THE ECLECTUS TEAM
Jennifer Shanks
FOUNDER
Travel isn't just what I do, it is who I am. I have been traveling the far reaches of the globe for over twenty years on short breaks and long-term stays. I have traveled to six continents (Antarctica, I am coming for you) including sixty countries. Through my travels, I have discovered who I am and what inspires me. My specialty is diving deep into the local culture and experiencing authentic, once in a lifetime journeys. I love exploring a destination while it still has an untouched feel or finding unique ways to explore a treasured icon while avoiding the crowds. Throughout my career, I have developed a love of curating the perfect trips for my clients and developing their wanderlust.
Sarah Sturges
CULINARY & WELLNESS TRAVEL SPECIALIST
I am a Boston-based yoga instructor who has been teaching and leading retreats, both locally and internationally, for the past twelve plus years. I have a passion for gastronomy and believe that travel is the ultimate education. So when I met my Italian-born, oenophile of a husband, we decided to marry our passions—yoga and wine—in the form of our first, Luxury Yoga Wine Tour in northern Italy. Unabashedly, our lives have since revolved largely around delectable food, fine wine and beautiful places.
In order, to share these experiences with others, I have joined Jennifer at Eclectus as a luxury travel advisor, specializing in both wine and culinary travel for the discerning traveler. For more information on SeD's Luxury Yoga Wine Tours resuming in 2021, please visit my affiliate website at Sensi e Diletti.
Megan MAck
NORTH AMERICA & EUROPEAN SPECIALIST
My passion for travel was ignited during a formative high school trip to Europe. The thrill of exploration has stayed with me ever since, leading me to plan and embark on countless adventures across diverse destinations. From the vibrant coasts of the Baltic Sea to Italy's rich history, from California's scenic beauty to the tropical allure of Hawaii, I've immersed myself in a wide range of travel experiences.
Parenthood didn't dampen my wanderlust. I believe in the transformative power of family travel and have successfully navigated the world with my young children. Sharing these moments with them – whether it is exploring the United States or flying around the world exploring all the unique cultures, or soaking up the sun in Aruba – creates invaluable memories.
My personal experiences equip me with a unique understanding of the joys and challenges of family travel. This firsthand knowledge, paired with my meticulous planning skills, empowers me to help others craft unforgettable vacation experiences. Inspired by the desire to share this gift, I joined Jennifer's team. Let's collaborate to turn your travel dreams into extraordinary realities.
Fiona Kerr
AUSTRALIA, SOUTH PACIFIC, & EUROPEAN SPECIALIST
Luxury travel is about more than just comfortable and beautiful surroundings, it is the satisfaction of knowing that your trip is attuned to your needs, well organized, secure, and supported by an experienced travel designer. As an Australian, now living in the beautiful Berkshires of western Massachusetts, I have a thorough understanding of what makes traveling independently, with and without children, a rewarding adventure. With over 25 years of experience in independent, long-term, and multigenerational travel, I take great care to ensure that at the end of each day your only thoughts are of the wonders you have experienced and excitement for what tomorrow may bring.
Beth Reisinger
OFF THE BEATEN PATH DESTINATION SPECIALIST
Since I can remember, I wanted to see the world. Post college, I had the opportunity to travel the US and Canada to grow the sport of lacrosse. I visited great people, talked about a growing sport, all while experiencing what each city, state, province had to offer. I met people from all over the world during international events, spent time learning about their cultures, sharing their delicacies and swapping stories.
Since then, I’ve been blessed to work from New York to London and a variety of cities in the US. Whether it’s been on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii, walking Calle Angosto in Cartagena or riding a camel in the desert of Morrocco, no adventure has been the same. Each adventure has made me who I am and who I want to be.
I joined Jennifer’s team to take you on an unexpected adventure, fueled by local flair, amazing eats and soul filling experiences. I’d love to take you to some of my favorite places in the world and experience new locals with you.