African Safari and Adventure Travel Specialist

I am a travel consultant specializing in African safaris, adventure travel and luxury independent travel.  I joined Nexion LLC in 2009, now a part of Travel Leaders, the #1 US travel agency, after completing a degree in travel careers following a 25-year career as a commercial banker.

Prior to 2009, I had spent over 4 months on safari and wanted to share my love of travel with others planning a dream safari, the vacation of a lifetime, a grand tour of Europe or an expedition cruise to the Galapagos or Antarctica. Initially, my clients were the network of professionals I’d worked with for so many years, those who trusted my integrity and work ethic (and had seen the photos covering the office walls).  I enjoy creating the perfect itinerary for couples, multi-generational families, photographers, and those seeking transformational and adventurous experiences.

I've retained the skills that made me a successful relationship banker:  honesty, accuracy, focus on the client’s needs, and maintaining long-term relationships with clients and suppliers, as well as keeping a sharp eye on the value proposition.

Since 2009, I’ve continued to travel extensively to South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya and Tanzania, as well as Italy, Turkey, Peru, French Polynesia, Galapagos, Fiji, New Zealand and Australia, and have completed specialist studies on Africa, India, Southern and Eastern Europe, and France.  I’ve has been a member of the Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) for 8 years, and served on the board as treasurer of the Northern California Chapter for 4 years.  I’m also a member of the National Association of Career Travel Agents and the Travel Institute.

Testimonials I've Received

Tuscany

"If an African Safari is on your bucket list, I wholeheartedly recommend Elaine as the ideal travel consultant and arranger. Elaine's combination of professionalism, in depth knowledge and her passion for travel - particularly in Africa - made for a delightful planning experience. Our trip to Kenya (with a stopover in Istanbul) was everything we had hoped for and much more. I cannot thank Elaine enough for her pivotal role in making it all happen." - Lindsey M