Why Travel Beyond
I believe traveling is one of the best things we can do in our lives. It opens our eyes to other cultures, it’s an opportunity to try new cuisines, and most importantly in my opinion, allows us to create lifelong friendships with people all over the world. Working at Travel Beyond is a dream job because I get to be a part of a larger team who share the same belief!
Destinations Visited
Africa: South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe
Additional countries: Colombia, Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Greece, France, The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Mexico
Most Memorable Travel Experience
My most memorable travel experience is one that will be hard to top. During my first safari, while staying at Dulini Leadwood Lodge in South Africa, I was standing in the lodge’s communal area, chatting with some of the staff, when someone pointed down the path in front of the lodge. To my astonishment, a fully grown leopard was casually strolling toward us, making its way past other guests who quietly stood off to the side to let him pass. We had been told that this particular leopard roams the lodge’s territory and sometimes walks through the lodge on his rounds, but we never expected to witness it firsthand. To our amazement, within hours, there he was—entering the lounge area, which is fully open to the vast bush. This beautiful big cat strolled through like he owned the place. Barely a few feet away, he paid no attention to our presence as he walked up to a chair and scratched at the upholstery—evidence of the leopard’s routine visits. The elusive nature of leopards made this sighting so special, and to have such an intimate, up-close encounter with one is something I will cherish forever. It wasn’t just my most memorable travel experience; it stands as one of the most remarkable moments of my life.
Most Recent Trip
In April 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Zimbabwe and Botswana for the first time. Our journey began at the breathtaking Victoria Falls River Lodge in Zimbabwe, where my colleague and I were mesmerized by the panoramic views of Victoria Falls and explored the winding trails of the surrounding rainforest. That afternoon, we had an unforgettable encounter with elephants at a local sanctuary—walking alongside these incredible creatures through the bush was both deeply emotional and exhilarating. After bidding farewell to Victoria Falls, we continued our adventure to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where we explored several unique camps, each offering a distinct perspective on the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. From captivating animal sightings to refreshing swims in natural floodwaters, the experience was both educational and thrilling. We also celebrated my 30th birthday with traditional songs and dances from the camp staff, as well as exhilarating ATV rides and horseback riding through the otherworldly Makgadikgadi salt pans.
This trip marked my third visit to Africa and offered the most varied and adventurous activities I’ve experienced to date. I highly recommend pairing a visit to Botswana with a trip to Victoria Falls for any travel enthusiast seeking to enhance their safari experience.
Favorite Properties
San Camp (Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana)
San Camp is a remote and unique lodge located in the heart of the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana. Known for its stunning desert landscapes and starry night skies, the camp offers an immersive experience in one of the world’s largest salt pans. It provides a glimpse into the traditional lives of the San people, with opportunities for cultural excursions and interactions with local tribes. The camp beautifully combines luxury with adventure, allowing visitors to explore the stark beauty of this arid wilderness while enjoying both comfort and solitude.
Lewa Wilderness (Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya)
Lewa Wilderness in Kenya is an exceptional destination for families, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home. One of the highlights of Lewa Wilderness is its lush, organic garden, which serves as a peaceful oasis. The area is home to a diverse range of animals, including endangered species like the Grevy’s zebra and the black rhino, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. With a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and connection to nature, Lewa Wilderness is an ideal retreat for families looking to bond and explore Kenya’s rich wildlife and culture.