Why Travel Beyond
Growing up with parents who loved to travel definitely instilled within me a passion for the industry. I love how traveling can open our eyes to new cultures, adventures, and experiences. It can broaden our education and understanding of the world.
Destinations Visited
Africa: Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Kenya
Latin America: Peru, Mexico
Southeast Asia: Indonesia
Additional countries: England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Greece, Italy, China, Singapore, Canada
Education
BA in Psychology from University of St. Thomas
Career History
Previous to Travel Beyond, I worked for 7 years as a Travel Director for a marketing group that planned incentive and corporate travel. I also worked for a nonprofit for 1.5 years.
Most Memorable Travel Experience
My most memorable travel experience happened in 2018 when I was lucky enough to experience a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara in Kenya. To witness the game from this perspective was truly awe-inspiring. To this day, it is still one of the best moments of my life!
My Most Recent Trip
South Africa & Mozambique, 2023
My most recent travels had me returning to South Africa with an added stop in Mozambique to cap off the trip. Alongisde my colleague, Melanie Reger, the adventure began on safari in a handful of the different game reserves around Kruger National Park. We also stopped at Jabulani, a place that, as an elephant lover, I knew would be a particularly special highlight. The Elephant Encounter experience offered the opportunity to immerse ourselves (alongside their caretakers) into the daily routines of the elephant herd, whose members were rescued as orphaned calves. While here we had three separate encounters with the elephants – elephant swim, elephant feeding and the elephant signature sundowner. I absolutely loved the feeding and sundowner, during which the elephants’ silhouettes and the setting sun are beautifully reflected in a small pool of water. It’s the most amazing photo opportunity ever and felt completely surreal to me. I would definitely recommend this for fellow elephant enthusiasts!
Mozambique was another “wow” of the trip and has now become my favorite beach destination. It is far less crowded than other locales, which makes Mozambique a special corner of the world for relaxing and the perfect way to unwind after safari. The turquoise blue water and sunsets were stunning! No filter needed.
Peru, 2022
My most recent trip was to Peru. Having never been to South America before, I was thrilled to have Peru be my introduction to the continent. We began in Lima with a food tour, before heading to the Amazon for a 4-night cruise aboard the Delfin I. Never have I seen more birds in my life and the staff aboard the cruise will forever be in my heart. They truly made the experience that more special. The food was also exquisite and this is coming from a finicky eater who doesn’t exhibit an advanced palette.
From the Amazon we headed to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We stayed at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba (my favorite property of the whole trip) and the views were absolutely stunning. It was like I was stepping into a painting. One of my favorite experiences during our time in the Sacred Valley was the day we went kayaking and paddle boarding on Lake Piuray. Afterwards, we enjoyed a traditional Pachamanca lunch. While here we also visited Ollantaytambo, Maras and Moray.
Following our time in the Sacred Valley, we boarded the train to Machu Picchu, a site I’d always dreamed of visiting. Hopping off at KM 104 we began an 8-mile hike along the Inca Trail to the Citadel. This was without a doubt an experience I will never forget and I am so glad we chose to take this more unique route. Our Peruvian adventure ended back to Cusco where we spent some time exploring the city before returning home.
Peru will always be a memorable destination in my life and I am so thankful it was my introduction to South America. I can’t wait to explore the rest of the continent!
Favorite Properties
Richard’s River Camp- Mara North Conservancy, Kenya
This is my favorite property, hands down. From the food to the accommodations to the décor, you can definitely tell that Richard’s wife (Liz Fusco) has an eye for interior design. The canvas fabric used on the roof of every tent, both individual and communal, is gorgeous. Located near the Ntiakitiak river, this property is also great for viewing the migration. Being surprised with a bush dinner while at camp was the icing on the cake.
Shinde Camp- Okavango Delta, Botswana
This is one of my favorite properties because of the overall experience you get while staying here. It’s a great value, there are a lot of activity options (water level permitting), and the staff are excellent! They make you feel right at home and it’s a very relaxing environment. I had one of my favorite soups here (Courgette Soup) and I’m not even a fan of soup (nor zucchini for that matter). When you’re in the main area of camp, it is like you are in a treehouse and when you’re out on game drive, the vehicles are very comfortable (only 4 people per vehicle). I would love to return to this property someday.
Tintswalo Safari Lodge–Manyeleti Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Between the food, expert guiding and tracking, accommodations, exceptional service, and having one of my favorite lion encounters ever, my time at Tintswalo Safari Lodge will always hold a special place in my heart! Located in the Manyeleti Reserve, home to just four other lodges, there is not only expansive terrain available for exploration but also incredible game-viewing without the masses of the Sabi Sand. This provides a more intimate safari experience which I appreciated. What’s more, the property also overlooks a water hole that is frequented by elephants and other game, so you can spot wildlife without even having to leave the lodge. I would love to return to this property someday with my family.