Denis-Mackenzie

Denis Mackenzie

Denis-Mackenzie

Denis Mackenzie is the COO of a large marketing firm based in New York City. His company focuses on the marketing of wines and spirits. Mackenzie is also the owner of a small winery on the shores of Lake Erie in Pennsylvania. His years of marketing experience make it easy for him to promote his products in the local area.

Mackenzie got his start in the business at a young age. His first job out of college was as an assistant in a small marketing firm. He started at the bottom, running errands and making coffee, but he was able to absorb the basics of creating a successful marketing company. His interest in wines and spirits began around this time. He taught himself to taste and identify different wines.

As Denis Mackenzie grew more experienced, he gradually moved up in the company. He took a job with his current employer and was excited to be assigned to positions in Bordeaux, France, Tuscany in Italy, and Greece. Languages are one of his hobbies, and he enjoyed learning to communicate with the local growers, winemakers, and retailers.

Mackenzie’s winery is well known in the Lake Erie region. He holds charitable sip and paint events for local and national organizations. He also hosts special events like weddings on the beautiful grounds of his winery. With his professional experience, he can help local industry groups with their marketing and spread the word about their delicious wines.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love experiencing new things. I also love to immerse myself in the local culture. I like to learn the language of the places I visit. I feel like this gives me an up-close view of the culture that isn’t possible otherwise. I also love to try all the local wines and spirits.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

It was certainly a lifestyle while I was in Europe. It’s gone back to a hobby now since I am working in New York City and running my winery in Pennsylvania. Sometimes I miss the freedom of travel.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am taking a long-awaited trip to Australia. My marketing company is beginning to branch out to Australia, and I want to supervise some of my local employees as they work on the transition. It’s exciting to be on the verge of exploring a new continent.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Learn a few words of the language before you go. You’d be surprised about the impact of just a few chosen phrases on the locals. Even if your language skills aren’t very good, you will create goodwill among the locals if you try. Learning a language before you travel is a way of expressing your respect for the local area. If you are looking for a way to learn a few phrases, try one of the many language learning apps that are available for various kinds of smartphones.

Where would you like to go?

I’d love to see Antarctica. It has nothing to do with wine or marketing, and I feel like it would be a vacation. I’m fascinated with polar exploration. I have seen many beautiful photos of Antarctica, and I hope to book a tour sometime in the future.

Where would you like to revisit?

I would like to go back to Tuscany and see my friends there. Spending a few years there gave me a love of the local people and culture. There’s nothing quite like a Tuscan afternoon spent with good friends. I would also like to spend more time in Chile. The mountain landscapes are wonderful, and the wines are great.

Do you travel alone? Why?

When I travel for work, my assistant and a few other members of my staff frequently accompany me. I prefer traveling alone, but it’s not always in the cards. I enjoy solo travel. I find it very relaxing.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

Everyone should see Rome, Provence, and New York City. The art and architecture in Rome are amazing. You should also try all of their delicious local dishes. Provence is stunning, especially in the summer. New York City is the most vibrant and exciting place.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I am a light traveler. I’ve spent too many useless days waiting for lost luggage to pack heavily. When I travel for work, I have to bring suits and things, so my bags are larger. When I travel for pleasure, I bring only the absolute essentials.

Sean Seshadri

Sean Seshadri

Sean Seshadri is a technology professional who has worked in the field since high school. His career began in earnest after he graduated from Central Washington University with a degree in Computer Science. He is an expert programmer and a well-respected blogger. With his technology blog, he can spread his knowledge of the technology sector. He helps businesses and individuals alike understand the principles of the technology market. His global perspective on the technology market helps him to understand the industry and lets him bring business wisdom to his blog readers.

Sean Seshadri travels widely both for business and for pleasure. For business, he frequently travels to technology conferences around the world. He makes use of travel technology wherever he goes, using apps to enhance his travel experience as much as possible. When he travels for pleasure, he enjoys adventure travel as well as exploring the best restaurants.

Sean lives with his family in Seattle, Washington. He enjoys spending time with his wife and children, as well as their two dogs. He is an amateur chef who is constantly working on his cooking skills. He loves to share dishes from around the world with his friends and family.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love experiencing new foods from around the world. I have to admit that when I’m planning a trip, the first thing I do is check out the restaurant scene. Apps like Yelp and TripAdvisor are valuable in choosing restaurants to try. Of course, it’s necessary to take reviews with a grain of salt sometimes, since some people are not honest about their experiences. When you read all the reviews, you have a better overall picture of the restaurant.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Traveling is a hobby for me. I spend most of my time at home in Seattle working on my blog. I do travel once every one to two months. I like to attend technology conferences in different parts of the world. I travel enough that I have generous amounts of frequent flyer points. My favorite trips are when I get to take my family with me. I have often gone to a conference in a city to scout for a family trip later on. I love showing my family the places I have already explored.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

We have a family trip coming up. We are going to Yellowstone National Park. My daughters are excited to see a bear. I’m less excited by that prospect, as you can imagine. I prefer luxury travel, but I want my daughters to see the best parts of the United States as well as the world.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Always take advantage of technology when planning your trips. I like to scout out the locations I’m visiting well in advance. Plan out your itinerary, but leave yourself some free time to explore. It’s sad to overschedule a trip and never leave time to discover what the area has to offer.

Where would you like to go?

I’m hoping to get to Helsinki this year. I’ve heard that the architecture is beautiful and that the food is great. Scandinavia is supposed to be gorgeous in the summer.

Where would you like to revisit?

I want to take my wife and kids to Hong Kong. I had a conference there last year, and it is such a fascinating place. The deep sense of history and culture blend with the fast-paced, high technology economy. The food is spectacular.

Do you travel alone? Why?

When I travel to conferences, I do travel alone. Since I’m an independent blogger and consultant, I don’t have colleagues to travel with. Once in a while, I do attend the same conference as friends from the area, and then we travel together. Mostly I’m by myself. Traveling alone is relaxing. I love traveling with my family, but it’s nice not to have to get kids through security.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

I thought long and hard about this answer. There are so many fascinating places all over the world. My top three are New York City, San Francisco, and London. All three of these places can be used as home bases to explore the local area. New York is like going around the world in itself. San Francisco has a great blend of historic charm and natural beauty. London has the best museums and cultural sights, and it’s also surprisingly close to beautiful countryside.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I travel light. I encourage my family to do so as well. There’s nothing worse than getting to your destination and finding out that your luggage is lost. I encourage everyone to travel with only one carry-on size suitcase. My wife and kids like to buy souvenirs, but we always ship them home. Most good hotels have laundry services, so there’s no excuse to over pack.

Tana Taylor

Tana Taylor

Tana Taylor

Most people want to remember their memories with a few still images captured by a professional photographer. The popularity of photography has grown once again with the possibilities offered by digital software making it simpler than ever to capture moments in a positive light. In California, Tana & Rose Photography has become one of the leading boutique studios responsible for recognizing the changing face of the American family. Founders, Tana Ava Taylor and Rose Hamilton have been developing a range of different packages for their potential clients who may come from blended families or include adopted children.

Tana Taylor adoption packages are growing in popularity as the photographer herself is willing to share her own adoption story with her photographic subjects. Despite the often difficult nature of the adoption process, Tana Ava Taylor explains her love of photography allows her to bring a touch of whimsy and fun to every set of images she produces. Tana Ava Rose Taylor adoption packages have become so popular the company is looking to expand in the next few years from its California headquarters.

The impressive rise of Tana & Rose Photography to become one of the most popular in California is a result of the love of photography of the founders. Tana Ava Taylor began her photographic career in college and rekindled her love of the practice when she started her own family.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

As a photographer, I love exploring different cultures and landscapes. I love finding new places and experiencing the vibrant nature of every community I come across. Whether I am traveling from my home in California to the beautiful Pacific Northwest or heading to a foreign country, I find something interesting everywhere I visit.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

As a mother, I don’t think I could consider traveling a lifestyle as my kids need a full-time base. However, travel is a major part of the life of my family as we find new places to visit every chance we get. We travel up and down the West Coast on a regular basis and take at least one foreign vacation each year.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

We are planning to spend the Holiday season in Australia to experience Christmas in the Summer down under. Australia is a country I have found fascinating throughout my life and always dreamed of visiting. Part of the trip we have planned includes a visit to the Great Barrier Reef which is an important conservation area which must be protected. As a photographer, I hope to put my camera to good use and build my travel portfolio over the course of the trip.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Always carry a camera to record where you have been. On the few occasions, I have not recorded my trips with photographs I have regretted it almost immediately. My way of packing is to get out everything I plan to pack and then see what I can trim down. I always think I need more than I do when I’m heading on vacation before I remove all the items I do not need.

Where would you like to go?

I am about to achieve one of my travel aims and would love to add a trip to Japan to the destinations I have visited. The culture in Japan is unique as it blends the old and the new in a beautiful way. I hope to reach Japan at some point in the future and capture the amazing beauty of an amazing culture.

Where would you like to revisit?

One of the places I visited as a young person was Berlin. At the time the skyline was dominated by cranes and construction work which had an industrial beauty as the city was rebuilt following the end of the Cold War. I would love to head back to Germany and see how the city has changed over the last couple of decades.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I have children, so I rarely travel alone. Occasionally, I do have to head out alone for a business trip, but the main traveling I do is with my family. This can impact my decisions about where to visit as I have to make sure every destination is friendly to my family. We have always talked about heading to Africa for a safari but have been waiting for our children to be older so they can truly appreciate the experience.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

In the Pacific Northwest, I love the Copper Salmon Wilderness area which has huge Douglas Firs and amazing valleys. I also love Venice, despite the huge numbers of tourists who descend on the city every summer. My last visit to Venice, Italy was in the winter when I could explore the canals without the crowds of the warmer months. We have visited London, England on some occasions and enjoy the culture of the city.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

For myself, I now travel light. However, I pack everything to keep my children entertained and happy as we move around the U.S. and the world.

William Bronchick

William Bronchick

William Bronchick

William Bronchick is a successful caterer and private chef from Denver, Colorado. At the young age of 38, Bronchick has been catering special events for nearly 20 years. He opened his catering business after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, and he credits his culinary school experience with giving him a blueprint for success. His food blog brings the excitement of travel and trying new flavors home to his readers.

His cuisine includes an exciting blend of French, Thai, and Japanese flavors, together with the best of American cooking. He uses fresh and local ingredients sourced from Colorado including lamb, beef, and bison. When planning a menu for a catering event, Bronchick works closely with the client to ensure that he produces the best possible blend of dishes and flavors to please his guests.

Celebrities and sports figures alike rely on William Bronchick to create amazing events for their guests. He is also involved in running charitable events for deserving organizations around the Denver area. While he gets most of his business from large events, he has not forgotten his roots as a private chef. Bronchick’s staff pride themselves on creating both healthy and indulgent food for private clients, making their lives easier and enriching their lives with exciting flavors.

When William Bronchick is not in the kitchen, he enjoys skiing and backcountry hiking in the wilderness of the American Southwest. He is also an avid traveler whose thirst for adventure drives him to experience the best that the world has to offer. His recent international trips include France and Switzerland.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love exploring new flavors and new cuisines. My favorite thing to do in a new city is to look up the newest and hottest restaurants and enjoy a meal. I try to balance visiting the trendy hot spots with the common restaurant food that most people enjoy. I have gotten so much food inspiration from tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurants.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Traveling is a hobby for me based on how much time I spend on the road, but in my heart, I would like it to be a lifestyle. I love running my private chef and catering business, but I would love to travel more. I try to make the most of every trip. I started traveling when I was in culinary school. I visited France, Thailand, and Japan, picking up inspiration for my style of cooking.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am looking forward to taking a trip to Vancouver, British Columbia in the next few weeks. Vancouver has an exciting food scene featuring the best local seafood and a fun blend of ethnic flavors, especially Asian influences. The area is gorgeous as well. I hope to take my hiking boots and see the mountains while I’m there.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Be ready for new experiences. Don’t plan every moment of your trip. Online research is great, but you can’t get a true sense of a new city from travel review sites. Not to knock these services – they’ve saved me from a lot of bad meals and hotels over the years. Find a central base for your adventures and then take day trips. Follow your curiosity and be ready to improvise.

Where would you like to go?

I’ve always wanted to travel to South Africa. I’ve heard that the local communities are vibrant and have exciting food. The blend of culinary experiences and natural beauty appeals to me.

Where would you like to revisit?

I’d love to go back to Thailand. I try to get there at least every few years. The people are so welcoming, and the food is amazing. The last time I was there, I traveled on a local fishing boat and got to explore the river like a local. It was a fun and eye-opening experience.

Do you travel alone? Why?

Generally, I do travel alone. I am single, and my busy life hasn’t offered me many opportunities to meet someone and begin a relationship. I won’t rule out traveling with a friend or companion. I enjoy traveling alone, though. It is nice to be able to pace my travel the way I want without being held back or rushed by a companion.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

Tokyo, San Francisco, and of course, Denver. Denver makes a great base for exploring the gorgeous countryside and mountains of Colorado. Tokyo has the most amazing food scene as well as the exciting quality of being in such a large city. I wouldn’t go there if you don’t like crowds, however. San Francisco enjoys the best of natural beauty and amazing food. It’s an easy drive up to wine country as well.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I travel light, but I often pack my backcountry hiking gear. This takes up some space in my suitcase. Hiking boots are heavy. I have packing down to a science since I travel so much. I’ve learned to adapt to any sort of travel conditions.

Brian-Setencich

Brian Setencich

Brian-Setencich

Few people have as much of an interest in architecture and flipping homes as Brian Setencich, an architect who has found his true calling in helping people find their forever homes. Setencich is one of the leaders of the Chicago, Illinois region which he made his home after completing his studies at the Illinois School of Architecture. A Florida native, Setencich has become a respected figure in the Chicago community for the success the 48-year-old has achieved as an architect as a property developer.

Brian Setencich has a long career history of achieving success dating back to his college days when he found an internship with the impressive CIA practice. Setencich set out to create a new aspect of his career when he began working as a property developer. Initially, Brian Setencich started his new career with one single family home he classed as a fixer-upper to work on.

The architecture skills of Setencich provided him with a positive outlook on the effect he could have in the home he was supervising the work on. Brian even states he learned a lot which he has been able to bring to his work as an architect from flipping homes around the Chicago region. After just a few flips, Setencich understood his true passion in life was providing his clients with the perfect home for their family to reside in.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I enjoy experiencing new cultures and finding out about the destinations I visit. As an architect, I love to explore the different techniques used in constructing buildings of all shapes and sizes. I loved visiting Australia where I indulged my passion for a range of watersports and outdoor activities. A few years ago, I spent some time in the amazing city of Venice, Italy which remains an amazing feat of engineering, in my opinion. Not only did I enjoy exploring the ancient streets of Venice but I also loved finding out more about the modern projects designed to keep the city afloat.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

My childhood was spent in Florida, but I guess I started traveling when I attended the Illinois School of Architecture. Driving from Florida to Illinois gave me the opportunity to find some great places up and down the East Coast of the U.S. Nowadays, I try to travel to different parts of the world, including Australia, Europe, and South America. Traveling is not only a fun activity for me but also a work choice, so I guess traveling is a lifestyle choice for me.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I plan to travel to Spain late this year which is a city I have always wanted to visit. Not only is this a city I admire for its range of amazing ancient buildings but also for its modern architecture. Valencia is located on the Spanish Coast, so I hope to spend some time enjoying parasailing and diving in a stunning region of the world.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

That is a tough question to answer as we all have different skills and experiences we bring to our travels. Basic things such as making sure you do some research about the region you are traveling to so you can pack appropriate clothing for the culture and weather. One of the big mistakes people make when they visit new countries is not understanding the cultural changes from Western nations.

Where would you like to go?

A destination I have always wanted to visit is the ancient nation of Turkey. The gateway to the east is a place I always wanted to go but have yet to get to. My dream location is Istanbul so I can enjoy the Byzantine architecture and history.

Where would you like to revisit?

I spent a short time in Copenhagen and enjoyed my time there but had only given myself a couple of days to explore. It was such a vibrant and enjoyable experience I hope to get back to Copenhagen by the end of next year.

Do you travel alone? Why?

Most of my travels are for work, so I do often travel alone to cut down on costs. When I travel for pleasure, I have been known to travel with friends to make things a little more fun.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

The first place would have to be Australia. I had one of the best times of my life traveling through Sydney, Canberra, and Tasmania. The range of different cultural opportunities and things to see and do were quite amazing. Secondly, New York may be a safe choice, but I do love everything about the city that never sleeps. The cityscape in New York is second to none and includes some iconic places. Finally, a slightly leftfield choice but Budapest, Hungary is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever experienced for its historic center and beautiful royal buildings.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I tend to pack everything in the house before thinning down the items I have packed to a much smaller number of vital things I need. I never leave home without my cell phone and sketchpad so I can either take a photo or draw the items I see and want to remember.

miss-bongo-meredith-stevens

Meredith Stevens Miss Bongo Prix

miss-bongo-meredith-stevens

Meredith Stevens, VP of Digital Design at Miss Bongo, divides her time between Bondi Beach, Australia and Santa Monica, California. Her company provides the best in interactive SMS messaging to a vibrant young audience. Ms. Stevens uses her talents to create services that keep the customer’s attention and encourage repeat business.

Miss Bongo is the titular character of the service. The character is a cute and intelligent monkey who gives a personal touch to the company. Miss Bongo originated in France, where the texting program first became popular. When a customer sends a text message to the service, he or she receives a collectible digital sticker or “perso” along with a fun message. The message has details about the customer’s life.

Meredith Stevens has a degree in graphic design. Her educational background enables her to create innovative graphics for her company. She supervises a strong team of graphic designers who supplement her work with their fun and fresh designs. Recently, Ms. Stevens’ team has added digital animations and custom emojis to the service. Exciting new content keeps the customer coming back.

Ms. Stevens has a deep interest in healthy living. She practices yoga and other meditative activities. She is also a surfer and kayaker. Living by the ocean has also given her an interest in landscape photography. When she is not working, Ms. Stevens loves to travel. She speaks five languages, enabling her to communicate directly with the staff at offices worldwide.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

My favorite thing about traveling is experiencing the gorgeous variety of nature. I love to take landscape photos. Whenever I am in a new region, I like to take half a day off and go on a photography excursion. I also love trying new foods. When I was a little girl, I was a picky eater, but I’ve expanded my horizons.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Travel is a lifestyle for me. I spend a lot of time flying between Australia and California. I feel just as much at home on an airplane as I do in either of my apartments. Now that I am based on two continents, I can’t imagine how I would feel if I didn’t travel frequently. Miss Bongo Prix has given me so much freedom to travel between countries.

I started traveling when I was a young child. I grew up in Australia and began traveling to New Zealand a few times a year. I loved getting to see new places and new people.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I have a trip to Cape Town, South Africa planned for later this year. It will be my first time in South Africa, and I’ve heard that is a beautiful and hospitable country. I hope to get out in nature and see the local wildlife. I may even try surfing while I’m there.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Be flexible. Hiccups and headaches always happen when I travel, but I feel prepared for them. Unless I have a meeting that would be disrupted, I’m fine with being “bumped” from a flight and receiving compensation.

I would also recommend joining your airline’s frequent flyer program and keeping their phone number handy when you fly. They may be able to help you more quickly than the standard customer service lines.

Where would you like to go?

I’ve never been to Boston. I travel to New York frequently, but I have wanted to see Boston for a few years. I’ve heard that it is beautiful and has a deep sense of history. I’ve also never been to Scandinavia. Going to Norway or Sweden in the summer would be amazing. I’d like to expand our Miss Bongo Avis service to these areas.

Where would you like to revisit?

I recently took a pleasure trip to Seattle, and I’d love to go back. The food is wonderful. My friends and I went kayaking and enjoyed ourselves. Also, I am always up for a return visit to the wine country in Napa Valley.

Do you travel alone? Why?

Frequently, I do travel alone. It does get lonely. When I have a long layover or a delayed flight, I often wish that I had a traveling companion to talk with. When I’ve reached my destination, I’m fine. I try to meet up with friends in each new city.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

Sydney, New York City, and Barcelona. Each city has a completely different atmosphere. All three have amazing food. Barcelona has fascinating architecture. Sydney is a major metropolitan area, but it’s close to gorgeous natural sights.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I travel light, especially between Bondi Beach and Santa Monica. It helps that I have an apartment in each city. Even when I’m traveling to a new place, I keep my luggage as light as possible. I try never to check a bag unless I have a clear reason to do so. I find ways to dress comfortably in clothes that can be packed down.

luis enrique coll

Luis Enrique Coll

luis enrique coll

Luis Enrique Coll is a respected freelance software developer and systems analyst. He is based in Seattle, Washington. He is experienced in building new software for companies in all industries. He helps them streamline their business operations while taking advantage of the newest developments in coding. Coll’s work helps these companies to achieve greater success.

Coll has 15 years of experience in the field of software engineering. His wealth of experience enables him to assess a company’s needs and bring a project to fruition. He is most interested in front-end development, but his experience enables him to build the entire project from the ground up. Together with coding and development, Coll is also experienced in web development. His other skills include leveraging social media presence to make a company successful.

Coll strongly believes in developing coding skills among young people. He devotes his free time to teaching coding to high school students, running seminars and giving private lessons. He believes that young minds have the best chance of developing tomorrow’s most exciting software. They have few preconceptions and a great deal of imagination.

Luis Enrique Coll is a seasoned world traveler who spends as much time in Central and South America as he can. He is also an aspiring artist who is interested in creating landscape works based on his travels. His other interests include running, mountain climbing, and avid reading.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

My favorite thing about traveling is experiencing different aspects of culture. I love traveling to a new place, meeting the people, trying the food, and enjoying local artists’ work. Street food is one of my favorite things to enjoy. I also enjoy going to musical and dance performances.

“People watching” is one of the great pleasures of traveling, in my opinion. I know a few languages besides English and Spanish, so I can often converse with the people and find out about the best restaurants and places to stay.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Traveling is a hobby for me. I love to travel, but my work keeps me close to home. I am a systems analyst, and I work long hours. When I do get away, it’s so refreshing. If I didn’t work for myself, I might be able to give myself more time off to travel, but I feel that the rewards of freelancing outweigh the disadvantages.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am planning a trip to Antarctica, and it’s so exciting. I am going to travel next winter (summer in Antarctica). A group of friends is planning the trip together. I don’t typically do organized tours, but for Antarctica, that is one of the only options open to travelers. We are going to fly in and take a cruise back to Ushuaia.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Be sure that you research before you travel. I skimped on my research a few times and found myself in uncomfortable accommodations. Then I wasted most of my trip trying to find transportation. While it’s great to be spontaneous, you should cover all of your basics first. As you become a more experienced traveler, you can take more risks.

Where would you like to go?

Antarctica is number one on my list, and I’m going there this year. I have traveled widely in Central and South America, but I feel the need to start exploring different parts of the world. I’ve never been to Australia, and I’d love to see the country. I’d also like to see Egypt and the city of Petra in Jordan.

Where would you like to revisit?

I do travel alone most of the time. Occasionally I go with a friend from a traveling club. I feel like traveling alone gives me the best experience when it comes to exploring without a set itinerary. It is nice to have someone to eat with and someone to talk to on the plane. Long haul air travel can be lonely. It’s a good time to read.

Do you travel alone? Why?

Machu Picchu in Peru is stunning. It takes some physical conditioning to get there, but it’s worth it. Buenos Aires is beautiful and cosmopolitan. The food is fantastic there as well, especially if you like steak. I also believe that everyone should visit New York City. It’s like traveling around the world without leaving the country.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

I am a light traveler. I like to combine my stays in hostels and bed and breakfasts with backpacking trips into the mountains, so it’s necessary that I pack light. The only disadvantage of packing light is that on a journey of any length, you’ll often find yourself trying to do laundry. This can be an adventure. Many rural areas don’t have laundromats. However, the benefits of packing light are so amazing. Bring comfortable clothes that can be rolled up small without looking crushed. You won’t go back to carrying the whole house with you when you travel.

Larry Simonetta of SimFresh

 

In 1991, three brothers from an Italian-Australian family came together to take the first steps in developing their own citrus packing company under the name, SimFresh. The three brothers were part of a family which had arrived in Australia from Italy in 1956 and were enjoying the natural beauty of Australia when they hit upon their idea for a citrus packing brand. Soon after its launch, the company had outgrown the single packing machine the family owned and began a hand-packaging project remaining in place to the present day.

SimFresh remains in the hands of the same Italian-Australian family and is headed by the latest generation of family members including Operations Manager Larry Simonetta. The Simon Etta Group of companies Larry Simonetta is a key component of are one of the largest citrus packaging brands in Australia and have recently been expanding around the world. Simonetta is a committed executive who has played a major role in the development of some new locations being explored by the brand. Outside of his work, Larry spends a large amount of time watching and playing various sports and is a committed traveler who explores different areas of Australia and the world on a regular basis.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I’ve traveled much of Australia and many places around the world, and I am always amazed at the different cultures I come into contact with. Exploring new areas and finding out about the culture of the people who live in a region is my favorite thing about traveling.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

It is sometimes hard to differentiate between a hobby and a lifestyle choice because traveling has taken up such a major part of my life since I was a child. Recently, I have been traveling a lot for work as SimFresh looks to expand into new global locations. However, I did head to Europe for a Summer when I was in college to join the thousands of Australians traveling over there every year. I’d say it is both a hobby and lifestyle choice for me.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

This is going to sound like a cliche but I’m a huge sports fan, and I’m heading to England in the Summer of 2018 to take in the cricket. The Ashes cricket matches between Australia and England are a great spectacle I’ve watched live in Australia, so I’m looking forward to seeing how the English crowds compare to the loud Aussie fans. I’ll be over in England for around a month, so I’m hoping to explore some of Europe and maybe head to Italy to explore my family’s history.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

No matter how much you prepare, you will always have something go wrong so prepare for the unexpected. I also tend to prepare my belongings a few days before I leave then thin down what I am going to pack to leave space for everything I will amass during my journey.

Where would you like to go?

I’ve always wanted to visit Brazil to take in all the sights and sounds of a culture I admire greatly. Heading out of the traditional tourist areas of Rio and spending some time in the rainforest is an idea which excites me. After doing some research, I believe there is much more to see than just the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, and I hope to get there one day.

Where would you like to revisit?

This may not seem like the most exciting place, but when I was last in England, I spent some time in the Lake District in the Northwest of the country. It was an amazing place and used to be the home of Wordsworth, so I gained a little culture while enjoying the beauty of the lakes and valleys.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I have traveled with friends, but lately, I have been traveling for work and have had the opportunity to explore new locations alone. Traveling alone really does stretch you a little more in a positive way as you are relying solely on yourself to get around and find new places to explore.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

That is a difficult question to answer. As an Australian, I’d say as an Australian every person should visit the island of Tasmania off the Australian coast. When I visited, I was amazed at the range of nature regarding both wildlife and plants I experienced. New York was another place I enjoyed as this was just a non-stop city everybody should experience at least once in their lifetime. Finally, I did love the English Lake District, and I think it’s a unique place with something for those who love the outdoors.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I try to travel light. It doesn’t always work out but I know I’m going to pick up some items as I’m traveling, so I always try to leave a little space in my luggage.

douglas-knight

Douglas Knight New Canaan

douglas-knight

Douglas Knight is an up and coming professional in the field of computer science. He combines his expertise in developing custom applications with a dedication to public service. His passion lies in introducing young people to the world of coding, encouraging them to bring their fresh ideas to the industry.

As a boy, Douglas Knight New Canaan resident, was fascinated with gaming. His earliest efforts in coding were focused on computer games. He was encouraged to major in computer science when he went to college. He has a Master’s Degree in computer science and uses his advanced education to bring new ideas to his work.

Knight’s professional portfolio includes many pieces of proprietary software, written both for his company and for their clients. He is involved in both front end and back end coding, making a unified whole. He considers coding to be an art, and is constantly working to improve his skills. Douglas Knight grew up in Boston, Massachusetts and is now based in Silicon Valley. Moving to the West Coast after college gave him a new perspective on the growing technology field.

Knight travels widely as an ambassador for coding. He visits high schools and technical schools to encourage students to code. He is determined that teens and young adults shouldn’t be discouraged from coding or be led to believe that it’s “too hard” for most people to comprehend. He believes that any kid or teen who is interested should be able to try coding.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love the adventure of it. Especially when I’m traveling to a new place, I get excited. I like that traveling takes me out of my daily routine and gives me a fresh perspective on my life. Traveling lets me come into contact with some truly great teenagers, young people, and teachers.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Traveling is a hobby for me. I volunteer for all of my speaking engagements, so that is where I use many of my days off. My family traveled a lot while I was a kid, but mostly by car. I became very familiar with all of the corners of New England. My favorite place when I was a kid was the White Mountains in New Hampshire.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I’m still in the planning stages with this one, but I am hoping to take my girlfriend to Scotland this summer. She has been wanting to go for a long time, and I have been planning the best itinerary and finding us the coolest places to stay. She wants to stay in a castle and I said I could probably find a way to arrange that.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Don’t overpack! You don’t need that second pair of work shoes. Make sure you have some room in your bag for anything you purchase while you’re away. The airlines are getting tougher on the size of carry-on baggage, and it’s important to try to put as much as you can in your checked bag.

Also, take the time to familiarize yourself with TSA requirements. They change more often than you might think. It’s better to be prepared than be flustered at the airport when the TSA workers want you to empty out your entire bag.

Where would you like to go?

I’ve always wanted to go to Australia. I’ve wanted to see Australia since I was a kid. I’ve heard that it’s a beautiful country, that the people are welcoming, and that the food is great.

Where would you like to revisit?   

I will definitely go back to Austin, Texas. I was there recently for a talk and there was so much I didn’t get to explore. The food alone is worth the trip, and the music is awesome too. My favorite thing about Austin is its funky, individualistic quality. No one in Austin minds if you’re a little different.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I don’t necessarily enjoy traveling alone, but it’s a necessity for me most of the time. I would much rather travel with my girlfriend or with family members. It is nice to have some time to myself, when work is normally so busy, but I often spend the time I’m away from my loved ones wishing I were with them.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

The top priority for everyone should be New York City. New York is amazing. You’ll find representatives of just about every culture on Earth. The second pick on my list is Florence. You can enjoy the art and take amazing day trips around Tuscany. My third pick is San Francisco, where I live now. I try to appreciate it like a “tourist” a few times a year.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I am a light traveler. I don’t usually check a bag, but I do if I have to stay more than a few nights.

Kola Adesina

Kola Adesina

Kola Adesina

Kola Adesina, a popular travel blogger, grew up in Belgium and is currently based in New York City. She grew up in Brussels, Belgium as the daughter of diplomat parents, so she has been traveling widely since she was a small child. A graduate of the prestigious Belgian university KU Leuven, Kola Adesina speaks several languages to communicate better with the locals in any city she visits.

Kola is particularly interested in the food and culture of each new city. She enjoys exploring new types of cuisine and is always open-minded about finding new favorites. When Kola visits a new city for the first time, she takes the time to visit markets and street festivals. She likes to understand the daily life of each city she visits, and she tries to spend as much time as she can get to know the local people.

Kola collects art and memorabilia from around the world. Her apartment could be considered a mini museum with mementos from her travels. She is particularly interested in textiles and uses them frequently in her home decorating.

She attends many cultural and arts events in the cities she visits. She is especially interested in museums, galleries, and concerts. Whenever she is in a new city, Kola makes sure to experience life as the locals do. She frequently stays in small bed and breakfasts. Her joy in exploring the world shows through in her beautiful photos and inspiring stories on her blog.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

I love to find out what people’s daily lives are like in all the new places I visit. I do visit the touristy sites and famous places, but I spend a lot of time in markets and at street fairs as well. I like to get into the neighborhoods where tourists don’t usually go. I like to stay in small bed and breakfasts to get more of an idea of how the locals live.

Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?

Traveling is a lifestyle for me. Being a travel blogger is the ideal job for me. I grew up with diplomat parents, so we traveled widely starting when I was too young to remember. Growing up in Belgium, international travel was easy. All we needed to do was to get on a train, and we could be in another country in just a few hours. I have always been fascinated by the changes in culture from one country to the next. My parents fostered my love of culture and community. My first big international trip was visiting my grandparents in Nigeria.

Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?

I am going to New Zealand for the first time this year. I’ve always wanted to go there, and I’m excited to have the opportunity. I do most of my traveling around Europe, North America, and Africa, so entering a new part of the world will be fascinating for me. I hope to be able to experience some of the local Maori culture and traditions.

What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?

Be patient and be open-minded in new situations. You may be frustrated by a travel delay or a change in plans, but don’t let it make you angry. Use it as an opportunity to discover something you might not have seen without the change in plans. I once had a layover in Barcelona that turned into a multi-day affair, and while I was upset not to make it to my next destination, I decided that I would thoroughly explore the city. The food there is truly excellent.

Where would you like to go?

I would love to go to China. I am hoping to get to Beijing or Shanghai sometime in the next few years. Unfortunately, Mandarin is one of the languages I’m not familiar with, but I am going to try to pick up enough to get by. The deep sense of history and culture fascinates me.

Where would you like to revisit?

I would love to get back to Switzerland. We spent vacations there when I was a child, and I have so many fond memories of the country. The mountains are spectacular. The food can be heavy, but it’s delicious, especially if you love cheese the way I do. It’s a good thing I stay active whenever I can because I do love to eat.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I do travel alone. Occasionally, I bring a friend, but when I’m researching for my travel blog, I am almost always traveling solo. To immerse myself in the culture of another place, I feel that it works better to travel alone.

If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?

London, Rome, and of course, New York City.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

I travel light, in part because I need to leave room in my suitcase for souvenirs. I’ve gotten to be an expert at choosing travel-friendly outfits. The most important thing is comfortable walking shoes.