Travel has been a passion of mine since I first had an opportunity to travel Europe at the age of 15. After a summer abroad program between sophomore and junior year in college I was again able to explore more of Europe then completed a Master’s Degree at the Ecole Supérieure de Commerce in Clermont-Ferrand, France.  I ended up staying another 6 years in France, moving to the Southwest town of Bordeaux.

In Bordeaux, I garnered knowledge in the fashion industry while working for an international jeanswear company before becoming an accredited tour guide for the Gironde department (Guide Interprète Local en Gironde).

During this time and over the many travels back to France after moving to the United States in 1995, I was able to establish relationships with many artisans, restaurateurs and wineries. My interest in all things culinary was solidified and expanded while publishing a local guide for restaurants in Kansas City for just over 20 years.

Since 2013 I have been hand-curating trips to France that focus on introducing travelers to the richness of French culture through its culinary traditions and history for both adult as well as varied ages of students.

Adult trips are designed for unique, small group experiences, with an average of 15-20 travelers and can be customized with a minimum of 15 travelers.

High school student trips focus is not only to expose students to what they have been learning in their French classes and test their language skills but to give them an opportunity to experience another culture at such a highly influenceable time of their lives.   Some students have experienced firsts – being on an airplane, seeing the ocean and even getting out of their home states while on their trip to France.

College culinary students take a deep dive into the world-renowned French gastronomy through diverse experiences while meeting artisans, Michelin-starred chefs and Meilleur Ouvriers de France.

If you would like more information about any of these opportunities, please email me at kathy@getawayalacarte.com