
VANESSA BALLARD
SARASOTA, FL
Hi, I’m Vanessa. For over four decades, travel has been at the heart of my life—whether I’m exploring new destinations, capturing landscapes through my lens, reading about far-off places, or crafting unforgettable vacations for others.
I’ve traveled to more than 43 countries, experiencing everything from hiking Machu Picchu and sailing through the British Virgin Islands to sipping tea in Darjeeling and riding a camel across the Sahara at sunset. As a certified Active and Adventure Specialist, I design travel experiences that are immersive, exciting, and deeply personal.
If I haven’t been to a destination yet, it’s probably at the top of my list—I’m always seeking out new places and firsthand experiences to better guide my clients.
I specialize in European journeys, luxury river cruises, and active adventures throughout Africa and beyond. One of my favorite travel memories? After an Andrea Bocelli concert, we visited his hometown of Lajatico and wandered into the Bocelli store. A warm conversation with a local turned into something unforgettable—he was Andrea’s brother, and he treated us to wine from his own cellar. A beautiful reminder that the most meaningful travel moments often come from simple human connection.

In a nutshell
Fun Facts about me:
My favorite souvenir // Darjeeling tea from India….I like to bring things back that I can use.
Longest flight I’ve been on // 18 hours Atlanta to Cape Town
Hotels I could call home // Borgo Pignano or the Castello di Casole Belmond in Tuscany
One country I’ll never say no to // Italy!!
MY TRAVEL STORIES
BORGO PIGNANO
BORGO PIGNANO HOTEL REVIEW BY VANESSA BALLARDWHEN: July 2025WHERE: TuscanyWe arrived at Borgo Pignano knowing it would be beautiful—but nothing prepared us for the feeling. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by 750 acres of Tuscan countryside, this estate wasn’t just a...