(3 Reviews)

Rebecca Meinking

Green Valley, AZ

Galapagos Islands Travel Agent Advisor

The Galapagos Islands, an archipelago straddling the equator in the Pacific Ocean and known for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, offer an unforgettable experience for any traveler.  Imagine stepping onto these volcanic islands, where...
Learn more about me.

The Galapagos Islands, an archipelago straddling the equator in the Pacific Ocean and known for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, offer an unforgettable experience for any traveler.  Imagine stepping onto these volcanic islands, where every day feels like an adventure on steroids. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by sea lions lounging on the beaches and majestic creatures that seem unbothered by human presence.

The Galapagos Islands are home to many endemic species - both plants and animals - that are found nowhere else on Earth, like the equatorial penguins.  That's right - penquins in a warm, tropical climate.  Amazing, right? Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters reveals a vibrant underwater world, with colorful fish, playful sea turtles, and even the occasional gentle giants of the sea—the whale and hammerhead sharks. Hiking through the islands allows you to explore diverse ecosystems, from arid deserts to lush highlands. You might encounter the famous giant tortoises, observing them in their natural habitat, and witness the blue-footed boobies displaying their comical courtship dances or even incubating their eggs in the wild, patiently waiting for the birth of their new chicks.

Hiking with a guide on the Galapagos Islands is required to ensure the protection of the unique ecosystems and the wildlife that inhabit the islands.The guided tours provide insights into the rich biodiversity and conservation efforts, deepening your appreciation for this ecological wonder. And the tours are carefully managed so that you never feel crowded or have difficulties seeing and photographing the wonder around you.  Every day brings new discoveries, whether it’s visiting the otherworldly lava fields of Fernandina and Isabela Islands or watching the giant albatross launch into flight off the sheer cliffs of Española Island.  It's literally like living a National Geographic photo shoot each and every day. Evenings can be spent enjoying local cuisine, sharing stories of the day’s adventures with fellow travelers, all while watching the incredible sunsets over the ocean. Each moment spent in the Galapagos Islands is a reminder of the importance of protecting such an incredible environment, making it not just a trip, but a transformative experience.

In short, a journey to the Galapagos Islands is not just about the sights; it’s about connecting with nature in its purest form and leaving with memories that will last a lifetime. I have extensive experience and expertise in planning the perfect adventure to the Galapagos Islands. I've been there and witnessed its unparalleled beauty and its incredible wildlife. Whether it's hiking the volcanoes on Isabela Island, scuba diving with the hammerheads at Kicker Rock, visiting the amazing Galapagos Tortoises at the El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve, or taking that selfie on the iconic and majestic Bartolome Island, I know the ins and outs of air travel, inter-island travel, accommodations and tours that will knock your socks off. For many, this bucket list trip is a once in a lifetime, so put my expertise to work for you and let me help you plan the trip of a lifetime. Let's get started planning! 

Email meCall Me

Rebecca Meinking

Can Be Reached At

1-585-330-1173

close

Carlsbad Caverns Travel Agent Advisor

Carlsbad Caverns Natl Park

A family vacation to the national parks of Texas and New Mexico can be an exciting and enriching experience, filled with adventure, stunning landscapes, and educational opportunities. 

Located between Las Cruces, New Mexico and Carlsbad New Mexico you'll find 3 National Parks: Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, and White Sands National Park.   Guadalupe Mountains National Park if actually in the state of Texas, just south of the Texas/New Mexico border. It is a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a unique experience in the beautiful landscapes of the West. The park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, which rises 8,749 feet above sea level. With over 80 miles of hiking trails, there are options suitable for all skill levels, allowing for exploration of the park’s rugged terrain.  About 30 miles north you'll find the awe-inspiring Carlsbad Caverns, located in Carlsbad, NM. You can do self-guided tours through either the Natural Entrance, which is a steep, winding descent into the cavern that offers stunning views and a sense of adventure as you enter the cave, or you can take the Big Room Route through one of the largest underground chambers in North America, featuring impressive formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.  If you want deeper insights into the geology and history of the caves you can do a number of different guided tours offered that really allow visitors to experience a remote part of the cavern, featuring rare formations and fascinating geological features. And in May through October each year you can witness the spectacular sight of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats leaving the cave at sunset to feed. It's a visual spectacle like no other! Next up is White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico, renowned for its stunning and unique landscape of vast white gypsum sand dunes. The park features the largest gypsum dune field in the world, with rolling dunes that can reach heights of up to 60 feet. The contrast of the bright white sand with the blue sky creates a visually stunning experience., and the dunes change color throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset, offering exceptional photography opportunities.There are several easy to moderate hiking trails, and you can even go Sand Sledding down the dunes while you are there. 

Further south in Texas, literally at the western "bend" in the border with Mexico is Big Bend National Park, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history. This park features a dramatic contrast between the Chisos Mountains and the arid Chihuahuan Desert. Visitors can hike in the mountains and then explore the desert in the same day. The Rio Grande River runs along the park's southern boundary, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for river activities like kayaking and canoeing. With over 150 miles of hiking trails, there are hiking options for every skill level, including popular hikes like the Window Trail, Lost Mine Trail, and the more challenging Emory Peak. Many of the trails lead to scenic viewpoints, providing stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Big Bend is designated as a Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing. The lack of light pollution means that visitors can see the Milky Way and various constellations clearly. Visiting the National Parks in Texas and New Mexico offers a blend of adventure, tranquility, and exploration, making it a remarkable destination for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking to escape into the beauty of the American Southwest.