From
Peg Abbott, owner and guide....
Naturalist Journeys is a small travel company that puts
people, places and remarkable experiences together.
Our journeys focus on nature -- specifically birding, natural
history, geology and geography. Beyond that focus they
have a life of their own: creative, dynamic, and enduring.
They have meant a great deal to many travelers and this is
my inspiration.
I created Naturalist Journeys to continue the work I've enjoyed
for over 25 years, for 15 years with the National Audubon
Society, and later with a variety of conservation organizations
and small travel companies. My co-leaders are trusted friends
and gifted naturalists. I design itineraries with the
benefit of local communities and the conservation of natural
ecosystems in mind. Wherever possible, I employ local
people, use environmentally sound lodges, and visit places
not on the standard tour. Groups are small, typically
8-14, and many are repeat travelers. People comment
on the flexible and caring style of Naturalist Journeys.
This characteristic comes easily because so many of the people
traveling with us are also flexible and fascinated by travel
and learning.
I started in this field as a bit of a vagabond, working in
remote places: from seabird
islands to wildlife refuges and western ranches. Through travel
I developed the eye of an old-time naturalist. Later, I pursued
a bachelor's degree in biology and then a master's degree
in forestry and wildlife to give structure to field-gained
knowledge. I've worked in wild places from Alaska to
Argentina, and every mile I've tread has offered its lessons.
I value the years of experience as I take groups into new
and exciting places.
The keystone
of this company is to offer highly organized travel experiences
that preserve the element of the spontaneous so rare in group
travel today. For me, travel is mentor, teacher, a way of
life and a profession. I think this is well expressed in the
style and pace of a Naturalist Journey experience.
Q.
How far ahead should I register?
A. All trips are filled on a first come,
first serve basis, based on the date your deposit is received
in the mail. You can also email or fax a registration, and
that space will be saved for 10 working days from its receipt
with registration confirmation pending receipt of your deposit.
Q.
How many travelers per journey?
A. Groups are small to minimize our impact and
to maximize your time with leaders and the social dynamics
of the group. A typical size is 10-14 participants,
with 16 being the maximum on a few of the departures.
Q.
What kind of accommodations do you select?
A. We try, whenever possible, to use accommodations
that blend 
with
the environment, have a good environmental reputation, and
that strengthen local communities. Sometimes we have
to book the best available close to the natural history site
we are visiting. When near airports or in large cities
we select a very convenient and comfortable hotel, or if time
is spent in the location, an interesting historic hotel.
Q.
What about meals, or special diets?
A. Dining out is one of the joys of taking
a journey. We make that special effort to find the 
best
places, ones with creative menus and interesting atmosphere.
Of course, attention to food water safety and quality is of
prime concern at all destinations. We also specialize
in picnic meals served in the field. We notify providers ahead
of time whenever there is a special diet, and give you a clear
idea of how much you can expect to have local places meet
your needs during any journey. If that is difficult,
we help you provide for what you need.
Q.
Is it comfortable traveling alone?
A. We feel that it is very comfortable. People
are friendly and easy to interact with when sharing common
interests. Many people plan their next adventure based
on friendships made during a journey! You can reserve
a single supplement (additional cost) or you can request a
share with a same-sex roommate and Naturalist Journeys will
select one if available.
Q.
What is the pace of the journey and how fit do I have to be?
A.
Unless otherwise noted in the itinerary, the journeys
are planned with flexibility in mind as to the pace. We know
that some people like to spend every daylight hour in the
field and others want a break for relaxation, social time
or exploring on their own. With two leaders, and an
intimate knowledge of place, we can make options available
on any given day except travel days between locations.
Most of our travelers like to walk 3-6 miles a day while birding,
learning geology, or otherwise pursuing strong interests
in natural history. There are options on some
days for longer excursions for those that want them. Clear
descriptions for all activities are given so you can
make informed choices. Our guides have your safety and
comfort in mind.
Q.
If I still have questions, who can help me?
A. Peg Abbott is happy to personally visit
with any traveler about any questions. She may be guiding
another journey when you call, but will return your call as
soon as she returns. Someone in Client Services may
be able to help in the interim. Again, we are a small
company proud of our personal service, so please - ASK AWAY!
It's your time, and we want you to fully enjoy, and feel confidant
that you can participate fully in, whatever journey you select.
