Smithsonian Journeys Expert Lecture Series
Our Smithsonian Journeys Experts, chosen for their charisma, expertise, and affability, are the secret ingredient that turns a fine tour into an unforgettable experience. Now during this time while travel is on hold, our experts are excited to bring the world to you with our Expert Lecture Series. Go ‘on tour’ with some of our most popular Smithsonian Journeys Experts without leaving the comfort of your home! Gain a deeper understanding of some of our most enticing destinations, learn more about their areas of expertise, and get to know our experts before joining them on tour!
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Upcoming Lectures
Expert Lecture Series featuring Paul Goldstein
Paul Goldstein's teaching and research focus on anthropological archaeology, complex societies, Latin America and Andean South America. Watch his latest lecture this upcoming Thursday on Facebook Live and learn more about Paul's upcoming tours below.
Paul's 2021 Departures
Machu Picchu and the Galápagos
16 days
|
Starting at: $8,993
* Price includes airfare
Multiple departures between 2020 & 2021
Legendary Peru
11 days
|
Starting at: $4,987
* Price includes airfare
Multiple departures between 2020 & 2021
Past Lectures
Enjoyed one of our past lectures? Learn more about the expert and see what upcoming tours the expert will be leading so you can discover the world with their special insights!
Beyond Babel: Nature, Words, and Beauty in Japan's Ancient Worlds
Professor of Japanese literature, history, and film, Jonathan M. Hall discussed the significance of the seasons and nature on Japanese culture.
Read Jonathan's bio and see his 2021 tours
Ancient Egypt and the Nile
Acclaimed Egyptologist Emily Teeter discussed the mysteries of Ancient Egypt and the Nile in her recent lecture.
Read Emily's bio
Bats: Myths and Reality
Curator Emeritus of Mammals at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Don Wilson, gave us an in-depth look into the amazing diversity of bats.
Read Don's bio and see his 2021 tours
The Rhine as a Mirror of European Culture
Musicologist Carol Reynolds provided an overview of the cultural history of the Rhine River and its relationship to Europe.
Read Carol's bio and see his 2021 tours
An Introduction to Plate Tectonics
Geologist Jim Reynolds provided an overview of the plate tectonic history of Iceland.
Read Jim's bio and see his 2021 tours
Theater or Amphitheater: The Architecture of Ancient Entertainment
Art and architecture historian Allan Langdale discussed the architecture of ancient entertainment in Greece, Italy, Sicily, and Turkey.
Read Allan's bio and see his 2021 toursMeet All of Our Experts
One feature that makes our programs uniquely special is our world-class Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Chosen for their charisma, expertise and affability, these men and women are the secret ingredient that turns a fine tour into an unforgettable experience. Their enthusiasm is contagious; their expert guidance consistently brings depth, excitement and substance to the travelers who join them on our tours — and that is the signature of Smithsonian Journeys. Search all of our experts and the trips they will be leading here.
