Meet Our Destination Specialists
Our team has lived and immersed themselves in the destinations we offer. Our first-hand knowledge is unbeatable, and we are passionate storytellers. We are travellers and experts ourselves, which drives a deeper, more empowering experience for our travel advisors and customers. Take some time to meet the team and enjoy our curated itineraries and in-depth destination insights.
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Sarah Potter
Specialization: Australia New Zealand Pacific Islands Asia
I adore all places with a beach, but I also love the culture and the food of a destination. Read More
Hello! I’m Sarah, and I have been working in travel since I was 18. I grew up on North Coast NSW in Australia, the home of some truly amazing beaches. I moved to the US in 2006 for the company previously known as Qantas Vacations. I have travelled to such incredible places such as Vanuatu, Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand, Japan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Thailand. I adore all places with a beach, but I also love the culture and the food of a destination. Japan, Cambodia, and Vietnam are amazing food and culture destinations.
Allison Hogan
Specialization: New Zealand Australia Pacific Islands
Everyone has a unique reason for wanting to travel, and it is my job to create the perfect vacation for them. Read More
I am Allison Hogan and Australian by birth. I also grew up in Northern NSW and my first job was working on Heron Island on The Great Barrier Reef where I became a certified scuba diver. I moved to the UK for a few years before settling in the USA in 1992 where I started work for a South Pacific Wholesale Tour Company. Now 35 years later I am still doing that and love it. I have traveled to many of the countries that I love to sell which include: Australia, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands, the Tahitian Islands, the Cook Islands. I have also been to Samoa and Papua New Guinea. Everyone has a unique reason for wanting to travel, and it is my job to create the perfect vacation for them. In my spare time I am an avid reader. I love a good wine, a good movie and of course good food. I still love adventure, but with more creature comforts as I get older.
Beth Grier
Specialization: Fiji Tahiti Cook Islands
Hi, I’m Beth and I live in Long Beach, California. For many years I have had a love affair with the South Pacific, which has manifested in me working for Islands In The Sun for 32 years! Read More
Hi, I’m Beth and I live in Long Beach, California. For many years I have had a love affair with the South Pacific, which has manifested in me working for Islands In The Sun (now Travel Answers) for more than 30 years! Today I work specifically in the Islands department, which includes French Polynesia, Fiji, Cook Islands, and the Maldives. My career has allowed me to travel to French Polynesia more than 21 times, Fiji 6 times, Cook Islands 4 times, Australia 3 times and New Zealand once. I think it’s safe to say I know this region very well! Of all these though, Bora Bora has my heart, it’s just so magical!
Dina Holguin
What I love best about my job is creating that perfect trip, and really understanding what people want to take away from their experiences. Read More
Hello, I’m Dina and I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. By far my favorite travel destination is Kenya – the birthplace of Safari! Going there was truly a life-changing experience! Where you can sleep in stargazing beds, take a hot air balloon safari, have breakfast in the bush, follow the wildebeest migration, and enjoy beautiful beaches among so many other things! What I love best about my job is creating that perfect trip, and really understanding what people want to take away from their experiences. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the actual trip, it’s what remains inside you when you come back home, those memories and feelings that last a lifetime.
Adam Dela Roche
Specialization: Australia New Zealand
Hello! My name is Adam, and I have been a reservations agent with the Travel Answers Group since January of 2023. Read More
Hello! My name is Adam, and I have been a reservations agent with the Travel Answers Group since January of 2023. I have had the opportunity to travel internationally in my lifetime and my favorite location would be Kangaroo Island, Australia. I love nature and seeing all the wildlife and different plant life, and Kangaroo Island did not lack either! I have also visited Cairns, Sydney, and Adelaide as part of my adventure to Australia. All these places were so incredibly beautiful, but South Australia will forever hold a place in my heart. There are so many adventures ahead, and I look forward to seeing all the South Pacific has to offer and to helping you achieve the same dream!
Cherice Harrell
Reservations Manager
Specialization: Tahiti Fiji Australia New Zealand Packages
I fell in love with the Islands of Tahiti and Fiji over 25 years ago. I have travelled extensively through Polynesia and have yet to go to an island that I did not like. Read More
I fell in love with the Islands of Tahiti and Fiji over 25 years ago. I have travelled extensively through Polynesia and have yet to go to an island that I did not like.
The beauty of these islands is unparalleled, and they are the perfect vacation destination to rest and rejuvenate one’s soul. Australia and New Zealand are also near and dear to my heart. The food, wine and coffee cultures are divine and must be experienced. There is so much to see and do, from cosmopolitan cities to quaint lovely little towns, you must see it to believe. Let us show you the wonders of the South Pacific and we’ll make your vacation dreams a reality.
Christen McGlynn
Reservations Support
My favorite place is Fiji! Beautiful beaches, beautiful flora and fauna, and most of all, beautiful people. BULA! This is not just a greeting; it is a complete way of life. Read More
My favorite place is Fiji! Beautiful beaches, beautiful flora and fauna, and most of all, beautiful people. BULA! This is not just a greeting; it is a complete way of life. The joy, happiness, love, and kindness that radiates from the Fijian people is truly infectious. The moment you arrive, you will be transported to a place of pure relaxation, ease, and belonging. You will quickly become part of the family of the guides on your snorkeling and dive adventures, to the children of the villages you visit, and the staff at the resort; the magic of BULA is a part of all Fijian people. You won’t want to leave!
Emma Leon
Specialization: Australia New Zealand Pacific Islands
Born and raised in Australia, I have lived in several states from Tasmania & Victoria to South Australia. I moved to the USA in my mid-20s and have focused on South Pacific travel since then (my… Read More
Born and raised in Australia, I have lived in several states from Tasmania & Victoria to South Australia. I moved to the USA in my mid-20s and have focused on South Pacific travel since then (my passion). I have traveled extensively within Australia and to the beautiful destinations of Fiji, Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. Australia will forever be in my heart, but Bora Bora is truly breathtaking. You can’t beat the beautiful turquoise lagoon, snorkeling experiences, and striking Mount Otemanu. I enjoy exploring the stunning Pacific Northwest which is now my home, camping, music and cooking. My family thinks my homemade sausage rolls are the best thing since sliced bread, but I am still working on expanding their palates to vegemite!
Jackie Fontanez
Director of Reservations and Operations
Specialization: New Zealand Australia Asia Africa Pacific Islands
I have been with the company since 1995 and have seen our industry go through many changes – but the absolute love that people have for travel remains unchanged. Read More
I have been with the company since 1995 and have seen our industry go through many changes – but the absolute love that people have for travel remains unchanged. My favorite place to travel to is Fiji. The happiness and kindness that Fijians exude is infectious, and the staff at their resorts feel more like friends than staff! Fiji is very family friendly; both adults and kids never run out of things to do, and the resorts all feel so safe and clean. The warm and welcoming nature of the Fijian people, and its incredible beauty remain Fiji’s true draws. Beautiful location and beautiful people? Sounds perfect.
Janie Hall
Specialization: Australia New Zealand Tahiti Cook Islands Asia
Inspiring advisors to specialize in the vibrant offerings of the South Pacific and fostering their business growth in these sought-after destinations has been my greatest passion. Read More
Inspiring advisors to specialize in the vibrant offerings of the South Pacific and fostering their business growth in these sought-after destinations has been my greatest passion. Throughout my extensive 40+ year career, which commenced with ATS Tours and evolved through a transition to Travel2, followed by the acquisition of Islands In The Sun, my focus has remained steadfastly on the South Pacific and Southeast Asia regions. Initially delving into our Groups department, I later found fulfillment in educating travel advisors on effectively promoting and selling destinations within these areas. Over the years, I've had the privilege of personally guiding numerous travel advisors, acquainting them with the wonders of Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, the Cook Islands, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
John Gunning
Specialization: Australia New Zealand
In my 25-year tenure within the travel industry, my odyssey began humbly as a tour guide with Contiki through Australia and New Zealand. Read More
In my 25-year tenure within the travel industry, my odyssey began humbly as a tour guide with Contiki through Australia and New Zealand. Since then, my explorations have taken me far and wide across the South Pacific, Asia, and Africa. Among the myriad of experiences etched into my memory, a few stand out distinctly: Sharing an intimate moment with 13 majestic gorillas amidst the lush forests of Rwanda, a poignant visit to the DMZ in South Korea and teaming up with golfing legends Vijay Singh and Matt Kuchar for a memorable round at the Pro Am golf tournament on Fiji's stunning Coral Coast.
Yet, amidst these extraordinary adventures, what resonates most deeply are the connections forged with people from diverse cultures, their radiant smiles transcending language barriers and leaving an enduring imprint on my journey.
Judy Jenkins
Customer Service
Specialization: New Zealand Australia Asia Africa Pacific Islands Europe
I joined this company in 2002 and I have been fortunate enough to travel to so many places in the world. Read More
I joined this company in 2002 and I have been fortunate enough to travel to so many places in the world. I supervise the Customer Service Department, handling supplier refunds and addressing service issues. I am proud of the wonderful experiences we provide. It is a joy to be able to help clients fulfil their traveling dreams!
Kelly Taylor
Specialization: Asia Australia New Zealand Pacific Islands
Hi, I’m Kelly. I’m originally from the ‘Outback’ or as I refer to it; the ‘Belly Button of Australia’, Alice Springs. Read More
Hi, I’m Kelly. I’m originally from the ‘Outback’ or as I refer to it; the ‘Belly Button of Australia’, Alice Springs.
I have worked in the Travel Industry for over 20 years,16 of them have been living and working in the USA. In 2023, I moved back to Australia and I’m now living in the southern city of Adelaide.
I have been so incredibly lucky enough to travel to many areas of the South Pacific – Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands, Tahiti, Maldives, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Philippines.
I truly LOVE travel, making memories is one of the best things you can do in your life! It is a privilege to help make peoples’ dreams come true.
Kim Faucette
Reservations Manager
Specialization: Australia New Zealand Asia Africa Pacific Islands
I have been working in wholesale travel since 1998 and for this company for 17 years. I absolutely love traveling! Read More
I have been working in wholesale travel since 1998 and for this company for 17 years. I absolutely love traveling! My top 3 favorite destinations are Fiji, Kenya and Thailand. Fiji is the most romantic place on earth and Fijians are so incredibly hospitable, you immediately feel like part of the family. Kenya is MAGICAL. Every game drive is unique; the landscape is inspirational, and you learn so much about the wildlife and environment from your ranger. Thailand simply makes me happy. The people are some of the friendliest on earth, the food is scrumptious, and my encounter with elephants was unforgettable.
When people ask me for my travel suggestions, I always suggest splurging on something and/or doing something you wouldn’t normally do. It’ll make your trip that much more special and memorable.
Leah MacDonald
Specialization: Asia Australia New Zealand Pacific Islands
Travel is my passion! I believe that travel is one of the most important things a person can do! Read More
Travel is my passion! I believe that travel is one of the most important things a person can do! Exploring the world enlightens a person’s soul! I have been working in the Travel Industry for over 23 years, in wholesale and retail sales, and customer service. Sending people on adventures is something I love, and I could not see myself doing anything else! I have been very fortunate in my own personal adventures, traveling all over the Caribbean to such stunning destinations as Jamaica, Barbados, the Grenadines, Punta Cana, St. Lucia, and of course beautiful Mexico! I have been lucky enough to experience all the Hawaiian Islands, my heart truly belongs to Hawaii, and I hope to retire there someday. My travels have also taken me as far as Southeast Asia to Thailand and Bali as well as awesome Australia & New Zealand - both of which have stolen my heart! The only thing about travel that you will ever regret, is not doing it enough!
Richard Schwartzel
I was born and raised in Durban South Africa and spent many wonderful years living in Cape Town. I feel blessed to have stayed in many beautiful places in South Africa and the USA. Read More
I was born and raised in Durban South Africa and spent many wonderful years living in Cape Town. I feel blessed to have stayed in many beautiful places in South Africa and the USA. I have traveled the world extensively, across Africa, North America, Europe, and Asia, and am now following my passion for Africa by helping others enjoy its natural abundant wildlife, nature, and beauty here at African Answers. I enjoy a good laugh with friends, a nice glass of South African wine, and a traditional South African braai “Barbecue”. My family is happiest when out in nature, on a tropical beach, in the mountains or in the bush viewing wildlife in its natural environment.
Rowan Mickleburgh
Specialization: Africa
I was born in Zimbabwe, but I spent most of my informative years growing up in South Africa. Read More
I was born in Zimbabwe, but I spent most of my informative years growing up in South Africa. My love for the bush was instilled at a very early age. When I was still knee high to a grasshopper, I collected snakes (poisonous and others)- much to the consternation of my siblings and parents. It was not uncommon for one of my siblings to stumble across one or more of my reptilian friends in a dresser draw or bathroom closet.
After college, I immediately enrolled as a guide at one of Southern Africa’s premier safari lodges in Greater Kruger Park. This is where I met his wife of 30 years Linda, who happened to be a guest at the lodge. I still maintain my guiding license through South Africa’s Professional Guiding Body.
If I’m not hiking or working in the garden, you will likely find me on some dusty road in Africa, always looking to discover a less-traveled area on the map. My love for Africa includes not only the nature of its wild places, but also its people. To me it is the people that truly make Africa magical.
Laura Bugg
Specialization: Pacific Islands New Zealand Australia
I was bitten by the travel bug way back in 1997, a family trip to Fiji! And have been infected with it ever since! The South Pacific will always hold a dear place in my heart and with so many places… Read More
I was bitten by the travel bug way back in 1997, a family trip to Fiji! And have been infected with it ever since! The South Pacific will always hold a dear place in my heart and with so many places yet to travel to, cannot wait to see what they have in store for me. Starting my professional career in travel in Melbourne in 2004, I have not looked back, I have worked for a couple of Wholesalers, a Tourism Board, a Travel Agency and a Corporate Travel company. Spending 12 of those years in LA helping many American and Canadians travel to those bucket list South Pacific destinations. Now back in Brisbane , my passion is definitely making other people's dream vacations come true! Whether it is, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, snorkeling in the clear waters of Aitutaki, sleeping in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora or being on the search for the elusive Kiwi bird in New Zealand. I am ready and willing to assist you and your clients with all your South Pacific needs!
Sarad Dulal
Specialization: Pacific Islands Australia New Zealand
With over 10 years of experience as a travel advisor, I’m passionate about turning my clients’ travel dreams into reality. For me, travel is not just a job, but a way of life. I’m dedicated to… Read More
With over 10 years of experience as a travel advisor, I’m passionate about turning my clients’ travel dreams into reality. For me, travel is not just a job, but a way of life. I’m dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences that help travelers explore the world and make lasting memories. The South Pacific and Asia are particularly close to my heart. The South Pacific’s stunning landscapes and warm people offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, while Asia’s rich cultures and vibrant cities provide endless opportunities for exploration. Whether seeking peace or excitement, I tailor each trip to match my clients’ desires.
Ajene Enriquez
Specialization: Europe
I have been in the travel industry for 14 years and I love everything about travel. Read More
Hello my name is Ajene I am based in Las Vegas but I grew up in California. I have been in the travel industry for 14 years and I love everything about travel. I have traveled all over the world so it is hard to choose my favorite destination, but if I had to, I would say Greece and South Africa are on the top of my list. The food the culture and the beauty of each destination still gives me goosebumps!!
Xuwen Feng
Specialization: Asia
Hello, I’m Xuwen! Born in China, I moved to Japan when I was 19 and lived there for 10 amazing years. Read More
Hello, I’m Xuwen! Born in China, I moved to Japan when I was 19 and lived there for 10 amazing years. During that time, I immersed myself in the world of international travel, studying it in both China and Japan, and gaining hands-on experience working at travel companies in Japan.
Travel isn’t just my profession, it’s my passion. My eyes light up whenever I talk about exploring new places, discovering local cultures, and designing experiences that leave people with lifelong memories. I truly love creating personalized itineraries for my clients, and there’s nothing more rewarding than hearing their excitement and feedback after their journeys.
I’ve been fortunate to travel to many countries, but Japan and Indonesia will always hold a special place in my heart,and I’m passionate about turning every trip into an unforgettable adventure.
Seth Widdowson
Specialization: Australia New Zealand Packages Pacific Islands Europe
Seth channels his global curiosity into every itinerary he crafts. Read More
Seth channels his global curiosity into every itinerary he crafts. Whether guiding clients through the sun‑drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean, the breathtaking landscapes of Australia and New Zealand, or the timeless cultural treasures of Europe, Seth is a seasoned travel professional whose passion for exploring the world is rooted in firsthand experiences. Studies abroad in college included programs in Budapest, Brussels, London, and Galway, experiences that deepened his understanding of European Union politics and British Culture to provide a unique perspective on the destinations he now helps others discover. Also known as CROOZMAN, Seth’s enthusiasm for exploring the world extends beyond land. His extensive cruise knowledge fuels his ability to match travelers with the perfect pre‑ and post‑cruise adventures. A genuine excitement for exploration ensures that each traveler he works with embarks on a journey that is thoughtful, enriching, and aligned with their sense of adventure.
Jannie Penagos-Lopez
Specialization: Australia New Zealand Packages Pacific Islands
Travel, to me, is so much more than just a destination. It is an experience, it is culture, it is respect Read More
I was born in Guatemala City and came to the United States at the age of 7. I grew up in Southern California and am now living in Southern Utah with my two children. At a very young age I always became very excited when we would go on trips; whether they were road trips to Sequoia National Park, San Francisco or taking our annual trip to Guatemala to visit family.
After High School I took Travel Classes and became even more intrigued with the world. After I graduated I began working in Travel and as soon as I took my first work trip I became obsessed with traveling.
I have worked in the Travel Industry for over 13 years and I have loved every minute of it. I have travelled to different parts of Mexico, El Salvador, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti and Japan.
Travel, to me, is so much more than just a destination. It is an experience, it is culture, it is respect, it is knowledge and it is guaranteed that when you return from a trip, you are never the same because just as people leave imprints in our lives so does travel. “A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” Oliver Wendell Holmes.
Kristin Vincent
Specialization: Europe
I’d much rather blend in like a local, uncover hidden gems, and find those experiences you won’t see on Google. Read More
Born and raised in Santa Cruz, California and currently residing in Roseville, CA. I’ve spent the better part of 20 years in the travel world- on and off, but always all in. I’ve wandered my way across the globe, chasing cultures, flavors, and those “how is this real?” moments. I’m not the checklist type- I’d much rather blend in like a local, uncover hidden gems, and find those experiences you won’t see on Google.
Every place I go, I say the same thing: “I could live here.” . But if I had to choose, Italy, New Zealand, and Fiji have my heart.
I genuinely love what I do- curating unforgettable trips, dialing in the details, and helping others create memories they’ll be talking about for years. Honestly, I just feel lucky that this is my job.
