Leading Eco-Tourism Experts

Maurice Smith, CTIE, is a hospitality strategist, luxury travel expert, regenerative tourism advocate, and founder of Eugene Toriko, a luxury travel agency built around purposeful, responsible, and highly personalized travel experiences. His work sits at the intersection of elevated guest experience, sustainability, cultural storytelling, and place-based hospitality. Through Eugene Toriko, Maurice has focused on boutique hotels, culturally rooted itineraries, sustainability-minded partners, and experiences that connect travelers more thoughtfully to people, place, and environment. Maurice was recognized on the Travel + Leisure A-List in 2022 and 2023 and has been featured by Robb Report among top Black travel specialists. His expertise has been sought by publications including Bloomberg, The Washington Post, USA Today, Business Insider, and Money.com, where he has contributed perspective on travel trends, destination value, and evolving traveler expectations. His industry recognition includes a 2023 Gold Magellan Award for Eugene Toriko’s giving-back initiative, a 2024 Silver Magellan Award for ATL & Co On the Go with Eugene Toriko, and recognition from TravelAge West for marketing efforts connected to the same media platform. Maurice was also selected for Tripadvisor’s RECO program and is a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. Today, Maurice’s work spans hospitality strategy, media, public speaking, regenerative tourism, environmental stewardship, and the future of more intentional guest experiences. He is also connected to Amka Terra, a stewardship, ecological learning, and regenerative tourism platform focused on environmental education, biodiversity, youth learning, community partnership, and place-based restoration.

Jennifer Spatz is the Founder of Global Family Travels and a leader in regenerative, community-based tourism. A cultural anthropologist at heart, she designs immersive travel experiences grounded in her company’s mission to Learn, Serve, and Immerse—connecting travelers meaningfully with local communities, cultures, and natural environments. Through partnerships with global and local nonprofits, Jennifer integrates regenerative tourism principles and aligns programs with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Her journeys combine cultural exchange, educational experiences, homestays, and community-driven projects that strengthen social and environmental systems in the destinations visited. Her insights on regenerative travel have been featured in TravelAge West (“Regenerative Meets Family Fun”) and on the podcast Regenerative Tourism: When Sustainability Isn’t Enough. (see all news links here: https://www.globalfamilytravels.com/news)

Augustin Ndikuriyo has 20+ years in premium travel, helping luxury brands—cruises, safari lodges, boutique resorts, and hotels—turn stories into content that inspires, engages, and converts. Founder of The Digital Travel Expert Hub, he’s worked with Celebrity Cruises, Dream Yacht Worldwide, Orlando Vacations, SentientJet, TEFL Org, and Mardi Gras New Orleans, combining storytelling, AI SEO, and digital growth to build trust, authority, and high-value bookings.

I’m a content strategist and editor focused on building trustworthy, eco-conscious consumer guidance. I manage Earthava, a platform focused on providing trustworthy, practical product reviews and sustainability information. I specialize in translating complex research into clear writing, balancing SEO with authenticity, and creating content that feels like advice from a knowledgeable friend. My approach prioritizes credibility, long-term brand value, and helping people make confident decisions.

For the past six years, my family and I have lived and traveled continuously around the world, visiting every continent in a 13-month span and documenting the experience as full-time travel creators. Along the way, our YouTube channels have grown to more than 700,000 subscribers, drawn not to glossy brochure travel, but to the real version: the logistics, the decisions, the tradeoffs, and the moments that don’t fit neatly into an Instagram square. After decades spent running digital marketing agencies, I co-founded ABC Trips, a luxury and adventure travel agency focused on high-touch, experience-driven travel—polar expeditions, African safaris, expedition cruising, private yachts, and deeply cultural itineraries designed for solos, couples, groups, and families. The work sits at the intersection of brokerage, storytelling, and logistics, with a strong bias toward knowing what’s genuinely worth the splurge—and what’s just good marketing. Along the way, I’ve served as a quoted travel industry source for major publications, appeared on network news segments and podcasts, and collaborated closely with leading travel brands, lodges, and expedition operators worldwide. My commentary often focuses on luxury and expedition travel, family and multigenerational travel, travel trends, and what it actually takes to design a location-flexible life that works long-term. These days, my time is split between: - Advising clients on exceptional luxury and adventure travel through ABC Trips - Serving as a media source and collaborator for journalists and brands - Continuing to explore the world with my family—still learning, still curious I’m not especially interested in chasing trends or shouting into the void. I value thoughtful questions, smart conversations, and people who care about doing things well—and enjoying the ride while they’re at it. If our paths cross, there’s a good chance we’ll have something interesting to talk about.

Formerly a business owner in the fashion industry, I have redirected my career to catalyzing positive environmental change. As an Environmental Scientist and Project Manager I am hands on deploying ehnanced phytoremediation systems on contaminated and degraded sites throughout California. As an International Keynote Speaker, I am passionate about raising awareness and inspiring action on pressing environmental issues. Additionally, as a Native Plant Workshop Educator, I empower individuals to connect with their local ecosystems and promote biodiversity starting with their own backyard and communities. Join me in the environmental revolution, and together, we can make a lasting impact on our planet. Let's connect and collaborate for a greener, more sustainable future.

I am a freelance syndicated travel writer with bylines in Fortune Magazine, Euronews, Yahoo, Fox, MSN, NBC, The Indiana Gazette, The San Francisco Examiner, Star Local Media, The Daily Gazette and more. I am also the founder and editor-in-chief at Eco Lodges Anywhere, featured in Forbes. All articles are available on Muckrack: https://muckrack.com/emese-maczko or on https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/category/news/

China Travel Expert & Cultural Insider Experience at crafting immersive journeys across China, I specialize in unveiling authentic stories behind this vast nation. From ancient Silk Road cities of Xinjiang to misty rice terraces of Guilin, I help travelers and media navigate China's cultural treasures beyond the typical tourist trail. As a bilingual China travel specialist, I offer insider perspectives on: Emerging destinations and hidden gems across China's diverse regions Cultural etiquette, local traditions, and cross-cultural insights Sustainable and responsible tourism in sensitive areas Silk Road history and its modern-day significance Regional cuisine, from Uyghur pilaf to Sichuan hotpot Navigating China's evolving travel regulations Off-the-beaten-path adventures for discerning travelers I work with journalists, travel writers, and content creators seeking authentic China stories beyond the headlines. Whether you need expert commentary on travel trends, destination features, or cultural insights, I provide nuanced perspectives rooted in firsthand experience and deep local connections. Available for interviews, podcast appearances, article contributions, and expert commentary on China travel and culture. Martina

My work focuses on the intersection of consumerism, overproduction, marketing, and climate change. I aim to bring easily digestible guidance to everyone on how to live a more sustainable life for people, animals, and the planet, without sacrificing joy, style, and fulfillment. My No New Things Challenge has been awarded a Silver Stevie Award for Non-profit Innovation, and is now a popular book by the same name, with a trademarked process that gets folks out of the consumerist swirl and back into their lives. I am a featured expert on CNN, Live with Kelly & Mark, TODAY, Good Morning America, have spoken at SXSW and the United Nations, and have a popular TED Talk. I hold a BA from Brown University and an MSc from The University of Oxford, UK, am a Professor of Marketing for Sustainability at various institutions, and live in Chicago, IL. In a nutshell: I reconnect people with the truth that they have and are enough.

I’m the founder of Limitless Morocco Tours and a Morocco travel expert with hands-on experience designing private tours, desert adventures, and cultural journeys across Morocco. I specialize in helping travelers experience authentic Morocco through customized itineraries, local guides, and immersive desert experiences in places like Marrakech and Merzouga. I regularly share expert insights on Morocco travel, safety, itineraries, and best practices for first-time visitors.

Thomas Lu is a systems thinker, entrepreneur, the author of The Personal Sustainability Handbook and the founder of The Sustainabilitist (sustainabilitist.com), a project dedicated to sustainabilize the many different facets of human activities. A musician, polyglot, theorist and troubleshooter by hobby, his need for sustainability has led him to a general philosophy for tackling human challenges.

I am a travel journalist with bylines in New York Times, The Guardian, BBC Travel, CN Travel and more. I run the anti-overtourism travel blog Shortcuts and Sidequests, dedicated to sustainable adventures. If you are writing about sustainable travel, eco-tourism, or solo female adventures, please get in touch, I will be happy to answer your questions.

I am a Central America Travel Specialist and Luxury Itinerary Designer at Mayan Gateway, with deep expertise in curating high-end, experiential journeys across Guatemala, Mexico, and the region. My focus is on connecting discerning travelers with authentic cultural heritage, sustainable luxury, and private, off-the-beaten-path expeditions. With a professional background in project management and customer experience, I specialize in the logistics of luxury travel in remote locations—from private helicopter transfers in the Mayan biosphere to exclusive access to indigenous artisan cooperatives. I am passionate about promoting Central America as a world-class destination that balances exclusivity with deep cultural respect and environmental conservation.

Geographicinsight.com is the ultimate destination for exploring the world through a geographic lens. Led by a passionate geographer with over 20 years of experience in GIS, this organization offers invaluable insights and initiatives. Our motivation lies in uncovering the profound impact of geography on various aspects of life and society. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive articles and programs tailored to enrich your understanding. Over the years, we have served a diverse range of clients, including educational institutions, government agencies, and businesses seeking geographic insights to inform their decision-making.

A leading expert on motorhome holidays in New Zealand. Offering practical tips, hidden-gem itineraries, and commentary on travel trends for your story, with a focus on sustainable travel. With 20 years of experience helping thousands of people explore New Zealand on the ultimate road trip. Our focus is on high-quality, sustainable travel. Available to provide expert commentary, tips, or full quotes on: New Zealand travel trends, the best self-drive itineraries (both North & South Island), tips for first-time motorhome travellers, sustainable tourism and travel in NZ, the New Zealand tourism industry

Jared Sternberg is a passionate champion for the environment and its communities. With his company, Gondwana Ecotours, he has become a leader in sustainable travel. Raised in a home where sustainability was not only taught, but practiced, Jared understood the importance of preserving the environment around him at an early age. His awareness and appreciation for the world inspired a thirst for travel that began in his adolescence and continued into adulthood. At the University of California, San Diego, Jared pursued an International Studies and Spanish Literature degree. During his studies, he spent a semester abroad in Barcelona to immerse himself in the local language and culture. Following this, he backpacked across Europe, which solidified his belief in the transformative power of travel. Upon graduating, Jared left California again in search of meaningful travel experiences. His journeys led him to Africa, where he worked with locals in Ghana to build a vocational school. Inspired by their resilience and commitment to creating positive social change, Jared reflected more deeply on inequity, privilege, and his role in shaping a better world. As a result, between 2010 and 2013, Jared studied environmental and human rights law at Tulane University’s Law School in Louisiana, hoping to positively impact communities through legal action. During his studies, he continued broadening his perspective by working with locals in Ecuador, Cuba, Brazil, Panama, Nicaragua, Alaska, and more. During this time, Jared had a pivotal realization– working with local communities to improve the conditions of the places he traveled to provided a profound and direct impact on the world. While legal actions are a necessary piece of the puzzle, after observing the sustainable projects of ecolodges that he frequented and worked with, Jared began to see tourism as a powerful channel for redistributing resources and educating others. This realization sparked the vision of Gondwana Ecotours. Jared aspired to create a small, sustainable tour operation whose mission was to generate positive change for the destinations and communities it visited. The tours would emphasize nature, wildlife, and local culture to create unique experiences that foster genuine connections between the traveler and the places they explore. In 2013, he founded Gondwana Ecotours, dedicating to serving the communities he worked with, the destinations he cherished, and for you–the intrepid traveler seeking meaningful, sustainable travels off the beaten path. When he’s not working with his global team office or collaborating on-site with local vendors, Jared resides in Homer, Alaska, with his wife Ashley, son Levi, and dog Leeroy. In his spare time, Jared enjoys wildlife viewing and photography, playing and watching soccer, and practicing the drums and piano.

Maina is a tourism professional with extensive experience working at eminent East African brands such as Elewana Collection, Soroi Collection and Angama. She has a love for storytelling, and for the behind-the-scenes intersections where travel, conservation, and relationships converge.

Founder of TRAVI World, a comprehensive travel guide platform covering 17+ destinations worldwide. With expertise in global tourism trends, destination insights, and travel industry analysis, I provide in-depth knowledge on hotels, attractions, and experiences across Dubai, UAE, Bali, and other popular destinations. Passionate about helping travelers discover authentic experiences and make informed travel decisions.

Hi, I’m Sanjay Nair—wildlife photographer, conservation storyteller, and co-founder of Safari Lab, a boutique travel company curating immersive wildlife experiences across India and Africa. Over the past 15+ years, I’ve tracked tigers in the Terai, followed the Great Migration across the Mara, and documented stories of coexistence in remote forest corridors. My work has been recognized with the Nature in Focus award and published in global outlets like The Times & The Guardian. I use my lens not just to capture wildlife, but to tell deeper stories about conservation, climate, and community impact. I often collaborate with journalists, filmmakers, and researchers on topics ranging from eco-tourism and biodiversity to visual storytelling and sustainable travel. If you’re looking for insight, expert commentary, or just a conversation about what’s really happening in our wild spaces—I’d be glad to connect.

I'm a mom of 2, and travel often with my husband and kids. I've travelled to nearly 40 countries and lived in 7. My website, Tiny Footsteps Travel, reaches tens of thousands of readers each month. With almost 10 years of experience as a school teacher, I create thoughtful, eco-conscious travel guides on my site that are family-friendly and inclusive for kids of all ages. I create itineraries, videos, and resources that make meaningful travel accessible for parents and their children. I primarily cover the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America, Scandinavia (especially Sweden, Denmark and Iceland) and the British Isles. I ensure that my readers have a true picture of what their trip entails through honest feedback based on real personal experiences.