The World Has Never Needed Human Connection More

After spending more than three decades helping people build relationships—in banking, coaching, style and now in travel—I've learned that while industries evolve, people never stop longing to feel understood.

There are moments in my travels that stay with me long after I've unpacked my suitcase. Sometimes it's an unforgettable meal, a breathtaking view, or a conversation with someone I've just met. Other times, it's a realization that quietly changes the way I see the world.

Recently, while attending a travel conference in New Orleans, I experienced one of those moments.

Much of our conversations centered around artificial intelligence, technology, and how quickly the travel industry is changing. Those discussions were fascinating, but they weren't what stayed with me.

What stayed with me was something much simpler.

I've come to believe that we've never been more connected through technology, yet so many of us have never felt more disconnected from one another.

That thought stayed with me throughout the conference and reminded me why I became a travel advisor in the first place.

I've Seen the Travel Industry Change Before

Throughout my career, I've watched travel evolve time and time again.

When the internet first changed the way people booked travel, many wondered whether travel advisors would still have a place. Suddenly, vacations could be booked with just a few clicks.

Then came 9/11, and travelers weren't looking for convenience anymore—they were looking for someone and somewhere they could trust and feel safe.

Years later, COVID reminded us of that lesson once again. People weren't searching for another website to answer impossible questions. They were looking for someone who could guide them through uncertainty, advocate for them, and help them find their way. Many who once considered travel a given suddenly wondered if they would ever feel comfortable exploring the world again.

Each of those moments changed the travel industry, but none of them changed the importance of genuine human relationships.

Today, artificial intelligence is creating another shift. While I believe AI will become an incredible tool, I don't believe it will ever replace what travelers truly need. If anything, I believe it's reminding us of what has mattered all along.

Travel Has Always Been About More Than the Destination

When I sit down with a client, I know they aren't simply dreaming about flights or hotel rooms.

They're imagining the sunrise they'll watch from a quiet beach.

The laughter they'll share around a dinner table.

The hidden streets they'll wander.

The local people they'll meet.

The memories they'll carry home.

To me, that's what travel has always been about.

In truth, that's what I've always dreamed about myself.

Travel reconnects us—with the people we love, with cultures we've yet to discover, and often with parts of ourselves we've forgotten along the way.

That's something no technology can ever replicate.

My Role Is Much Bigger Than Planning a Trip

One conversation during the conference resonated deeply with me. When travelers were asked what they value most in a travel advisor, they didn't talk about faster emails or better booking systems.

Instead, they described someone who is a trusted guide, a problem solver, a calming voice during stressful moments, a storyteller, a resource, and someone who truly understands them.

As I listened, I found myself smiling because those are exactly the qualities I strive to bring to every client relationship. Those are the relationships I myself have come to expect and appreciate.

Technology can certainly help me work smarter, but empathy, intuition, creativity, and genuine care are what truly create unforgettable journeys.

Why I Call Myself a Curator of Extraordinary Journeys

People often ask why I describe myself as a Curator of Extraordinary Journeys.

The answer is simple.

I've always believed that a beautiful life is curated with intention. The same care we give to discovering our authentic style, nurturing our wellbeing, and building meaningful relationships is the same care we should give to our travels.

Because travel isn't simply about seeing new places—it's about becoming a new version of ourselves. And that journey begins long before we ever board the plane.

Once I understand who you are, I can create a journey that reflects you—not just a destination.

I don't believe my job is to plan ordinary vacations.

I believe my calling is to curate extraordinary journeys. That’s where the magic happens.

Leaving New Orleans Excited About the Future of Travel

When I left New Orleans, I wasn't worried about the future of travel. I felt energized.

Technology will continue to evolve, and I welcome that evolution. But I also believe people will continue searching for something technology alone cannot provide.

Human connection.

The future isn't about choosing between technology and humanity. It's about embracing innovation while protecting the very thing that makes travel meaningful.

Long after the flights have landed and the suitcases have been unpacked, people rarely remember reservation numbers.

They remember how a destination made them feel.

They remember the conversations they had.

The people they met.

The moments that changed them.

If I can play even a small part in creating those moments, then I know I'm doing exactly what I was meant to do.

To me, that's the true future of travel, and it's one I'm incredibly excited—and deeply grateful—to be part of.