The pastas of Bologna. #Emilia Romagna #Italy

I began my career in 1986, with one of the first companies going into China—a country that had always fascinated me. I traveled throughout China in the '80s and '90s and grew to love it more. Since then, I’ve explored other countries in Asia and planned adventures for clients in Viet Nam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, India, and beyond as well as Europe, South America, and the South Pacific and our own special USA.

Being a foodie and a history buff led in 2013 to my founding Forks on the Road, a culinary travel boutique. Our mission is to discover a destination, including its history and culture, through its cuisine and foodways. Working with in-destination colleagues and vendors, I custom design itineraries for professional and leisure groups and individuals.

My clients enjoy curated culinary experiences like market, farm, and winery visits, cooking lessons, and exploring cities on walking and tasting tours. Dining can range from food stalls and seaside fish shacks to Michelin star restaurants and include home-based meals. Iconic sightseeing, cultural experiences, and just-plain-fun activities are always on the menu to choose from. The level of culinary involvement is up to the client. 

No surprise, Italy is our most requested destination - so many regions, so many cuisines. I've introduced many clients to its most distinctive culinary region - Emilia-Romagna and its delicious cities, Bologna, Parma, and Modena. (Think bolognese, lasagna, Parmesan Cheese, and Balsamic Vinegar) France is a close second-Paris IS always a good idea, but just beyond is its capital of gastronomy, Lyon, a beautiful city and the gateway to Provence. But, so many other countries—Spain, Portugal, India, South Africa… are eager to introduce their cuisine. Over the years, I’ve grown a culinary network spanning the globe and can deliver a wealth of authentic food-focused experiences.

I plan city stays booking 4 and 5 star hotels in the U.S. and have designed group tour itineraries for Sur La Table in legendary foodie destinations like New York, New Orleans, and Sonoma-with its world-class wineries. My grandchildren have inspired me to take a fresh look at family and multi-generational vacations and recommend including a few foodie experiences. Making pasta, truffle hunting, farm visits ... kids love it.

Personally, I enjoy reconnecting with my “gal pals,” and so I love to plan “Girlfriends’ Getaways,” often a long food and wine-focused weekend—or a spa retreat.

I make my home in Boston. This well-worth-a-visit historical city is also the gateway to New England. Here, Instagram-worthy towns offer charming inns and 5 star resorts and spas. Its stunning coastline includes Cape Cod’s National Seashore and the legendary—and romantic—rocky coast of Maine. Pick a season. I’d love to tell you more, including where to get the best lobster roll!

My favorite island is St. Barth, FWI, and in my 30+ visits over 15 years, I've come to know it intimately. I can book you a bragging-rights villa with concierge services or a seaside 5 star hotel. All bookings come with a list of restaurant recommendations. Ask me about their annual Gourmet Festival.

Like many of my clients, I enjoy ocean and river cruising on luxury ships offering an increased focus on food and wines. Are you ready to cruise? What’s on your travel wish list?

I’d be delighted to hear from you and help you plan a memorable vacation on land or sea – or both!

Please visit www.forks-ontheroad.com.