A little catching up from Intentional Itineraries
Has it really been TWO years since I've shared my latest travel adventures here?! How in the world did that happen?
Well, I suppose the saying is true: time flies when you're having fun! And what an incredible two years it has been.
Between designing unforgettable experiences for my clients, exploring new destinations, strengthening relationships with travel partners around the world, and enjoying a few adventures of my own, my travel journal has gotten a little ahead of my blogging!
And while I haven't been sharing nearly enough here, I certainly haven't stopped exploring.
So, where have my travels taken me? Grab a cup of coffee (or perhaps a glass of Italian wine), because we have some catching up to do!
Italy, Italy, and More Italy!
If there's one country I simply cannot get enough of, it's Italy.
Over the past two years, my adventures have taken me through Bologna, Parma, Modena, Venice, Umbria, Puglia, Assisi, San Remo, Rome, Milan, Tuscany, Lake Como, Verona, Genoa, and Florence.
From the culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna to the breathtaking countryside of Tuscany and Umbria, the charm of Puglia, the Italian Riviera, and the elegance of Lake Como, every region has offered something completely different.
And then there was the Palio in Siena and the opera in Verona! What an extraordinary experience to witness traditions so deeply woven into the history and identity of a city.
Italy continues to remind me that the most memorable travel experiences often come from slowing down, connecting with local people, and embracing the traditions that make each destination special.
European Christmas Magic
There's something about Europe during the Christmas season that feels straight out of a storybook.
A Christmas markets river cruise introduced me to the festive beauty of Vienna, Salzburg, and Krems, followed by a train journey to Prague.
The twinkling lights, charming market stalls, centuries-old architecture, and beautiful holiday traditions were unforgettable.
And yes, the mulled wine and Christmas treats were pretty wonderful, too!
Spain, Switzerland, and Beyond
Barcelona, Costa Brava, and Girona offered a wonderful combination of culture, architecture, coastal beauty, and incredible food.
And Lugano, Switzerland, delivered its own special blend of lakeside scenery and European sophistication.
Each destination reinforced something I love about travel: even when places are relatively close geographically, their personalities can be wonderfully different.
Adventures in Central America and Mexico
From the colorful streets of San Miguel de Allende to the wild beauty of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park, these journeys reminded me just how meaningful travel can be.
There's something profoundly special about spending time in places where conservation, wildlife, and local communities are central to the travel experience.
Belize added another chapter of beautiful scenery, rich culture, and opportunities for adventure.
These are the kinds of experiences that continue to inspire my belief in Travel with Intent—travel that enriches our lives while respecting and supporting the people and places we visit.
From the Beaches to the Mountains
Not every memorable getaway requires a passport!
Closer to home, my travels included two visits to Rosemary Beach, time at Lake Austin Spa, Galveston, Boston, Colorado, and Montana.
Whether it's a relaxing coastal escape, a rejuvenating wellness retreat, or time spent enjoying the mountains, I've been reminded that extraordinary travel experiences can be found right here in the United States.
Sometimes the greatest luxury is simply having the opportunity to slow down and enjoy where you are.
Israel: A Journey Like No Other
Israel deserves a chapter all its own.
Walking through places so deeply connected to biblical history, experiencing the culture, and gaining a greater understanding of the land made this journey particularly meaningful.
It's difficult to put into words what it feels like to experience places you've read about and studied for years.
I have so much I look forward to sharing about this extraordinary destination.
Japan and Vietnam: Two Countries, Countless Memories
Japan and Vietnam brought another incredible chapter of discovery.
From Japan's fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern sophistication to Vietnam's rich history, extraordinary cuisine, and warm hospitality, these journeys were filled with experiences that challenged, inspired, and delighted me.
Both countries reminded me how much we can learn when we experience a place firsthand, listen to its people, and remain curious about cultures different from our own.
And Now, East Africa!
My adventures are also taking me to Rwanda and Uganda, where the opportunity to experience mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, remarkable landscapes, and conservation initiatives promises to be unforgettable.
These destinations represent so much of what inspires me as a travel advisor: meaningful cultural connections, exceptional wildlife encounters, beautiful accommodations, and travel experiences that make a positive difference.
I cannot wait to share more!
So, What's Next?
Well, first I need to catch up!
I'm currently working on organizing and uploading photos, stories, favorite experiences, and destination insights from these past two years.
My hope is to share more than simply where I've traveled. I want to give you a glimpse into what makes each destination special, the moments that surprised me, the places I'd love to revisit, and the experiences I would recommend to my clients.
One of the greatest privileges of being a travel advisor is the opportunity to explore the world firsthand and bring those discoveries back to the people who trust me with their travels.
Every journey teaches me something new, and every experience helps me create more thoughtful, personalized itineraries for my clients.
Thank you for following along, even when I've been a little quiet here!
I have a lot of stories to tell, countless photos to share, and plenty of travel inspiration coming your way.
Here's to catching up on the past two years—and to all the adventures still ahead!
