Exquisite Greek and Roman cities once created a mosaic of flourishing cultural centers around the Mediterranean Sea. Today they stand in silent testimony to that epoch as magnificent ruins far better preserved, far more impressive, and far less crowed than most of the archaeological sites of mainland Europe.
Mike Messick
Cofounder & Expedition Leader
Mike is one of the original cofounders of Zegrahm Expeditions. He was raised in Switzerland and began working in expedition travel during a summer break from college. He received a degree from Skidmore College in bio/psychology where he graduated in 1985. That same year Mike embarked on a full-time career in adventure travel. With nearly 35 year’s experience, Mike is considered the most experienced expedition leader in the industry. Mike has conducted research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in its onshore laboratory and aboard one if its research vessels, he is a member of The Explorers Club, holds a US Coast Guard captain’s license, and received his scuba instructor certificate from NAUI. When not leading expeditions, Mike lives in Salt Lake City and spends his free time traveling around the globe.
Mike's Blog Posts
Where in the World is Niuatoputapu?
All In for Subtropical Asia
Mike's Upcoming Expeditions
-
Mediterranean Mosaic: Italy, Corsica, Tunisia, Algeria & Morocco
April 19 — May 3, 2021 -
Wild Ireland & Scotland COMBO Voyage
May 29 — June 12, 2021Discover ancient wonders, sublime landscapes, unique geology, prolific birdlife, and charming villages as you journey to Ireland and Scotland. Witness some of Europe's largest seabird colonies—puffins, gannets, guillemots, kittiwakes, and more, with visits to Giant’s Causeway, Neolithic monuments, and a variety of architectural wonders.
-
Wild Ireland
May 29 — June 7, 2021Discover Ireland’s ancient wonders, sublime landscapes, unique geology, prolific birdlife, and charming villages as you journey along the island’s scenic west coast. This voyage may be combined with Wild Scotland for a comprehensive view of the region.
-
Wild Scotland
June 4 — June 12, 2021History comes to life as you view important Neolithic monuments—the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, and Skara Brae—and other architectural wonders, from Mousa’s Iron Age broch and 12th-century Iona Abbey to the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. This voyage may be combined with Wild Ireland for a comprehensive view of the region.
-
Circumnavigation of the Black Sea
July 18 — July 31, 2021Centuries of history and splendid architecture come to life as you discover the countries surrounding the Black Sea—Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Romania and Bulgaria. Join our experts to explore busy bazaars, archeological treasures, and stunning landscapes.
-
Crossroads of Empires: Cyprus, Israel, Egypt & Jordan
October 22 — November 4, 2021The art, architecture, and archaeological wonders of the eastern Mediterranean are legacies of the world’s most celebrated empires. Over the millennia, a succession of cultures traded, conquered, and settled in these fabled lands, and we follow in their wake, piecing together the pages of the defining chapters of ancient civilization.