An Expert's Perspective

National Geographic’s experts—researchers, explorers, writers, and photographers—bring the planet’s most intriguing destinations to life on all of our expeditions. One such expert is Maria Fadiman, a conservationist and professor in the Department of Geosciences at Florida State University, Explorers Club Fellow, and National Geographic Emerging Explorer. A researcher of ethnobotany (the relationship between people and plants, specifically humans’ cultural connection to the land throughout the globe), Fadiman discusses experts’ role in ensuring the caliber of National Geographic Expeditions and setting them apart from the pack.

Q: How do you, as an expert, bring your work to life on expeditions?

A: When I do talks, I bring myself and my images, research, and stories into the presentations. I enjoy interspersing anecdotes that make the information personal, so guests can identify with people, plants, and places in a more intimate way. I like it when we all have fun while simultaneously triggering new ways of thinking.

I work with people and cultures, so I can spend all day just listening to guests, learning who they are and what they are about. As we talk, I bring my experiences from the area where we are, or from other places, as a way to connect and open up the dialogue with, as well as learn from, the people on the trip. Some of my favorite times are when we’re laughing about our day, and even when we get real. Our connections build in the moment of experience, and then we often go into who we are beyond the trip.

Q: How have you experienced National Geographic Expeditions’ philosophy—“traveling deeper”—on expeditions?

A: It’s the combination of having new experiences and knowing we are taken care of. All of this lets travelers be in the present, and we can dive deeper into the experience since we don’t have to worry about what’s coming next.

These experiences are different from any other kind of trip. For example, in Costa Rica, we were inspired by the reforestation speaker and then given a chance to fill bags with dirt. It became a bonding experience, with jokes about filling the bags, the meditative aspect of working with our hands, and doing it all together. We shared this experience that we wouldn’t have known about if it had not been on the itinerary. And after walking with each other for hours over many days in Spain, the level of getting to know each other went deeper than on a regular trip. Plus, people pointing out ethnobotany after I had given my first talk was such a fun moment.

Q: In your opinion, why should travel advisors urge their clients to travel with National Geographic Expeditions?

A: It’s the carefully curated itineraries, the excellent Expedition Guides who make groups feel cared for, and the local guides who can explain where we are and engage in discussions at any level guests choose. Guests will get the fun of a trip, coupled with an in-depth understanding of where they are. They also get to be with other people who are interested, inquisitive, and want to talk about what is happening, question what they see, and find answers amongst each other.

Q: Any travel tips travel advisors should share with clients who choose National Geographic Expeditions?

A: Be flexible! Things often change and you are thrust into the unknown, which is part of why we all travel. It’s not always easy, but I try to adapt to what’s happening and to be open to a new, unexpected experience.

Q: Which National Geographic Expedition are you most looking forward to next?

A: I’m not sure where to start on this one! For Spain, I love exploring the Camino de Santiago, walking with people as we dive into Spain as a country, getting to speak Spanish, eating Tortilla Espanola, and learning about the cathedrals.

I’ve worked in Costa Rica for more than 30 years. The rainforest is part of who I am and represents the beginning of my conservation goals. It will be satisfying to get to share this excitement and connection with people whom I hope will fall in love with it the way I have.