal ’76, where she reached the finals. Lorraine became the first Level 3 national coach in Canada in any
equestrian sport. Her 100-acre farm in Rockwood, Ontario was chosen
specifically to be near the best veterinary school in Canada: OVC at the
University of Guelph! She was a thoroughbred breeder and owner for more than 20 years.
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Naturalist & Artist
Lynette Hartley
Lynette Hartley has worked in the conservation field in New Zealand for over 20 years. She is passionately invested in protecting New Zealand’s threatened native ecosystems, and is active in habitat restoration activities. Lynette is also an accomplished nature artist. She will look forward to hosting you on our tour!
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Lynn Feasy
Lynn Feasy has worked with artists for over 20 years as a gallery owner, artistic director, and consultant for artists, government, and arts organisations.
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Olympic Medalist
Lynn Kanuka
Lynn Kanuka is an Olympic medalist and WalkRun coach. She is best known for her Bronze medal performance at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 1984. For over 25 years Lynn has inspired people of all ages and ability levels through physical fitness to take steps toward better health, achieve personal goals, and be active and happy.
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Contemporary Artist
Maggie Broda
Maggie Broda is an Ontario-based freelance visual artist as well as an interviewer/writer, art advocate, and educator. She is the OCAD University Alumni Association’s President, an Executive Board Member at John B. Aird Gallery, President Emeritus of the Women’s Art Association of Canada, and a long-time Muskoka Arts and Crafts member.
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Ornithologist
Manuel Grosselet
Manuel Grosselet has been a field ornithologist and bird guide for more than two decades, with a particular interest in Mexico. In addition to having completed numerous field studies on birds internationally, he has produced three bird field guides covering Mexico’s bird life.
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Marc Bassingthwaighte
Marc Bassingthwaighte’s life has always revolved around the outdoors. Born and bred in Namibia, he and his family took many childhood camping trips, during which Marc developed a love for birds, while getting to know their plumages and vocalizations. With a strong knowledge of Namibia’s flora, fauna, geology, and history, Marc is well positioned to welcome you to his fascinating homeland.
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Marine Mammal Specialist
Marc Webber
Marc Webber is a marine mammal specialist with an undergraduate and
graduate degree from San Francisco State University. He has worked as a
biologist and refuge manager for non-profit organizations and the US
government for his entire career in places all over the United States.
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Personal Trainer
Marisa Mae
Marisa has trained clients 1:1 and in small groups, online and in person from her base in Vancouver, for over 14 years. As a certified leadership coach and personal trainer she helps clients align their lifestyle to one that supports healthy, sustainable, habits for a long & active life. She creates and leads health-related workshops, programs and workouts for various departments at UBC.
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Mark Cwik
Mark Cwik’s deep understanding and appreciation of classical texts are evident in his ability to engage discussion participants and bring ancient stories to life. Mark’s extensive reading and dedication have earned him a reputation among peers and enthusiasts as a highly knowledgeable and skilled reader.
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Biologist
Martin Cohen
With 30 years as a professional wildlife biologist, Martin Cohen has gained extensive experience and a broad range of skills, all of which have contributed to his ability and passion to educate, communicate, and inform a diverse array of people about the wonders of our natural world.
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Meera Kachroo
Meera Kachroo is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Religion and Culture at St. Thomas More College in Saskatoon (Treaty 6). In both research and teaching, she highlights the perennial texts and teachings of Asian religions and how they flourish in modern lives.
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Archaeologist
Megan Daniels
Megan Daniels has worked as an archaeologist for over 20 years. She has undertaken archaeological fieldwork in numerous countries, including Canada, Bermuda, Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Turkey, and Tunisia. She first visited Tunisia on a study tour in 2009, as a graduate student studying ancient North Africa at UBC.
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Director of Classical Pursuits
Melanie Blake
Melanie Blake is the executive director of Classical Pursuits and organizer of the annual Toronto Pursuits cultural salon. She studied English and French at Fordham University and the Université de Montpellier, and has an MA in literature and linguistics from the University of Nottingham. She loves languages, cocktails, and the unexpected.
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Marketing Specialist
Melissa Ross
Melissa Ross is an experienced and passionate traveler always seeking the big adventures in life. Born and raised in Toronto and now calling Vancouver Island her home, Melissa lives to discover the world. With a flair for languages and a drive to be fully immersed in other cultures, Melissa has spent time living abroad in Italy, Spain, and Morocco.
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Michael Burton-Smith
Michael Burton-Smith channeled an early-childhood passion for dinosaurs into a fascination with their living descendants — birds. He has been enthusiastically searching various corners of New Zealand for birds ever since, including while completing his Bachelor of Arts.
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UBC Porfessor
Michele Koppes
UBC Professor Michele Koppes is a Canada Research Chair in Landscapes of Climate Change. Her research and pedagogy focuses on how glaciers, landscapes, and the people who dwell within them are responding to ongoing climate change. Her current projects in the Himalayas include understanding local perspectives of landscape change, and the impacts of melting glaciers on livelihoods from the high mountains to the coasts.
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Michelle Green
Michelle Green is a born-and-bred South Island “Kiwi” with a lifelong passion for tramping (hiking) through wild spaces. Her travels for both work and personal enjoyment have taken her to Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and Colorado, USA, where she lived for four years.
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Michelle Sitbon
Michelle Sitbon completed her Undergraduate studies in Art and Masters of Information Science in Israel and graduated with a certificate of advanced studies from the Library and Information Science Department at UBC.
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Naturalist
Mike Kent
Mike Kent is an excellent all-round naturalist and educator based in southwestern Ontario. He has worked as a Park Naturalist at Ontario’s Killbear Provincial Park and the famous Algonquin Provincial Park, and as a Tour Manager at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens in Costa Rica’s highland cloud forests. He has a keen and abiding interest in all life forms with a particular fondness for insects, fungi and other under-appreciated groups.
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First Nations Advocate
Mike Willie
Mike Willie is a proud member of the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis people, from the Kwakwaka’wakw, the Kwak´wala-speaking people, made up of 18 tribes whose territory reaches from what is now northern Vancouver Island southeast to the middle of the island, and to smaller islands and inlets such as Johnstone Strait. He is active in exercising traditional laws that protect these lands and waters for future generations.
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Monica Mueller
Monica Mueller is a seasoned adventurer with a profound bond to nature, stemming from her upbringing at the family cottage on Georgian Bay, Ontario. She has embraced the opportunity to lead women on hikes in the York Region of Ontario, effectively spreading her love for the outdoors to others.
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Opera Expert
Nancy Hermiston
UBC Opera Ensemble Director Nancy Hermiston’s operatic career has taken her throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. The consummate opera expert, Nancy is as knowledgeable as she is congenial.
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Entrepreneur
Nanette Snel
Nanette Snel is a seasoned and passionate traveller. Born in Venezuela, raised in Holland with ties to Portugal, Brazil and South Africa, travel is in her blood. Nanette will make sure your tour is memorable and that every need is taken care of – with a smile.
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Nathalie Wright
Nathalie Wright is an experienced traveler and has had a passion for
travel all her life. She has a long list of places left to visit, and
re-visit. Nathalie is an organizer and planner who loves to research, and problem solve in all aspects of life, including travel.
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Naturalist-in-Training
Nathan Earley
Nathan is a naturalist-in-training with Worldwide Quest. In recent years, he has been pursuing studies in Zoology at UBC’s Okanagan campus and working during his summers as a Seasonal Park Naturalist at Algonquin Provincial Park. An avid and budding explorer, Nathan’s travels have taken him to the India’s Western Ghats for a school research project, and he previously worked as an intern at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens in the Costa Rican highlands.
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Lawyer and Educator
Nella Cotrupi
Nella Cotrupi is an Italian-born literary critic, scholar, educator, and lawyer with a life-long passion for the literary and visual arts. She takes an interdisciplinary approach to her subjects and focuses on the intersection between art, biography, society, and the evolution of ideas.
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Owen Slater
Owen Slater (BSc. 2000; DVM 2006) first visited Uganda in 2001 on a solo backpacking adventure through East Africa. While in Uganda he volunteered with the Jane Goodall Institute in Entebbe, providing care to an injured and orphaned chimpanzee and trekked to the mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park. Uganda’s amazing biodiversity and landscapes made a lasting impression on Owen and he has returned several times since.
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Naturalist
Page Burt
A resident of Rankin Inlet, Page Burt has lived and worked for many years in the Arctic. She is the longtime staff naturalist at the famous Bathurst Inlet Lodge. A botanist by training, she has conducted floral surveys in many areas of the Arctic. She has keen insights on life in the Arctic and has been a popular resource staff aboard our Canada's Northwest Passage expedition
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Professional Guide
Pam McGarel
Pam McGarel has dedicated her career to harnessing the power of travel to support the wellbeing of our planet and its people. A graduate of the University of Guelph, she has previously worked in sustainable tourism consulting where she helped develop a globally recognized certification program for tourism businesses and destinations.
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Assistant Professor at UBC
Pasang Yangjee Sherpa
UBC Assistant Professor Pasang Yangjee Sherpa is a Sharwa anthropologist from Pharak, Nepal. Her research, writing, and pedagogy focus on climate change and Indigeneity among Himalayan communities. Current projects include “Transnational Sherpas” investigating what it means to be a Sherpa today.
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Naturalist
Patrick Moldowan
A graduate of the University of Guelph, Patrick Moldowan is a devoted lifelong interpretive naturalist and field biologist with a special interest in herpetology and biogeography. Patrick works for the Charles Darwin Foundation in the Galapagos Islands, where he oversees a giant tortoise research program.
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Top Chef Canada Winner
Paul Moran
Named Top Chef Canada in 2019, Paul Moran is a chef and forager who has solidified his place as a culinary leader in the country. The idea that learning never ends has powered Paul Moran’s motivation to continue to share both wild food and the knowledge on how to incorporate it into a healthy, joyous lifestyle.
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Paula Mohammed
Vancouver-based Paula Mohammed is the founder of In My Kitchen, the host of the “In My Kitchen with Paula” podcast and a Member of Les Dames d’Escoffier. In My Kitchen is a company that helps curious travelers create a deeper connection to the people and places they visit by exploring culture through food. She believes that cooking and travel help us flourish as individuals and with each other.
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UBC Lecturer
Paula Swart
Paula Swart is a museum curator and expert on Asian culture and history. Paula has degrees in Sinology, Asian art history, Chinese history, and archaeology and has published several books and numerous articles on the art and architecture of Asian cultures. Paula is a lecturer at the University of British Columbia and has recently been teaching courses on UNESCO World Heritage sites at the UBC Summer Institute and the University of Victoria.
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Naturalist
Payal Mehta
Hailing from Mumbai, Payal Mehta was raised a city girl but has always loved the outdoors, and has branched out much beyond her formal training in geology to become well-versed in India’s wonderful wildlife and varied habitats. She is our choice naturalist guide in India and our Quest travellers always delight at her skill in interpreting India’s nature and cultures too. She knows India’s Ladakh region well with previous experience on Snow Leopard expeditions.
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Naturalist
Professor
Peter Arcese
Peter Arcese is an Emeritus professor and Forest Renewal Chair in Conservation Biology with more than 200 papers and books on the ecology and genetics of insular bird, plant, and mammal populations in South and North America as well as Africa.
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Political Science Professor
Peter Prontzos
Peter Prontzos MA'86, Instructor Emeritus in Political Science and Interdisciplinary Studies at Langara College in Vancouver has taught Political Science for over 25 years. His articles have appeared in print and online and he has worked in both radio and television. Peter’s personal ties to Greece make his tours a very special experience.
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Professor of Oceanography
Philippe Tortell
Philippe Tortell is a Professor of Oceanography at UBC, and Head of the
Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. He has conducted
oceanographic research expeditions around the world from the Arctic to
the Antarctic, measuring marine biological productivity and the oceanic
concentration of dissolved ‘climate-active’ gases, including carbon
dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. His work focuses on the development
of ship-board automated sensors, field experiments and the use of
satellite-based remote sensing observations.
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Richard Schofield
Richard Schofield is a naturalist leader who has led many of our private groups over the past few years through the main islands of Aotearoa. Originally from northern England, Richard has lived in New Zealand for the past 20 years, currently residing in Balclutha in southern Aotearoa.
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Tour Host
Rita Plaskett
Rita Plaskett is a passionate and fun filled leader who has been in the travel and meeting industry for over 25 years and a veteran tour director taking people to fabulous locations, ensuring that each and every participant has that unique, exceptional” experience.
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Tour Host
Rowena Lamy
Rowena Lamy was born in Guyana, South America. At age 20, she migrated
to pursue Undergraduate studies and has since made Canada her home. She
is an experienced, enthusiastic international traveller for both
business and pleasure.
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Veteran Tour Leader
Ruthi Segal
Ruthi Segal was born in South Africa, has lived in Toronto for over 45 years and has travelled extensively all her life. A consummate people person, her positive attitude, sense of humour and infectious spirit of adventure ensures your trip experience will be exceptional.
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Samuél Lopez-Barrantes
Samuél Lopez-Barrantes will lead two custom walks in Paris. He is a novelist who lives in Paris, where he has taught creative writing at the Sorbonne, hosts literary salons, and leads historical walks on modernism, existentialism, and the Nazi Occupation of Paris. His second novel, The Requisitions, is a historical metafiction set in Nazi-occupied Poland.
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Sandy Logan
Sandy Logan is the Principal Associate of Beasley & Associates. He is a Senior Project Manager with expertise in human and health services, community planning, and organizational change and development. For the past several years he has worked internationally on large urban design and urban planning projects as well as coaching local real estate giants, Rennie Real Estate and Oakwyn.
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Art Historian
Sara Magister
Sara Magister is the author of ground-breaking research on Caravaggio and recently (2018) published a book on some of the most famous paintings of Caravaggio in Rome introducing a new interpretation of the works based on philological data. Sara is an art historian with doctoral degrees in medieval and modern art history and Classical Antiquities. She will present three seminars on Caravaggio and join us for in depth visits.
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Professor
Sarah Benson-Amram
Sarah Benson-Amram is an associate professor in the Departments of Forest and Conservation Sciences and Zoology, and a member of the Biodiversity Research Centre, the Interdisciplinary Biodiversity Solutions Cluster, and the Urban Forests Research Hub at the University of British Columbia. She is also the Director of the Animal Behavior and Cognition Laboratory and UBC’s Urban Wildlife Project.
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Sarah and Murray Bancroft
UBC graduates Sarah Bancroft and Murray Bancroft are the owners of Birch Block Vineyard in Kaleden, South Okanagan. They have an extensive network of winery contacts in France and lived in Paris for a year.
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Scott Roberts
Behind the jovial exterior resides one of Australia's most committed and experienced Wildlife Guides. Scott Roberts has guided throughout Australia and New Zealand and is a highly respected guide trainer.
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Historian
Sean Cadigan
Born and raised on the island of Newfoundland, Sean Cadigan is a professor of history at Memorial University and author of award-winning books including Newfoundland and Labrador: A History (2009). Sean combines an encyclopedic knowledge of the province’s traditions and culture with a congenial storytelling style.
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Classical Painter
Sean Forester
Sean Forester is a San Francisco–based artist and lecturer. He lived in Italy for ten years and trained as a classical painter at the Florence Academy of Art. Sean is Director of Art History, Humanities, and Composition at the Golden Gate Atelier.
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Leadership Coach
Shakeela Begum
Proud UBC graduate Shakeela Begum is an inspiring and sought after leadership advisor and coach, with experience leading groups on international active adventures. Her focus on wellbeing and her energetic and welcoming personality bring warmth and depth of purpose to her tours.
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Naturalist
Sherry Kirkvold
Sherry Kirkvold brings a deep love of nature along with her more than 30 years of experience as a naturalist, geographer and expedition leader. She has worked in the national, provincial and regional park systems as well as museums in British Columbia.
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Winnipeg Art Gallery Travel Managers
Sherry and Bill Glanville
Bill and Sherry Glanville have coordinated and hosted numerous travel tours for WAG-Qaumajuq (Winnipeg Art Gallery). Bill Glanville is the former Vice-President for Institutional Strategy and Planning at the International Institute for Sustainable Development. Sherry Glanville is a member of the Executive of the Associates of the WAG-Qaumajuq.
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Art restorer and conservator
Srebrenka Bogovic
Srebrenka Bogovic is an art restorer and conservator. She obtained her PhD in Art History from the University of Toronto and completed post-graduate studies in Art Conservation at Queen’s University. Srebrenka was Adjunct Professor in Art History (retired) at York University and is the principal of In Restauro, a fine art conservation studio in Toronto.
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Life Coach
Susan Jones
Susan Jones is a certified Life Coach with an insatiable love of learning and a passion for adventure and travel. Believing that “we are the total of all of our life’s experiences”, she is devoted to capturing some awesome and colorful ones through travel. Susan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with emphasis on attention to detail, effective communication and leadership skills.
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Suzanne Bodner
Suzanne Bodner has created and led tours to Europe, Canada, and the US
for more than 10 years. Her first career was as a teacher of ESL to
francophones at various educational institutions in France and Canada.
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Sylvia Chrobak
Sylvia Chrobak has spent over 20 years in the postsecondary sector in Alberta joining the Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies at the University of Alberta in the spring of 2003. Her leadership role as Executive Manager of the institute has her oversee the implementation of all Wirth Institute programs including the operationalizing of its scholarly and academic activities.
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Chef & Author
Vikram Vij
Vikram Vij is an Indian-born Canadian chef, cookbook author, and television personality. He is a passionate supporter of the sustainable food industry and has championed many causes including the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise Sustainable Seafood Program and the UBC Farm.
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Professor
Vin Nardizzi
Vin Nardizzi is an Associate Professor in UBC’s Department of English Language and Literatures specializing in English Renaissance literature, especially Shakespeare and Environmental Humanities. His first book, Wooden Os: Shakespeare’s Theatres and England’s Trees (2013) brings into view the forest and the trees of English Renaissance drama.
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Wendi Lacusta
Wendi Lacusta is our Concierge in Charge. Hailing from Nova Scotia where she grew up sailing and open ocean swimming, Wendi has lived many years since on Canada’s West Coast. Wendi is an inveterate (and veteran) solo world traveller and since her first retirement, has also undertaken work aboard polar expedition cruise vessels.
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Canadian Agrologist
Wendy Holm
Wendy Holm (M.Sc., UBC, ’74; M.M.C.C.U., Saint Mary’s University, 2014) is an award-winning Canadian Agrologist, columnist, author and speaker.
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Philosopher
Wendy O’Brien
Dr. Wendy O'Brien is a celebrated philosopher, teacher and interviewer. With over 30 years experience teaching in post-secondary education, she's given talks and led seminars on creativity, beauty and wonder at Humber College, Oxford University, Harvard, The Art Gallery of Ontario, The Women's Art Association, Classical Pursuits and The International Festival of Authors.
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More About Us
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