A little about me: My story is not a typical one. I am not European (Sigh!). I do not speak three languages fluently. I did not grow up visiting relatives in a small Tuscan village during summer vacation, but... The first time I set foot on European soil I knew that I felt more alive there than anywhere else and I knew I'd do anything to keep coming back.
I am a native Texan with a case of wanderlust that expands far beyond my home state. Little did I know that my first trip to Europe in 1997 would ultimately lead me to a career as a lead guide and guidebook researcher for Rick Steves' Europe.
My love of travel paired well with my initial career as a teacher. I spent most summers in Europe during those fourteen years, but a few weeks in Paris by myself was all I needed to realize it just wasn't enough. I needed to find a way to spend more time in Europe AND get paid for it.
During my many trips to Europe, there was only one source I relied on for information and that was what I had my sights set on. With a little courage, persistence, and (most importantly) prayer I approached Rick Steves' Europe and eventually... they said yes. My life has never quite been the same.
I spend roughly one third of every year in Europe leading tours and researching guidebooks for Rick Steves' Europe. Now the world is my classroom and I couldn't be happier!
Where I've traveled: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, England, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Lichtenstien, Luxembourg, Morocco, Netherlands, Scotland, Spain, Switzerland, and Turkey. Outside of Europe - Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Canada, and Mexico.
My experience: I started traveling internationally during my college years and I haven't stopped since. In the early years I planned every detail whether backpacking with friends, traveling with my dad, or taking students abroad. Since joining Rick Steves' Europe my experience and contacts have grown immensely.
Currently I lead our Best of Europe tours which cover Paris, Burgundy, Switzerland, Munich, Venice, Florence, and Rome.
Additionally, I work on the guidebook I coveted for years including the Venice, Italy, Germany, Munich & Bavaria, Switzerland, and Best of Europe books.
I also have planned many individual itineraries for families. I love being able to hear about all the amazing memories they have made as a family.
How Carried Away Travel Consulting came about: Leading twenty eight people through Europe for two weeks requires a lot of research and planning. I've learned a lot over the last several years, and more and more friends (and friends of friends) are coming to me for help to make their European travel dreams a reality. With an overstuffed inbox, it became very clear that I could no longer wait... That's when the idea of Carried Away Travel Consulting was born.
