Wilderness Travel 2017 Catalog of Adventures

Tania Masi has always been a traveler. Born in Florence, Italy, to an American mother and Florentine father, she was raised with an appreciation for both American and European cultures. On hikes, you can often find her stopping to speak to locals, and she loves to share the beauty and flavors of Europe with visitors. Claim to fame: Tania speaks nine languages and has a Master’s degree in Geography—not to mention a parallel career as a journalist and documentary film director.

Kate Ulberg led her first hiking tour in Japan in the 1980s and quickly fell in love with the country’s aesthetics, the kindness of the people, and the beauty of the mountains, temples, and gardens. After more than three decades of exploring Japan’s hidden treasures, she remains deeply connected to this ancient land. In her words: “Every trip to Japan for me is like returning home and bringing new friends.”

Stanley Dube grew up on the edge of Hwange National Park, where his natural affinity for wildlife began at an early age. Stanley is known for his eagle-like vision—his favorite part of safari is “to track and find the elusive wild dogs.” He has been a WT guide in Botswana for more than 15 years. Fan club: “Stanley is an amazing individual and we felt honored to be part of his trip. We would go anywhere with him!” Lynn & Kellan H., Palo Alto CA

Laurence Frison is a graphic designer by trade and a guide by passion. She specializes in guiding in the French Alps, and you can often find her leading groups on tasty detours through the French markets. Fan club: “She consistently went the extra mile, sharing with us honey from her own beehives, researching questions we had about local flora, and pointing out interesting features that we would otherwise not have noticed.” Jim C., Greenwich CT

Ali Ait Ichou is the perfect ambassador for Morocco’s treasured wonders. He spent his childhood in a Berber village in the high mountains, has been a trekking leader since he was 18 years old, and now makes his home in the modern side of the Moroccan Kingdom in Marrakesh. In his words: “It was always my dream and is still my passion to share everything I have learned about my Moroccan culture with travelers.”

Americo Romaineville was raised in Cusco, Peru, learning about the myths, legends, and treasures of the Inca civilization from a young age. He holds a degree in Tourism from San Antonio Abad del Cusco, one of the oldest universities in Latin America, and has been introducing travelers to the wonders of Peru since 2005. Little known fact: Americo loves sharing how the rich heritage of Inca culture influences present-day Peru.

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