Adventure Travel with Eric Segalstad - Gondwana Ecotours

Eric Segalstad

Vice President & Partner

Gondwana Ecotours

https://www.gondwanaecotours.com

A Norwegian native now based in Vermont, Eric Segalstad has spent the past two decades working in the travel industry, with adventures spanning five continents. His career has included guiding exploratory ski trips in Kashmir, Patagonia, and Japan, collaborating with leading tour operators, and volunteering with the Rainforest Alliance to support indigenous-owned lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Eric is Vice President & Partner at Gondwana Ecotours, where he oversees brand experience, operations technology, and tour development. Among his projects is the Norway: Western Fjords Adventure, which he also enjoys guiding alongside a local guide.

He contributes to the broader industry as a member of the Alaska Travel Industry Association’s Marketing Committee and its Sustainability Subcommittee.

When not working, Eric can be found producing music, mountain biking, backcountry skiing, or honing his surfing skills. He also enjoys hiking and paddleboarding with his wife and their rescue dog.

summary

In this episode, Jason Elkins speaks with Eric Segalstad, the vice president and partner of Gondwana Ecotours. They discuss the meaning behind the name Gondwana, the company's mission to create meaningful connections between travelers and local communities, and the unique travel experiences they offer. Eric shares his personal journey into the travel industry, highlighting the importance of storytelling and the challenges faced during the pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of travel and the impact it can have on both travelers and the communities they visit.

takeaways

• Gondwana is named after an ancient supercontinent, symbolizing connection.
• The mission is to inspire meaningful connections between travelers and local communities.
• Gondwana focuses on bucket list experiences that promote cultural and ecological awareness.
• Travel is seen as a force for good, aiming to leave destinations better than found.
• Unique experiences, like dining with local families, create lasting memories for travelers.
• Eric's early experiences in Norway shaped his love for adventure and travel.
• The importance of storytelling in travel and how it enhances the experience.
• Gondwana's approach to travel emphasizes sustainability and community support.
• The pandemic presented challenges, but also opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Traveling with like-minded individuals fosters deeper connections and shared experiences.

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