meet courtny

Hi, I’m Courtny! I’m a native of Knoxville, TN, where I originally trained as a trauma/neuro ICU nurse and later worked as a Nurse Anesthetist. My desire for traveling was first ignited during a high school backpacking trip through Europe. Since then, I have visited more than 20 different countries and have a long running list of future must-sees! While creating memories exploring the world, I especially enjoy meeting new people, experiencing the various cultures, and of course, eating the local cuisine. Whether it’s being on an African safari or just chatting with a local at a hole-in-the-wall pub, these moments have certainly molded me into the person I am today.  Ultimately,  this fuels my desire to help others experience the true joys of travel. When I’m not planning a trip, pushing anesthesia, or catching a flight, you can find me cozy at home with my husband, new baby, and two crazy doodles. 

I’m looking forward to helping you plan your trip! Life is short– get out there and live it!! There’s never a better time than right now :)

Most memorable travel experience to date? I have a tough time picking between driving a vintage Vespa through Tuscany, riding alongside a pack of wild dogs on the hunt for impala in Africa, and having a champagne toast in the Arabian desert at sunset.

Where do you dream of traveling next? My top bucket list travel experiences are, in no particular order: taking the Orient Express through Europe, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, cooking at a culinary resort in Italy, and exploring Antarctica.

What makes a hotel stand out to you? Impeccable views and exceptional service. A good down comforter doesn’t hurt either :)

What attracts you to travel somewhere? A fancy hotel? The culture? The culinary? Natural beauty? History? All of the above. One of my favorite things to do when I first arrive at a destination is to take a food tour. This helps me get oriented to the town and get a sense of the local culture. Although it’s a food tour, the guide always dives into the history of the area. Culinary and history– two birds with one stone!

Who do you love to travel with most? My husband and my girlfriends! There’s nothing quite like a good girls’ trip. Good for the soul!

Travel tip? Check to see if your credit card pays for Global Entry and CLEAR! Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck. You will zip through lines at all the airports, going and coming! No more missing flights! If you’re leaving soon and don’t have any of these, download Mobile Passport app. Trust!!!

Favorite hotel? Kirkman’s Kamp or Al Maha

Go-to Karaoke song? Ice Ice Baby!

Favorite travel quote:

“Travel far enough to find yourself.”