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
I recently returned from South Africa. I visited in April to May of 2025 (our spring, their fall). Perfect weather followed us everywhere we went, and it made exploring the city and everything it has to offer even more enjoyable. And oh boy, does it have so much to offer! My days were spent touring the Cape Peninsula, cycling on the boardwalk by the ocean, walking around on top of Table Mountain, and even enjoying a foodie tour! Just outside the city are the Cape Winelands, and they are a must-visit! You can enjoy an outdoor wine tasting with views of the mountains all around you. I ended my trip with a little three-day safari near the Kruger National Park where I saw the big five in less than two days. Each safari drive was incredible thanks to the amazing guides and trackers I was with. If anyone is looking to combine a city bursting with culture and a safari full of animal sightings, South Africa is the perfect destination for you!
Favorite Properties
Birkenhead House
Hermanus, South Africa
This lovely hotel once was once a family’s personal beach house. Even though they have transformed it into a gorgeous hotel, it still has a very homey and welcoming feel. There are so many wonderful additional activities that they offer. Mussel picking and the cooking demonstration with their amazing chef was so much fun! I hope to go back soon, this time during the whale migration, so I can sit back on the balcony (with a glass of wine) and watch them swim by.
Waterside at Royal Malewane
Hoedspruit, South Africa
Settled on the banks of a little lake is Waterside. A colorful and vibrant safari lodge, it radiates personality and whimsy. No detail has been overlooked. Even the smallest room option is open and bright with its own private deck and pool. The safari guides and trackers are all highly trained and rated; I had amazing animal sightings on every game drive we did! From the five-star food to the incredible staff, this lodge exceeds all expectations.
Lewa House
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya
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!