We recently had the chance to connect with Krista Betts and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Krista, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
I can easily get lost thinking about my time spent with my grandmother. Immense laughter usually comes when I reminisce about her quick wit and vibrant spirit. My grandmother was entertaining, full of the best stories and unconditional love. My mood is always elevated when I think of her and then I can easily recenter and focus on the tasks of the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I create lifelong memories through the power of travel. As a trusted travel advisor, I design bespoke journeys around the world for high-net-worth individuals and corporations. I find immense joy in my work, and client happiness is the greatest reward.
There’s nothing more fulfilling than receiving photos, videos, and heartfelt messages from clients while they’re away, enjoying the experiences we’ve carefully curated together.
Travel is a powerful instrument—it can transform lives, shift perspectives, and remind us of our shared humanity.
I consider it a true privilege to be an integral part of that journey.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
My first trip to Africa left me in awe. Before visiting, I had read novels and watched films about the continent. Friends from all backgrounds spoke of feeling “at home” in Africa, and I was curious to experience that for myself.
When I arrived, I felt an immediate sense of calm. I was comfortable, at ease, and deeply grounded. Every interaction with the locals was warm, genuine, and filled with love.
One evening, while sitting in a café in Johannesburg listening to live jazz, I felt as though I was surrounded by family. It was in that moment I truly understood: we are all connected—through spirit, through culture, and most powerfully, through our shared humanity.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me compassion and empathy. I experienced true pain when my parents divorced while I was in the fourth grade. My father had a pregnant mistress, and we were forced to leave our family home.
My mom did everything she could to provide for my brother and me, but our lifestyle changed overnight—from well-off to living in poverty. My brother got a job delivering newspapers so we could afford school lunch money. I remember being laughed at by other kids because I didn’t have the “cool” clothes.
Those years were hard, but they shaped who I am. They taught me to be consistently kind, to treat everyone with dignity, and to live with constant gratitude—no matter the circumstances.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I truly admire Nestecha Cisneros, owner of Justin Roses, a wedding flower shop in Round Rock, Texas. Nestecha is consistently kind, no matter the situation, and her work ethic is unmatched.
She always makes time for friends and family, and she gives back to the community by volunteering and donating her time and services.
I feel truly blessed to call her one of my best friends and confidants. The positive advice and encouragement she has shared with me over the years has improved my life in countless ways.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
My clients would deeply miss having direct access to me throughout their travels. Knowing they can reach out at any time for support and guidance brings them peace of mind.
They would also miss the compassionate care and genuine concern I bring to every interaction. I don’t just plan trips—I look after their well-being every step of the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.BalboaVacations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristabetts/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-betts-b31b7a92
Image Credits
Photos all taken with my cell phone
