I first traveled to Southeast Asia after spending a year working in Australia and immediately fell in love with Thailand. Years later, I moved back to live there, which led me to travel through Asia. As a scuba diver, wildlife lover, yogi, and self-proclaimed foodie, I became completely entranced by the region. From snorkeling reefs to searching for orangutans in Borneo, the culture, landscapes of Sapa and northern Thailand, outdoor adventures, and rich history made my love for this region grow even more.
As for Italy, it was my first country out of North America and forever has a space in my heart. I first studied abroad there and later returned to work in northern Italy at a small retreat as an assistant chef. With family ties in Sicily, I fell in love with the culture and lifestyle and try to return year after year. With my passion and knowledge in these regions, I love creating meaningful trips to both Asia and Italy, inspired by what inspires your trip.
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Q&A with Alix
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
My most vivid travel moment was trekking in the Danum Valley in Borneo. The group I was with was told not to expect orangutans because the forest canopy was so dense, so we hiked, looking for smaller flora and fauna in the region. At one point, our guide slowed and motioned our group to stop. About 3 m (10 ft) away was an orangutan munching on tree bark. We stood there together, watching the soft features of this beautiful creature for a long while before any other group joined us. Watching this orangutan in its natural habitat was incredibly special.
Where would you love to travel to next?
The destination I’m most excited to travel to next is Raja Ampat. I previously stayed in Sumba and fell completely in love with its culture, the Sumbanese people, and its untouched wilderness and landscape. I’ve always dreamed of diving and traveling to Raja Ampat. It feels like one of the last truly remote places left in the world — peaceful, quiet, surrounded by untouched beauty and by nature. The idea of being somewhere where wildlife, marine life, and a secluded environment combine is incredibly exciting to me, and I hope to experience it soon.
What tips would you give for people who want to visit your specialty destination?
For Italy, my biggest tip is don’t try to do too much. It’s a country you’ll want to return to again and again — for the people, the food, the culture, and its cities and landscapes. There’s no need to rush in one trip. Instead, plan an 8–14-day trip focused on one or two regions. In the south, Puglia is my favorite, and Matera is an absolute must-see when exploring the ‘back of the boot.’ In the north, combine the Dolomites with Verona and Venice. Keep your destinations close together so you can immerse yourself in each place. As the Italians say, “piano, piano,” slowly-slowly, take it all in.
