Alison Carey
San Diego Office
There's nothing I love more than planning a new adventure. I'm definitely the type of person who is always dreaming about my next trip and learning about new destinations and experiences.
Having been to over 35 countries on six continents, I’ve traveled extensively. I've also logged over 5,000 nautical miles crewing on yachts. In fact, I’ve completed multiple international sailing voyages including a three-month crossing from French Polynesia to New Zealand and a journey across the Gulf of Mexico from the United States to Belize.
After several years crewing, I worked in safari operations for some time before setting my sights on Central and South America. A place that truly has something for everyone, Central & South America feature incredibly diverse landscapes, climates, activities, wildlife and cultures so that you’ll never be bored!
Most recently, my travels took me to Costa Rica to explore the country's fascinating jungles and beaches, and Ecuador and Peru where I was lucky to indulge my passion for photography. Up next, Chile! My dream destinations include Easter Island, the Pantanal, and Antarctica.
Alison's blogs
Meet Alison
What my guests have said
Favourite places I've been
Buenos Aires and the Pampas
Cayes
Cuzco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
Galapagos
Manuel Antonio & Uvita
Travel nuggets
- Always travel with lots of silica packets. I love tropical destinations but humidity can sometimes kill small electronics. Putting them in an air tight baggie with several silica packets overnight revies them--it's better than rice!
- Make time to relax! It's tempting to schedule loads of activities during your vacation but don't forget to leave time to unwind, especially if you're lucky enough to be in a place with amazing scenery.
- In the Galapagos, don't be afraid to snorkel with the sea lions. When you're in the water, the sea lions are gentle, friendly and curious - it's incredibly charming!
- Carry a poncho in the rainforest and Machu Picchu. In addition to your favorite rain gear, a poncho can be a real live saver because it covers your backpack to protect your valuables and electronics. It's also a second waterproof layer in a downpour.
My hot picks
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Cuzco, Peru
This all-suite spa concept property is a serene oasis in the historical center of Cuzco, featuring the only outdoor pool in town.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge at Machu Picchu, Machu Picchu, Peru
With a truly unique location immediately adjacent to Machu Picchu, this property delivers on comfort, excellent service and cuisine
Casa Cartagena Boutique Hotel & Spa, Cuzco, Peru
With its dream-like courtyard, this property uniquely combines colonial architecture with modern interior décor and lux bathrooms
Casa Gangotena, Quito, Ecuador
Easily Quito’s most luxurious hotel, the property features dramatic high ceilings, white marble bathrooms and complimentary daily tea service in the glass courtyard
Hotel Sol y Luna, Urubamba, Sacred Valley
It’s extensive, beautiful gardens and eclectic rooms can't be beaten! Upgrade to a deluxe casita for an in-room fireplace - perfect on chilly evenings.
Nayara Springs, Arenal, Costa Rica
Consistently rated one of the top properties in Costa Rica, this hotel has amazing facilities that include walking trails, spa, yoga rooms, multiple pools and restaurants.
Pacuare Lodge, Turrialba, Costa Rica
Only accessible by whitewater raft, this lodge has amazing adventure activities.
