Janet McLaughlin

Twenty eight years ago I changed careers from higher education to working in the travel industry as a fulltime professional travel advisor - I have never looked back! Ever since I can remember I always had a love for travel and adventure. I was able to incorporate a way to blend this love into a professional career. Travel has shaped my world!

I am a creative person-I listen to my clients wants, needs, and dreams when it comes to what they want their travel experience to be. There is nothing more that I love to design than a customized travel experience - something unique to each and every client.

Italy is my passion! I have lived in Italy for many years -specifically in Rome and Venice. I understand the history and culture that is Italy and speak the language fluently. I am a proud first generation American - my mother is from Abruzzo, Italy. I continue to visit four to five times a year. Recently I have been spending a lot of time in Southern Italy - specifically Puglia and Sicily. During my visits to Bella Italia it is important for me to conduct hotel site inspections, to meet with my hotelier partners and guides on a regular basis. I want my clients to know that I have that "been there" expertise that sets me apart. There are so many new and culturally rich areas of Italy to explore that many travelers do not yet know about - such as travel to Puglia or Basilicata. Italy will always be my Number One Passion and I would love to share my knowledge with you!

My second passion are my travels to Africa and Australasia - from Botswana, to South Africa to the Serengeti Plains and Beyond! I love wildlife and am devoted to wildlife conservancy. My travels have taken me to Africa many times and I have a unique understanding of the camps and lodges as well as the cultures of the diverse people who live there. Australia and New Zealand are also areas of expertise-everything from koalas and kangas in Australia to kiwi and fjords in New Zealand. Australasia is an amazing place for outdoor adventure as well as wildlife viewing. Whether it be Africa or Australasia, these exotic locations are perfect get-aways for familes, honeymooners, or to celebrate that special milestone in your life!

For over the past 10 years Travel + Leisure magazine has awarded me the designation of being one of their "A-List Travel Professionals." I am honored to be one of the Top 125 Travel Consultants in the Nation.

Through my 28 years working as a travel industry professional, I have been fortunate enough to have traveled all over the world and have experienced many cultures. In addition to Italy, Africa, and Australia-New Zealand my career has allowed me to visit many incredible destinations worldwide such as the Caribbean, South America, India, and North America. I am blessed with a career that I love and have never lost the passion or zest for being a part of this wonderful profession. It is my intention to bring my love and passion to every trip that I curate.

Provident Travel is a founding member of Virtuoso-a luxury travel consortium. Through the years, I have developed a strong network of Virtuoso travel suppliers that I now call "friends." These people are a part of my "travel family." This travel network, combined with my lifetime of experience traveling the world, makes me a valuable asset to my clients.

Let me turn your next travel dream into a reality! There is a destination and budget for everyone. Travel is the best means of educating yourself to another land, diverse cultures, and interesting people!