Boating, fishing, kayaking, golfing and other sports are things my husband and I always enjoyed. So wherever we travel, I incorporate these activities into our trips. We’ve also enjoyed rafting and other soft adventures, so even before getting into adventure travel planning, I’ve been able to help my clients know where to enjoy the active pursuits and adventures they seek.   

The most important first step for me in planning an active adventure is making sure I understand your fitness and experience level and what activities you will and won’t enjoy. For some people, an hour’s hike is perfect; others want to scale a mountain peak.

For those seeking an adrenalin rush, I’ve arranged sky-diving, hang-gliding, zip-lining and river rafting. On the other hand, I’m sending a multi-generational family ranging in age from ten-year-olds to grandparents to Costa Rica. We’ve set up guided hikes through the jungle, a zip-lining excursion through the canopy, and time for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, I’ll arrange for a gentle river rafting trip. Those are things they are all excited about enjoying together, and I know they’ll have a great time.

Whether planning a white-knuckle adventure or a relaxing sailing excursion, it’s important to work with reliable suppliers. Especially with adventures like zip-lining and rafting, it’s important to check on a tour operator’s safety record and accreditation and how long they’ve been in business and to know that they take safety seriously. For example, a tour operator shouldn’t just take people to the Great Barrier Reef and send them out to snorkel without orientation to the equipment and some education about what not to touch, where to go, and how to signal for help if needed. 

In addition to having my own contacts, I share information with a network of other adventure specialists. Plus, as a Protravel agent, I also am affiliated with Virtuoso and have access to their network of vetted suppliers. 

Part of earning my certification as an adventure travel consultant was taking a five-day white water kayaking trip on the Snake River, where we camped and used port-a-potties. I’m scared of snakes and was terrified I’d be surprised by one. Then there was the fear of going through rapids that have a 4.5 rating. That’s pretty intense, and my worst fear came true when we suddenly hit an eddy and my kayak overturned. A guide pulled me out and was amazed that I insisted on getting back in the kayak. Scared as I’d been, it was thrilling, and I knew I was in good hands.

That trip underlined the importance of knowing your suppliers and making sure you are choosing the right level of challenge. Equally important, I learned first-hand the value of facing your fears. I came away feeling that if I could do that, I could face anything! 

Not every trip can or should be life-changing in that way. Whether you’re looking to stretch your physical or psychic boundaries or explore the world in a relaxed but active way, I can help you do it comfortably, safely, and at a level you will enjoy.