Ben Rubin holds a bachelor's degree from Hanover College, a Master's from Western Carolina University, and is completing his Ph.D. at Drew University. He is also a graduate of the Cornell School of Criticism and Theory at Cornell University. His work has been published in the Journal of Backcountry Studies and in Southern Campaigns of the American Revolution. In addition to academic experience, Ben worked as a docent at the Biltmore House in Asheville, and as a whitewater raft guide on the Nantahala River.

Michele is an accomplished writer and film producer. She has written about famous New Yorkers including Dorothy Parker, Evelyn Nesbit, and Mae West. Her documentary film work has included topics ranging from the silent movie era to World War II to the Olympics. An authority on the 1920s, she is currently working on a feature documentary about the first Hollywood scandal. Michele also teaches film history classes at the New York Public Library. She received a master’s degree in English literature from Simmons University.

Manuela is an Italian architect, longtime New Yorker and licensed New York City tour guide. She has a Master’s Degree in Architecture specializing in interior and industrial design. She is a member of the Guide Association of New York (GANYC), one of the oldest tour guide associations in America. She is fluent in English and a native Italian speaker. Manuela has extensive experience in guided walking tours, with small groups families and kids of all ages. Her love for this amazing city shows in each segment of her tours. She looks forward to the opportunity to share her passion with clients and help them discover the history, architecture and secrets of the city around every hidden corner to create long lasting memories!