About Us

Fern|weh

[‘ fern:veh]   german

A German word which translated means “far-woe” or “far sickness.”           A longing for far off places, especially  those you haven’t seen yet.  An ache that reminds us we have to get out and see the world!

My interest in travel began early. Growing up with 2 German grandmothers (hence the name) I was exposed to history, language and culture at an early age. In my early 20’s, I began serving as a translator on multiple medical missions to the Dominican Republic with my mother and her nursing team. It was not only eye-opening but also very rewarding.  These humbling experiences helped me to gain a broader understanding and perspective of the world.  Later, I studied Spanish and  Hospitality and Tourism Management in college preparing me for my next adventure.

In 2003, I joined Amber Road Tours, a privately owned tour operator, specializing in small group tours to Southern Europe.  Alongside owners, Jonathan Bassett and Sonya Conti, I co-created 3 itineraries within Spain. For nearly a decade, I traveled back and forth to Europe, honing and perfecting the Spain tours while we expanded the company’s growing list of destinations outside of Italy.

My experiences have taught me that traveling doesn’t have to be pretentious to be meaningful. Some of the best moments occur in the humblest of settings.  Personally, I have found times like sitting at the kitchen table of a local while enjoying a homecooked mea to  be some of my most fulfilling moments.

At the end of the day, travel is really less about the beautiful places we see but more about the connections we make with others. That’s the stuff.   As human beings we instinctively try to find similarities in others. We search for common ground and hopefully learn that sometimes our way of doing things isn’t always the best way.

At Fernweh Travel and Tours, we want you to have authentic experiences that foster relationships and create connections with people and places for years to come.  I will strive to  make sure you have an in depth experience of an area on foot, not from the window of a coach and . That’s why my trips are regional. Less coach time; more in person interaction.

Value and consistency are also important.

I want each of my itineraries to be as unique and fulfilling as the last, offering elements of surprise and improvisation but without sacrificing value. As our guest, you  will be comfortable knowing that my tours will always include the following 6 core elements:

1. -Small group tours- (never more than 14 guests)
2. -4-5 star boutique hotels within walking distance to the city center
3. -Unique regional  itineraries
4. -Arrival and departure transfers from designated airports/places
5. –Minimum coach time
6. -Only the BEST Native Tour Guides we can find

As travelers, we will always have a desire to continue the adventure. A “fernweh” feeling as my grandmothers would say for a place we have never seen or been before.  When you get that feeling, you can feel confident knowing that you can always expect the same level of service you experienced the first time!  ~ Lisa