Why Travel Beyond
At its heart, Travel Beyond is a family business – and my colleagues and I all truly feel like family. We support each other and celebrate our successes. When one of us needs ideas or advice, we are all there to assist. We all continually challenge each other to look for fresh and creative ways to serve our clients. I am fortunate to work with the best of the best in the travel industry. I learn something new every single day I am here!
Destinations Visited
Africa: Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Latin America: Peru, Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
Additional countries: United Arab Emirates, The Netherlands, Belgium, France, Portugal, St. Barthelemy, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Antigua, Barbados
Education
BA, Public Relations & Communications, Univ of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Career History
Over the course of my career, I have held a variety of marketing, communications and branding positions – but my love for communications goes all the way back to when I was a kid and I first fell in love with the written word (I may have been born holding a pen and paper, because I just don’t remember a time when I wasn’t writing!). My job at Travel Beyond has been especially rewarding because I get to support and grow our incredible brand as we delight our customers in each of our core destinations.
Most Memorable Travel Experience
It’s hard to top a person’s first visit to Africa – and my trip was no exception. The experience is still top of mind, even though my trip was over eight years ago. I fondly remember sitting safely on the deck at a camp in South Africa with some friends. In the quiet of the night, we sipped champagne and watched a young (naughty!) bull elephant eat his way through the camp’s carefully groomed plants and trees. It was so funny (and, yes, a little self-indulgent on my part!), but mostly, it was a reminder about the strength and beauty of these creatures. There was no mistaking that we were the visitors here and this was HIS place.
My Most Recent Trip
In May 2022, I visited Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. We spent our first two days exploring the country’s capital of Quito. The city’s charming 16th century old town is a quaint step back into the days of narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautifully maintained businesses and houses. Quito is a must see and a great launching point from which to head to the Galapagos. On arrival in the islands, I was thrilled with the wildlife experience, primarily because of our proximity to the animals in their natural settings. It was an incredible experience, seeing all of these unique and special animals. After the Galapagos, we were able to enjoy two magical days at Hacienda Zuleta, in the Ecuadorian highlands. Hacienda Zuleta has 21 rooms, each of which is uniquely appointed with beautiful décor and its own wood-burning fireplace, stoked as often as you request. There are plenty of relaxing areas to sit, and a library filled with hundreds of fascinating old books from the family’s personal library. Outside, the property is full of flowers and gardens. Activities abound and you can try your hand at everything from horseback riding to trout fishing.
Favorite Properties
Victoria Falls River Lodge (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)
My first trip to Africa included a visit to the Victoria Falls River Lodge. This beautiful property sits on the banks of the Zambezi River, just far enough from the city of Victoria Falls to get a real sense of the ecosystem in that portion of the country. The lodge management is very sensitive to the footprint they are leaving in the park and work to minimize the impact on the natural activities of the animals. They strive to find ways to make the property blend seamlessly into the natural environment, while simultaneously achieving a luxurious and comfortable lodge experience.
Hacienda Zuleta (Imbabura, Ecuador)
Just two hours outside of Ecuador’s capital city of Quito, you will find Hacienda Zuleta. Located in the Andean Highlands, the hacienda welcomes you warmly and gives you an immediate feeling of peace – as if you have just returned home. I stayed at Zuleta after a Galapagos Island cruise and it was the perfect way to enjoy my last few days in Ecuador. The Hacienda is beautiful, with cozy rooms that are simply but tastefully decorated. Dining areas are quaint and comfortable and the food (sourced locally) is some of the best I have ever had. You will love sampling the various cheeses they produce on site! There is much to see and do and with its natural beauty, wide variety of experiences, unique setting and spectacular service, you will love your stay at this incredibly special place.
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas (Cusco, Peru)
Set in the heart of Cusco, the Belmond Palacio Nazarenas is a beautifully restored 17th-century palace and convent. The hotel blends amazing courtyards and natural areas, with the traditional Inca walls that still stand throughout the city. The accommodations, amenities, and service at this hotel are impeccable! No detail is missed and the staff uses every opportunity to make guests feel welcomed and special throughout their stay. Unique experiences along the way (including a Pisco Sour demonstration and tasting!) make an already unforgettable experience, even more spectacular. This is a perfect place to relax and reflect after a journey through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu.