Today we’d like to introduce you to Salma Reyes.
Hi Salma, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The idea of Travel Guru Destinations was born at a coffee shop rendezvous when a friend of a friend reached out to me for help planning her upcoming solo trip to Italy. I had recently returned from a study abroad program in Europe and was buzzing with travel knowledge. Sharing my experiences and insider tips sparked a passion to help others explore the world.
I studied abroad in Japan, Spain, China, Italy, and France during college. When I graduated in 2016 with an International Business degree, I continued my pursuit of learning from the world. Diploma in hand, I solo backpacked Southeast Asia. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Angkor Wat, I found beauty everywhere. Wholeheartedly, I returned to the US and pursued the corporate dream – but the 9-to-5 grind didn’t resonate. So, I leaped and founded Travel Guru Destinations.
As a travel concierge, I first specialized in Europe and Asia, but soon, my interest grew in exposing others to less traveled places. Craving new horizons, my husband and I embarked on a two-year digital nomad journey through his homeland (Dominican Republic), my roots (Mexico), and captivating South America. We explored vibrant Colombia, the ancient ruins of Peru, thermal springs in the Andes, and the breathtaking scenes in Patagonia. Latin America revealed its colorful soul, rich culture, and captivating eccentricity.
Today, with over 44 countries under my belt, I specialize in travel planning. Travel Guru Destinations is currently based in Austin, Texas. While my husband and I have found our home base, we add new destinations each year!
Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
The world is a giant map, and with every journey, a piece of my heart gets pinned to a new location. The friendships forged over shared adventures become scattered treasures across continents. Saying goodbye is always bittersweet, a mix of happy memories intertwined with the uncertainty of when our paths might cross again; coming from a close-knit family, the physical distance can be difficult, especially during birthdays, holidays, and special celebrations. But travel has also taught me the power of presence. When I’m reunited with friends and family, the phone gets silenced, and the laptop is closed. I treasure genuine connections. The truth is, the more I explore, the more I discover. My bucket list remains stubbornly long, each destination promising new experiences. Leaving a place I’ve grown to love is a bittersweet symphony. The constant push and pull between cherished connections and the thrill of the unknown fuels my wanderlust.
We’ve been impressed with Travel Guru Destinations, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share about what you do and what sets you apart?
With 120+ cities, 27 US states, 44 countries, and 6 continents explored, I’m proud to have earned the title of “travel guru.” My true passion is igniting the same travel spark and wanderlust in others. The internet is flooded with information, making travel planning a daunting process. Travel Guru Destinations cuts through the noise. I aim to reduce the friction so travelers can enjoy their chosen destinations and even consider new ones. I’ve curated unique itineraries for hundreds of solo adventurers, couples, honeymooners, and families, each tailored to their budget and interests. My travel experience allows me to provide local tips and recommendations to expose travelers to new cuisine, local customs, and nearby towns. Travel guru trips often include once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as floating markets, underground rivers, cave restaurants, waterfall hikes, dining in the sky, artisan workshops, and more. Ultimately, each trip is carefully planned to help travelers create unforgettable memories and learn from the world.
What were you like growing up?
My mom will say I was a shy little girl with a big smile and a serene personality. I loved being around my family, but being alone at the dining table would send tears streaming down my face. She finds it fascinating that her shy baby girl evolved into an extroverted adventure soul who explores the world with an open heart and an unquenched thirst for discovery.
Pricing:
- $150 for trips under 5 days
- $250 for honeymoons and longer trips
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.travelgurudestinations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelgurudestinations
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salmatravelguru
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salmamendez/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdAFoGY-zoW_YJd24uPxW0w
- soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/travelgurudestinations
- Other: https://g.page/TravelGuruDestinations
Image Credits
Travel Guru Destinations
