Many moons ago, after our biking and walking trips became “a thing,” B&R travellers began asking us for help with their private trips...
Where should we go with our family? Where should we stay?
Do you have local friends you can introduce us to?
And so began B&R Bespoke—“Private trips made to fit.” After all this time, you’d think we’d be tired of telling people where to go . But the truth is, we can’t get enough of it . A secret vineyard? A private yacht? The private kitchen of our favourite chef? We’re experts at telling your gang precisely where to go—and setting you up with everything you could possibly dream of .
Let your journey begin .
Opposite page: Tanzania
This page: Top: Austria; Bottom: British Columbia Front cover: British Columbia; courtesy of Nimmo Bay Resort, Jeremy Koreski.
PERU HIKING
We avoid the crowds, making our way on foot past soaring peaks to Machu Picchu See page 32
60 Years Old— and More Restless Than Ever
From the very beginning, B&R has been about curiosity, creativity, and the joy of making new discoveries . The company turns 60 this year, and while we’re proud of our legacy, what excites us most is how we continue to evolve Sixty years on, our spirit of innovation is stronger than ever
One of the most exciting steps we’ve taken is ramping up our dedicated Bespoke team—an incredible group focused on crafting over-the-top custom journeys Their mission? To dream bigger, dig deeper, and create trips that feel as singular as the people who take them We honestly can’t imagine a better travelled or more creative team than these eccentric geniuses .
And our definition of “Bespoke” keeps growing, too Beyond milestone birthdays, bucket-list escapes, weddings, family reunions, and (un)corporate travel (retreats that go way beyond the ordinary), “Bespoke” now includes the mantra “If you can dream it, we can plan it .” All in order to do what we care about most: bringing people together in ways that inspire, surprise, and truly connect
We may be 60, but we’re still restless Still hungry to find new places to explore . Still inspired to invent new ways to immerse ourselves in the local culture And, most of all, still energized by the incredible travellers who join us on this journey
Here’s to our next 60 years of Bespoke travel We can’t wait to see where it takes us (and hopefully you!)
See you on the road,
George Butterfield & Mike Scarola
George Butterfield, Co-founder of B&R, with Mike Scarola, our CEO.
60 years in, we still believe the best souvenirs are sore legs, full hearts, and memories of a lifetime.
For 60 years we’ve been slowing down to see the world . And except for making, perhaps, the occasional questionable judgment call in the 1980s (didn’t we all?), our evolution has been a spectacular ride . We’ve now traversed six continents and over 80 countries on journeys as astonishing, intimate, and immersive as sinking into a Japanese hot spring at dusk . We’ve laughed . We’ve sipped . We’ve teared up a little . (Turn to page 30 to find out why .) And the secret to 60 years of expert absconding? Saying yes to another helping, no to the tour bus, and always befriending the person who owns the keys to the cellar .
“I guess you could call what we do ‘travel.’ But I’ve always felt it’s more like putting on a play; we set the stage, and our travellers bring it to life.”
—George Butterfield
Opposite page: Top: quintessential B&R guides, circa 1990. Middle row, left to right: George, Martha and Sidney, on a ship to Europe, 1972; B&R hits the slopes, 1972; plotting world domination, 1999. Bottom row, left to right: a B&R safari, 1992; George and Martha on the road, 1997; whitewater rafting in BC, 1976.
This page: George, champagne in hand, with Tom Hamilton.
How We Travel
We have three types of travellers at B&R: those who love exploring the world with other like-minded B&R travellers; others who prefer to adventure on their own private trips; and the many who alternate between the two . How would you like to see the world?
ALSACE, FRANCE
Bespoke Travel
Go Bespoke. Return Bespeechless. How big is your dream? Small? Medium? Large? Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious?
(That last one is our specialty .) No matter what you have in mind, our team of dreamweavers-cum-Experience-Designers will craft a Bespoke journey just for you
A multi-generational family getaway?
An epic celebration with your best friends?
A retreat with your colleagues? Just say the word, and we’ll start weaving our magic
Small Group Trips
Find a trip you love and hop on a Small Group departure. Our Small Group trips pull together a small group of fellow wanderers for the trip of a lifetime . Led by signature B&R guides, we float up mountains together, sip Barolos together, poke around castles together, and puff our way to the top of Tuscan hills together .
Privatized Group Trips Self-Guided
Bring your own gang and have it all to yourselves. Want to set your very own guest list? Be our guest . Simply choose the friends, family members or colleagues you want to slow down to see the world with, pick a scheduled trip, settle on a date, and go Privatizing a Small Group trip means all you have to do is board the plane .
You’re on your own (but we’ve always got your back). Looking for a little more intimacy? Like to be self-reliant? Self-Guided trips combine the hallmarks of B&R (superb hotels, amazing local friends, stunning routes) with the freedom of pacing each day exactly the way you like Your B&R Local Host is always just a phone call away
Why Choose Bespoke?
TURQUOISE COAST, TÜRKIYE
Hand over your wish list, we do all the rest.
What sets our Bespoke trips apart? Well, for starters, they have character . And wonder . And wit . And a distinct sort of joie de vivre. They aren’t designed to simply satisfy your list of requirements—that’s the easy part . They’re infused with a creative zeal that leaves everyone on your trip speechless .
An Effortless Journey
Our expert Experience Designers are a lot like world-class chefs Their favourite ingredients? Off-the-beaten-path routes, incredible restaurants, swoon-worthy hotels—and just a pinch of magic, to taste
Years of Local Friendships
We don’t just “see” a region—we forge such strong connections with its people that we’re granted everything from long-held family recipes and keys to the (literal) castle, to warm-hearted invitations to return—and bring our friends with us
Lifelong Memories
Bespoke trips are designed to go way beyond the ordinary . These aren’t just holidays, they’re unique, unforgettable, intricately crafted journeys designed to move you at every turn and feel less like “travel” and more like transcendence
Creativity and Spontaneity
Every Bespoke journey is a surprising opus—which is why every person who touches your trip imbues it with creativity We’ll get to know you personally, learn where you set the bar, then find 279 creative ways to leap over it
Our Approach
THIMPHU, BHUTAN
The Bespoke Planning Process
Whether you want an intimate bonding experience with your family or an over-the-top blowout celebration with your friends, if you can dream it, our Experience Designers can make it happen—as long as it’s (roughly) within Earth’s atmosphere .
1
2
3 Let’s Connect
Whether you have a specific trip in mind or are looking for inspiration, get in touch with your travel preferences and requirements, and one of our Experience Designers will kick off the planning
Customized Itinerary & Confirmation
Your Experience Designer will share a tailored trip plan and will collaborate with you to adjust and finalize the itinerary . A trip deposit is requested with full payment made 95 days before departure
After a conversation about your trip, you’ll receive details on an adventure with us, including activities and accommodation options An initial Trip Development Fee is requested before moving to the next stage .
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Detailed Brief Support, Start to Finish
Before your trip, you’ll receive details on every step of your journey . You’ll have dedicated support while on trip, and when you return, our Traveller Experience team will be ready to welcome your feedback
How We Move
We’ve got a flavour of adventure to suit every palate.
From invigorating bike trips and sumptuous wine grand journeys to roaringly up-close safaris and family trips that will thrill your whole brood, we’ve got plenty of ideas for unforgettable adventures .
WALES, UNITED KINGDOM
Family
We’ve never bought into the myth that having kids means shelving your passport, or that a “family vacation” should end with parents needing another one Our family trips are road-tested by real parents who know the difference between “this is fun!” and “this is fine . . . I guess .” The result? Adventures that elicit “Best day of my life!” enthusiasm from 65-year-olds and six-and-a-half-year-olds alike Expect a mix of curiosity, joy and breathing room, with enough togetherness to bond, but enough independence to keep everyone sane . Less bickering, lots of belly laughs, and more fond memories than your phone’s hard drive can handle
Arts & Culture Biking
We’ll open doors for you: into the home of a Vietnamese water-puppet master, the kitchens of Italian nonnas, and the hidden art collections of world-renowned experts
After six decades of scouting, designing, and fine-tuning, we’ve found the world’s best biking routes—thoroughly vetted, spectacularly scenic, and guaranteed to get your legs pumping
By Sea
Some of history’s greatest explorers discovered new worlds on the water— and so will you: sailing the Mediterranean, cruising the Mekong, or island-hopping off Croatia’s coast
Villa Stays
The only thing better than travelling with your favourite people? Taking over a beachfront hideaway, a Tuscan farmhouse, or a château with more history than your high school textbook . (Want to stay in Joan of Arc’s room? We know a place ) A villa stay with us means space to sprawl, a pool to plunge into, and a chef who insists you have seconds . Days flow between lounging, laughing, and jaunts into the local scene but always end up back at your private pad, where, blissfully, you only have to unpack once This isn’t a vacation spot, it’s an oasis—and it’s all yours
Expedition
In remote camps, eco-lodges and five-star hideaways that blend rugged adventure with refined comfort, we’ll chase the world’s wild edges—and see the planet’s rarest wonders
Gastronomy Multi-Active
We find a region’s heart through its food and wine—volcanic vineyards, Japanese kaiseki, Tasmanian oysters— curating journeys where every sip, bite, and laugh reveals its true flavour
Biking and hiking not quite satisfying your inner adventurer? We get it Kayak Climb Snorkel Raft We’ve got no shortage of wild, wonderful ways to move you
Walking & Hiking
The best way to soak up the spirit of a place is on foot . From the Dolomites to Machu Picchu, we’ve scoured the world’s most iconic trails and scouted its most soul-stirring paths Ready to ramble?
Wellness
From Himalayan meditations to mindful Japanese movement, our wellness journeys blend ancient rituals with modern indulgence, restoring balance, sparking joy, and proving self-care can be spectacular
Winter Adventures
Forget hibernation—winter’s for wonder . Snowshoe peaks, dogsled under starlight, chase Northern Lights, then thaw in cozy lodges and spas Adventure doesn’t stop when the temperature drops
Safari
Forget the busloads and binocular brigades; our safaris take you straight to the heart of the savanna and remain in your heart for years once you’re back home . One day you’re swapping stories with a ranger by the campfire, the next you’re waking up to elephants wandering past your plunge pool Conservation and community aren’t footnotes; they’re woven into every game drive, starlit dinner, and long conversation with our friends (who may be botanists, biologists, Botswanans, or all of the above) The result? Not just animal sightings, but goosebumpraising, life-shifting moments you’ll carry long after the dust has settled .
Butterfield & Robinson Bespoke
NORTH AMERICA SPAIN & PORTUGAL
LATIN AMERICA
Algarve
Catalonia
Basque Country
Mallorca Menorca
A FRICA EUROPE
OCEANIA
Notes from the Road
A Bespoke trip can be anything you want it to be. For inspiration, we’ve selected 10 Bespoke journeys crafted by some of our best storytellers . Want to gallivant with friends from Bordeaux to Burgundy? Have a birthday bash in Positano? (We throw a good party .) Take the family on an epic adventure across Southern Africa? All
“I wouldn’t have even been able to come up with what B&R put together for us in my wildest dreams.”
—Leslie D.
Cycle, Sip, Celebrate: The Birthday to Beat All Birthdays
CAKE IS GOOD. CHAMPAGNE IS BETTER. BETTER STILL? A PRIVATE TASTING FOR LESLIE AND HER 35 BESTIES IN MOËT & CHANDON’S LABYRINTHINE PRIVATE CELLAR…
Some people celebrate milestone birthdays with cake and candles. Leslie and her friends? They celebrate with passports and plane rides. Over the years, their birthday trips have ranged from beaches to ski slopes, hiking trails to cruise decks. The group’s unofficial rule: every trip must match—or, preferably, exceed—the last.
So when Leslie’s 60th rolled around, the brief was simple: culture, activity, great food, great wine… and a heavy pour of “OMG!”
Enter Jérôme Boré, our Burgundy-born, Loire-living Experience Designer for France, who recognized immediately that a trip this special required an incredibly fine Champagne, which pairs perfectly with the rich culture of Alsace. But there was an added wrinkle.
“Good times are all about the people around you,” Leslie says. “And when you’re celebrating a landmark birthday, that’s even more about having the people you love the most around you and creating a memory that we will share forever”. And since Leslie is a person who’s very loved, the people she loves most
added up to a total of 35 travellers—a party size that gave Jérôme all kinds of room to play.
“I instantly thought of some big Champagne houses like Moët Chandon, because they can make something beautiful happen,” he says. “But I also wanted them to have access to a very small, low-key producer to have the best of both worlds.”
So between guided rides along quiet rural roads through flourishing vineyards, the group toured Moët’s legendary cellars—an underground network so elaborate it’s basically a subterranean village. Next, they met a fifth-generation winemaker in the village of Boursault for a private tasting and alfresco lunch on her boutique winery’s grounds.
Jérôme made sure it wasn’t all big-name sparkle, though. There were intimate moments woven throughout: live music at lunches and cocktail hours, an Alsatian winemaker teaching everyone to sabre a bottle of bubbly, and the surprise unveiling of personalized cycling jerseys to mark the occasion.
For Leslie, Jérôme’s expertise was a revelation. “As the organizer, I had a sense of the where, when and how for the trip,” she says, but... “I was still blown away by how special each location and meal was. I wouldn’t have even been able to come up with what B&R put together for us in my wildest dreams.”
Having designed hundreds of trips for B&R, exceeding travellers’ wildest expectations is old hat for Jérôme. The hard part? Surprising the (exceptionally well organized) birthday girl. “Leslie was really attentive to details,” he explains. “So she wanted to know, of course, what we would do on one particular evening—even when we were trying to keep it a secret!” Fortunately, they managed to keep her in the dark long enough to smuggle in a very special bottle of wine—one from her birth year, a rare vintage that provided the perfect way to celebrate the big 6-0.
So, after sipping, cycling and celebrating their way through two of France’s most distinctive wine regions, how does Leslie feel about the group’s prospects for topping this one at the next milestone birthday? “After this trip I think it might be impossible,” she says.
FEATURED DESIGNER
Jérôme Boré
Loire Valley, Bordeaux & Dordogne, Alsace, Champagne, Provence & French Riviera
Jérôme has been designing trips for 11 years, specializing in France’s storied regions
His knowledge of local terroir and heritage ensures that travellers experience the best France offers Whether it’s exploring Bordeaux’s vineyards or the quiet beauty of Provence, Jérôme crafts trips that highlight both culture and natural splendour
FEATURED DESIGNER
Rob Grieve
New Zealand, Australia
Rob’s adventurous spirit drives his trip designs in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond With B&R since 2005, he has guided in regions as diverse as Bhutan, France, and the Pacific Islands A former ski coach and seasoned adventurer, Rob specializes in creative problem-solving and uncovering hidden gems He crafts immersive, authentic experiences that take travellers in deep, allowing them to connect with their surroundings
Lunch on a Beach. Golf on a Glacier. Same Afternoon.
THE MOST STRENUOUS PART OF THIS NEW ZEALAND JOURNEY? NARROWING DOWN ALL THE WOWS TO A SINGLE FAVOURITE MOMENT.
To write this story, we asked both the Experience Designer who crafted the trip in question and the travellers who lived it to name what they thought was the single best moment of the adventure.
They all thought about it for a minute. Then a minute more. And a minute more. Then the thinking went on for so long that it got kind of awkward, and each of them started scratching their heads so hard that we legitimately worried for their safety. Finally, to a person, they threw up their hands, let out an exasperated sigh, and declared the whole exercise futile; narrowing down just a single highlight on this trip was simply an impossible task—it had far too many “wows.”
That’s when we knew this one was absolutely going in the brochure.
It all started when longtime B&R travellers Richard and Cheryl decided they wanted to spend 13 unforgettable days in New Zealand with a gaggle of close friends. Their adventure spanned black-sand beaches on Auckland’s wild west coast, dips in the Tasman Sea, and plenty of jaw-dropping landscapes, from the vineyards of Waiheke and the peaks of Wānaka to the winding waterways of Fiordland.
“But,” Richard says, “helicoptering from eating lunch on a beach at noon to hitting golf balls into an abyss while sipping champagne on a glacier by early afternoon… well, that’s the kind of experience only B&R could pull off,” Richard says.
The mission was as simple as the trip was spectacular: explore New Zealand for the first time, with great friends, great food, great wine, and zero compromises. Fortunately, we just so happen to have a “great friends, great food, great wine, and zero compromises across all of New Zealand” guy on staff. We introduced Richard and Cheryl to B&R Experience Designer Rob Grieve, a native Kiwi who specializes in New Zealand and Australia, who tailored every last detail to perfection.
“We got to choose who we travelled with, where we stayed, where we ate, what sites we visited, what we did or didn’t do, and when we did—or didn’t do—anything and everything,” Richard says.
“Helicoptering from lunch on a beach, to hitting golf balls into an abyss while sipping champagne on a glacier… that’s the kind of experience only B&R could pull off.” —Richard G.
Fortunately for Rob, this was a group that was all in: open to every suggestion, excited to see every hidden gem, and eager for the chance to truly connect with a place that isn’t just Rob’s professional expertise, but his home. “This was the most personal, connected and intimate trip that I’ve ever designed or guided,” Rob says. “There were elements that I was able to weave into the trip’s tapestry that were very personal to me and showed each traveller a little bit about how I live down here in NZ.”
The result? A whirlwind of only-in-New-Zealand experiences. Sailing past the Auckland skyline on a private America’s Cup racing yacht. Trekking two of the country’s legendary Great Walks—the Kepler and Milford Tracks— surrounded by ice-carved peaks. And hitting full zen mode at Mahu Whenua, a secluded luxury eco-villa the group had entirely to themselves.
And then there were Rob’s signature flourishes: surprise visits from his family and friends, heart-to-hearts that stuck with the group long after the trip ended—and even a cameo from his husband, who popped by to serve cocktails and toast to an amazing adventure.
As Richard sees it, those personal, intimate moments are truly priceless, because Bespoke travel is about more than just calling the shots. “It’s an existential way of being,” he says, “and B&R doesn’t just understand what that means, they actually facilitate the experience.”
In India, the Royal Treatment, the Wild Side, and Tears of Joy
HOW WE TURNED A BIRTHDAY BASH INTO A BLOCKBUSTER WORTHY OF BOLLYWOOD
Icried.” That’s what longtime B&R traveller Erin said when we asked her about the 10-day Bespoke Indian odyssey she took with her friends to celebrate her birthday.
Why the waterworks? It wasn’t because her luggage got lost, or a flight got delayed, or the food wasn’t good (this is B&R—we would never let that happen). So, why’d she break into tears? “I cried when we had to leave,” she says.
Ohhhhhhh. Well, yeah, that checks out—even by B&R standards, this trip was a showstopper.
Going in, Erin and her friends made it clear they didn’t just want to see India, they wanted to be fully immersed in “its landscape, food, people and animals.” Fortunately, Experience Designer Karen MacRae—B&R’s resident magician for South Asia—doesn’t know how to plan trips any other way.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Karen put her intimate knowledge of India to work and laced the itinerary with surprises big and small. (Small: Capping off a ride through the rural outskirts of Delwara, past cattle farmers, crop fields, and tiny villages, with a surprise picnic lunch by the lake. Big: Surprising Erin et al. with a special horseback-riding session on the day of Erin’s birthday. Bigger: Greeting the gang at the Oberoi hotel in Udaipur with music, dancers… and a traditionally decorated elephant.)
From leopard spotting in the wild to red-carpet dinners under the stars (more on that later), Karen made sure that Erin’s India trip was a greatest-hits album of once-in-a-lifetime moments. The show-stealing track? A stay at Suján Jawai Camp—a remote luxury safari lodge tucked among granite outcrops and hidden trees, where leopards roam free. “Being able to see beautiful leopards in their natural habitat was truly breathtaking,” Erin says.
FEATURED DESIGNER
Bhutan, Indonesia, Nepal, India, Thailand, Egypt, Laos
Karen has spent over 20 years crafting trips across Asia, drawing on her extensive guiding and planning experience Specializing in regions like Bhutan, Nepal, and Thailand, she’s known for creating unforgettable family adventures A problemsolver at heart, Karen ensures each journey is packed with adventure and unique experiences, turning travellers’ dreams into reality .
“I feel as if I got a true glimpse into the culture in the most unique way possible.”
—Erin R. Karen MacRae
Between game drives, Erin and her friends were treated to a bush dinner nestled in the trees (complete with a private bar and live entertainment, of course). It was the kind of evening you wish you could bottle up and take home—and might even shed a tear over when you realize you can’t.
Of course, in India, the hotels are experiences in themselves. In addition to their elephant encounter at the Oberoi, they also checked into Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan—an actual palace still owned by the Maharaja. “Not only is it historically important,” Karen says, “but it’s utterly mind-blowing aesthetically.”
The finale was pure Bollywood-level drama: the Umaid Bhawan team literally rolled out a red carpet on the lawn for a private dinner under the stars, the hotel and fort glowing in the background. “It was incredible,” Karen says.
For Erin, the trip delivered exactly what she hoped for—and then some. “All of my trips with B&R have given me once-ina-lifetime experiences,” she says, “where I feel as if I got a true glimpse into the culture in the most unique way possible.”
FEATURED DESIGNER
Stephanie Gulledge Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Patagonia, Peru, Uruguay
Stephanie’s passion for Latin America shines through in every trip she designs From Argentina to Brazil, she crafts itineraries focusing on vibrant food scenes and hidden cultural gems . A former guide who’s been designing immersive adventures for years now, she speaks both Spanish and Portuguese and loves using her expertise to unlock the magic of diverse and fascinating regions
Ancient Incan Ingenuity? Incredible. Actual Human Connection? Unbeatable.
IN PERU, EVEN SOME OF THE WORLD’S GREATEST WONDERS CAN’T COMPARE TO THE DEPTH OF SHARED EXPERIENCE.
Yes, Machu Picchu is staggering. And, sure, the Maras salt mines are mind-bending. And of course the vast Incan agricultural site of Moray is a wonder of ancient ingenuity. But when we asked B&R traveller Mike what he and his family remember most about their trip to Peru, the answer was obvious: a pickup soccer game.
Wait, what??
Turns out, Mike’s guides had caught wind that his two teenaged kids were absolute fiends for futbol. So one afternoon, after kayaking on Huaypo Lagoon and polishing off a picnic lunch high in the Andes, they broke out a soccer ball, and all manner of mayhem ensued. What followed was a spontaneous, high-altitude match pitting the family against two guides, their driver, a pair of kayak company employees, and the picnic chef. That afternoon, Peru’s breathtaking natural beauty was upstaged by something far harder to find, and even more valuable: real, human connection. “There were smiles, laughs, hugs, and some serious competition that I know we will never forget,” Mike says.
While Peru’s many splendours are well known, “what makes it so special for us are the guides B&R pairs us with,” he explains. “The amount of historical knowledge as well as local knowledge provide us with a nearly encyclopedic explanation of the sites, with VIP-level access to features that most people never get to see.”
Like at the salt mines, where the family got hands-on access while other tourists peered from dozens of metres away. (Sorry, folks. Perks of travelling with the right people.) Or in Lima, where they spent the day with our friend Brita,
a Peruvian chef whose résumé hopscotches across so many famous restaurants, she could cameo on The Bear. After a market stroll to learn about local ingredients, it was back to her home (complete with gorgeous views of the Pacific) for a cooking lesson and a meal worth crossing continents for. “She has worked at the best restaurants in the world,” Mike says, but thanks to an intro from B&R, she “opened her home to us and created unbelievable dishes for our family.”
In Cusco, things went from sumptuous to serene, as the family joined a shaman for a Despacho ceremony, an Andean tradition to give thanks to the land and ask for protection. “The sanctity of this ceremony was palpable, and we were all moved to be a part of it,” Mike says. And while B&R Experience Designer Stephanie Gulledge specializes in cultivating those kinds of deeply human moments, good luck getting her to take credit for it. “Our national guides and the other people who we meet along the way, they are the ones who bring the magic to the trip,” she insists.
And it’s probably safe to say that Mike agrees. “Any tour company can show us the sites and book reservations at restaurants,” he says. “But making genuine personal connections with the local men and women we meet is what truly makes these trips special.”
“What makes it so special for us are the guides B&R pairs us with.”
—Mike W.
How to Turn 12 Strangers into Lifelong Travel Companions
DANIELLE’S FRIENDS DIDN’T REALLY KNOW EACH OTHER BEFORE THIS TRIP. NOW THEY DON’T KNOW HOW THEY EVER LIVED WITHOUT EACH OTHER.
For her 40th birthday, Danielle didn’t want a surprise party, a weekend getaway, or a quiet dinner. She wanted everyone. All the most important people in her life, together, in one jaw-dropping location—even if most of them had never met before. And since she also wanted epic scenery, great food, and a little adventure, we knew exactly where to set this momentous adventure: in Italy’s jaw-droppingly mountainous Dolomites.
For Danielle, it was a trip of firsts: her first time in the Dolomites, her first time gathering all her friends in one place, her first time travelling with B&R, and her first time having a Bespoke trip planned for her from top to bottom, a revelation that was just as welcome as the trip’s many surprises.
“I’ve always loved planning my own trips,” she explains, “but to not have that extra mental load of, ‘If this goes wrong, what’s going to happen?’ To be able to let that go and enjoy my own trip was a huge benefit that I hadn’t anticipated.”
One person who did? Georgia Yuill, B&R’s Experience Designer for the Dolomites and Sardinia. She describes Danielle’s birthday extravaganza as “a rolling party from start to finish,” and since she lives in the area (and loves a good party), she couldn’t resist getting in on the action. She joined the group on their second day to play host, hike, and introduce Danielle’s crew to the place she calls home.
Between hikes across the Alpe di Siusi and riding electric mountain bikes through alpine towns that looked like they’d been plucked from a fairy tale, Georgia laced the itinerary with surprises.
“We kept joking that we felt like we were on The Bachelor, where they have all these incredible unexpected things,” Danielle says. (Danielle! How dare you! Our trips are nothing like The Bachelor, thank you very much.)
“Really getting embedded in the culture, meeting people who honour the generations before them on the farm, and tasting the local cuisine was just beyond anything I could have imagined.”
—Danielle R.
Georgia Yuill Dolomites, Sardinia Georgia joined B&R 28 years ago and hasn’t looked back Now based in the Dolomites, her love for the outdoors and passion for discovery fuel the trips she designs across Sardinia and the Dolomites A Conde Nast Top Travel Specialist, Georgia personally vets every trail and experience she offers, ensuring each trip is packed with authentic connections and local charm When she’s not designing, she’s hiking or skiing the mountains
FEATURED DESIGNER
“Everybody loved the trip and said they want to plan another one, all of us together.”
—Danielle R.
Fortunately for Danielle and company, the only drama on this trip came from the magnitude of the surprises. One day, they finished the trip’s most stunning hike, only to be greeted by a picture-perfect picnic lunch, complete with a guitarist and a singer. Another night, they expected a van to take them to dinner, only to find horse-drawn carriages trotting up to their hotel, ready to whisk them off to a private farm for an intimate meal. (Alright, fine, Danielle was right—that one was a little bit like The Bachelor.) “My friends were saying, ‘Did you plan this? Did you know this?’” Danielle recalls. “And I had no idea.”
In between swoon-worthy events, there were quieter moments, like the evening they dined at one of the valley’s oldest farms, where a young farmer paired exceptional regional wines with local delicacies. “Really getting embedded in the culture, meeting people who honour the generations before them on the farm, and tasting the local cuisine was just beyond anything I could have imagined,” Danielle says.
By the end of the trip, the birthday celebration had turned into something more: the beginning of a new tradition. “Everybody loved the trip and said they want to plan another one, all of us together,” Danielle says, which is pretty remarkable, considering most of them didn’t know each other before the trip started. “Having the most important people in my life in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been—I couldn’t have asked for more.”
Shaken. Stirred. And That Was Before They Got in the Speedboat.
HOW
B&R’S LUCY CLARK TURNED ONE FAMILY’S TRIP TO ENGLAND INTO A HIGH-ENERGY ADVENTURE
What do you do when you have a multi-generational family spanning eight decades and 19 people, ranging in age from eight to 85, all of whom want an English adventure that goes beyond the country’s rolling green hills and quaint stone villages?
If you’re B&R traveller Penney, you call Experience Designer Lucy Clark, who lived in London for 20 years, knows the UK like the back of her hand, and happens to specialize in trips that bring out the best of the British Isles.
“I worked very closely with Lucy and we had a great time talking about our family needs,” Penney says. “She picked up on the high energy of our family” and planned a perfect trip for an active brood, including a hiking day, a cycling day, a polo lesson and an afternoon of games.
Which worked out perfectly, because as it turns out, this family didn’t just do activities, they devoured them. At Cirencester Polo Club (est. 1894), the group wasn’t content to merely learn the history of the game; they practised their swings atop a wooden horse, then split into teams for a match, while the rest cheered from the sidelines.
And then there were the “Olimpick” Games: a B&R spin on a 400-year-old Cotswolds tradition, hosted by guides Gaby and Jago. Tug o’ war? A must. Shin-kicking? Well of course, it’s tradition. (And, yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like; but, no, no one ended up in hospital—thankfully.) Of course, this was a B&R trip, so we had to introduce our own unique (and infinitely less wince-inducing) game. “Our version also incorporated ‘wellie wanging,’ a Wellington boot-throwing competition,” Lucy explains.
Sore shins notwithstanding, Penney’s brood loved every minute. “The guides were exceptional, took such good care of us and were so knowledgeable and so much fun,” says one family member. “We left with amazing memories and new friends.”
Of course, it wouldn’t be a B&R trip without a little culinary magic. The family feasted on everything from full English breakfasts—served at Crucis Park, the charming country house that served as their home base—to cozy pub lunches and fine dining in a private Mayfair restaurant in London.
Lucy Clark England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales
Lucy’s 25 years of travel experience spans backpacking, luxury hotels, and epic rail journeys Based in the UK, she brings a deep understanding of British and Irish culture, always uncovering hidden gems for seasoned travellers A lover of rail travel, she’s also worked at London’s Royal Botanic Gardens When she’s not designing trips, she’s usually taking them herself, exploring Scotland’s windy hillsides or planning her next adventure
And speaking of the capital, Lucy was able to draw from her extensive experience to help the family see London in a way few visitors do. At the Tower of London, they took in the castle’s opening ceremony before a Yeoman Warder led them on an early morning tour. Next up was a look at the Cabinet War Rooms, where the family went so deep behind-thescenes, they could almost make out the faint hint of Churchill’s cigar smoke within the bunker walls. Of course, the family wanted to see London’s most famous sites, and Lucy was happy to accommodate. And because this is B&R, she did it in the coolest, most over-the-top and unexpected way possible: on a high-speed RIB boat, tearing along the Thames.
“Seeing London from our speedboat ride was so unique and gave us a terrific ‘other view’ of the city,” the family says. In a city as famous and frequently photographed as London, finding an “other view” is a real challenge. Unless you’re Lucy, it turns out.
“I worked very closely with Lucy and we had a great time talking about our family needs. She picked up on the high energy of our family.”
—Penney H.
FEATURED DESIGNER
May the Fjords Be With You
HOW WE HELPED TWO ADVENTURE-LOVING STAR WARS FANS CELEBRATE AN OUT-OFTHIS-WORLD ANNIVERSARY IN NORWAY
What do you call a philosophy that embodies a deep love for the outdoors, a connection to nature that is both physical and spiritual, and an appreciation for simplicity, fresh air and wide horizons? The Norwegians call it (hold on, we just have to clear our throat) friluftsliv
But B&R travellers Lucas and Renata, who were looking for a new country to explore, called it the perfect theme for a trip celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary. And luckily for them, Mario Koch, our Experience Designer for Norway (plus most of Scandinavia and a good chunk of central Europe), calls it his day job.
“We both love doing activities in nature,” Lucas says. This time, they wanted somewhere new, somewhere active, somewhere gorgeous, and somewhere with a rich and deeply rooted local culture.
Norway delivered on all counts.
Mario Koch
Austria, the Baltics, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Norway, Romania
Mario’s expertise in Europe spans from Germany to Scandinavia, designing intricate, personalized trips for travellers since 2016
A former travel writer and chef, Mario has a keen eye for creating memorable narratives and top-tier culinary experiences His love for road trips and multicountry adventures fuels his passion for designing exciting routes
They sped through the island-studded waters of the Bergen archipelago with the wind in their hair. They zipped over cascading waterfalls in the Flåm Valley (and when we say “zipped,” we mean literally—on Scandinavia’s longest zip line). They pedalled the legendary Rallarvegen, Norway’s most famous cycling route, which was originally built for railway workers and now winds through jaw-dropping fjord country. Mario has a phrase he’s fond of: “multi-active equals maximum fun,” and Norway proved to be the perfect playground.
But that was all before they got to Finse, where, somehow, things got even more epic. Norway’s highest train station sits 1,222 metres above sea level, where vast plateaus and glacial lakes make it an extreme training ground for Antarctic expeditions… and the filming location for one unforgettable, intergalactic battle that left a huge mark on Lucas’s and Renata’s imaginations. “We are Star Wars nerds,” Lucas admits. “I loved our visit to Finse and learning that they filmed The Empire Strikes Back’s first scene there.”
Mario has a phrase he’s fond of: “multi-active equals maximum fun,” and Norway proved to be the perfect playground.
—Lucas and Renata B.
But as with so many B&R trips, the true magic wasn’t just in the scenery—it was in the people. Lucas and Renata hit it off instantly with their guides, Malin and Urban. “Both guides said that they don’t remember having ever connected to any travellers so well,” says Mario. Picture picnic lunches in grand fjords, hours of conversation with newly made friends, and impromptu singalongs. “With a ukulele!” Lucas says. “It was very unexpected and we loved it.”
Being a Bergen local, Malin had a few tricks up her sleeve. She chartered a RIB boat to explore the surrounding waters, with a pit stop at her uncle’s lobster farm, where Lucas hand-picked the day’s lunch. A little further on, they hit waters rich with sea urchins (Renata’s favourite), then scrambled ashore for a cliffside picnic, grilled over an open fire with a panoramic backdrop of fjord and sea.
Of course, once lunch was over, they had to figure out how to get back down from the peak. But since this was Norway, and Lucas and Renata are the adventurous types, the answer was obvious: they rappelled down the cliff. (May the Force be with them.)
Christine brings a storytelling approach to trip planning, designing unforgettable adventures in Southern and East Africa Her trips immerse travellers in the wildlife, rich culture, and vibrant art of the region Christine is passionate about getting travellers out of their comfort zones, with a strong focus on family travel that sparks curiosity and builds deep, lasting connections
How to Upstage Silverback Gorillas and a Hungry Pride of Lions: Trust the Chaos
WHAT’S THE ONLY THING WILDER THAN THE SERENGETI? THE SURPRISES WE KEEP UP OUR SLEEVES...
Trust the chaos.” That was the advice handed to Steve and his family as they set off on a two-week adventure through Tanzania and Rwanda—a trip that involved safaris, gorilla trekking, and more “pinch-me” moments than should reasonably be allowed on a single vacation.
Christine Tucker, our Experience Designer for Eastern and Southern Africa, curated a program that blended epic wildlife, rich culture, and (crucially) time for Steve, his wife, and their three kids to be together in the moment. “For our family to have these experiences together was a good reminder to not worry too much about the small stuff and to enjoy life in the moment,” Steve says.
“Nothing can compare to the Silverback pounding his chest or the baby gorilla swinging on the tree just feet away.”
—Steve E.
Of course, the “small stuff” is hard to sweat when you’re staring down a pride of lions polishing off a wildebeest. Or rooting for a newborn zebra wobbling to its feet. Or watching a lone elephant shake berries out of a tree… for an hour straight. (Talk about commitment to a snack.)
And then there were the gorillas. “Being so close that you could see the expressions on their faces and their unique noseprints was truly incredible,” Steve says. “Nothing can compare to the silverback pounding his chest or the baby gorilla swinging on the tree just feet away.”
Well, almost nothing. “I know from personal experience that it is the people who steal the show—the gorillas are just an added bonus,” she says. And after walking with the Hadza, one of the last hunter-gatherer tribes in the world, Steve agrees. “It was unexpectedly incredible and meaningful,” he says. “Seeing the joy and happiness on the faces of the people we got to spend time with was a nice reminder of what really matters in life.”
But it wasn’t just the Hadza who made an impact. The family’s guides weren’t just experts at finding elephants at dawn—they became part of the adventure themselves, offering context, conversation, and connection. Camp staff treated the family like kin, which came in handy when it was time to celebrate a special occasion.
Two of Steve’s kids are twins, and their birthday happened to fall right in the middle of the trip. The plan was a quiet sunset drive to a scenic ridge after an afternoon of animal tracking. “Or so we thought,” Steve says. Instead, the family rushed over the ridge to see the quiet sunset supplanted by singing, dancing, and an all-out birthday blowout courtesy of the camp staff. “With a fire roaring, a full ‘bar in the bush’ and a delicious birthday cake, it was truly a night none of us will ever forget,” he recalls.
“Even with incredibly high expectations going into it,” Steve says, the trip still managed to exceed their wildest expectations. In the end, trusting the chaos delivered—and Christine Tucker over-delivered. (Again.)
Because Every Canyoneer Deserves a Good Raw Bar
ON VANCOUVER ISLAND, SERIOUS FOODIES MEET SERIOUS ADVENTURE
The first time John and Rachel went on a trip with 18 close friends, it was thrilling. (Getting that many calendars to align is practically a miracle unto itself.) The second time, it was surprising, because they never thought they’d be able to pull it off again. So as the group set out for their third outing, the stakes were nearly as high as their expectations.
“We asked [B&R Experience Designer Tom Abraham] to create an itinerary that would be something that none of us have ever done, and to take us to a place where we were able to really be in nature,” John says. Oh, and one more thing: “The whole crew is serious foodies, and we love meeting the people who are preparing our food.”
So, you know, no pressure.
Fortunately, “no pressure” is basically Tom’s life motto. A Vancouver native with a decades-long love of adventure and a reputation for being the closest thing B&R has to Indiana Jones (not to mention a pretty refined palate for a guy who’s most comfortable in snowshoes and sub-zero temperatures), Tom crafted a one-of-a-kind romp to British Columbia’s Vancouver Island that delivered equal parts outdoor adventure and culinary delight.
“I worked hard on the restaurant options, menus and special food events, including picnics and a raw bar,” he says. Luckily, he had backup: their on-the-ground guide Courtenay, whose résumé happens to include serious five-star dining chops, plenty of local connections, and a thorough commitment to ensuring not a single tastebud went unsatisfied.
The ten-day highlight reel? Paddling through the Broken Group Islands in Barkley Sound—“a magnificent day,” as John recalls—kayaking past remote lagoons and archaeological sites. A private soak at Hot Springs Cove, made possible through a special partnership with the Ahousaht First Nations. And, at the remote Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, more adventure than anyone could possibly fit into one stay: canyoning (“mind-blowing,” says John) and horseback riding (“my favourite,” says Rachel).
And because no day of B&R activity goes unrewarded, the culinary side of the trip kept pace. Courtenay surprised the group with a fully staged beach picnic, complete with blankets, pillows, tables and games that Rachel remembers fondly. “It was really sweet and thoughtful,” she says.
“The whole crew are serious foodies, and we love meeting the people who are preparing our food.”
Tom Abraham Ecuador & Galapagos
With a passion for pushing travellers beyond their comfort zones, Tom Abraham began crafting B&R odysseys throughout his native British Columbia back in 2010—and since then, his wanderlust has only grown Having lived in six countries, today his expertise spans 40+ destinations, and includes a particular interest in yacht-based adventures
There’s nothing Tom loves more than a floating hotel, by far the best way to experience the Galapagos
Another night, the group savoured a private dinner at Heartwood Kitchen. On the menu? Salmon, oysters, fresh-caught fish, and wine that flowed as freely as the conversation with the chef and his wife, who don’t usually open for dinner but prepared an evening feast just for them. “Everything had a story,” John says. “It was brilliant.” Looking back, what sticks with John and Rachel isn’t just the food or the adventures, but the way it all came together: the B&R team tailoring every surprise perfectly to their group, and the chance to share it all with their favourite people. “Life is really short, and the ability to be with your favourite people and have these crazy encounters, that’s what makes life full,” John says.
—John and Rachel H.
FEATURED DESIGNER
On the Camino de Santiago, Walking, Wine, and Worship at the End of the World
HOW WE GAVE 80 LEADERS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME THE TEAM-BUILDING TRIP OF A LIFETIME
Forging personal connections with professional colleagues is tricky. Company picnics are rote. Weekend offsites are formulaic. Hosting an awards ceremony at your local Chili’s is creative but hard to pull off if you’re not the Regional Manager (or at least, the assistant to the Regional Manager) of Dunder Mifflin Scranton.
Fortunately for leaders from the University of Notre Dame, the school’s organizing team thinks so far outside the box, they had to go off-continent. They decided the best way to strengthen bonds and break the cycle of email chains would be to take 80 leaders and friends of the university on a 100kilometre trek along the legendary Camino de Santiago.
Pulling off a trip of this scale takes a lot of planning, which is where B&R Experience Designer Ninon Vlug comes in. For months leading up to the journey, Ninon worked closely with Karen and her colleagues, even welcoming five members of the school’s events team on a scouting trip nine months before the main event.
“We even walked some of the most challenging and beautiful parts of the Camino,” Ninon says, “so they had a good understanding of the trail.”
When the real trip began, the Camino proved as transcendent as advertised. The group trekked through cobblestoned villages and mountainside hamlets, past cascading waterfalls and vineyards that cling to cliffsides. They shared meals with locals who opened their homes, and winemakers who revealed the sometimes perilous art of grape-growing in the Spanish hills. (Steep cliffs and howling winds make for some amazing wine, but not exactly ideal working conditions.)
The group wanted to gather for Mass each day, and Ninon pulled a few strings so they could exclusively commune in unforgettable settings, from centuries-old churches (including one that dates back to the 12th century) to the famous Finisterre lighthouse in Galicia—the “end of the world,” and the traditional endpoint of the Camino.
Ninon Vlug Rioja, Basque Country, Camino de Santiago
Ninon’s artistic background and love for Spain have shaped the journeys she designs on the Camino de Santiago, in Rioja and the Basque Country . Spain has been her home since 2010 and she hasn’t missed a moment to explore every corner of the country
As a local with deep love for the country, she crafts immersive, highly personalized adventures that enable travellers to soak up the rich culture and spectacular landscapes of Spain
“The group trekked through cobblestoned villages and mountainside hamlets, past cascading waterfalls and vineyards that cling to cliffsides. They shared meals with locals who opened their homes.”
—Karen A.
“Having Mass at Finisterre with the ocean in the background was very special,” Karen says. “All of the guests truly enjoyed that entire location and it felt great to be at the ‘end of the world.’”
By the time the group reached that windswept lighthouse, they hadn’t just checked a pilgrimage off their lists. They had built new friendships, deepened old ones, and walked through a slice of history and terrain that only gets more meaningful with every step.
FEATURED DESIGNER
Our Experience Designers
What makes our designers so unique?
Only a select few are invited to craft immersive, unforgettable experiences for B&R Bespoke . They need travel-planning chops, of course . But this is B&R . So, they also need an architect’s mastery of form, a wedding planner’s problemsolving skills (and their grace under pressure), a historian’s love for deep dives, and a landscape artist’s eye for beauty . Above all, they must have a deep passion for the region and a burning desire to make it come alive for others .
Ecuador & Galapagos
With a passion for pushing travellers beyond their comfort zones, Tom Abraham began crafting B&R odysseys throughout his native British Columbia back in 2010—and since then, his wanderlust has only grown Having lived in six countries, today his expertise spans 40+ destinations, and includes a particular interest in yacht-based adventures There’s nothing Tom loves more than a floating hotel, by far the best way to experience the Galapagos
Italian Lakes, Veneto
Edoardo has been guiding trips in Italy’s iconic regions for over a decade . His deep roots in the Italian Lakes and Veneto regions allow him to create authentic, off-the-beatenpath experiences With a background in wine production and fluency in five languages, Edo ensures travellers are fully immersed in the local culture He’s also a vintage bike racing enthusiast, combining sport and style on his journeys
Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Dordogne, Provence & French Riviera, Champagne, Alsace Jérôme has been designing trips for 11 years, specializing in France’s storied regions His knowledge of local terroir and heritage ensures that travellers experience the best France offers Whether it’s exploring Bordeaux’s vineyards or the quiet beauty of Provence, Jérôme crafts trips that highlight both culture and natural splendour He’s been with B&R since 2006
Tom Abraham
Edoardo Bausani
Jérôme Boré
Alentejo, Douro Valley, Azores, Madeira, Porto and Northern Portugal
A native Alfacinha (aka, a Lisbon resident), João has deep connections in Portugal and a passion for adventure, arts, and bringing joy to those around him From a private concert of traditional music to an intimate foodie experience at a chef’s home, João’s network throughout the Iberian peninsula allows him to immerse you in its culture, traditions and talent in a way that few get to experience
Puglia, Basilicata, Sicily
Born and raised in Southern Italy, Ernesto brings travellers the very finest experiences in Puglia, Sicily, and Basilicata . A former chef and olive oil producer, food is at the heart of his trips, with authentic local flavours and artisanal connections woven into every itinerary A polyglot with seven years of guiding experience, Ernesto’s trips are rich in culture, history, and unforgettable culinary adventures
England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales
Lucy’s 25 years of travel experience spans backpacking, luxury hotels, and epic rail journeys Based in the UK, she brings a deep understanding of British and Irish culture, always uncovering hidden gems for seasoned travellers A lover of rail travel, she’s also worked at London’s Royal Botanic Gardens . When she’s not designing trips, she’s usually taking them herself, exploring Scotland’s windy hillsides or planning her next adventure
New Zealand, Australia
Rob’s adventurous spirit drives his trip designs in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond With B&R since 2005, he has guided in regions as diverse as Bhutan, France, and the Pacific Islands . A former ski coach and seasoned adventurer, Rob specializes in creative problem-solving and uncovering hidden gems He crafts immersive, authentic experiences that take travellers in deep, allowing them to connect with their surroundings
Alentejo, Douro Valley, Azores, Madeira, Porto and Northern Portugal, Mallorca, Menorca
Alvaro’s local knowledge in Portugal, the Azores, and Mallorca has shaped unforgettable journeys since 2015 A former guide, he uses his deep connections to offer exclusive experiences, from vineyard tours to volcano hikes . Whether it’s wine tastings or exploring the Douro Valley, Alvaro ensures each trip is a sensory delight Off duty, he tends to his pistachio trees and gardens in the Iberian Peninsula
Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Patagonia, Peru, Uruguay
Stephanie’s passion for Latin America shines through in every trip she designs . From Argentina to Brazil, she crafts itineraries focusing on vibrant food scenes and hidden cultural gems A former guide who’s been designing immersive adventures for years now, she speaks both Spanish and Portuguese and loves using her expertise to unlock the magic of diverse and fascinating regions
Ernesto Fucci
João Carvalho
Stephanie Gulledge
Lucy Clark
Rob Grieve
Alvaro Diez Diaz
Iceland, Japan, Morocco
With a knack for getting off the beaten path, Orsolya has been designing epic trips for B&R since 2012, specializing in Japan, Iceland, and Morocco She’s a master at avoiding overtourism and finding authentic local experiences . A frequent traveller with her kids, Orsolya understands the intricacies of family travel and knows how to craft itineraries that are both educational and fun for travellers of all ages
Austria, the Baltics, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Norway, Romania
Mario’s expertise in Europe spans from Germany to Scandinavia, designing intricate, personalized trips for travellers since 2016
A former travel writer and chef, Mario has a keen eye for creating memorable narratives and top-tier culinary experiences His love for road trips and multi-country adventures fuels his passion for designing exciting routes
Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, Oman, Jordan
Having designed over 200 trips since 2011, Nathan’s expertise in Asia is unparalleled
From bike rides to culinary classes, Nathan curates authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences for adventurous travellers Always up for a challenge, he’s guided more than 125 trips and designed hundreds more, becoming an expert at complex, multi-country itineraries filled with laughter and learning
“Our Experience Designers are our superpower. They’re Batman to our Robin, and while they might not leap tall buildings, their ability to craft the perfect journey is superhuman. They live in their regions, hang with the locals, and know those hidden spots you’d never find on your own.”
Orsolya Kako
Mario Koch
Nathan Lane
George Butterfield
Bhutan, Indonesia, Nepal, India, Thailand, Laos, Egypt
Karen has spent over 20 years crafting trips across Asia, drawing on her extensive guiding and planning experience Specializing in regions like Bhutan, Nepal, and Thailand, she’s known for creating unforgettable family adventures . A problem-solver at heart, Karen ensures each journey is packed with adventure and unique experiences, turning travellers’ dreams into reality
Catalonia, Andalucia, Algarve
Born in Uruguay, raised in Barcelona, and now happily based in Portugal, Andrés first cut his teeth in advertising before making the leap into travel, helming a travel outfit in Portugal . His passions orbit culture, languages, travel, and the art of connecting with people, which he does in four languages In addition to his native Spanish, he speaks fluent English, Portuguese, and Catalan (often in the same conversation)
Amalfi Coast, Piemonte, Tuscany, Umbria
Courtney has lived in Florence for over 25 years and has been guiding and designing trips for B&R travellers across Italy and beyond Her expertise spans from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the art-rich cities of Florence and Venice . Known for her insider connections, Courtney provides travellers with authentic experiences you simply can’t get anywhere else, from lunches in private homes to immersive cooking classes with locals
Liguria, Sicily
With almost 30 years of experience, Dana is one of B&R’s most seasoned and knowledgeable trip planners . She specializes in the Italian Riviera and Sicily, leveraging her family roots and decades of travel expertise to design trips that go beyond the ordinary Whether it’s a private boat tour, wine tasting, or exploring hidden gems, Dana’s trips are filled with personal touches and truly unique experiences
Amalfi Coast, Piemonte, Tuscany, Umbria
Melanie’s deep-rooted passion for Tuscany and Umbria fuels her trip designs, where sustainability and cultural connections take centre stage A New Yorker by birth but Italian at heart, Melanie has been crafting unforgettable journeys for travellers for years Her background in theatre and love for storytelling make her trips not just an exploration, but an artful journey through Italy’s landscapes, flavours, and traditions
Greece, Croatia, Turkiye, Montenegro, Slovenia, British Columbia Erin’s 18 years with B&R have taken her from Europe to Canada to Southeast Asia, designing trips that emphasize deep connection to nature and culture Erin fine-tunes her trips to perfection (she was B&R’s first female bike mech, after all) Her passion for movement practices like yoga brings mindfulness to every experience she designs
Andrés Reyes Ottonello
Melanie Neu
Dana Quinn
Erin Reed
Courtney Mundy
Karen MacRae
United States, Canada, Mexico
Dane joined B&R in 2012 and has led trips everywhere from Newfoundland and Ireland to Sri Lanka and Myanmar From the awe-inspiring architecture of the world’s finest hotels to the artful, homespun table settings of his epic picnics, design and creativity play an integral role in his trips . Having spent years on the road, his grit and on-the-ground savvy have given him a knack for crafting once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are WAY outside the box
Rioja, Basque Country, Camino de Santiago Ninon’s artistic background and love for Spain have shaped the journeys she designs on the Camino de Santiago and in Rioja and the Basque Country Spain has been her home since 2010 and she hasn’t missed a moment to explore every corner of the country As a local with deep love for the country, she crafts immersive, highly personalized adventures that enable travellers to soak up the rich culture and spectacular landscapes of Spain
Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia
Christine brings a storytelling approach to trip planning, designing unforgettable adventures in Southern and East Africa Her trips immerse travellers in the wildlife, rich culture, and vibrant art of the region . Christine is passionate about getting travellers out of their comfort zones, with a strong focus on family travel that sparks curiosity and builds deep, lasting connections
Burgundy, Provence & French Riviera
Born and raised in Burgundy, Eugénie has been designing trips since 2005, focusing on France’s wine regions . Her insider knowledge and deep connections with local winemakers, chefs, and artists ensure travellers experience the very best of Burgundy and Provence Eugénie’s trips are playful and authentic (which is to say, they’re just like her), offering travellers a chance to truly engage with the culture, cuisine, and beauty of her homeland
Switzerland, Corsica, Normandy, Brittany Born in Seattle but settled in Corsica, Marya has been with B&R since 1999, guiding and designing trips across Europe Her expertise spans from the beaches of Normandy to the peaks of Switzerland Her experiences never fail to connect travellers to the region’s history and traditions A lover of regional languages and chocolate, Marya’s trips are filled with unique cultural insights and personal touches
Dolomites, Sardinia
Georgia joined B&R 28 years ago and hasn’t looked back . Now based in the Dolomites, her love for the outdoors and passion for discovery fuel the trips she designs across Sardinia and the Dolomites A top Travel Specialist, Georgia personally vets every trail and experience she offers, ensuring each trip is packed with authentic connections and local charm When she’s not designing, she’s hiking or skiing the mountains
Eugénie Weiss
Christine Tucker
Dane Tredway
Georgia Yuill
Marya Valli
Ninon Vlug
Our Traveller Experience Team
Meet the people who take your trip from “personalized” to perfect.
Think of your Traveller Experience team member as the constant thread in every B&R journey—the one who knows your quirks, remembers your milestones, and makes sure even the smallest touches feel effortless . They’re the steady hand connecting you to the right regions and the right designers, turning sparks of inspiration into beautifully realized adventures . With decades of experience and passports stamped in more than 70 countries, they bring curiosity, care, and a level of personalized service you won’t find anywhere else
Born in Sardinia, Gabriella’s curiosity carried her across Europe and into a career at B&R After eight years, she still delights in sparking wonder for travellers When she’s not on the clock, she’s running marathons, cooking up legendary lasagna, or dreaming of showing her kids the magic of Africa
With over a decade at B&R, Mark has a gift for uncovering what fuels each traveller’s wanderlust and a passion for helping our designers weave it into unforgettable journeys Mornings find him racing on his bike, while afternoons often involve dreaming up his next adventure—to Japan’s southernmost island of Kyushu
For 14 years Megan has helped our Experience Designers shape unforgettable journeys, facilitating countless moments of magic along the way An early riser who treasures quiet mornings, she dreams of hiking the Dolomites with her mom, and loves to reminisce about carrying the Olympic torch in 2010
Julie has spent 31 years shaping journeys at B&R; first as a guide on seven continents, later leading some of our most seasoned travellers on unforgettable adventures She starts each day with yoga and a bike ride, bakes legendary sourdough, and can next be found walking the legendary Camino de Santiago
Gabriella Brundu Mark Harris
Megan Oates
Julie Ritchie
“I’ve never felt so heard. Every single one of my guests were wowed at every turn. It was a surprise for me too, even though I helped plan the trip. I kept thinking ‘Wow, he remembered I said that’. It was just filled with little gifts for me—over and over.”
—Leslie D.
DOLOMITES, ITALY
We Go Slowly, Tread Softly & Travel Sustainably
We don’t just practise ethical tourism when it’s convenient . For us, it’s a full-time commitment . We tread softly and give back wherever we travel .
From the paths we plan and the food we select to the materials we use and local partners we work with, everything is chosen with an eye toward minimizing our impact and maximizing our commitment to sustainability .
Our goal:
To make every trip as good for the planet as it is for the traveller
Our Commitment to Net Zero
Since 2023, every B&R trip has been 100% carbon neutral By partnering with Sustainable Travel International (STI), we offset 100% of our trip emissions, investing in verified Climate Impact Projects that are accelerating the shift to a greener future . But that’s just the beginning .
We’re committed to reaching Net Zero by 2050, which means cutting our carbon emissions by more than 90% . Our goal? To make every B&R journey as good for the planet as it is for the traveller . Because when you travel with intention, the world opens up in the best way possible
