I'm not only a Travel Agent - I'm a Traveler!
Travel is more than just a means of escaping life; it is a gateway to unforgettable experiences and a way to enrich our lives through life-changing journeys. I became a Travel Agent to continue but never satisfy my curiosity about and love for travel and cultures by helping and hosting others experience the world through immersive travel. From traveling and camping throughout the US during the summers with my siblings and school teacher parents to being an exchange student to France when I was 17 to working in the airline industry for six years during and after college at Ohio State University to traveling in the US and abroad with my family, I just can't get enough! I have visited 49 countries plus islands and am aiming for 100! My trips have varied from budget to luxury, independent to escorted - and I can help you with whatever specialty travel we can imagine.
...and an Independent Agent of
Virtuoso Global Travel Consortium . . .
Virtuoso is the leading global network of luxury travel advisors with more than 1,200 agency locations and over 21,000 advisors who work with top destinations and a vetted portfolio of the best travel brands in over 54 countries throughout the world. Virtuoso's network also includes more than 2,300 of the world's premier travel providers, many of whom are exclusive to Virtuoso. Travelers who have a Virtuoso Advisor tap into a world of in-the-know expertise, unbelievable travel perks, support throughout their travels and - most importantly - warmer welcomes, deeper connections and superior experiences in the places they visit. Virtuoso has clout and influence with suppliers to better protect you.
...as well as a Member of Virtuoso's
Adventure, Culinary and Wellness
Communities.
A Virtuoso Community is a group of Virtuoso advisors and partners who have made a conscious decision to come together and agree to grow. They are united by a shared passion for a specific type of travel, and now with events, tools, and programs provided by Virtuoso, participants in these communities can mutually expand their knowledge and relationships to create a better travel experience for the consumer and ultimately drive more growth.”
– Matthew D. Upchurch, CEO
– Matthew D. Upchurch, CEO
VIRTUOSO ADVENTURE COMMUNITY brings together advisors and partners with a shared passion for adventure and active travel experiences, including those focused on nature, exploration of unique cultures and physical activities. Suppliers must satisfy three or more: unique accommodations (ranches, lodges, tents, treehouses, etc.), local, authentic cultural immersion, nature focus, hard or soft physical activities and/or unique transportation (camel, longboat, motorbike, etc.). |
VIRTUOSO CULINARY COMMUNITY is the perfect pairing of advisors and partners who have a shared passion for epicurean travel, featuring experiences that go beyond traditional dining with experiences that are immersive, interactive and educational (food and beverage tours and tastings: vineyards, Champagne caves; hands-on experiences: foraging, visiting farms, truffle hunting; education and learning: cooking classes, cheesemaking, preparing a meal in a local home; chef interactions and/or award-winning culinary experiences). |
VIRTUOSO WELLNESS COMMUNITY focuses on experiences that restore travelers' mind, body and spirit. This portfolio integrates nutrition, healing (guided meditation, sound therapy, connection with nature, local or cultural therapies), mind/body fitness (scheduled hiking, Pilates, yoga, etc.), spa/wellness center and educational components. Partners must meet a stringent set of criteria to provide a comprehensive wellness experience. |
Professional and Training Credentials
I study at least five hours per week with these professional associations as well as numerous suppliers.
1000 Mile Travel Group - Adventure Travel Trade Association - ASTA Verified Travel Advisor
The Travel Institute Certified Travel Advisor - Cruise Line International Association - Virtuoso Travel Consortium
1000 Mile Travel Group - Adventure Travel Trade Association - ASTA Verified Travel Advisor
The Travel Institute Certified Travel Advisor - Cruise Line International Association - Virtuoso Travel Consortium