Don Martinson

Riding in the Caucasus in the Republic of Georgia

Born and raised in Utah, Don was fortunate to have the best “natural playground” imaginable, with mountains, deserts and canyons in his backyard. He caught the travel bug while studying and working in Europe in the 80’s (student at University of Copenhagen; resort restaurant worker in Murren, Switzerland). After college, he was hired as a flight attendant by United Airlines in 1986 – when flying was fun!  Based in Chicago, Washington, San Francisco and Denver during his airline career, Don visited a great portion of the world – challenge him to name all the world capitals! He met Ben Bressler, founder and director of Natural Habitat Adventures, in 1994 and was hired as a private group coordinator in 1995, working mainly with museums, zoos, alumni associations and other non-profit groups. Don was also a “city guide” in Halifax for NHA’s Harp Sea Watch, in Winnipeg for Polar Bear Watch and was the Uganda Primate Watch destination manager from 1995 – 1997. Shortly after NHA became a Virtuoso supplier, Don moved into a marketing and sales position, specifically to work with travel agencies and consultants. In July 2008, he was elected a member of the VAST (Virtuoso Active & Specialty Travel) committee for a 2 year term. With his Utah roots and his 14 years living in Colorado, Don loves to ski, hike and mountain bike. He also enjoys playing soccer with several NHA staffers and coaches his daughter’s soccer team.