Why Travel Beyond
I have a passion for planning and organization. In my free time I often create itineraries and plan trips to places that I will (hopefully) visit in the future. As the daughter of a pilot, I was used to taking nice annual vacations throughout the US and Mexico. Now that I’m older I choose to go farther than that. Finally getting to Europe on my honeymoon was a huge check off my bucket list, and there are still so many places I want to see. But travel is so much more than just seeing a country. It provides perspective. You get to experience people inside their own culture and unique history. The more you travel the more you can empathize. As they say, “Travel is the best education.”
Destinations Visited
Africa: South Africa, Kenya
Additional countries: England, Ireland, Scotland, The Bahamas
Education
Bachelor’s of Science from University of Minnesota, major: Family Social Science
Experience Living Abroad
I lived in Cuernavaca, Mexico for 3 months during a study abroad program.
Career History
I have over 14 years of client coordination and consulting experience in the health insurance industry. My past roles include being a call center representative, project coordinator, user acceptance tester, and business analyst. Through those roles I have obtained excellent customer service skills, technical skills, organizational skills, and an analytical mindset. I have been trained to focus on delivering quality solutions in fast-paced environment.
Most Memorable Travel Experience
For our honeymoon my husband and I explored England, Scotland, and Ireland for almost 3 weeks. Starting in England we focused on the incredible history of the country: touring the Tower of London, Westminster Abby, and Windsor Castle. Taking the train to Scotland gave us incredible views of the landscape. While in Edinburgh we had some of the best meals of our lives and enjoyed Scotch Whiskey tastings. Our last stop was Ireland where we drove to the West coast to see the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands. It felt like going back in time. Every evening was spent in the local pub, drinking Guiness and singing along with the traditional songs.
My Most Recent Trip
In May 2024, I traveled to Africa for the very first time, specifically to Kenya. It was right after Kenya had experienced some heavy rains, and everything was stunningly lush and green. Even though the tall grasses made it a bit harder to spot wildlife, I thought it was worth it for the gorgeous scenery. Don’t get me wrong – I saw so many animals! While out on game drives, I encountered herds of elephants and grazers, and even quite a few big cats. In addition to game drives, I went horseback riding, camel riding, hiking, and even on a helicopter ride. The Kenyan people are so welcoming and friendly, and they love to share their culture with their guests. I enjoyed visits from Maasai women who showed me how to bead and a local blacksmith who made bracelets out of scrap metal. I’m already eager to return. I feel like I only scratched the surface of what Kenya has to offer, and I can’t wait to see what other treasures it has in store!
Favorite Property
Lewa House (Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya)
Lewa House: Located in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this gem of a lodge exudes a cozy, warm atmosphere. The earthpod accommodations are both luxurious and charming—it felt like being in a fantasy novel. The owners, Callum and Sophie, are the most gracious hosts. Callum, with his background in archaeology, took us on a fascinating and informative visit to a prehistoric site. The gorgeous pool area overlooking the conservancy makes this the perfect place for families. I hope to return soon and bring my husband and kids next time!