Dr. Joseph Benatov holds a Ph.D. in comparative literature from the University of Pennsylvania, where he teaches Hebrew. He is originally from Sofia, Bulgaria, and he received his BA & MA degrees from Sofia University. Joseph has over 25 years of experience leading travelers on specialized tours across the Balkans, including UNESCO missions, Jewish-themed trips, Balkan dance, music, and folklore programs, and arts & crafts tours. Joseph takes a keen interest in Balkan cuisine and winemaking, so be prepared for some fine wine-and-dining along the way. You will also meet leading Bulgarian sommeliers, oenologists, chefs, winemakers, culinary experts, and gifted village home cooks who will provide specialized insights into the world of Bulgarian viticulture and gastronomy.