Derek’s love for adventure is truly boundless. A graduate from the University of Michigan, he has led hiking, biking and kayaking excursions to national parks across USA, and curated gastronomical experiences for discerning guests as part of a food tour company. His stint in the entertainment industry took him to filming locations all over the world. Having worked as a mixologist briefly, he continues to seek out culinary experiences wherever he goes.
Derek has, over the years, channeled his passion for travel, adventure, food, history and art towards planning and executing exceptional journeys. A history lover and avid football and NBA fan, he enjoys camping and watching live concerts. He loves the great outdoors, be it mountaineering or hiking, and spending time with his two pups, Dallas and Obi. Europe is close to his heart. He fondly recalls being swept away by the beauty of Greece, and watching World Cup matches across European cities on a solo adventure. Morocco and Vietnam continue to call his name. But Colombia is on top of his bucket list and he can’t wait to soak up everything the country has to offer.
MOST ENCHANTING TRAVEL
Funnily enough, my most memorable travel experience is also that one trip where our travel plans went awry. My wife (who was my girlfriend at that time) and I realized that we weren’t going to make our ferry to Croatia and so, in a moment of inspiration, we decided to head the other direction toward the Amalfi Coast. That train ride through the countryside was pure joy. We ended up falling in love with the enchanting cliffside villages and islands of the Amalfi Coast, and we ended up falling in love with each other during that trip. To me, this is the true power of travel: you learn about new cultures and people, but you also learn about yourself and the people you travel with. It inspires positive change around you and within you!
“Plan to be spontaneous!”
Derek Krantz