About Our CompanyFounded in 2003, our agency has been providing stunning adventure vacations for 22 years. Our founders and team members have long been adventure travel enthusiasts. We base all of trips on one simple principle - would we send a family member on the trip! We want to make sure every trip is fun, safe, and most important - unforgettable!
|
|
Gary Marchal CEO / co-Founder Your travel advisor, with 24 years industry experience with 55+ countries traveled to since he started the business! |
Karen Baker Cultural Travel Karen knows how to travel in style! She is an artist at combining rugged adventure with rich comforts! |
|
About Gary Marchal
In the bustling, vibrant streets of Bangkok, a young Gary Marcchal found adventure around every corner. The son of diplomats, Gary grew up immersed in the rich culture and mesmerizing beauty of Thailand. It was here, amidst the tapestry of golden temples and lush jungles, that his love for travel was born. Whether he was exploring the bustling night markets with his family or trekking through the misty mountains of Chiang Mai, every journey sparked a new flame of curiosity in Gary's heart. His parents, stationed in various parts of Asia, encouraged a lifestyle of exploration. Little did they know, they were planting the seeds for Gary’s lifelong passion: adventure travel. Gary’s early years were colored with vivid experiences that would later influence his career. He spent countless hours hiking through Thailand’s lush forests, discovering hidden waterfalls and majestic vistas. Kayaking became a weekend ritual, as he navigated the serene lakes of Florida and the winding waterways of the Everglades during family visits. These moments were not just activities; they were adventures that shaped Gary’s love for the outdoors and instilled a profound respect for nature. As he reached adulthood, Gary's passion for travel took him to distant lands, exploring the rugged terrains of Patagonia to the windswept deserts of Morocco. Each journey was a new story, a chapter in the ever-expanding book of his life. Gary embraced each place, learning its rhythms and uncovering its secrets, which he cherished sharing with those around him. Safari travel became his passion. Following his travels, Gary settled in the United States with his wife, Emily, and their two adventurous sons, Ethan and Liam. With his family’s support, he transformed his passion for travel into a thriving career as an adventure travel specialist. Gary's work is more than a profession; it is an extension of his life, a way to channel his experiences and enthusiasm to craft unforgettable journeys for others. Working with clients is where Gary truly shines. His mission is simple yet profound: to transform the way people experience the world. For Jerry, travel is not merely about the destination; it is about the journey—an opportunity to connect with people, places, and oneself. He believes that every traveler deserves a unique, finely-tuned experience, and he takes immense pride in weaving personal stories into each itinerary he designs. When a client walks into Gary’s office, they’re not just planning a trip; they're embarking on a shared adventure. Gary's approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, drawing from his own experiences to connect with each client's desires and aspirations. His deep knowledge of hidden trails, local cultures, and off-the-beaten-path destinations allows him to tailor trips that resonate deeply with the heart of each traveler. Gary’s favorite part of his work is the moment his clients return, brimming with stories and gratitude. It's a reminder of why he loves what he does—creating experiences that leave a lasting imprint on the lives of others. Gary often quotes a saying he first heard in Thailand, "Not all who wander are lost," using it to inspire those seeking exploration and self-discovery. |
About Karen Baker
Growing up in the hills of Virginia, Karen Baker’s love for adventure was born on the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Growing up in the Charlottesville area, she found magic in the rural countryside and farms nearby. These early experiences nurtured Karen's spirit for adventure, instilling a lifelong passion for exploring the world. After college, the world became Karen’s classroom. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, she embarked on a journey that would shape her future. Argentina called to her with its rhythmic tango and rich culture, and she answered by spending several years teaching English as a second language. Immersed in the vibrant life of Buenos Aires, Karen not only shared her knowledge but absorbed the essence of Argentine culture—a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors. Returning to the U.S., Karen felt a calling to share the transformative power of travel with others. Thus began her illustrious career as an adventure travel specialist, where she now channels her rich experiences to craft unforgettable journeys for her clients. Karen's expertise lies in cultural travel, a reflection of her deep respect for nature and her passion for connecting with diverse communities. Her journeys are not merely vacations; they are thoughtfully curated adventures designed to enrich the soul. She believes that travel is a conduit for personal growth, offering unparalleled opportunities to step beyond the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary. For Karen, working with clients is akin to embarking on a shared journey. Every interaction is a discovery, as she takes the time to understand her clients’ aspirations, interests, and dreams. She considers each client’s preferences her guiding compass, tailoring experiences that resonate on a personal level. Whether crafting a luxurious safari through the sprawling plains of the Serengeti or curating a cultural odyssey through the colorful streets of Marrakech, Karen infuses each itinerary with authenticity and a touch of magic. Karen’s clients often describe her as more than a travel advisor—they see her as a trusted companion. Her commitment to delivering personalized service encompasses a genuine desire to create life-changing memories. Her passion is underpinned by a reservoir of firsthand knowledge, as she continually seeks new adventures around the globe to offer her clients unparalleled experiences. Through her dedication and insight, Karen opens doors to uncharted territories, bridging cultures and fostering understanding. Her extensive network of contacts across continents ensures each journey is seamless and unforgettable, enriched by local experts who bring destinations to life through their stories and expertise. Yet, Karen’s approach to travel is not just about exploring; it’s also about preserving. She is an ardent advocate for sustainable travel, recognizing the responsibility to protect the environments and communities that welcome travelers. Her itineraries reflect a commitment to ethical tourism, supporting initiatives that conserve wildlife and empower local communities. |
STACEY CAMERON
Specialties: Scuba, Snorkeling, Sailing, Kayaking and Rafting and Water Sports of all types! |
MELISA PEDROWSKI
Specialties: Biking, Birding, Astronomy Vacations, Mayan, Aztec, and Inca Destinations in Central and South America |
NOBU NAKAMURA
Specialities: Soft Adventure of all types, working with first time adventure travelers. |
|
Stacey has spent most of her life on the waterways of the United States, participating in sailing schools, and as an kayak and rafting instructor. She especially likes to work with "newbies" introducing them to the joy of white water! Her favorite kayak destinations are the New River in West Virginia, the Nantahala River in North Carolina and Costa Rica!
|
Melisa is an avid photographer and combines her interest in birding worldwide with her camera skills. She love astronomy and has conducted tours to Hawaii and The Very Large Telescope at the Cerro Paranal Observatory, located in the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile. She also specialized in Native American and Pre-Columbian civilizations in Peru, Mexico and Alaska.
|
Are you new to adventure travel and perhaps a bit concerned about the entire concept? Nobu specializes in working with those who want to develop their confidence safely and within the bounds of their abilities. He carefully evaluates his clients' desires and develops the perfect programs for each individual or group.
|
|
Ace Adventure Travel |
