Custom Vacation and Group Travel Specialist
My two great loves are travelling and helping others and they are not mutually exclusive! I became a travel agent when I realized that I could combine my two passions and point the way for other socially conscious travelers to make an impact while on vacation. It has proved to be a great success.
Whether my clients prefer a luxurious getaway but also want to learn about foreign cultures or want to become actively involved in making a difference in the communities they visit, I can find out-of-the-ordinary opportunities that are memorable. I work with members of school groups, church groups, and non-profits who wish to volunteer their time to effect change throughout the world. I also work with solo travelers and adventure travelers and groups. As an avid boater, sailor, kayaker, snorkeler, and SCUBA diver, I relate to people who love active travel.
I believe that all vacation trips should be keyed to personal interests. I adore designing custom itineraries that include volunteer, educational, or cultural immersion and I partner with local, environmentally responsible tour providers. Whether you want a "boots on the ground" volunteer experience or want to spend a morning doing beach cleanup, I can make it happen. I also donate 20% of my base planning fee to a different charity each month.
I volunteer with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary in my home state of Florida, the National Kidney Foundation, Donate Life, and various marine non-profit organizations. Not long ago, I booked an upcoming personal vacation in the Maldives where I will be able to conduct whale research for two weeks -- a great thrill -- as well as a trip to Africa which also includes volunteer time.
At present, I am certified with Celestyal Cruises and am earning certification with Princess Cruises. I am a certified Alaska Expert and a South Africa Specialist. It is my plan to travel extensively in 2024, perhaps for half the year, because I can work from anywhere in the world and I am committed to making a difference in our world.
If you’re ready to explore the world, reach out to me today to get started!
Voluntourism Expert
Snorkeling in the Mayan Riviera, Mexico
There are as many ways to take a volunteer vacation as there are people on the planet!
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Visit one of our wonderful national parks - during your stay participate in a trail-upkeep event.
- Spend four weeks in Alaska on a working, sled dog ranch and assist with care of the dogs (and get some cuddling in too!).
- Go to Chicago to spend a week connecting with nature and learning how to create a nature space in your own community.
- Take a vacation in South Africa go behind the scenes at a wildlife rehabilitation center to learn more about conservation efforts in the area.
My Reviews
Travel with such ease and pleasure!
Jennifer was amazing. This was our first time using a travel agent and she was so patient, kind, and really detailed with us. We had some unexpected weather on the day that we left for our trip and Jennifer checked in with us throughout the day to make sure that each leg of our journey was a success. She helped find us an incredible hotel, rental car, and provided tons of recommendations for us to enjoy our trip through and through.
By
Taylor Kay
from
Madison, WI
Traveled to
St. Thomas ~ Virgin Islands ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Jennifer Holmes responded:
I'm so grateful for your trust. It was a pleasure to work with you, Taylor, and your soon-to-be husband Parker; and I'm really glad the weather cooperated with us.
I look forward to helping you with your upcoming wedding!
Was this review helpful to you?
YES | NO
We asked for a location off the beach but close enough to walk. Jennifer from Joyous Journeys nailed it! The beach was Indian Rocks and was great for walking. The condo she found was a sweet little one bedroom. It was in a quiet neighborhood within walking distance to restaurants and the trolly service. Best of all we were less than a block from the beach access. She suggested day trips and even found a store around the corner that rented bikes. We will call her first!
By
Lisa
from
Wisconsin
Traveled to
Florida ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Jennifer Holmes responded:
Thank you Lisa! You and your husband were a joy to work with and I look forward to planning your New Mexico adventure later this year.
Was this review helpful to you?
YES | NO
Very easy to work with. Listens to what you like to do or see and plans to make sure you get all you want.
By
Rhoda
from
Milwaukee WI
Traveled to
Fort Lauderdale ~ Florida ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Jennifer Holmes responded:
Thank you! It's wonderful to have clients like you. I look forward to serving you for your next grand adventure!
Was this review helpful to you?
YES | NO
Jennifer is great to work with. She strives to give you the best vacation. I had the pleasure of her planning my cruise. I commented about loving dolphins. Had the pleasure of going to B L Island and be in the water with them. The Bahamas was a great adventure.
By
Lisa
from
Marshfield, Wisconsin
Traveled to
Bahamas ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Jennifer Holmes responded:
I am so grateful that you had such a wonderful time and I look forward to working with you on your next vacation! I knew that the dolphin experience would be your favorite part of the trip.
Was this review helpful to you?
YES | NO