Associate Director of Vendor Relationships
Ben Sander
A born world-traveler, Ben is passionate about combining education and travel, while also protecting the environment. He has worked in ecotourism ventures in Costa Rica, Kenya, Tanzania, Peru and Pohnpei, Micronesia.
His love of ecotourism also led him to be a bike tour guide in Washington DC offering bike tours of the national memorials. After graduate school he managed travel program for the National Parks Conservation Association for seven years, connecting members with the best in educational travel to the US National Parks.
He has taken part in Climate Ride five times to help raise awareness around climate change, bike advocacy, and national park protection. Ben is also an avid hiker and thoroughly enjoys all the great trails around Missoula, Montana joined by his beloved dog, Vida, as much as possible. He has visited over 150 national park units (his favorites are Glacier, American Samoa, and Mojave) and loves to connect travelers to amazing experiences in our national parks and public lands.
What’s your favorite vacation destination?
Costa Rica
What is your favorite historical site, castle, museum, etc.?
National Park of American Samoa
What is your favorite hike?
Grinnell Glacier
What is your favorite bike ride?
The 350 mile, 5 day bike ride I did for Climate Ride from NYC to DC
Favorite Movie?
Forrest Gump
Favorite Book?
Dark Star Safari
Favorite Song?
Love Shack and/or Twist and Shout
When did you first catch the travel bug?
When I turned 13 in Italy
What is your favorite outdoor activity?
Hiking with my dog Vida
What are your hobbies?
Hiking, Baking, Biking, Kayaking