Aaltje van Zoelen, Managing Partner
Pioneer in tourism development in East Russia and Siberia

In a few words:

East Russia, undoubtedly for us is one of the most fascinating places in the world, because of its exquisite nature and the generous souls of its people. It is a place where one can experience the utter silence of peace, watching a small curious red fox on the shoreline of one of the Kurile Islands. Or be intrigued by the lives of the Even reindeer people, in an isolated camp north of the city of Yakutsk. Enjoy a train ride passing through long stretches of dreamlike taiga while sharing a compartment with local Russians.

We’ve spent the last fifteen years traveling in many different ways from the far north of Chukotka and Yakutia to the most southern point of the Primorsky Krai, the Khasan area. We used every mode of transportation, spend our nights in airports, on trains, in tents and cabins in faraway places, with families, you name it. And never did we feel at any time a stranger.

These are authentic travel experiences, that always happen but each time are different. This is the real Russia, somewhat disorganized, some what chaotic, but always incredibly interesting and never, ever boring.

For the last ten years, we have been involved in numerous conservation projects, ranging from planning ecotourism routes in the protected areas from the Kuriles to Kamchatka and the Primorsky Krai. These protected areas represent the natural treasures of Russia and are an integral part of our journeys.

Our journeys are always one of a kind, irreplaceable adventures. We take you by the hand and immerse you in real Russia. Not the one you thought it was, but much more then you ever could imagine.

Aaltje van Zoelen

World Wise Expeditions

We call ourselves world wise for a reason. All of us at World Wise Expeditions are citizens of the world, most of us come from other countries and we bring with us a broad knowledge of the world. We are what you call culturally attuned. World Wise is a term that indicates a deep insight into issues of a global nature, such as conservation and sustainability of our joint natural resources, but also matters that pertain to the survival of our species. It also means that where we can we work on mutual education and contribution that is compassionate and wise.

Personal commitment and experience

When you talk to us or send us an e-mail about one of our upcoming trips or just want to chat about some ideas, you will know that we talk from experience. While on the trip there is always one of us along, together with a local tour manager who provides the local communication and local insights. Our local tour managers are knowledgeable professionals.

Local partnerships

We have worked with our partners for many years, learning together and working together. They are the ones that will introduce you to their neighborhood, their friends in a way that makes you feel part of the family. We always make sure revenue remains in in local communities, sometimes enhanced by our travelers buying local souvenirs or contributing to a specific nature preserve or park.

Comfort and Safety

You can be confident when you immerse yourself in the local culture and the vast natural expanse of Russia that we have your safety and comfort in mind.

Traveling in countries with limited infrastructure sometimes can be a bit frightening. We make sure that you are always up front advised about the level of accommodations and transportation. And you are assured that they are the best available.

Who are our world wise travelers?

They come from everywhere, some of them are young and some of them are older, but all of them have a yearning for knowledge. Most of them enjoy most of all the down to earth encounters they have while on the road.

More questions, we are always open to them, please contact us at info@traveleastrussia.com

  Download 2007 Travel Schedule

A recently published article about Russia may acquaint you with some particular cultural differences.

Reeducating Ourselves About Russia

Comments from travelers:

Below are some comments from recent travelers who explored Russia at both ends from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Irkutsk, Ulan Ude, Khabarovsk and Vladivostok.

The contrasts put forth by Russia create a singing tension that captivates all visitors. It's no wonder that once-reluctant visitors keep returning to it. After leaving the place for a month, you, too, will find yourself ready to go back. Perhaps the country is a mirror of the individual human soul. More…

  Klaus and Ella Steiner, Yakutia 2004
We have been reliving our trip "The other side of Russia: as we developed our photos. As we look at the faces of the many people we met-and recall their warmth, friendliness and gracious hospitality-and scan the hauntingly beautiful landscapes and architectural marvels, we can only say "It was a great trip!"

  I am writing to compliment Aaltje van Zoelen on her superb command on logistics during our "Executive Site visit to the Russian Far East". Our group was well taken care of during this difficult trip with constant attention to details by Aaltje. We enjoyed working with her. -David L. Walburn, International Liaison Manager, Caterpilar

  I can't begin to express my thanks for your very able assistance in Russia. Not only do you help solve many problems and make my life easier, I enjoyed your company. -William A. Albee, Chief Executive Officer, Watermill Foods Inc.

  I wanted to drop you a line to thank you for your part of our trip to Russia. I couldn't have imagined that I would enjoy it so much. -Denise M. Se Mueller

  I would like to thank you for your role in the organization of our recent trip to Yuzhno Sakhalinsk. The trip was truly a wonderful success.-Marina Baskakova

  The team of professionals, Aaltje van Zoelen and her partner Luba Lee, was indispensable to the organization and eventual success of a two-day business conference on offshore oil and gas development sponsored by Sakhalin Energy. -Michael Allen Public Relations, Sakhalin Energy

  Aaltje was extremely helpful and charming. Nothing was too much. She took care of all the problems and helped us wherever she could. -Mrs. Verbouw

  During the past few years, Ms. van Zoelen has clearly demonstrated her capacity to efficiently prepare for and handle the complicated ship and shore operations in the Russian Far East. Her knowledge and well developed relationships with local authorities, tour operators and port agents resulted in two successful Far East cruises for Seabourn Cruise Lines. -Pieter Cox, Director Cruise and Land programs

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