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Sherry L. Barson
Casto Travel
San Francisco, California
Telephone: (415) 273-3818
Email: sherry.barson@casto.com
My Specialty is: destination resorts, spas
My Favorite Destination: Africa
Years in the Industry: 29
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 30
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…an accomplished photographer of nature
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Karen Benson
Camelback Odyssey Travel
Phoenix, Arizona
Telephone: (602) 889-5862
Email: Karenb@camelbacktravel.com
My Specialty is: adventure – hiking, biking, skiing and spa
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Alpine Adventures, Backroads, Butterfield & Robinson, Canadian Mountain Holidays, Cruise West and Ladera Resort
My Favorite Destination: Africa, India, Thailand, Europe or anyplace where I can be physically active!!!
Years in the Industry: 24
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 44 (at last count!)
My Next Active Adventure Is…travel to Papua New Guinea on the Orion
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…setting up travel adventures for my clients, hiking Camelback Mountain, dancing jazz, tap, hiphop, Latin and spending time with my family and friends
Special Industry Accolades: Travel + Leisure magazine “A” List, Top 125 Travel Agents, since 2003
Advisory Boards I Serve On: Spa Finders/Virtuoso Advisory Board
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Jane Borman
Protravel International
Scottsdale, Arizona
Telephone: 480-661-5679
Email: janeborman@protravelinc.com
My Specialty is: Exotic Adventure and Luxury Specialist
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Micato,
My Favorite Destination: I have so many, one on every continent!!! It used to be Italy, but now my new love and adventure is discovering the mystery of all of Asia.
Years in the Industry: 14 years
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Traveled to all 7 continents, 34 countries and counting
My Next Active Adventure Is… White Water rafting in Patagonia, Chile
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m… When is that? I’d rather be traveling, because I can do everything I love on the road just as well as when I am home. A life of sports, fitness and travel can pretty much sum up the World according to Jane. I have been active in sport and fitness at many different levels my whole life, competitive athlete, coach, trainer, instructor and nutritionist. This lifestyle has allowed me the energy to experience the following: Golfing Pinehurst #2, White water rafting in BALI, Bungee jumping in NEW ZEALAND, Whale watching in CABO SAN LUCAS, Kissing the Blarney Stone in IRELAND, Swimming with the dolphins in KONA, Sunset pursuit of a pride taken down in SOUTH AFRICA, Carrying the Olympic Torch to Salt Lake, Marching with the Penguins in ANTARCTICA, Walking the “Old Course” in ST. ANDREWS, SCOTLAND. Diving with sharks in TURKS & CAICOS, Swimming with stingrays in GRAND CAYMAN, Riding a felucca down the Nile River in EGYPT, Visiting the Rock of GILBRALTER to find out it is hallow, Speaking Swahili to the Samburru Warriors in KENYA, Taking gondola lessons in VENICE on the Grand Canal, Flying through the rainforest on a zip line in COSTA RICA, Eating pretzels the size of my head at Oktoberfest in MUNICH, Riding on a bicycle pilgrimage to Santiago de Compestello in Central SPAIN, Viewing the Sistine Chapel on a private tour lying on the floor, staring at the ceiling in ROME, Jogging past the observatory of Galileo Galilee in FLORENCE, Italy, Learning that BUDA and PEST and two different cities separated by the Danube River, Riding elephants into the Mekong River for afternoon bath time during Elephant “Mahout” training in Northern THAILANDS, Golden Triangle. Sailing the British Virgin Islands. Early morning jogs with the captain to random islands in French Polynesia aboard the T’ia Moana Bora Bora Cruises.
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Betsy Donley, CTC ATC
Camelback Odyssey Travel
Phoenix, Arizona
Telephone: (800) 445-6527 ext 439 or (602) 889-5909 direct
Email: betsyd@camelbacktravel.com
My Specialty is: fly fishing, biking, walking, skiing and family travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Backroads, Blancaneaux Lodge, Butterfield & Robinson, Canadian Mountain Holidays, explora Lodges of Chile, King Pacific Lodge – A Rosewood Resort, Lindblad Expeditions, Micato Safaris, Papoose Creek Lodge, Royal Canadian Pacific, The Resort at Paws Up and Volcanoes Safaris
My Favorite Destination: fly fishing
Years in the Industry: 18
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 40
My Next Active Adventure Is…a luxury rail trip with Royal Canadian Pacific
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…living in Phoenix and Cape Cod, playing golf, skiing, biking, doing Pilates and enjoying life.
Special Industry Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler magazine “Top 127 Travel Agents 2002-2006”, Travel + Leisure magazine “125 Super Agents – The A List”
Advisory Boards I Serve On: Travel + Leisure Agent Advisory Board
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Mary Doyle
Global Travel
Boise, Idaho
Telephone: (208) 387-1000
Email: maryd@globaltrav.com
My Specialty is: small luxury expedition cruising
My Favorite Destination: Africa, Greece, Italy and the South Pacific
Years in the Industry: 28
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: approximately 20
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…going on garden tours, reading, walking and participating in walking for causes that I am passionate about, trying out new recipes, visiting local vineyards, attending fundraisers and photography
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Diane Eide, CTC, ATC
Camelback Odyssey Travel
Phoenix, Arizona
Telephone: (480) 759-8490
Email: dianee@camelbacktravel.com
My Specialty is: Ski – Scuba Diving – Active Vacations
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Cruise West, Resort at Paws Up, Papoose Creek Lodge
My Favorite Destination: Caribbean
Years in the Industry: 28
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 10
My Next Active Adventure Is…Royal Canadian Pacific
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m… Relaxing with a good book or hiking
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Judi Glass
McCabe World Travel
Scottsdale Arizona
Telephone: 602 448 4099
Email: judi@mccabeworld.com
My Specialty is: In depth experiences, off the beaten track travel to the southwest of the US and to France
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Butterfield and Robinson
My Favorite Destination: France
Years in the Industry: 10
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 15
My Next Active Adventure Is…By Sea with Butterfield and Robinson
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…loving my job planning vacations for my clients; hiking; working out at the gym; volunteering at an elementary school; biking; gardening and reading
Special Industry Accolades: CTA, Virtuoso Spa Advisory Board, Travel + Leisure Top Agent specializing in Caribbean 2004; Tahitian Specialist, Hawaiian Specialist, Destination Specialist Caribbean, Master Card Rejuvinate Team
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Kathy Hollister
Andavo Travel
Greenwood Village, Colorado
Telephone: 303-772-3859
Email: kathyh@hollistertravel.com
My Specialty is: Small Ship Cruising and Active Travel Vacations
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Cruise West, Lindblad Expeditions
My Favorite Destination: That is difficult but I guess it would have to be Alaska
Years in the Industry: 14
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 24
My Next Active Adventure Is…Australia or Antarctica-These are the last 2 continents I have to visit to complete visiting all 7 continents of the world
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…hiking, snowshoeing or skijoring with my dogs, biking, alpine skiing , riding my horse or doing volunteer work for our local Labrador Retriever rescue.
Special Industry Accolades: Past years have been among the top three Virtuoso producers for Cruise West, Small Ship Niche Cruise Specialist and Alaska Specialist
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Marilynn Hutt
Casto Travel
San Francisco, California
Telephone: 415 273-3821
Email: Marilynn.hutt@casto.com
My Specialty is: Soft adventure, luxury cruises, family travel experiences, expedition crusing
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Backroads, Canadian Mountain Holidays, King Pacific Lodge – A Rosewood Resort, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations and The Resort at Paws Up
My Favorite Destination: Each destination has something special to offer. I love hiking in the Canadian Rockies with Candian Mountain Holidays. Africa is amazing! Morocco, Australia and of course…Italy
Years in the Industry: 24
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 22
My Next Active Adventure Is…Lindblad Expeditions
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…Enjoying the outdoors in California with my family. We ski, hike, swim, and laugh together.
Special Industry Accolades: Active Travel Specialist Golf Specialist
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Sue Kasmar
Strictly Vacations
Santa Barbara, California
Telephone: (805) 682-6142
Email: sue@strictlyvacations.com
My Specialty is: Italy and Active Adventure Travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Butterfield & Robinson, explora Lodges of Chile, King Pacific Lodge – A Rosewood Resort, The Resort at Paws Up
My Favorite Destination: Italy
Years in the Industry: 28
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 21
My Next Active Adventure Is… with Backroads
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…working to get my clients out traveling the globe
Special Industry Accolades: Creator of the winning “TODAY Show Throws a Wedding” Honeymoon, 2002
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Pascale LeJeune
Bronwell / EXPERIENCE Active Travel
Sammamish, Washington
Telephone: 425-053-0389
Email: Pascale@ExperienceActiveTravel.com
My Specialty is: Biking / heli-hiking
My Favorite Destination: My next adventure
Years in the Industry: 18
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: can’t count how many
My Next Active Adventure Is…Heli-hiking in the Bobbie Burns, Canada
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…snowboard racing in the winter or spending time with my husband and two children
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Kay Merrill
Are We There Yet? Family Adventures
Larkspur, California
Telephone: (415) 945-6200
Email: kmerrill@andavotravel.com
My Specialty is: My specialty: Family Travel & Adventures
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Cruise West, Canadian Mountain Holidays (Heli Hiking), Backroads and Lindblad Expeditions (Galapagos), Cox & Kings
My Favorite Destination: Africa
Years in the Industry: 14 yrs
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 42
My Next Active Adventure Is…Malawi, Zambia & Mozambique
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…I am working with clients on developing an exciting adventure for their family and living in beautiful California with mine.
Special Industry Accolades:Condé Nast Traveler 2004 ~2005 ~2006 ~2007 128 Top Agents Travel + Leisure 2004~2005~2006~2007 Travel + Leisure A-List 125 Agents
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Donna Sevilla, CTC
Protravel International
San Diego, California
Telephone: (619) 795-4449
Email: dsevilla@protravelinc.com
My Specialty is: hiking and expedition cruising
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Butterfield & Robinson, Canadian Mountain Holidays, explora Lodges of Chile and Lindblad Expeditions, Cox & Kings, King Pacific Lodge
My Favorite Destination: Too hard to pick! I love Southern Africa, Chile, Paris and whatever place I most recently visited.
Years in the Industry: 28
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 71 countries in all 7 continents
My Next Active Adventure Is… with Royal Canadian Pacific in Canada, and a 5-day hiking trip in the High Sierras
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…walking the dog, hiking, taking photographs, and immersed in all things technical
Special Industry Accolades: Former trustee – The Travel Institute
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Hope J. Smith
Travel Experts/Born To Travel
Sierra Madre, California
Telephone: (626) 836-7270
Email: hope2832@aol.com
My Specialty is: educating my clients to experience their spirit of adventure with our VAST partners
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Butterfield & Robinson, Canadian Mountain Holidays, explora Lodges of Chile, Expreso Maya, Inkaterra Machu Picchu, King Pacific Lodge – A Rosewood Resort
My Favorite Destination: Africa (I never get tired of going there!)
Years in the Industry: 18
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Over 170
My Next Active Adventure Is… with Canadian Mountain Holidays
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…still traveling mentally to discover new itineraries for clients or re-inventing old ones
Special Industry Accolades: National Geographic Traveler magazine October 2004 Top 80 Agents: “Most Knowledgeable Regional Expert – Mexico”
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Susan Sparks, CTC
Sterling Brownell Travel
Aspen, Colorado
Telephone: (970) 925-5855
Email: susan@poitraveler.com
My Specialty is: active travel, interactive experiential up-close-and-personal encounters that are one-of-a-kind, finding the client’s personal niche and connecting them to it in another culture, “green” travel; Adventure – hiking, biking, nature, ecology, philanthropic; Asia, Europe, South America, Canada, USA, the world
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Butterfield & Robinson, French Country Waterways, Paws Up, Cox & Kings, Micato
My Favorite Destination: I love to travel and have an open heart to visit and experience all regions of the world
Years in the Industry: 20
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: At least 20
My Latest Active Adventures Were…Dolomites, Elephant Trekking: Thailand, Catamaran trip: Dalmatian Coastline, Biking: Remote Laos, India, Africa with Cox and Kings and the Gorillas in Rwanda, Argentina and Chile
My Next Active Adventure Is…Biking in Salta Argentina, Kayaking in Patagonia and tango in Buenos Aires…
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…working to offer my clients the expertise and benefits of the wonderful adventures that I encounter
Special Industry Accolades: Adventure Travel Specialist (The Travel Insistute), SpaFinder specialist
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Irene Spencer, CTC
Protravel International
San Diego, California
Telephone: (619) 574-1371
Email: irenespencer@cox.net
My Specialty is: wildlife, hiking, off-the-beaten-track travel
My Favorite Destination: Asia, Italy, Vietnam and Indonesia
Years in the Industry: 20
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 110
My Next Active Adventure Is… to Indonesia, Borneo and Mexico
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…thinking about it!
Special Industry Accolades: Listed in Travel Weekly agent profile
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Lynda Turley Garrett
Alpine Travel of Saratoga
Saratoga, California
Telephone: (800) 829-4456
Email: lyndat@alpine-travel.com
My Specialty is: Family adventure travel, food & wine
Years in the Industry: 26+
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…spending time with my children, hiking Mt. Whitney, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, biking, fishing, camping, skiing and enjoying wildlife
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Vicki Upchurch
Sterling Brownell
Snowmass, Colorado
Telephone: (970) 923-0166
Email: vupchurch@sbcglobal.net
My Specialty is: independent and adventure travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Butterfield & Robinson, Lindblad Expeditions, The Resort at Paws Up
My Favorite Destination: the place where I am currently traveling
Years in the Industry: 20
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: including the U.S. – 90 countries
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…creating travel experiences for others
Special Industry Accolades: ASA – Accredited Space Agent for Virgin Galactic
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Alfred H. Volden
All World Travel, Inc.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Telephone: (505) 294-5031
Email: Alfred@awtravel.com
My Specialty is: soft adventure, family travel, luxury cruises and independent travelers
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Royal Canadian Pacific and The Resort at Paws Up
My Favorite Destination: This is very difficult – I enjoy them all! If I had to pick, I would have to say “Europe”
Years in the Industry: 19
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 22
My Next Active Adventure Is… with Royal Canadian Pacific
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…playing adventures and enjoying time with my family
Special Industry Accolades: Accredited Virtuoso “Space Agent” (one of only 47 to sell and represent Virgin Galactic)
Advisory Boards I Serve On: Ambassador for The World by ResidenSea
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Dana Welch
The Travel Society
Denver, Colorado
Telephone: (303) 563-6225
Email: dana@travelsociety.com
My Specialty is: active adventure, with emphasis on Africa and Asia
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Cruise West, International Expeditions
My Favorite Destination: anywhere I am at the moment!
Years in the Industry: 15
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 32
My Next Active Adventure Is…In August of 2008 I’ll be hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc – an incredible hike around Mont Blanc through France, Italy and Switzerland.
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…helping other people travel the globe.
Special Industry Accolades: 2005, 2006 and 2007 Travel + Leisure ‘A List’ for Safaris, Egypt and Active Travel.
Advisory Boards I Serve On: I was a member of the APTA Board for many years.
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Doris White
Travel Dynamics
La Jolla, California
Telephone: (888) 643-6747
Email: doris@doristrips.com
My Specialty is: Switzerland and active adventure – hiking, walking, biking, skiing, spa, small ship cruising and expedition trips
My Favorite Destination: Argentina, Chile, Hawaii, Nepal, Thailand, USA, Slovenia, Croatia, Canada, Italy, France and Europe
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…assisting my clients with planning their next adventure
Special Industry Accolades: Travel + Leisure magazine “Top 100 Travel Agents” (past 5 years)
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Harmina Mulder
The Travel Society
Denver, Colorado
Telephone: (303) 337-8262
Email: Harmina@travelsociety.com
My Specialty is: I am in Condé Nast for Holland and Belgium but sell travel all over Europe as well as Asia, Africa, South America etc.
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Canadian Mountain Holiday-Explora Lodge
My Favorite Destination: Africa - can go there time and time again. Absolutely fascinating
Years in the Industry: 25
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 25
My Next Active Adventure Is…Vietnam and Cambodia
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…selling travel to fabulous destinations
Special Industry Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler Specialist for 7 years in a row on the board of APTA
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Lauren Bergdahl
Jet Set World Travel, Inc.
Chicago, Illinois
Telephone: (773) 404-2491
Email: Lauren@jetsetworldtravel.com
My Specialty is: Skiing and hiking
My Favorite Destination: The Cook Islands
Years in the Industry: 1
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 24
My Next Active Adventure Is…is heli-skiing with Canadian Mountain Holidays
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…biking, hiking and swimming
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Kathy Bernstein
Suburban Travel
Glenview, Ilinois
Telephone: 847-867-5711
Email: kadventure@comcast.net
My Specialty is: Luxury Adventure
My Favorite Destination: Anywhere I haven’t been yet
Years in the Industry: 10
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 65
My Next Active Adventure Is…Singapore, Hong Kong and Shenyang, China
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…Playing sports
Special Industry Accolades: Backroads Specialist; Cruise West certified small ship partner
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Sue Dybowski, CTC
Travel Experts, Inc.
Sylvania, Ohio
Telephone: (866) 882-1257 toll-free; or (419) 882-1257
Email: sued@travelxperts.com
My Specialty is: cruising and international travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Micato Safaris and International Expeditions
My Favorite Destination: Europe and Africa
Years in the Industry: 12
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Throughout the Caribbean, North America, Western Europe, Kenya and Morocco
My Next Active Adventure Is…to the Galapagos with International Expeditions
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…at home in Toledo, Ohio with my husband Don and children Allison and David; I also enjoy reading and golf
Special Industry Accolades: CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) awarded by The Travel Institute, Adventure Travel Specialist, Caribbean, Western Europe Destination Specialists as awarded by The Travel Institute, CLIA ACC (Accredited Cruise Counselor)
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Ariane Ely
Earle Travel Co.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Telephone: (317) 813-3131
Email: ariane@earletravel.com
My Specialty is: Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe, Cruise
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Backroads, Grande Luxe Rail Journeys, Inkaterra Macchu Picchu, Ladera Resort, Lindblad
My Favorite Destination: Impossible to say. Different destinations fulfill different needs.
Years in the Industry: 24
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 25
My Next Active Adventure Is…to Alaska
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…the mother of a very creative (and well traveled) 10 year old
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Julia Pirrung
Jet Set World Travel, Inc.
Chicago, Illinois
Telephone: (773) 404-2491
Email: Julia@jetsetworldtravel.com
My Favorite Destination: Necker Island
Years in the Industry: 2
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 31
My Next Active Adventure Is… with explora en Atacama
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…golfing, sailing, gardening, cooking and painting
Special Industry Accolades: Accredited Virgin Galactic “Space Agent”
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Julie Snyder
Travel Experts
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Telephone: 608-788-0170
Email: juliesnyder@charter.net
My Specialty is: biking trips, hiking trips, ski trips
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads
My Favorite Destination: South American and the Canadian Rockies
Years in the Industry: 22
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 5
My Next Active Adventure Is…a bike trip of horse country in Kentucky
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…riding and showing horses English-style hunter/jumper
Special Industry Accolades: Minnesota Governor's Award in Service
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Lorna Greenway
Woodlake Travel Services
Houston, Texas
Telephone: (713) 499-7107
Email: lornag@woodlaketravel.com
My Specialty is: Hawaii, Italy
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Royal Canadian Pacific
My Favorite Destination: Canada – Alberta & British Columbia
Years in the Industry: 1.5
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 10
My Next Active Adventure Is…CMH – Heli-hiking
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m… Staying fit with weights & swimming; socializing with outdoor activity groups
Special Industry Accolades: Adventure Travel Specialist (The Travel Institute)
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Jill Taylor
Poe Travel
Little Rock, Arkansas
Telephone: 501-376-4171
Email: jtaylor@poetravel.com
My Specialty is: FIT, small interest groups, adventure travel, spas, expedition cruising
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: none yet!
My Favorite Destination: Italy
Years in the Industry: 8
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 18
My Next Active Adventure Is… The resort at Paws Up in March and then Australia and New Zealand in April.
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m… running or biking, doing yoga, spending time with friends, planning my next trip!
Special Industry Accolades: Australia LBD, Bellini Club Ambassador
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Debbie Archambault
Travel Experts of York
York, Maine
Telephone: (207) 351-1181
Email: Debbie@travelexpertsofyork.com
My Specialty is: solo travelers and active vacations
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Yacht Safari Cruises and Cruise West vessels as well as Ladera Resort and International Expeditions.
My Favorite Destination: South America
Years in the Industry: 10
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 15
My Next Active Adventure Is…working on several options
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…playing in a steel drum band, walking, kayaking and enjoying other outdoor activities
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Brenda Cadman
Hurley Travel Experts
Portland, Maine
Telephone: 207-874-7400
Email: bcadman@travelexperts.com
My Specialty is: Hawaii, New Zealand, Spain, Adventure, Luxury, Caribbean
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: none yet
My Favorite Destination: New Zealand and Italy so far…
Years in the Industry: two
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 20+
My Next Active Adventure Is…Australia is in the making….
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…playing tennis, Flamenco dancing, skiing, kayaking, golfing or reading about places I’ve yet to explore
Special Industry Accolades: CTA, TAP Exam Gold Seal, 4.0 Travel and Hospitality Management Certification. Specialist Certification: Spain, Hawaii, Caribbean, New Zealand, Adventure Travel and Luxury Travel.
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Julie Cohen
Ovation Travel
New York, New York
Telephone: (212) 329-7350 ext 289
Email: jcohen@ovationtravel.com
My Specialty is: luxury vacations
Years in the Industry: 3
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: about 15
My Next Active Adventure Is…hopefully a South/Central America, Colorado or Alaska Adventure
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…busy, busy, busy – work, volunteer projects, lots of family events…
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Franca Di Spigna
Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc.
New York, New York
Telephone: 212-532-3400
Email: francad@vwti.com
My Specialty is: Europe and Caribbean
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: None
My Favorite Destination: Italy
Years in the Industry: 8 years
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 4
My Next Active Adventure Is…Cruise West
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…Learning about historical and cultural attractions of different desinations, museum hopping, camping, biking and jogging.
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Patricia Eisen
New Canaan Travel World
New Canaan, Connecticut
Telephone: (203) 966-1689 ext 214
Email: pat@nctw.com
My Specialty is: active vacations, far-flung destinations and unique cultural experiences
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Backroads, Blancaneaux Lodge, Butterfield & Robinson and Cruise West Note: I have worked with most of our VAST partners, have traveled to numerous countries in South America, Asia, Africa and Europe – always searching for that unique experience (special guides, locations, animal species…)
My Favorite Destination: Most recently: Bhutan and India; for years: Africa safaris and Latin America
Years in the Industry: 20+
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 65+
My Next Active Adventure Is… with International Expeditions to Mongolia
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…hiking, learning to play golf, gardening, vacationing in Martha’s Vineyard, going to events at the Museum of Natural History, theatre, excursions to New York city or New England
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Ginger Morrissey
Travelong of Summit, Inc.
Summit, New Jersey
Telephone: (908) 277-2700
Email: gingerm@travelongsummit.com
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Blancaneaux Lodge, explora Lodges of Chile, Lindblad Expeditions and Micato Safaris
My Favorite Destination: Africa
Years in the Industry: 23
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Estimated at 50
My Next Active Adventure Is…I’m still pondering…
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…gardening
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Linda Rumburg
Frontiers International Travel
Wexford, Pennsylvania
Telephone: (724) 935-1577
Email: lrumburg@frontierstravel.com
My Specialty is: active travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: explora Lodges of Chile
My Favorite Destination: Chile
Years in the Industry: 4
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 6
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…hiking, biking, skiing and most anything outdoors
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Susie Swirbul
Cruise, Resort & World Travel
Fairfield, Connecticut
Telephone: 203-662-1067
Email: sswirbul@optonline.net
My Specialty is: Adventure Travel, Caribbean Vacations, Family Travel, Golf, Safaris, Luxury Hotels and Resorts
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: none - but have booked American Safari Cruises, Lindlad, Alpine Adventures, International Expeditions,
My Favorite Destination: Caribbean
Years in the Industry: 2+
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 5
My Next Active Adventure Is…Getting my kids on the school bus on time..... ha ha
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…playing with my 4 active daughters
Special Industry Accolades: Virtuoso Accredited, Destination Specialist for many Caribbean Islands
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Michelle Bemis
McCabe World Travel
McClean, Virginia
Telephone: (703) 762-5049
Email: michelle@mccabeworld.com
My Specialty is: adventure, spa and Mexico
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads and Butterfield & Robinson
My Favorite Destination: Italy
Years in the Industry: 3
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 40
My Next Active Adventure Is… with Lindblad Expeditions
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…reading about adventures and destinations, cooking international cuisine and helping others design their perfect adventure
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Kimberly Cryan, CTA, DS
Betty Maclean Travel, Inc.
Naples, Florida
Telephone: 239-513-0333
Email: Kimberly@bettymacleantravel.com
My Specialty is: I assist our president, Mary Ann Ramsey, with Multi-Generational Travel and Adventure Travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: I have traveled on a Rocky Mountaineer Product and I look forward to traveling with Cruise West soon!
My Favorite Destination: Currently my favorite destination is Charleston, SC. It has so much to offer…great culture and history, excellent food, unique shopping and Kiawah Island is just over the bridge where you find an island full of lush greenery and beautiful beaches. The Sanctuary is my favorite hotel; they encompass a rich southern style and gorgeous ocean views. I would like to visit Australia in the future and that just might become my new favorite.
Years in the Industry: 2 years 8 months
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: I have been to Canada, England and BVI’s
My Next Active Adventure Is…I am looking forward to Cruise West Alaska’s Inside Passage!
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…Working out, playing tennis or playing with my Yorkie, Maverick.
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Debby Denham
Betty Maclean Travel
Naples, Florida
Telephone: (239) 513-0333
Email: debby@bettymacleantravel.com
My Specialty is: active and specialty travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises and Canadian Mountain Holidays
My Favorite Destination: Galapagos Islands
Years in the Industry: 13
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 26
My Next Active Adventure Is…is with Lindblad Expeditions
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…thinking about my next trip
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Cathy Dorton, CTC
Sterling Brownell Travel
Cordova, Tennessee
Telephone: (904) 754-2868
Email: cathy@sterlingtvl.com
My Specialty is: luxury lodges in active environs; Australia and New Zealand with culinary activities
My Favorite Destination: Australia and New Zealand
Years in the Industry: 20
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 15
My Next Active Adventure Is…in Australia
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…teaching my grandchildren about my travels to instill that desire for active travel
Special Industry Accolades: CTC – The Travel Institute, Destination Specialist. Africa, Tourism Australia – Aussie Specialist, Premier Agent 2005-2007 (one of 133 in North America), New Zealand Tourism/Kiwi Specialist, Adventure Travel Specialist Certificate from the Travel Institute.
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Rebecca Falkenberry
Hills Travel Service
St. Petersburg, Florida
Telephone: (727) 896-7161
Email: Rebecca@hillstravel.com
My Specialty is: active, adventure, wildlife and Western Canada
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Backroads, Canadian Mountain Holidays, Cruise West, explora Lodges of Chile, International Expeditions, King Pacific Lodge – A Rosewood Resort, Royal Canadian Pacific
My Favorite Destination: Do I have to choose just ONE? Galapagos, Kenya, Amazon, Alaska, Tahiti…
Years in the Industry: 10
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Approximately 50
My Next Active Adventure Is… is with Royal Canadian Pacific this June
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…kayaking, biking and birding in Florida
Special Industry Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler magazine “Top Travel Agents” since the very beginning (8 years), Travel + Leisure magazine “Top Travel Agents” (2 years), National Geographic Expeditions “Top Travel Agents” (1 year), “Best Travel Agent” – Tampa Bay area as listed by Creative Loafing 2008
Advisory Boards I Serve On: Condé Nast Traveler magazine Travel Agent Advisory Board
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Susie Gilbreath
Sterling Brownell Travel
Memphis, Tennessee
Telephone: (901) 624-6815, or toll-free (866) 625-6815
Email: Susie@sterlingtvl.com
My Specialty is: adventure and small ship cruising
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Cruise West
My Favorite Destination: South Africa
Years in the Industry: 19
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 33
My Next Active Adventure Is… this summer with Royal Canadian Pacific
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…selling adventure travel and continually learning about new places
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Andrew David Harris
Harris Travel Service, Inc.
Miami, Florida
Telephone: (305) 666-3907
Email: andy@harristravelservice.com
My Specialty is: independent travelers, cruises and adventure travel
My Favorite Destination: Argentina
Years in the Industry: 26
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 43
My Next Active Adventure Is… in Costa Rica
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…working, fishing, biking or planning my next trip
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Elizabeth Krupa
Unique Travel of Palm Beach
Delray Beach, Florida
Telephone: (561) 495-5775
Email: lizk@uniquetrav.com
My Specialty is: cruises and adventure travel
My Favorite Destination: North America and New Zealand
Years in the Industry: 22
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: About 30
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…spending time with my grandkids or working in the office
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Amy Stefanou
Fifth Avenue Travel
Hendersonville, North Carolina
Telephone: (888) 696-8200
Email: amystefanou@hotmail.com
My Specialty is: Active and adventure travel, expedition and small ship cruising
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Backroads, Cruise West
My Favorite Destination: Wow, that’s a tough question…I would have to say the European Countryside and back roads…but then there is New Zealand…!
Years in the Industry: 16
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Over 70
My Next Active Adventure Is…The Galapagos Islands with Lindblad Expeditions
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…running, hiking, cycling, or absorbed in the current issue of National Geographic Traveler
Special Industry Accolades: NCMA Niche Cruise Specialist, Spa Finder Spa Specialist
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Hope Yonge, ATC
Sixth Star Travel
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Telephone: (800) 547-0727-agency/(954) 873-8776 cell
Email: hope@landmark-travel.com
My Specialty is: luxury and active travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Backroads, Canadian Mountain Holidays, Lindblad Expeditions, American Safari Cruises
My Favorite Destination: this is tough…British Columbia, Europe (Italy)
Years in the Industry: 35
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 15
My Next Active Adventure Is…with Royal Canadian Pacific luxury rail and King Pacific Lodge
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…boating, fishing, kayaking, skiing, biking, hiking, Pilates, yoga, cooking and entertaining friends with my husband Mark
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Julia Shore
Reid Travel
Boca Raton, Florida
Telephone: (561) 395-6670
Email: Julia@reidtravel.com
My Specialty is: India/Bhutan/Nepal/Croatia
My Favorite Destination: South Africa
Years in the Industry: 16
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 75?
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…working and ballroom dancing
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Linda Carol Barber
TravelWizard.com
Nelson, British Columbia, Canada
Telephone: 250-352-0428
Email: lbarber@travelwizard.com
My Specialty is: Worldwide Adventure with a whole lot of Luxury!! I mostly do FIT.
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Micato Safaris in 2000, next is an Expedition to the Amazon with International Expedition in March 2008.
My Favorite Destination: Anywhere outdoors! I am a certified scuba diver with night diving and photography certification and love to observe wildlife, explore the planet, hike, snowshoe, xcountry ski, boat, go salmon fishing or stream fishing, rockhounding, back country snowmobiling and go anywhere my Hummer will take me!! All in luxury of course! Does it get any better than this??
Years in the Industry: 10 years on this side of the desk!
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 23 - Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Italy, Greece, Turkey, England, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Canada, United States, Mexico, China, Columbia, Haiti, France, Spain, Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand, Bermuda, lots of Caribbean islands... perhaps a few countries I have forgotten!
My Next Active Adventure Is…with Metropole to the Galapagos February - March 2008
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…at my desk helping clients have fun out in the world or out in the mountains looking for interesting rocks!
Special Industry Accolades: Travel Institute Certified CTIE, Virtuoso Accredited (plus the usual bevy of tourism/hotel/cruise specialties such as Fairmont FAmous, China Certified Specialist, etc,)!
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Jenni Evans
Vision 2000 Travel Group
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Telephone: (403) 777-0735 or toll-free (800) 510.7926
Email: jevans@vision2000.ca
My Specialty is: expedition cruises and tours, small ship luxury cruises
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Zegrahm Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions, Royal Canadian Pacific, Canadian Mountain Holidays and Cruise West
My Favorite Destination: Australia and Asia; South America and Antartica
Years in the Industry: 12
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: Over 50; I lived in Malaysia for 16 years and speak Bahasa Malay and Indonesian; I lived in Australia for 10 years; and have lived in Canada for 15 years
My Next Active Adventure Is…April 2007; Turkey – June 2007 with our Virtuoso On-Site Sea Song Tours, Australia Kimberley cruise – Zegrahm Expeditions, May 2008; Canadian Mountain Holidays – Heli-hiking/lodges – August 2007
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…hiking, biking, swimming, planning vacations
Special Industry Accolades: Oceania Cruises LBD (Local Business Development) team, 2007
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Jane Hay
Vision 2000 Travel
Western Canada
Telephone: (250) 898-8341
Email: jhay@vision2000alberta.ca
My Specialty is: active and specialty travel and small ship cruising
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: American Safari Cruises, Canadian Mountain Holidays, King Pacific Lodge – A Rosewood Resort, Lindblad Expeditions, Royal Canadian Pacific and The Resort at Paws Up
My Favorite Destination: Western Canada and South America
Years in the Industry: 25
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 18
My Next Active Adventure Is…visiting Inkaterra properties in Peru and exploring Argentina
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…surfing, walking the beaches with my dog, biking, playing squash, gardening, downhill skiing and spending time with my family and friends
Special Industry Accolades: Canadian Mountain Holidays expert! I worked with them for 14 years, and have experienced every lodge in summer and winter. Certified Small Ship Partner with Cruise West, Active Travel Specialist, VAST Specialist
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Jodi McKenzie
Vision 2000 Travel Group
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Telephone: (403) 777-0722
Email: jmckenzie@vision2000alberta.ca
My Specialty is: high end, Latin America and womens’ travel
VAST Partners I Have Traveled With: Royal Canadian Pacific
My Favorite Destination: Where I have been: Guatemala; What I like to sell and where I would like to go: South America
Years in the Industry: 4
Number of Countries I Have Traveled To: 6
My Next Active Adventure Is… luxury train travel with Royal Canadian Pacific
When I’m Not Traveling the Globe, I’m…reading about the globe or enjoying my own backyard of Western Canada and the Rockies
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