So, Who’s the Travel Advisor Behind Biophilia Travel Designs?

I started Biophilia Travel Designs so I could help passion-filled nature lovers explore the world—and in doing so, reflect on their place in the world, and how they can help preserve it.

So, how did I get here? Here’s a little more of my story.

I am a Traveler

Growing up in a quiet town in New Hampshire is what first sparked my desire to discover new places and people. I loved visiting and hiking in the White Mountains. The incredible and vast beauty of those mountains is what fueled my passion discover all the bold beauty this world has to offer. Some of my favorite destinations include Peru, Belize, Kenya, and Guatemala.

I am a Conservationist

A life-long love of animals led me to an incredible job right out of college—zookeeper at Zoo New England, where I cared for primarily African species. It was working with these creatures up close that inspired me to learn even more about how I could protect them. I went on to earn a Master’s degree in Conservation Biology, where my studies focused on zebras.

I am a Passionate Nature Lover

In 2018, I embarked on a citizen science project to Kenya to photograph the gravely endangered Grevy’s zebra. Our guide and guard took us deep into the Kenyan savannah, stopping along the way to converse with locals who provided invaluable advice. Every person we met was so warm, welcoming, and encouraging—no doubt this mission was a group effort. After two full days of rugged camping in a dry river bed, our perseverance paid off. When we finally spied a Grevy’s zebra—the only one we encountered during our entire trip—tears sprung into my eyes. That was a moment that will stay with me forever, one that few people will ever be able to witness.

But the other thing that stayed with me from that trip was the sense of interconnectedness I felt. The Grevy’s Zebra Trust not only supported our mission, but provided jobs and resources to the local community. The community, in turn, supported us. We all worked together to make this special habitat stronger and more resilient.

That sense of connection is exactly what I want to impart to my clients. The curated itineraries I design for you will connect you to local communities, landscapes, and wildlife sure to touch your heart. And these trips will no doubt connect you to yourself. You’ll learn more about your place in the world and how you can preserve it.

'Where the Wild Things Are' Issue of Virtuoso Traveler

A look at eco hotels, expedition cruises, and active adventures in the great outdoors. Download the issue to spark your imagination and inspire your next journey.

Hi, I'm Nicole

I’m a passionate wildlife conservationist—and I believe that responsible travel has the power to save the planet. In my former career as a zookeeper, I had the great privilege of caring for some remarkable endangered creatures. Today, I help my clients see these creatures up close—and in doing so, reflect on their place in the world, and how they can help preserve it.

Learn more about my journey to planning sustainable, life-affirming travel—and the one travel experience that changed my perspective forever: 

Nice to meet you!

GET TO KNOW ME

close

5 amazing natural destinations you haven’t considered yet