At the heart of every National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions voyage in the Galápagos are the local naturalists whose knowledge transforms how you experience the islands. Many have spent decades guiding guests through the archipelago—some are even second-generation guidescarrying forward a family legacy of exploration. For nearly 60 years, our expeditions in the region have been enriched by their ecosystem insights and authentic connections to local culture. From close encounters with extraordinary wildlife to a deeper understanding of the volcanic forces that shape the archipelago, you’ll experience the Galápagos through the eyes of those who know it best.
*Terms and Conditions: Book from April 28 to May 28, 2026. Receive savings of $1,500 per guest deducted from cabin fare on select 2026 voyages when you pay in full at time of booking. Applicable savings will be deducted from cabin fare before any additional savings with the purchase of cabin fare. To qualify for the savings, nonrefundable payment in full is due at time of booking. This promotional offer is subject to separate terms and conditions. Standard cancellation, refund, and change policies do not apply. All amounts paid in connection with this promotion are non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of cancellation date, and no refund, credit, or compensation will be provided except as expressly stated herein. Promotional offer valid on new bookings only for select 2026 departures, subject to availability and offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice, not applicable on airfare or extensions, and may not be combined with other promotions. Additional restrictions may apply.
I was born on 6 August 1956 in San Francisco, California to Janet and (the late) Richard Hovis.
I grew up in Santa Monica, California where I attended elementary, junior high school, and high school (graduating in 1974), in addition to involvement in sports and recreation (Little League +, the Boy’s Club ++). Further, it was in elementary school – St. Augustine’s By-the -Sea Parish School that I found, and made the choice to truly journey with God.
I attended Arizona State University from 1974 to 1977 – seeking to become an architect, however, I was not accepted, and, as such, I graduated with a Liberal Arts degree.
Upon graduation from Arizona State University, I attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and studied City and Regional Planning at the Master’s level. I successfully completed one (1) year in a two (2) year program – I did not complete the Master’s degree in City and Regional Planning – due to personal reasons.
I returned to Santa Monica where I started (October 1979) my career as graphic designer with Exxon Company, USA. I spent five years with Exxon Company, USA.
While working with Exxon Company, USA I was accepted into architectural school – Sci-Arc in Southern California, however, I did not attend preferring to stay with Exxon..
In 1982 I married Laura Flosi and in April 1983 we had our one and only child – Lauren Alain Hovis – a gift from God.
We moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1984 from Los Angeles, where I went to work as a graphic designer with Kitchell CEM (from 1985 -1987).
From 1987 – 1995 I was an independent contractor, and a registered representative in mortgage finance, financial management, graphic design, and drafting.
Further, I attended the University of Phoenix and successfully obtained a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in 1982.
I was also a member of the Scottsdale Jaycees, where I became very involved in community events and projects.
In 1994, I accepted a cartography position with the Defense Mapping Agency in Reston, Virginia. As such, I relocated from Phoenix to Reston.
In 1998, I was accepted and worked as a Visual Information Officer with the Central Intelligence Agency. In 2002, I worked as a Support Officer until my retirement (due to a need for shoulder surgery) in September 2018.
Away from my Federal Government service, I have been involved in various organizations and activities in Northern Virginia.
In November of 2011, I married Rebecca Ouellette in Santa Monica, California. I reside in San Tan Valley, AZ with my two hamster - Jess and Timothy, our fish, our lizard - RJ Lizard., and our cats - Pearl and Grey.
As to hobbies, I enjoy playing sports, attending sporting events, mentoring individuals from financial management to hamsters, building models, photography, travel, multimedia design, managing partner for RJ Hamster, and jazz – smooth jazz to a samba or a bossa nova.
Love and God Bless,
Peter – aka RJ Hamster Jo hi
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RJ Hamster 