About Us
Meet the Team
Distinguished Travelers creates authentic experiences for people who value exploring worldwide destinations and immersing themselves in local cuisines, historic customs, and diverse cultures.
Marissa Fontanini
Founder & Owner
When clients come to me with a destination in mind, I always ask them why. Often, their reasons are based on what friends loved, what looked beautiful on Instagram, or what they saw on a TV show. My job is to dig deeper.
I help travelers discover what they're really looking for: the experiences, the pace, the flavors, the connections. Then I match them with the destination that's actually right for them. About half the time, that's somewhere completely different than where they started.
As a food and wine enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout Europe, Latin America, and beyond, I bring firsthand knowledge to every itinerary. I work directly with in-country destination specialists: local experts who know the hidden gems, the best tables, the experiences you won't find in a guidebook.
The result? Travel that feels personal, not packaged. Journeys that stay with you long after you return home.
Kisha Woods
Cruise Specialist
I feel happiest exploring the world, and cruising is the travel experience I love most. There's something special about unpacking once while the ship carries you from one destination to the next - waking up to new views, new ports, and new experiences with the ship as your floating home.
Since my first sailing in 2011 aboard the Carnival Ecstasy, I've completed 43 ocean cruises spanning the Caribbean, Mexico's Pacific Coast, the Mediterranean, and the Greek Isles, plus a European river cruise. I've sailed with Carnival, Virgin Voyages, Royal Caribbean, Celestyal, and Amadeus, giving me firsthand insight into the different onboard styles and experiences each line offers.
That experience means I can help you choose the right ship, the right itinerary, and the right pace - whether you're looking for a relaxing Caribbean beach escape, a European river cruise through storybook towns, or an adventurous transatlantic crossing. I've wandered the historic districts of San Juan, watched whales in the Azores, explored ancient ruins in the Greek Isles, and tasted my way through Mexico's Pacific coast.
As part of Distinguished Travelers, I handle the details so you can simply show up, relax, and enjoy a seamless journey at sea.
Audra Morris
Cultural Travel Expert
I'm a history enthusiast and travel blogger who believes the best trips go beyond the highlights reel. My goal is to design journeys that connect you to the stories, traditions, and heritage of each place you visit.
I've explored 17 countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, and visited 51 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. That firsthand experience shapes every itinerary I build.
From ancient ruins to medieval town centers to small local museums, my approach blends historical insight with thoughtful logistics. Whether you're tracing ancient civilizations in Europe, exploring colonial towns in Latin America, or following the footsteps of artists, philosophers, and empires, I build trips that are as educational as they are enriching.
As part of Distinguished Travelers, I bring the same research-based detail I use in my writing to the trips I plan. Let's create a journey that inspires you long after you return home.
Let's plan something extraordinary
Every journey starts with a conversation. Tell me about your travel dreams.
Get in Touch