Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel.
Hi Rachel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My first visit to Central America was in 2003, and it was a life-changing moment. I fell in love not only with the stunning landscapes but also with the warm hospitality of its people. That visit sparked a passion in me so profound that I have returned every year since.
I created Central America Journeys in 2011 with the mission of sharing Central America’s beauty and magic through expertly crafted travel experiences. In 2018, my husband joined the business, bringing with him 20 years of hotel management experience. His expertise in hospitality has been invaluable in elevating our offerings, ensuring every detail of our clients’ journeys is seamless and exceeds expectations. Together, we combine our passion for travel, deep regional knowledge, and commitment to excellence to create unforgettable adventures.
With over two decades of personal exploration and a shared dedication to delivering exceptional service, we specialize in designing unique, luxury-focused itineraries that go beyond expectations. Together with our clients, we craft more than just a trip—we curate a seamless blend of their interests and passions, ensuring every adventure reflects everything they’ve dreamed of and more.
I’m proud to share that I was selected as a Travel + Leisure A-List Agent for 2025, specializing in Belize, Costa Rica, and Panama. This recognition highlights my expertise and dedication to curating outstanding experiences in this incredible destination.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like any entrepreneurial journey, building Central America Journeys has been anything but a smooth road—but that’s what makes it so rewarding. When we first started, one of the biggest challenges was breaking through the noise in the travel industry and establishing ourselves as a trusted, boutique travel service. Central America is such a vibrant and diverse region, but it’s often misunderstood or overlooked by travelers. Educating people about the incredible experiences here—beyond the stereotypes—was a hurdle we had to overcome.
Another challenge was navigating the logistics of creating seamless, personalized travel experiences in a region with such varied infrastructure. From remote jungle lodges to luxury beach resorts, we’ve worked hard to build strong relationships with local partners to ensure every detail of our clients’ journeys is flawless. Of course, the pandemic brought its own set of challenges, with travel restrictions and uncertainty, but it also gave us the opportunity to reflect, innovate, and refine our offerings to meet the evolving needs of travelers.
Through it all, the passion for what we do has kept us going. Hearing about the joy and wonder our clients experience as they discover the magic of Central America makes every challenge worth it. The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been an incredible adventure—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
As you know, we’re big fans of Central America Journeys. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Central America Journeys is a boutique travel company dedicated to crafting personalized, immersive travel experiences throughout the stunning and diverse region of Central America. It is a family-owned business, operated by a husband-and-wife team who share a deep passion for travel and the region. We specialize in creating tailor-made itineraries that go beyond the typical tourist trail, offering our clients a chance to connect with the culture, nature, and people of this incredible part of the world. Whether it’s exploring ancient Mayan ruins, relaxing on pristine beaches, hiking through lush rainforests, or discovering vibrant local markets, we design each journey to reflect the unique interests and desires of our travelers.
What sets us apart is our deep, on-the-ground knowledge of the region and our commitment to creating meaningful, sustainable travel experiences. We work closely with local communities, guides, and boutique accommodations to ensure that every trip not only delights our clients but also supports the people and places they visit. Our attention to detail and personalized approach mean that no two journeys are ever the same.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of the trust we’ve built with our clients. Many of them return to us for multiple trips or recommend us to their friends and family, which is the highest compliment we could receive. We want readers to know that when they travel with Central America Journeys, they’re not just booking a trip—they’re embarking on a thoughtfully curated adventure that’s designed to inspire, connect, and create lasting memories.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Central America for the first time, we’re here to make your journey seamless, enriching, and unforgettable.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The travel industry is constantly evolving, and over the next 5-10 years, we anticipate some exciting shifts and trends that will shape how people explore the world. One of the biggest changes we’re already seeing is the growing demand for more meaningful, sustainable travel. Travelers are becoming increasingly conscious of their impact on the environment and local communities, and they’re seeking experiences that allow them to connect with destinations in a more authentic and responsible way. This aligns perfectly with our mission at Central America Journeys, as we’ve always prioritized sustainable practices and partnerships with local businesses.
Another trend we expect to see is a rise in personalized, small-group, and private travel. The pandemic has shifted preferences toward more intimate, customized experiences, and we believe this will continue as travelers look for ways to explore safely while still enjoying unique adventures. Technology will also play a bigger role, from virtual trip planning tools to seamless digital experiences during travel, but we believe the human touch—like the personalized service we provide—will remain irreplaceable.
Lastly, there’s a growing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations. Travelers are looking to escape the crowds and discover hidden gems, which makes Central America an ideal region to explore. With its rich culture, biodiversity, and relatively undiscovered charm, we see it becoming an even more sought-after destination in the years to come.
Overall, the future of travel is about connection—connection to people, places, and purpose—and we’re excited to continue leading the way in creating journeys that reflect these values.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://centralamericajourneys.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centralamericajourneys/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centralamericajourneys
