Cultural Expeditions
by Atlas™

Bob Smolik is a veteran American diplomat and scholar. He worked around the world at U.S. Embassies, peeking behind the scenes at how local politics, economics, and societies work — or don’t. His expertise as Diplomat in Residence at the University of Michigan is in economics and trade, as well as in UN human rights and NATO security issues. As an economic diplomat he worked to open foreign markets to U.S. business on a fair and equal basis.
As political advisor to U.S. military commanders in Africa, Europe, and Latin America, he worked on conflict mediation. Fighting against corruption and for good governance, he has lectured in over 45 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
He earned an undergraduate degree from Cornell, holds graduate degrees from Berkeley and Harvard, and is fluent in five Romance languages.
He offers an expert, up-to-date perspective on the history, culture, and current affairs of the fascinating peoples and places you will visit.

Anne Steele is a multi-award-winning singer/songwriter from New York City and a dynamic performer who has sold out concerts and dazzled audiences for over 20 years. She has toured internationally and shared the stage with musical legends like Cyndi Lauper, Sandra Bernhard, Boy George, Liza Minnelli and many more.

Charles Barclay is a previous Vice President of the Royal Astronomical Society and directed the Blackett Observatory in Wiltshire for 25 years. He is at the forefront of astronomy education and outreach in the United Kingdom, serving as a National Astronomy Education Coordinator for the International Astronomical Union, UK Team Leader for the Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad, an Academic Visitor in the University of Oxford’s Department of Astrophysics.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to astronomy education and public engagement, Charles was named an Honorary Fellow of the University of Oxford. He also received the Royal Astronomical Society’s 2023 Service Award for his outstanding service to astronomy education.

A sought-after lecturer, Charles presents on topics spanning the full spectrum of astrophysics and astronomy throughout the UK and internationally, including aboard expedition cruises. He is a regular contributor to leading astronomy magazines and frequently appears on BBC local radio, where he shares his passion for making astronomy accessible and inspiring to audiences of all backgrounds.

Jonathan H. Ward is the author of space history books “Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars” and “Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew.” He will lead engaging enrichment lectures that span the history of human space travel and more, interactive workshops and stargazing sessions throughout the voyage.