Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Andrew Becker

photo of Andrew Becker

Dr. Andrew Becker was born in Burma (Myanmar), spent part of his childhood in Indonesia, and has continued to travel ever since—mostly Europe and Asia.  He has been lecturing in Italy since 1997, first as a professor teaching students abroad, then since 2015 with Smithsonian Journeys.  Andy is an associate professor in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures at Virginia Tech (with stints teaching in Switzerland and London), and has won numerous local and national awards for teaching. He earned a BA from the University of Michigan, a master’s from Cambridge University, and a PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Andy’s scholarly specialties are ancient: specifically the cultures, literatures, and languages of Ancient Rome and Greece, as well as the constant, recurring re-engagement of many later civilizations with Ancient Rome and Greece.

What Our Travelers Say

Dr. Becker is a charismatic and engaging expert scholar who make the trip very special. His deep knowledge, availability, and sense of humor were exceptional.

- Sara F., Italy's Lake District: A Stay in Stresa

Andy was fabulous! His knowledge and expertise were evident. I can't say enough good things.

- Edward S., Highlights of Italy

Upcoming Tours

Classical Greece

14 days | Starting at: $7,892
May 27, 2025 - Jun 9, 2025
Tour Details ››

A Circumnavigation of Sicily

9 days | Starting at: $8,370
Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 6, 2025

Round-trip from Malta aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville or Le Dumont D'urville
Tour Details ››

Highlights of Italy

16 days | Starting at: $6,474
Oct 21, 2025 - Nov 5, 2025
Tour Details ››