Why Travel Beyond
I’m always learning! On my own time, I love to dream, research and plan my next travel adventure. To now have the opportunity to see what others create for their once-in-a-lifetime journey is a perfect alignment of my passion for being a lifelong learner and explorer.
Destinations Visited
Africa: Botswana, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe
Antarctica: Antarctic Peninsula
Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica, Belize, Mexico
Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam
Additional countries: Aruba, Austria, Bahamas, Canada, China, Croatia, Denmark, Dominican Republic, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Greece, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Puerto Rico, Scotland, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, New Zealand
Education
BA in Psychology, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
MA in Nonprofit Management and Business Administration, Hamline University
Career History
I kicked off my career in the nonprofit sector where over the course of seven years, I worked in grantmaking, fundraising, and communications. I’ve always had a passion for travel as my parents were avid adventurers and fortunately for me, I was able to go with them throughout my childhood. When the opportunity to join Travel Beyond crossed my path, it was something I couldn’t pass up, and I am thrilled to make the career change.
Most Memorable Travel Experience
Taking a dip into the icy waters of Antarctica will not soon be forgotten! The Polar Plunge was planned for the back end of our 10-day journey, so the anticipation turned from giddiness to nervousness to a bit of panic. But honestly, I’m so glad I did it, and I would do it again. It was so much fun to watch fellow travelers jump, dive, flip, flop, and even gently lower themselves down the ladder into the frigid water. We were divided into small groups of eight, so you didn’t have to stand out in the cold for too long. A harness was attached to you in case you needed assistance swimming back to the ship. Some even butterflied or swam out further to take in the full experience! Once back on board, you are greeted with a warm towel, a hot beverage, and congratulatory praises. So, if you find yourself in Antarctica and have the opportunity to take a plunge, I highly encourage you to take the leap. It is truly refreshing and momentous.
My Most Recent Trip
My colleague, Kayla Parrack, and I kicked off the southern hemisphere’s summer season in Antarctica this past December 2024. By chance, we were there for the summer solstice, and we packed in as much adventure as we could in the land where it doesn’t get dark. At all hours of the day, and especially after dinner, we spent a lot of time up on the observation deck, taking in the passing mountains, glaciers, icebergs, seabirds, whales, and penguins.
On an expedition cruise, you follow a general itinerary, but it can also be flexible based on weather conditions and accessibility. For instance, in the middle of the night, you could join fellow travelers with the whale expert guide as a pod of orcas swam by (or keep sleeping if you wish). On another day, we approached a channel that appeared to be blocked by an iceberg. As we got closer and closer, a small opening seemed to grow. However, if we hadn’t been able to navigate through the narrow passage, we would have had to turn around, which would have changed our day’s excursions. As one guide said, “If we can’t do Plan A, we do the other Plan A.” Suffice it to say, there’s always something to do or see in the wild, magical beauty of Antarctica. Whether it’s a zodiac ride to view a seal resting on floating sea ice, kayaking in a quiet bay, hiking near a glacier, observing a penguin colony as it tends to its nest, or simply gazing out your cabin window, the possibilities are endless.
Favorite Properties
Eolo Patagonia’s Spirit
El Calafate, Argentina
Eolo, located outside of El Calafate, Argentina is an oasis with views that are second to none- Torres del Paine on one side and Argentina’s biggest freshwater lake, Argentino Lake on the other. This Relais & Chateaux is elegant, quaint and feels like home. The dining competes with any major city restaurant and the onsite sommelier will find you the perfect complementary wine to pair with your meal.
Palacio Nazarenas
Cusco, Peru
Palacio Nazarenas in Cusco, Peru has charm, culture and style all in one. It’s built on Inca foundations and has a chapel on site. Rooms are gorgeous, with every detail addressed, including homemade soap, oxygen-enriched air and bath salts. Located just two blocks from the main city square, this hotel is in the center of the action while also tucked away from the city’s noise and bustle with peaceful courtyards and patios.