Alison Carey
San Diego Office
There's nothing that I love more than planning a new adventure! I'm the type of person who is always dreaming about my next trip and learning about new destinations and experiences.
There's nothing that I love more than planning a new adventure! I'm 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 seven 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 one-month journey across the Gulf of Mexico from the United States to Belize.
I then worked in African safari operations for 5 years before setting my sights on Latin America and Antarctica. A place that truly has something for everyone, Latin America features incredibly diverse landscapes, climates, experiences, wildlife and cultures so that you’ll never be bored!
Most recently, my travels took me to Antarctica where I was lucky to experience the Great White Continent for myself - and it did not disappoint! In the last few years, I have also been fortunate to explore Argentina's rich culture, Bolivia's surreal and unearthly landscapes, and Chile’s gorgeous scenery where I indulged my passion for photography. I have also been lucky to travel to Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica and Mexico with Scott Dunn and cannot wait to see what comes next!
Alison's blogsTop 10 Experiences in Bariloche, Argentina
The Trail Less Traveled - Top 10 Wildlife Moments in Baja California Sur
Meet Alison
What my guests have said
Favourite places I've been
Antarctica
Bolivia
Buenos Aires and the Pampas
Cuzco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
Galapagos
Southern Patagonia
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 lots of silica packets overnight often revives 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!
Always carry a rain poncho in the rainforest and at Machu Picchu. In addition to your favorite rain gear, a poncho can be a real life saver because it covers your backpack to protect your valuables and electronics. It's also a second waterproof layer.
Most of Bolivia is at very high altitude, so if traveling there make sure to take it easy, drink lots of water and speak with your doctor about altitude medication prior to travel.
If traveling to Antarctica, a flexible attitude is key. Weather and sea conditions can literally change by the hour, so the expert ship staff is constantly adapting and updating excursion plans to maximize your visit.
One travel accessory that I never leave home without is a Buff; which is a versatile head and neck cover that can be used in both hot and cold climates. It is made of durable light weight material and can be worn as a hat, neck covering or headband.
My hot picks
Airstream Uyuni, Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia
The intrepid Airstream Uyuni is simply the best way to experience the stunning Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia - with private staff to cater to your every whim!
Awasi Patagonia, Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile
Awasi Patagonia is the pinnacle of elegance in Patagonia and offers incredible accommodation, delicious cuisine as well as privately guided excursions.
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, 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
Clos Apalta Residence, Central Valley, Santiago and Central Valley, Chile
Clos Apalta Residence is a gorgeous and sopisticated Relais & Chateaux property offering luxurious accommodation in combination with phenomenal cuisine and wines.
Eolo, El Calafate, Southern Patagonia, Argentina
The beautiful Eolo hotel offers unmatched accommodation in Argentine Patagonia, where panoramic windows take full advantage of stunning 360 degree views around the property.
Estancia Los Potreros, Cordoba, Cordoba, Argentina
Get to know the REAL Argentina at the authentic Estancia Los Potreros, where you can learn about the gaucho way of life and horseback ride under the tutelage of the friendly and knowledgeable owners.
Faena Hotel Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires and the Pampas, Argentina
The Faena Hotel Buenos Aires offers some of the best outdoor spaces in the entire city as well as the acclaimed Rojo Tango show!
Hotel Sol y Luna, Sacred Valley, Peru
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.
&Beyond Vira Vira, Pucón, Chile
Hotel Vira Vira is a destination in itself, set amongst verdant forests, mountains and pristine rivers. The staff here are fantastic and will ensure your stay is unforgettable!
M/C Petrel, Galapagos, Ecuador
The M/C Petrel is a luxury boutique catamaran offering personalized service and spacious cabins complete with private balconies.
M/V Magellan Explorer, Antarctica
The M/V Magellan Explorer is one of the newest and most luxurious ships in all of Antarctica, offering fly-cruise itineraries that allow you to skip the infamous Drake Passage.
Nayara Springs, Arenal, San Jose and Central Valley, 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, San Jose and Central Valley, Costa Rica
Only accessible by whitewater raft, this lodge has amazing adventure activities.
