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U.S. Safari Experts
Our U.S. staff is easily accessible
at our toll-free number. We've all either worked, lived or
traveled extensively in Tanzania, and we'll share our expertise
to make your safari planning comfortable and enjoyable.
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"Gregg,
especially to you, with whom we most often worked, thank you
for your patience and kindness. This safari was a dream and
it not only matched my expectations, it soared beyond anything
imaginable. For that, thank you Thomson Safaris."
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| Kathy Trapnell,
Menlo Park, CA |
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Rick Thomson and Judi Wineland,
Owners of Thomson Safaris
Over two decades ago, Rick Thomson and Judi Wineland took
their passion for Africa and found a way to make a living
from it. Together as co-owners and co-founders they began
Thomson Safaris, the first U.S. safari company to open offices
in Arusha, Tanzania.
From 1980 to 1985, Rick lived in Arusha, building relationships
with local tradespeople, training guides and designing customized
safari vehicles. Today, he directs programs from our office
near Boston.
In 1978, Judi Wineland founded Overseas Adventure Travel
(OAT), one of the nation's pioneering adventure travel companies.
She teamed up with Rick in 1981 to form Thomson Safaris, and
their safaris became an essential part of OAT's success.
Judi sold OAT several years ago to take a more active role
in Thomson Safaris and concentrate once again on her first
love: Tanzania. |
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Both Rick and Judi devote their energy to the development
of itineraries and the daily running of the business, seeing
to the endless details that ensure a wonderful safari experience.
They return to their second home, Tanzania, for at least eight
weeks each year with their children, to rekindle friendships
with their Tanzanian friends and discover new and exciting
safari opportunities.
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Our Knowledgeable U.S. Staff
Customer Service & Office
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Safari Sales Manager |
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Safari Specialist |
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| Gregg Pokraka has adventured throughout
the US and Central America, Europe and more recently, Tanzania.
In addition to his dedication to travel, he brings with him
over 14 years of customer service experience. As our Director
of Customer Service, his friendly manner, attention to detail,
and in-depth knowledge of safari logistics ensure the success
of your entire trip. |
Kaki Trimble has traveled
extensively to such exciting locations as Australia, New Zealand,
Egypt, the South Pacific and throughout Europe. Most recently,
she visited Tanzania, where she explored the northen region.
She received her MBA from Simmons SOM, and now combines her
business savvy and extensive travel experience to help you
choose and plan the safari of your dreams. |
Megan Lipman
has visited nearly 100 countries throughout the world. During
those travels, she has seen it all - threatening riots in
Haiti, the lush mangroves of Vietnam, and the hustle and bustle
of ancient Syrian marketplaces. Her keen understanding of
travel do’s and don’ts and her ability to calmly
and carefully assess any situation make her a great safari
planner. |
Sales & Marketing Manager |
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Affinity Program Manager |
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Kilimanjaro Program Manager |
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| Ina Steinhilber has been traveling
the world since her teens and continues to pursue her passion
for trekking, hiking and ice climbing in the mountainous regions
of the US and abroad, including Tanzania where she attained
the summit of Kilimanjaro. Her 10 years experience in the
art market fostered her enthusiasm for travel and culture,
and now she is dedicated to helping you make your trekking
or safari dreams a reality. |
Claudia Dunn's
love for the outdoors and culture has brought her to the mountains
of Switzerland, to the desert of southern Utah and throughout
the Hawaiian islands. More recently, she traveled to northern
Tanzania accompanying distinguished members of the American
Zoological Association. Claudia now uses her planning skills
to make sure prominent organizations such as Harvard Alumni,
Smithsonian, MIT and others have a perfect safari. |
Katie Cordes lists conquering
Kilimanjaro as one of her most memorable trips. Experiencing
different cultures is her passion, having volunteered throughout
Eastern Europe and adventured in Tanzania, Germany, Switzerland,
and the United States. With her degree in International Development,
the love of hiking and the outdoors, and an understanding
of travel logistics, she is excited to help you plan your
adventure of a lifetime. |
Predeparture Specialist |
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Predeparture Specialist |
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Sales & Marketing |
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| Michael Moitoso has explored a myriad
of cultures around the world, including those of Portugal,
Guatemala, Mexico, Italy and Morocco. His recent trip to northern
Tanzania enables him to share his enthusiasm and knowledge
of travel logisitics with our guests. |
James Piscitelli
has explored extensively throughout Europe and the U.S. and
loves to share his passion for travel with our safari guests.
A graduate of Johnson & Wales with over 12 years of customer
service experience, James is an invaluable resource for you
as you prepare for your journey. |
Ali Riley's passion for travel
has taken her to several continents, including the forest
canopies of Costa Rica, the top of the Alps and to the plains
of the Serengeti. Her design skill, good humor and attention
to detail make her an invaluable member of the Thomson team. |
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