Cary

Before Becoming an Advisor …

I taught for 14 years and traveled most every summer. One summer I found myself sitting at a cafe in Paris mourning my departure, and then and there I decided I wanted to travel and get paid for it. The following year I took a job leading adult and family tours and doing guidebook research each summer for Rick Steves’ Europe. Now the world is my classroom and I couldn’t be happier.

My Favorite Travel Experiences

I love leading family tours in Europe. It’s fun to see young people engage with a new culture and open their minds to new and different ways of living. I remember one particular tour member who was enthralled with ancient Rome. When we arrived at the Colosseum by metro, I had her come to the front of the group so I could witness her first glimpse. When we stepped out of the metro station, the sight of the Colosseum brought her to tears. Travel can be an emotional and spiritual experience if we allow ourselves to truly embrace it, and I love being able to orchestrate meaningful experiences, especially for young people.

Why I Love My Job

I spend roughly four months each year in Europe, so it’s fun for me to use my on-the-ground knowledge to help busy families make the most of their time and money. Planning a trip can be a daunting task. I find great satisfaction in learning about my individual families and then helping to minimize the stress and increase the enjoyment of planning the trip of a lifetime.