A Remarkable Honor for The Expeditionist
We are thrilled to announce that The Expeditionist (Ralph Iantosca) has been selected as a preferred travel partner of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund — a distinction held by only six organizations worldwide. It is an extraordinary honor.
Soon, The Expeditionist will be featured on the Fossey Fund’s official website. As part of this partnership, we will continue to enjoy:
- Exclusive behind‑the‑scenes VIP tours at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus
- Prominent logo placement on campus
- Inclusion across Fossey Fund social media channels
This collaboration also deepens our commitment to Rwanda through our charity, The Conservation Corner, supporting local students pursuing careers in tourism and conservation. Our major fundraising campaign launches soon — more to come.
Next year marks the 60th anniversary of Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking work, and being included in this milestone celebration is truly humbling.
I am so proud. I am grateful. And so excited for all that lies ahead.
A New Global Community: Denver Sister Cities International
We’re delighted to share that we’ve joined Denver Sister Cities International, an organization dedicated to global friendship through cultural exchange, youth leadership, and humanitarian partnership.
Recently, we attended a beautiful sister‑city dinner with chef Federica Perrone, celebrating Denver’s connection with Potenza, Italy, hosted at a charming farm in Lafayette. The evening embodied everything this partnership stands for — shared traditions, meaningful dialogue, and heartfelt connection.
Through the Denver–Potenza relationship, cultural programs in music, education, the arts, and community gatherings help preserve heritage and foster long‑lasting relationships. We’re honored to support this work and excited to be part of a community that builds bridges across continents.
Three Epic Journeys Ahead: I’ll be out of the office traveling this fall.
October 20–27 • Into the Land of Polar Bears
We’re heading north on an extraordinary adventure — my first time seeing polar bears in the wild. A small group will travel with our trusted partner Natural Habitat Adventures, beginning in Winnipeg before flying by charter to Churchill, Manitoba.
Natural Habitat has also launched two innovative new travel brands:
- Terra & Tu — intimate cultural journeys (max 12 guests). I’m eyeing Heart of Morocco.
- Earth Watch Expeditions — travel with scientists and researchers (max 12 guests). Their Baja Mexico expedition is exceptional.
These small-group journeys are perfect for travelers whose friends or family may not share the same interests — join like‑minded explorers and make new connections. Any Natural Habitat itinerary can also be made private, even for just two guests. Natural Habitat was purchased by Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic a couple of years ago.
October 31–November 11 • Auberge Debuts Its First Safari Portfolio
I return to Africa for the third time this year as Auberge Resorts launches its first‑ever Auberge Safari portfolio in Tanzania. I’m eager to see how this luxury brand complements our beloved Singita properties in the Grumeti region of the Serengeti.
Having visited more than 130 camps and lodges across Africa, I’m excited to experience this new collection firsthand. Auberge is also opening the Knox Hotel & Residences in Dallas, where I plan to host a special presentation on Tanzania.
To receive an invitation, reply: “Add me to the Auberge party list.”
November 15–22 • Amazon Pure — A New Benchmark in Luxury Exploration
Our final journey of the season is truly spectacular. Amazon Pure, featured on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Hot List, is Abercrombie & Kent’s newest and most luxurious river ship sailing the Peruvian Amazon.
I’ve partnered with A&K for over 30 years and am honored to be part of their exclusive invitation‑only 100 Club. Their revitalized portfolio now includes:
- Private pre‑set itineraries
- Small‑group journeys (max 9 couples), guaranteed with just 2 guests
- New itineraries across multiple continents
- Expedition travel on boutique ships and river vessels
- Global and regional private jet programs
- The newly refreshed Crystal Cruises
With travel demand and pricing at an all‑time high, booking early now offers meaningful savings. You can save 5–10% on most small‑group journeys when booking and paying nine months or more in advance.
A&K has just released its 2027 global catalog, now beautifully consolidated into one brochure. To receive a copy, reply: “A&K Brochure.”
The Expeditionist: A journey or voyage undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose, especially that of exploration.
Jonathan and I are looking forward to hearing from you. Register here to get on our list for our upcoming virtual travel presentation.
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend!
Sincerely,
Ralph Iantosca, CTA, LS, DS
