Guide Biographies

	Dr. Ryan Snider Managing Director & Safari Guide Through working in various relief and development projects, Ryan has gained a solid understanding of the local culture, language and geography of East Africa. After seeing first hand how ecotourism can contribute to sustainable development, Ryan has fully embraced the concept of socially responsible travel and enjoys introducing it to others. These safaris mark his twelfth year of guiding groups to the region.

	Doug Sturgeon Photographic Instructor Doug’s passion for photography and travel has sent him to over 40 countries around the world. Discovering and documenting Kenya’s incredible people, landscapes, and wildlife holds a special place in his heart. This passion extends to his instruction as he’s constantly striving to help and teach others how to take more compelling and thought provoking photographs. Visit Doug's website here: http://classes.eclipsephotography.com/

	Paul and Marie Bettings Trip Guides Paul and Marie have been working throughout Africa for almost a decade. Paul's work in photojournalism, and Marie’s work in project implementation with international aid organizations, has given them an appreciation for the resilience of communities, and the ability of cultural exchange to unite people across borders. Paul and Marie's love for adventure, and their desire to see Africa through the eyes of newcomers, motivates them to show the reality, the beauty, and the challenges the continent has to offer to its visitors.

	Bert and Martha Lobe Trip Guides Bert and Martha have lived in south Asia for 15 years. In the mid 60’s they lead in the development of response to famine in Central India and focused on relief, health and education in Bihar State. Of the many countries they have visited, their favourite destination is India. Both have a deep respect and appreciation for the country and look forward to sharing their fascination.

	Ed and Norilynn Epp Trip Guides During the five years that Ed and Norilynn lived in Jordan, they learned to speak Arabic, gave birth to their eldest daughter, and worked alongside Bedouin villagers in a number of development projects. And despite traveling to over 46 countries, Ed and Norilynn still maintain that Petra is one of their favourite places on earth. Ed and Norilynn are excited to guide you beyond the typical tourist attractions, and look forward to introducing you to the friendly, hospitable, and diverse people of Jordan.

	Ray Brubacher Trip Guide In the late 1960’s, Ray and his wife Margaret started a secondary school in the DR Congo, and they have been involved in the direction and coordination of humanitarian programs ever since. The nature of Ray’s work has led him across Africa many times, but he has always been especially interested in the culture and history of South Africa. After a lifetime of global work, Ray has recently retired and is eager to share his passion for Africa with all who join him.

	George Davila Guide & Naturalist George first began working in the Amazon jungle as a thirteen year-old trail cutter for groups of international visitors. After realizing that he wanted to share his love for the region with others, George studied natural history and environmental science at university. He acquired a vast knowledge of the Amazon rainforest and river, which he now shares passionately with everyone.

	Dr. Jonathan Sequeira Guide & Naturalist After receiving his doctorate degree for research related to medical plants of the rainforest, Jonathan was awarded the status of Master Naturalist and Guide. Although he's always in high-demand by visiting groups from The Nature Conservancy and Smithsonian Institute, Jonathan has agreed to show us the wonders of the rainforest.

	Jeff Maeck Trip Guide Forever changed by his years leading an international university program in Guatemala, Jeff is passionate about introducing friends and family to the beauty and rawness of Guatemala’s distinctive indigenous culture and people. Through socially responsible travel, Jeff’s hope is to bridge cultural gaps and effect positive change not only in your life, but in the lives of our hosts. In Jeff’s last trip to Guatemala, he proposed to the love of his life, Michelle.