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Professional Guide, Trip Research & Design
Hi, I’m Claire. I’ve spent my career designing and leading outdoor adventures, from hut-to-hut treks in Iceland to biking tours through the rolling landscapes of Tuscany. With experience working for Backroads, evoTrip, and Macs Adventure, I’ve developed and led active travel experiences across Europe, South America, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for the best hikes in the Dolomites, planning a trek to Everest Base Camp, or curious about island-hopping in the Galapagos, I’m here to help.
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Trip Designer, Former Travel Agent
Hi, I’m David. I’ve been designing customized travel itineraries for individuals and small groups since 1984, with a lifelong passion for southern Europe. I specialize in creating journeys that are deeply personalized—whether that means finding a charming guesthouse tucked into a medieval village or a luxurious five-star retreat famous for its service and style.
Originally from the U.S., I now call Montefalco, Umbria home. After years of planning trips across Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and Great Britain, I decided to live full-time in the region I love most. I help travelers experience the real heartbeat of Italy—mountaintop towns, local vineyards, historic cities—and can also craft seamless adventures across Europe, blending iconic highlights with hidden gems. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or planning a special luxury escape, I’m here to design an experience that feels personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.
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Trip Designer
Hi, I’m Dehn—trail runner, filmmaker, father of five, and lifelong adventurer. I grew up in Lake Tahoe, where backcountry routes and alpine lakes were part of daily life. That love for wild places inspired me to launch Vacation Races, a running event series near national parks—and later, Global Adventures, where I designed multi-day travel experiences that combined endurance, cultural immersion, and unforgettable landscapes.
I’ve led ultramarathons through the desert, family backpacking trips in Yosemite, and youth groups into the wilderness to show them what they’re capable of. My goal? Help people reconnect with nature, reset their perspectives, and walk away with stories they’ll never forget. Whether you’re chasing big summits, planning your first park trip, or navigating the world with your kids in tow—I’m here to help.

Outdoor Educator | Extreme Athlete
Hi, I’m Mary! I’m a backpacker, climber, writer, and gear nerd. I started hiking as a teenager and have spent the years since chasing long-distance trails, rock faces, and meaningful stories from the backcountry. When I’m not climbing or out on trail, I write for publications like Backpacker, Climbing, and Outside, covering everything from new ultralight gear to first-person trail narratives.
As a solo female backpacker, I care deeply about safety, preparation, and helping people build confidence outdoors. I regularly take first-timers climbing and backpacking, and I love helping them move past intimidation into pure awe. Whether you’re heading to the Camino, planning a quiet route through Joshua Tree, or picking your first backpack, I’d love to help.
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Outdoor Educator | Van Life Expert | Trail Creator
Hi, I’m Andreas! I’ve travelled all across the US, while living the “van life”, mapped out long-distance trails, hiked thousands of miles across five continents, and led groups ranging from first-timers to seasoned hikers. For me, nature has always been more than scenery—it’s where I feel grounded, energized, and alive.
Though my career has taken me in other directions, the outdoors has been my lifelong classroom. I’ve led group trips, volunteered as a trail steward, and helped dozens of friends plan everything from quick getaways to international treks. If you’re dreaming big—whether that means your first solo hike or an epic Andes expedition—I’m here to help you make it happen.
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Former Professional Guide | Outdoor Educator | Wilderness First Responder
Spending time outside grounds me—it clears the noise, slows me down, and helps me breathe easier. It’s the medicine I can take back with me into daily life. I spent 11 years at REI, working in retail, guiding trips, and coordinating operations for the Experiences division. Before that, I worked in natural resources management with various land agencies, giving me a deep understanding of public lands and how we recreate on them.
My passion lies in helping people reach for adventures they might otherwise think are unattainable, whether that’s hiking a remote alpine route, traveling internationally for the first time, or finding the courage to explore solo. A particular focus of mine is supporting women in the outdoors, from day hikes and backpacking trips to solo international travel.
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