Why Travel Beyond
Ever since I discovered my love of travel I have wanted to work in the industry. After all, what could be better than turning something you love into a career? Having been all over the world, I truly believe traveling has made me the person I am today. And knowing how much of a positive impact traveling has had on me, it excites me to help other people have those same experiences. Plus, I enjoy the trip planning process almost as much as the trips themselves. I feel lucky to have found a group of people at Travel Beyond that share the same passion!
Destinations Visited
Africa: Botswana, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa, Zimbabwe
Latin America: Argentina, Chile
Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand
Additional Countries: Antarctica, Antigua + Barbuda, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Fiji, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts + Nevis, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Sweden, United Kingdom
Education
BS in Psychology + Communication, University of North Dakota
Career History
Prior to my role at Travel Beyond, I held positions in the supply chain, property management and healthcare industries. It wasn’t long after graduating college that I found my love for international travel, and eventually realized that the travel industry is where I should be working!
Most Memorable Travel Experience
My most memorable travel experience would have to be my trip to Antarctica. It was unlike anything I’ve ever done before! Our journey began in Ushuaia, Argentina where we set sail to Antarctica. We spent several days doing multiple excursions, during which we were able take a zodiac from the ship to land. I got to see a ton of wildlife, such as leopard seals, orcas, and thousands of penguins! The part of this trip that was most memorable would have to be the night that we slept in a hole in the ice. At about 11pm we ventured out to land and dug holes in the ice and set up our insulated sleeping bags. Shoveling through ice is easier said than done. Sleeping in the holes protected us from wind and other elements. It was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done!
My most recent trip
I recently went on a two-week trip to South Africa with my best friend, spending time in Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, and on safari in the Sabi Sand and Kruger National Park. It was the perfect combination to experience both the city and nature. In Cape Town, we braved the Lion’s Head Hike, went sea kayaking with the penguins while exploring the peninsula, and tried South African cuisine on a foodie tour. In the Cape Winelands, we stayed at the stunning La Residence hotel, visited many wineries, took the hop on and off wine tram, and dined at some exquisite restaurants. Lastly, our experience on safari was nothing short of amazing. We got to see all of the big five on our very first game drive in the Sabi Sand. It was truly a dream trip that I will never forget!
Favorite Properties
Mashatu Euphorbia
(Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana)
Located in the Mashatu Game Reserve, Mashatu Euphorbia is made up of eight villas that are situated atop a cliff and surrounded by beautiful euphorbia succulents. Each stunning villa includes its own private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and “loo with a view.” In addition to the already lovely accommodations and staff, the animal viewing is fantastic. Visit Mashatu’s photographic hide to have up-close views of elephants and other wildlife approaching the watering hole. Your guide will assist you with choosing which camera settings and angles to use in order to capture the best possible photos while in the hide.
Sarara Camp
(Matthews Mountain Range, Kenya)
Nestled in the remote Matthews Mountain Range, Sarara Camp offers an incredible view of the stunning landscape with a watering hole that elephants frequent right in front of camp. Sarara Camp is the perfect combination of luxury and adventure surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bush. One of my favorite things about this camp is the variety of activities that can be done, such as game drives, walking safaris, hiking, rockslides, and a chance to interact with the indigenous Samburu people of Northern Kenya. A visit to the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is also a must when visiting Sarara Camp!
La Residence Franschhoek
(Franschhoek, South Africa)
La Residence is located on a private 30-acre estate surrounded by mountains and vineyards in the heart of Franschhoek Valley in South Africa. The grounds are so beautiful, you may never want to leave! Each room offers a unique design and décor with breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards, gardens, or mountains. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine watching the sunset, relaxing by the pool, or dining at their gourmet restaurant, La Residence makes you feel at home and cared for by their incredible staff.