Travel With Our Experts

Gain In-Depth Understanding and a Sense of Wonder

Among the experts who accompany you on your journey are scholars from around the world who possess an in-depth understanding of their field, whether it’s history, culture, the natural world, geology, astronomy, or the fine arts. They are selected for their expertise in the destination and are eager to share their passion, knowledge, and insights about the places you’re exploring. Our travelers continue to tell us that our experts are a major reason they come back to Smithsonian Journeys again and again. Meet some of our experts here and learn about the tours they will lead in the pages that follow. Visit our website to find a full list of our experts, and read their biographies and accolades shared by our travelers.

1. Solange Ashby – Egyptologist with a specialization in ancient Egyptian language and religion. Her current research explores the roles of women in traditional Egyptian and Nubian religious practices. Solange will join Ancient Egypt and the Nile (see page 89).

2. Mitch Yockelson – professor of military history at Norwich University and the author of many books and articles. Mitch will join one of the special 80th anniversary departures of D-Day: A Journey from England to France Commemorating the 80th Anniversary (see page 48).

3. Aziz Abu Sarah – author and peacemaker. Aziz previously served as the executive director of the Center for World Religions, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University. He will join Israel: Unique Perspectives on the Holy Land (see page 96).

4. Don Wilson – curator emeritus of mammals at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History and director of the Smithsonian's biodiversity programs for ten years. Don will join Patagonian Explorer (see page 85) and Around the World by Private Jet (see page 110).

See bios and interviews with Smithsonian

Don was very helpful. He continued to educate and help even after we came home from the trip.

– Smithsonian Journeys traveler