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Hey friends! A few weeks back, I took you off the beaten path in Croatia to explore some lesser-known spots that are just bursting with character. Now, after a little break (thanks, unexpected vertigo!), I’m excited to bring you along on the next leg of this journey—a wine-filled adventure that pairs Croatia with its charming neighbor, Montenegro. Whether you’re a serious wine fan or just enjoy a relaxing glass after a day of exploring, these two countries offer stunning scenery, authentic experiences, and some truly unforgettable sips. Here’s a fun grape fact to kick things off: the original Zinfandel grape—the one so beloved and grown widely in places like California—actually has its roots in Croatia. It’s often confused with Italy’s Primitivo grape, which is grown mainly in Puglia, the "heel of the boot" in Southern Italy. Primitivo gets its name from the Latin for “first” because it ripens early, thriving in Puglia’s warm climate and producing bold, jammy, full-bodied wines. But Zinfandel and Primitivo, while closely related genetically, are distinct, and the Croatian heritage of Zinfandel makes this region incredibly special for wine lovers interested in history and tradition. So, let’s raise a glass and dive into what could be your next great travel story. 🚤 Wine Roads of Croatia and MontenegroStart in Dubrovnik, the glowing “Pearl of the Adriatic,” where centuries-old walls meet a sparkling blue sea. The city’s charm gently slows you down as you wander cobblestone streets, sip coffee in shaded squares, or just breathe in the salty air. Soon, you’re island-hopping across the peaceful Elaphiti Islands, discovering secluded coves and tasting local wines on Šipan Island—where your wine journey truly begins. Next, head north through olive groves to the Pelješac Peninsula, famous for its oysters and stellar wines. Family vineyards tucked into the hills invite you to taste their award-winning wines, each with its own story. Cross the border into Montenegro, and the landscape shifts dramatically. The Bay of Kotor holds a mirror to the sky and mountains. Here, the local vineyards proudly cultivate Vranac, Montenegro’s most famous red grape variety and a real source of national pride. Known as the “black horse” of Montenegrin wines, Vranac produces full-bodied, deep red wines with rich flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice—and great potential for aging. Alongside Vranac, you'll also find the indigenous white grape Krstač, which yields fresh, aromatic whites with delightful floral and citrus notes. Together, these grapes show off the impressive versatility of Montenegro’s winemaking tradition. Explore postcard-perfect towns like Perast and Kotor, soak in maritime history, and enjoy slow afternoons with a glass of wine by the harbor. For a change of pace, hike to the peaks of Lovćen National Park or stroll the upscale marina of Porto Montenegro. Finally, spend a day around Skadar Lake exploring Montenegro’s wine country—from large estates to cozy family wineries—where warm hospitality and fine wines flow freely. Returning to Dubrovnik for a final toast, you’ll find yourself carrying the spirit of the Adriatic long after this journey ends. 🗺️ Suggested Wine & Wonder Itinerary: Croatia & Montenegro Day 1 – Arrival in Dubrovnik Welcome to Dubrovnik! Your private driver will meet you at the airport and get you settled into your hotel. Take it easy today—wander the city streets or simply relax after your travels. Your personal concierge will be available for a casual meet-and-greet to chat about your upcoming days and answer any questions. Day 2 – Private Walking Tour & City Walls After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking tour through Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Learn fascinating stories about its history, culture, and hidden corners. Later, explore the famous city walls and museums at your own pace. The afternoon is yours to relax or discover your own favorite spots, with recommendations from your concierge. Day 3 – Elaphiti Islands & Wine Tasting on Šipan Today, a private boat takes you island hopping across the beautiful Elaphiti Islands. Swim in secret coves, walk along peaceful trails, and taste local wines on Šipan Island—the perfect start to your wine adventure. Return to Dubrovnik for an evening of rest or more wine exploration. Day 4 – Oysters & Wineries of Pelješac Peninsula Travel north to the Pelješac Peninsula, famous for oysters and stellar wines. Visit an oyster farm for a tasting and learn about local traditions. Stop in Ston to see ancient walls and enjoy black risotto before heading off to three family wineries. Taste the diversity of Croatian winemaking, from international stars to hidden gems. End the day watching the sunset on your ride back to Dubrovnik. Day 5 – Free Day in Dubrovnik Sleep in or head to a beach. This day is yours to go at your own pace. Need a suggestion? Just ask your concierge. Day 6 – Transfer to Montenegro, Stop in Perast, Overnight in Kotor Cross into Montenegro with stops along the way. Visit Perast, a postcard-perfect baroque town, and take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks island. Enjoy lunch waterside before arriving in Kotor, where the rest of your day is free to explore. Day 7 – Kotor Walking Tour & Afternoon Options Discover Kotor’s rich maritime history on a guided walking tour. Enjoy free time for lunch and exploring on your own. In the afternoon, choose between a nature hike in Lovćen National Park or a stroll through the luxury marina, Porto Montenegro. Both offer unique sides of the region. Day 8 – Full-Day Skadar Lake Wine Tour Spend the day exploring Montenegro’s top wineries near Skadar Lake. Visit a mix of large cellars and family-run vineyards to taste award-winning wines and enjoy local food pairings. Soak up the beautiful views and laid-back hospitality as you learn about the region's winemaking. Day 9 – Return to Dubrovnik & Farewell Dinner Head back to Dubrovnik for your last full day. Relax and take in any missed sights. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a handpicked local restaurant, raising a final toast to your Adriatic adventure. Day 10 – Departure A private transfer will get you safely to the airport in time for your flight home. Safe travels—and until next time! If the idea of wandering old streets, tasting local wines with stunning views, and discovering hidden corners of Croatia and Montenegro sounds like your kind of getaway, then you’re in the right place. Travel in this part of the world still feels like uncovering a well-kept secret—and having someone who knows the ins and outs makes the experience even richer. Whenever you’re ready to explore the wine roads of the Adriatic, I’m here to help you start dreaming and planning, no pressure—just good stories and great adventures waiting to happen. Cheers to your next journey!
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Life doesn’t always respect our carefully made plans, especially when it comes to balancing personal health and a demanding career. As a travel professional, I often separate the business from the personal, but sometimes the two collide in ways we don’t expect. This past week brought that collision front and center for me when a sudden bout of vertigo turned my professional agenda upside down—and forced me to confront the delicate intersection of personal well-being and work commitments. When I started writing the blog again after a couple of months’ hiatus, I promised to focus on the business side of travel. In the first few blogs, I explored what we travel professionals do and what our role really means in today’s world. After covering these angles, I planned to shift the focus to the unique destinations that make travel so special—starting last week with a special feature on Croatia, followed by another post about the region. But, well, last week something happened that literally stopped me cold.
It hit me like a ton of bricks so hard that standing up wasn’t even possible. For three to four days, I couldn’t stand at all, and when I finally could, it was only with help. I didn’t fall or break anything. But when I tried to get up, the walls swayed—vertigo. Maybe you’ve never had it, or perhaps yes. Or maybe you have experienced a migraine so paralyzing you thought it was the end. I’ve had migraines before, and after a few hours of darkness and quiet, they’d pass within a day or so. Even then, I was sometimes dizzy from head colds, but a decongestant here, an ibuprofen there—and a few hours later—I was up and good to go. This time, though, the walls were moving, and so was the floor, just trying to get to the bathroom. Rosa was out, and I somehow clung on for dear life, making it from point A to point B. After I did what I needed to do, somehow, I made it back to bed—and stayed there. This was the day before we were set to fly to London. I held out hope that maybe this was like the other times: short-lived and manageable, and even if I missed a hotel night, we could still make the trip. But it didn’t get better. When Rosa came home, she was concerned—it wasn’t just clogged sinuses this time. She went to the pharmacy and got a decongestant/ibuprofen combo to clear things up. But even after that, I couldn’t sit up without dizziness and nausea, so the decision was made to cancel the trip. I basically ate nothing because I couldn’t get out of bed without feeling sick. Bedridden, I was.
If you remember last year, I couldn’t attend GEM or WTM—not because of illness but bureaucracy, since I still didn’t have my “permesso,” the permanent resident document in Italy. So, two years in a row, my “London week” plans have fallen through—once due to paperwork, and this time, due to my health. Was there a message in this? Yes. My body—and Rosa would agree—was telling me I needed to slow down after a very busy year in the travel industry and in our lives here in Rome. It might be true. I’ve barely been on my computer these past few days except to clear some emails. Do I have work to do? Absolutely. And I’m grateful Rosa was here to help me through this time. I would do the same for her if the roles were reversed. I’m learning more about balance in life, something I thought I had learned long ago but somehow had forgotten. Fortunately, this happened during a slower business cycle. It reminded me that I am not an island—even though I wish I’d remember that more often. The last time I was similarly dependent on others was when I broke my arm in Iceland over ten years ago. But back then, the support system I expected wasn’t there, so I convinced myself I had to do everything solo. Now, I’m older and, hopefully, wiser—and I truly appreciate what I have. I spoke about the intersection of personal and business life, and these past days have underscored it for me even more. Life is short, and this experience has deeply impacted me. I’ve let clients and colleagues know what happened, as many were wondering why I hadn’t responded, knowing my usual practice of getting back quickly. While I don’t plan to stop what I love—running the travel business and teaching—I had to cancel a class the very first night of my vertigo episode. I’m considering whether “doing less” may be necessary if this is the price to pay—whether it hits suddenly or creeps up over months. Travel and education define me and bring me joy. So does my marriage to Rosa and our life here in Rome, with all its challenges and stresses. Yet, we’re stronger together—both personally and professionally—when tough situations arise. Earlier this year, I had my travel lawyer draft a succession plan—not for anytime soon, I thought, as I fully intended to keep doing this. But this vertigo experience brought it into sharper focus and scared me a bit.
Italians don’t live to work—they work to live. Life is too short to be all work, work, work. I want to enjoy simple things more. I rediscovered that during the pandemic, but when reality hits home so personally, it really hits home. After a week mostly in bed or doing nothing, today Rosa and I are going out for a walk and spending the day together. Being scared of falling or taking stairs (we live on the 3rd floor with no elevator) was not me—at least, not before this. Staying housebound this past week changed me. Don’t worry—the Wandering Puffin is still at the helm. But maybe I’m taking it a bit easier these days, while the opportunity allows. Thank you. As I mentioned in a little teaser a few days ago, I’m excited to start a new weekly blog series highlighting destinations of interest—sharing insights alongside trusted partners and colleagues who bring passion and unique perspectives from their countries and cultures. Having visited this beautiful Balkan country at least half a dozen times, and recently returned, I thought it fitting to begin with Croatia. A huge thanks to my Croatian partner and friend, Mario, for sharing his wonderful input and local knowledge that enriches this story. Classics with a Fresh or Alternate Twist Even iconic spots hold secrets. Did you know there’s a quiet beach near Hvar few tourists reach? Or a tranquil early morning ritual in Dubrovnik when the city feels entirely your own? For first-timers or returnees, these nuances add richness and space to your journey. But what truly sets Croatia apart is its treasure trove of hidden gems—places that reveal the country’s soul beyond the usual sights. Ready to uncover these lesser-known jewels? And that’s one of Croatia’s greatest qualities—its versatility lets every traveler shape their own version of the country. The real beauty often lies in its simplicity: you don’t have to go far to find something different. One moment you’re on a bustling main street alive with energy, and three minutes later, you’re in a quiet courtyard listening to birdsong as you wait for a traditional meal. Your trip, your choices, your Croatia. So where should you go to uncover that deeper, more authentic side? Here are a few of my favorite spots that blend classic charm with fresh perspectives. Croatia’s Must-See Hidden Gems — Ready to Explore? Some of these places are whispered about among travel experts and curious wanderers, while others remain secrets even locals stumble upon by chance. And really, that’s the beauty of it—rarely does anyone ever truly see all of their country. Especially nowadays, when the world moves so fast. In Croatia, “hidden” can mean a quiet street locals walked past a hundred times without noticing, or a remote village that feels like the edge of the map. Even asking someone for directions can result in a shaking head, not knowing where you want to go. Let’s start with a surprising gem that often flies under the radar—Croatia’s lively capital, Zagreb. More than just a gateway, it’s a vibrant city packed with character and stories waiting to be discovered. Zagreb — Capital Charm and More Often overlooked, Zagreb surprises with Austro-Hungarian architecture, lively markets, cozy cafés, and nearby natural escapes ripe for day trips. An absolute favorite of mine, the underdog of Croatia. A town that often starts as a transit point—where planes arrive or drivers pick you up for the next leg—is now a reason to visit Croatia on its own. Independent from other locations, the nation's capital offers everything a traveler might need, without missing the element of the sea and coastline. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, the parks are lush green, the restaurants plentiful, and most importantly—it never stops. There’s always something happening in Zagreb, unlike many smaller towns, islands, or coastal areas where life is slower and more seasonal. Hidden in plain sight, wonderful discoveries await you: the underground level of the farmers market where you can chat with producers and sample their goods; a vineyard still producing wine in the heart of the city; homemade meals at a rustic restaurant that doesn’t take reservations but where everyone knows who Pero is. My favorite spot to relax is La Štruk restaurant, especially their garden terrace—a peaceful escape from the city’s lively pace where you can savor a local meal. Be sure to try their signature dish, štrukli, and plan your next adventure while enjoying the calm. Istrian Peninsula — Culinary and Cultural Delight Next, journey to the Istrian Peninsula, where rolling hills, truffle-rich forests, and hilltop towns blend Croatian warmth with a dash of Italian flair. Here, every bite and every view tells a story. Many travelers know Istria for its gastronomy—and rightly so. But to find the most amazing dishes and unique venues, you’ll want to venture beyond the coastline into the countryside. Here, real magicians work their craft in restored farmhouses, schools turned venues, and mansions surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Inland Istria is a place to slow down, connect with traditions, and meet big-hearted locals. Some of my favorites? Truffle hunting in dense forests, cooking classes in family homes, and behind-the-scenes tours at boutique wineries, often followed by stays in heritage properties with white-glove service. For art lovers, I always recommend an hour-long session with a local artist who closes down their gallery for intimate conversations about life, art, and philosophy. Rijeka & Kvarner Bay For those seeking an authentic experience off the typical tourist trail, Rijeka and the sparkling Kvarner Bay offer a vibrant blend of culture, history, and everyday Croatian life. This perfectly sized town is ideally located for exploring nearby islands, the Istrian Peninsula, and Croatia’s capital—and even two other countries! If you want to see a real, lived-in version of Croatia, Rijeka is a top recommendation. The city offers a mix of tourism services alongside genuine Croatian tradition and culture—plus some quirky surprises like a museum dedicated to the history of the torpedo. For people-watching enthusiasts, a stroll along Korzo promenade reveals lively cafés and bars ideal for sampling local flavors. Don’t miss Trsat Castle, perched above the town, which offers stunning views protecting the bay below. Unique Local Treasures If you’re hungry for layers of history and quirky secrets, get ready to dive deeper into Croatia’s fascinating stories. Have you ever heard of the village with Europe’s smallest church? Or considered tracing the footsteps of Josip Broz Tito? For history buffs, we can begin in Kumrovec, Tito’s birthplace, and design an entire journey exploring his legacy—from islands and mansions to bunkers and underground airports. The obscure and mysterious weave through every corner of Croatia, waiting for curious travelers. Final Thoughts There is so much more to Croatia than these lines can share beyond the classics and, along with my Croatian partner, we can create magical experiences that transcend time and place like Pag, Zadar, and Ston—just to name a few. You may think you know this country, but at every turn—and I have been coming to Croatia since 2002—you are forever amazed at the possibilities this now-known, or is it really now-known, destination holds. Off the beaten path is where the beating heart of Croatia is. All countries have their beating heart, but after 6 or 7 times visiting since that first trip, it has taken on a life of its own. So check in with me, the Wandering Puffin, to create your amazing Croatian adventure that satisfies exactly what you want—whether that includes the classics, excludes them, or offers a fresh twist on this amazing Balkan country. The adventures and experiences are plenty. Hey again, fellow explorers! Jamie here from Wandering Puffin LLC, your friendly travel insider. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain to share how I design travel experiences that go beyond the usual hotspots and cookie-cutter itineraries. I’m quite confident my fellow travel professionals do the same—because, like other professionals, we take our craft seriously. If you’ve been following along, you know being a travel advisor means weaving together countless details with care and expertise. But what really sets us apart is our insider knowledge, local connections, and the quick thinking that turns your trip from “meh” to magical. Here’s a sneak peek at a few things travel advisors know that can make all the difference: Exclusive AccessYou won’t find certain tours, private dinners, or special hotel perks online. Thanks to trusted partnerships built over years, I unlock experiences often reserved for advisors’ clients only—like private vineyard tastings in Tuscany or bespoke boat tours along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. While these are great examples from Croatia and Italy, I have similar insider access around the globe as do my colleagues who have invested time and energy into attending conferences, meetings and other professional events as continuing education to better our craft. Timing Is EverythingKnowing when to book flights, secure reservations, or visit attractions can save you money, time, and hassle. With locals in my network, I have advantages websites just can’t match. I advise you on the best seasons, days, and even times of day to get the most out of your trip while helping you avoid crowds. Being flexible can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, and provide an equally amazing experience—so you can spend those savings on even more adventures. Value is truly in the eye of the beholder. Even flip-flopping the direction of your travels or tweaking an itinerary can save you money and provide you more valuable options. Firsthand Experience, Every Step of the WayI don’t just recommend destinations remotely—I’ve traveled extensively, nearly 90 countries and many parts of them, often multiple times. I guide you based on real experience. From intimate inns to family-run wineries, I’ve uncovered dozens of hidden spots to help you steer clear of tourist traps and find authentic, memorable moments. And if I haven’t personally been to a place, my trusted local partners have. Whether it’s visiting a school for the deaf in Paris or locating the real Santa’s workshop far beyond Rovaniemi or even the North Pole, there’s almost always a local expert ready to help bring your special experience to life, especially when the local is so passionate about his or her home. These are the things you remember, the special moments. I don’t avoid the classic destinations and experiences but try to weave in different ways to enjoy these amazing places. Real-Time Problem SolvingTravel rarely unfolds exactly as planned. When flights get delayed, hotels overbooked, or airlines cancel flights, I’m the one working behind the scenes to quickly pivot and find solutions—saving you stress, money, and precious vacation time. If it were so simple to find last-minute hotel availability or a flight alternative when your airline cancels on you, folks wouldn’t call me! Being your trusted partner means you’re not stuck waiting on the phone, online at the airport or online, refreshing the website—I’m finding options you simply can’t access on your own or would take too long. I also have emergency contacts 24/7 access to solve issues if I can’t be available for you. Yes, AI is good but having a real person in your corner at a stressful time is best. AI can’t assist if you have been in a car accident and need emergency assistance, or when the police come, but having the person on the other line to calmly explain the options is good as it brings peace of mind. Local ConnectionsHaving relationships with guides, chefs, and artisans means I can connect you with people who bring culture and hospitality to life—not just as vendors but as ambassadors of their communities. Whether it’s off-the-beaten-path corners of Barcelona, Rome’s hidden alleys, or Parisian neighborhoods away from the Champs-Élysées, it’s these local ties that make the difference. One of the best burgers I ever had wasn’t at McDonald’s, Burger King, or Five Guys—it was tucked away in Milan. And of course, my favorite local connection? My wife, a native Roman who’s an incredible licensed guide—and a wonderful partner who puts up with me. Hey, this is my blog, so a little personal touch now and then won’t hurt. The Fine Print StuffVisas, insurance, travel advisories, cancellation policies, international drivers permits—it’s easy to be overwhelmed. I keep up to date on all the rules and regulations, from Schengen visa limitations to new mandatory medical insurance in some countries. When clients ask, “Is it safe? Will locals welcome Americans? Do they speak English?” I dig deep to provide honest, practical answers. And if I don’t know, I find out quickly so you’re never left guessing. I want your travel to be seamless, safe, and special—and as an educator first and foremost, your preparedness means everything to me, so I dig to get the most up to date information, as information changes all the time. Anticipating Your Preferences and NeedsEvery traveler is unique. Outdoor adventurer, foodie, history buff, or pure relaxer—I tailor every itinerary accordingly. No cookie cutters here. I might book the same hotels repeatedly, but only because they fit your style, budget, and location perfectly and I have many options in each city. I’m fortunate—and proud—that most of my clients are repeats or referrals, so I already know their travel style and needs. For new clients, or referrals, I ask all the right questions—the “whys” mostly, but all the w’s if necessary. The better I understand you, the better your itinerary fits, and we prepare accordingly, long before you travel. The Bottom LineTravel advisors bring peace of mind, insider perks, and networks that open doors you might never know existed. It’s more than convenience—it’s turning your dreams into stories you’ll cherish forever. Years from now, when a memory of an incredible meal, a local guide’s smile, or a whale breach fills your mind, remember that experience was likely set in motion by your trusted advisor. Of course, sometimes you find gems on your own, but often the partner in your corner started the process—and what happened next? Well… 😊 Welcome to The Wandering Puffin's When I travel for business (and yes, almost every trip is a working holiday), I’m always scouting new ideas to share. Whenever I post about places like Croatia, Sweden, Finland, or northern Italy’s lakes—Lake Garda and Lake Iseo—I hear from travelers inspired to explore those spots next. Next, up—back to London at the end of October for meetings and a night at Back to the Future: The Musical with Rosa, so watch for my review in November, Back to the Future fans!
There are endless possibilities, all year round. Whether I’ve been somewhere or my partners know the local scene, my job is to bring that insight directly into your planning. Travel is an adventure—experience it fully, with someone who has your back every step of the way Hey friends! The Wandering Puffin here again. Today, I want to get a little personal and share the story behind why I became a travel advisor—and why, after nearly three decades, that passion still fuels everything I do. Sure, this blog often focuses on travel and business—but since it’s my business, it feels right to get a little personal. After all, I am the heart of Wandering Puffin LLC, having developed the trusted partnerships here in Italy and around the world that bring your travel dreams to life.
Plus, a little-known fact: during the summer session of my freshman year at university, when I was 19, I took a Human Geography class—the only class I aced—with an A, perhaps a small glimpse of what was to come. I officially joined the ranks of the travel industry in 1997, at age 35, so there were many life experiences in between. One of the most formative was a three-month backpacking trip across Europe and Israel in 1985, which included crossing behind the Iron Curtain—spending a day between West and East Berlin, in a divided Germany. Those extraordinary moments shaped my curiosity and sense of adventure even more so. Teaching, both as an elementary school and special education teacher, gave me a profound respect for curiosity, patience, and guiding others on journeys of discovery—qualities that have become absolutely central to my work as a travel advisor. When you plan someone’s trip, you’re really facilitating their education about the world, helping them unpack history, culture, and experiences in a way that opens their minds and hearts. Every itinerary is like a lesson crafted with care, designed to inspire and connect—and no two are exactly alike.
Technology has transformed the way I connect with clients, especially as I live and work in Rome while most of my wonderful travelers are based in North America. Thanks to tools like Zoom, WhatsApp video chats, and instant messaging, planning and tailoring journeys from across the ocean is easier than ever. Yet, whenever possible, I truly cherish meeting clients face-to-face. Over the years, that meant coffee shops, client homes, and an office early in my career—but now, my adopted home city of Rome is the perfect meeting place. Many clients choose to meet here in person when they come to Italy, making those connections richer, turning the planning process itself into part of the adventure. I’m also incredibly lucky to have Rosa, my partner in crime and my wife, by my side. Many of you know Rosa—or if not, you’ve likely heard by now—the amazing, licensed tour guide who transformed my life back in February 2020 at the Galleria Borghese, just before the pandemic unfolded. Together, we share a passion for Italy’s timeless wonders and bring authentic local insight and warmth to every trip I design for clients coming to Italy. Well, she certainly does, and I am learning more each day. But that same passion exists in every adventure and experience I plan, wherever my clients choose to travel. Clients bring their travel dreams to the table—I’m there to mix all the right ingredients and create the experience they desire.
So here I am, nearly 30 years later, blending educator precision with a chef’s creativity, a traveler’s heart, and the magic of modern technology to craft journeys that are rich, layered, and deeply meaningful. What keeps that fire burning? It’s the magic of connection, the glance exchanged with a local artisan in a Tuscan village, the taste of a dish you’ve never tried before but that instantly feels like home, the awe of standing before ancient ruins knowing their stories are centuries old yet alive.
The role of a travel advisor today has evolved far beyond bookings and logistics. It’s about storytelling, wellness, cultural authenticity, and sustainability—areas travelers increasingly seek. Staying curious and adaptable keeps me ahead, ensuring your journeys are not just seamless but deeply resonant with who you are, and the impact made is truly the most important. I still get that same thrill as when I was a kid exploring Poitiers, among all the other places I have experienced over 50+ years of travel, wondering what new friendships and cultures await me. Every trip I plan is a chance to spark that wonder for someone else—to open their world just like mine was so many years ago.
At Wandering Puffin LLC, I’m not just booking vacations; I’m curating opportunities for transformation, enrichment, and joy. I’m still learning, exploring, and falling in love with this incredible world every single day. Thank you for letting me be your guide on this endless adventure. Here’s to many more journeys fueled by passion, curiosity, and love. And don’t forget—we’re still deciding on a new name for the blog, so please send your ideas! |
Wandering PuffinWeathering the Storm with the Wandering Puffin Archives
October 2025
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