I’m a travel advisor with a passion for organizing trips for travelers who appreciate structure without rigidity, and adventure without overwhelm.  With years of firsthand experience exploring the US, Caribbean, Europe, and beyond—on land, by river, and at sea—I bring a practical, insider’s perspective to every itinerary I host.

Some trips I plan and host on my own; others I co-lead with my daughter, historian Melanie Garvey. Together, we’ve developed History-ish Escapes, thoughtfully crafted experiences that blend rich storytelling with local flavor and a flexible, traveler-friendly approach.

When you travel with me, you’re not just getting an itinerary—you’re gaining a travel partner who knows the ins and outs, can handle the details, and helps make every step feel smoother, more enjoyable, and more connected to the place you’re visiting.

Curious about the places we’re visiting, the history behind them, or how this journey connects with your heritage? Melanie is here to bring the past to life and answer any questions about the historical and cultural side of the experience.

Melanie is a historian, archivist, and professor of history. She holds an M.A. in History from the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and a B.A. in History from Shepherd University, and has over a decade of experience in the museum and public history field. Throughout her career, she has endeavored to uncover the average people of the past – the ones who usually get left out of the stories we often hear.  

On this trip, she'll blend history and storytelling to unlock the secrets of The Last Frontier.