Meet Our Lead Travel Designer: A Coffee Chat with Colleen ☕️

What Does Traveling Mean to You?

You know, travel isn’t just about getting somewhere and snapping a quick photo (though, yes, that happens too!). It’s about really being there—eating, wandering, getting lost, soaking in every moment. I want my clients to breathe in their surroundings, taste the local flavors, see the hidden corners, and truly feel their destination. That belief shapes every trip I design because travel is about creating those lasting memories, not just ticking off checklists. It's okay to also take it slow sometimes. I love just sitting at a cafe and people watching (and it's not just because I love coffee). It's a moment, an experience.

Embracing the calmness atop Mt Pilatus, Switzerland

Where Did Your Passion for Travel Begin?

My love affair with travel actually kicked off just days after I became a travel consultant. At first, I thought I was simply starting a job, but then I realized I was crafting unforgettable experiences for others—and that was exhilarating. I’d always dreamed of exploring the world, but suddenly, I was making others’ dreams come true too. Within days, I applied for my first passport and started collecting stamps of my own!

Where Did Those First Passport Stamps Come From?

My very first trip was to Exuma in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. Growing up near lakes rather than ocean beaches, this first trip was a “wow” moment—the blue water, the white sand—it was everything I’d imagined and more. That contrast was eye-opening and made me understand why people crave these places so much. I was hooked.

My next international trip was to Poland and that trip changed me; it still changes me. It showed me how vast and complex our world is—how tragedy and beauty can exist side by side. I witnessed a culture and a people that have risen from hardship with warmth and resilience. And the food… oh, the food was unforgettable. Those early journeys planted the seeds for my love of deep cultural experiences.

What Were Some of Your Early Influences?

I didn’t travel much as a kid, but some early experiences really sparked my curiosity—like a family trip to Disney World, where EPCOT was my absolute favorite. That early fascination set the stage for a lifelong love of exploration.

I studied art history and photography in college and that gave me a lens to see the world differently or at least in my own unique way. I wanted to witness the grandeur of the Parthenon, the beauty of Notre Dame, the mystery of the Mona Lisa in person—not just in books or photos. Egyptian art, architecture and culture always captivated me above all else; Abu Simbel mystified me. I even seriously considered becoming an Egyptologist, but when I thought about living there, I realized—honestly, Egypt’s heat was just too much for me! Still, that didn’t stop my fascination. The more I studied, the more I needed to breathe in the world’s wonders firsthand. There’s no end to the beauty out there, and I’m driven to explore every bit of it.

Abu Simbel remains one of the most awe-inspiring sites I’ve ever encountered—the stories it holds, and its sheer size blew me away.

What Does Crafting Travel Experiences Look Like?

When I chat with clients, it’s the questions I ask that bring their dreams into focus: “What do you love to do on vacation?” or “How do you picture this trip in your mind?” Those questions tap into emotions because vacations are deeply personal journeys—far beyond geography or hotels.

One trip that truly touched my heart was planning an Ireland trip for siblings and their spouses. They weren’t strangers to loss or illness, and this trip was a celebration of their love. Seeing them create memories, celebrate birthdays, and wear matching T-shirts made me feel like I was sharing in something sacred. One sibling's husband passed away shortly after returning, making those moments all the more precious. It’s a trip I think about often, thankful I could help give them that gift.

Food tours are another favorite. I’m a total foodie, and there’s no better way to dive into a culture than through its tastes—whether it’s a cooking class in Tuscany, wine tasting in Bordeaux, or whisky sampling in Scotland. I love curating those immersive culinary experiences that get my clients to connect with a place in a deliciously authentic way.

Wine and Chocolate Tasting in Stellenbosch, South Africa

How Do You Help Clients Overcome Challenges?

Travel isn’t always smooth sailing. One time, a client hurt her back while away—so I sent a heating pad straight to her hotel with Amazon Prime. She made it through without cutting short her trip! Of course, I had to figure out how to cancel my Amazon Prime Italy Subscription afterwards (it was all in Italian).

When things don’t go as planned, I tell clients to relax and enjoy their adventure. I’ve got the details covered, and I’m always ready to help. Above all, empathy is key—I walk in their shoes but remind them they can trust me to handle the bumps while they grab a cocktail and sit on the beach or go explore a museum, or just grab some lunch. No matter how you look at it, all of those things are better than sitting on the phone with airlines, or figuring out your next move when things don't go as planned.

What Is One of Your Favorite Parts of Travel Planning?

Over time, many clients become more like family to me. One dear traveler often brings me little gifts from her trips: honey from New Zealand, scarves, tiny souvenirs. But truly, it’s the thought and connection behind those gifts that touch me most. Our chats about her family, the photos she sends, the joy she shares—it feels like catching up with a close friend living her best life. I stay connected by sharing travel inspiration and ideas, so even when clients aren’t ready to jet off, they know I’m thinking of them.

What is your favorite kind of trip to plan?

That's an easy and hard question at the same time. I’d say custom Europe itineraries top the list (especially Italy). There’s an endless dimension of culture, history, and beauty that’s perfect for bespoke travel stories. I also really love planning any special trip—honeymoons, anniversaries, and since becoming a full-time mom and full-time business owner, I totally get the “I just need to get away” feeling. Trust me, I get it. Beyond the grand European adventures, I love making those special moments even more special, whether it’s a quiet sunset or a surprise celebration.

I ask a million questions to really get to know my clients—think hairdresser-level personal! It’s all about understanding who they are, what they want, and where I can add a spark of creativity to bring their dream trip to life.