Travel advisor, planner, problem-solver—and, according to my family, someone who probably spends way too much time researching vacations.
After retiring, I finally had more time to plan some adventures of my own. I quickly discovered that I enjoyed almost every part of the process: researching destinations, comparing options, figuring out transportation, choosing where to stay and putting all the little pieces together to create a trip that felt effortless once it was time to actually go.
There was something incredibly satisfying about taking a whole collection of reservations, schedules and ideas and turning them into a worry-free, memorable experience.
And somewhere along the way, I realized: I really love doing this.
I've had several chapters in my working life, with careers that have taken me from the medical field to technology and eventually to education. After retiring, I thought my working days were behind me.
Apparently, I was wrong.
Travel became my next calling.
The skills I relied on throughout my other careers—organization, research, problem-solving, communication and attention to detail—turned out to be pretty useful in the travel world, too.
And maybe it's the Virgo in me, but I actually like keeping track of all those little details!
For me, traveling isn't just about checking destinations off a list.
I love experiencing how different a place can feel from home—the scenery, food, people, history, traditions and even just the everyday rhythm of another destination. Every place has its own personality and its own vibe, and that's one of the things that keeps me wanting to see what's around the next corner.
Sometimes that means sailing through the Caribbean. Sometimes it's exploring Alaska, wandering through Europe, taking a river cruise, or heading halfway around the world to experience someplace completely different.
There's always somewhere new to discover.
I started Southland World Travel because I wanted to help other people experience the same excitement of traveling without feeling overwhelmed by everything that comes before it.
There are a lot of pieces involved in planning a vacation. Where should you go? Which cruise line or itinerary is right for you? Where should you stay? How do you get from here to there? Which excursions are worth considering? And what are those little details you don't even know you need to think about yet?
That's the part I enjoy.
When I'm not researching destinations or planning travel, family is a big part of my life. I'm a mom of four, grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of two.
So yes, I've had plenty of experience coordinating people, schedules and personalities long before I became a travel advisor!
I believe some of life's best memories come from the places we go, the people we share them with and the stories we bring home.
Where will your next story take you?
A few of the supplier certifications and training programs I've completed to help plan your trip with confidence.
Viking Certified Expert
Viking Expeditions Certified Expert
Viking Oceans Certified Expert
Viking Rivers Certified Expert
Princess Academy Commodore
Carnival Expert Diamond Level Graduate
Celebrity Scholars
Margaritaville at Sea Certified Travel Advisor
Princess Alaska Expert