Expert Vacation Tips from our Tour Directors

Our tour directors infuse your vacations with much joy and warmth. Whether you want to get your kicks on Route 66 or discover the many wonders of Italy, they bring your travel dreams to life with their in-depth knowledge and unbridled enthusiasm. We put the spotlight on some of our tour directors as they talk about their favorite tour and offer their expert tips and recommendations. 

Kalili: Eat Your Way Through Hawaii

Born in Samoa, Kalili leads our Hawaii tours and there’s nothing he loves more than sharing the culture of Hawaiian and Polynesian people. He highly recommends taking the Sunset Dinner Cruise, an optional add-on excursion available on our Hawaii tours. 

Daniel Hernandez: Experience a road trip

Daniel has been with YMT for over eight years, and Historic Route 66 is one of his favorite tours! What makes this tour so special? “We go through nine states so be ready to see our amazing country – from big cities to small towns, into deserts and over mountains, visit some of our National Parks and take funny pictures at kitschy roadside attractions. We will learn about the Indigenous People, cross over the longest rivers in America, visit historic sites, and taste different types of food popular in the Midwest and Southwest.” 

Anna Castagnetti: Unearth the beauty of Tuscany

Anna is one of our Europe-based tour directors, and Bella Italia is her favorite tour to lead. “The tour takes you to so many beautiful places, it’s so hard to choose one!” she says. While Rome is packed with iconic attractions, Anna highly recommends a visit to Montecatini Alto, a charming medieval hamlet on the top of the hill overlooking the main town. To get there, you can take the Funicular which runs every half hour.   

Jorge Timoteo: Enjoy tapas in Spain

There’s something magical about Spain. Ask our Tour Director Jorge; he absolutely loves leading the Best Of Southern Spain tour. “Going to Seville always makes me happy because you feel welcomed by friendly smiley residents and guaranteed warm weather,” he says. Plus, he also recommends exploring Granada’s medieval architecture and Cordoba’s Mezquita-Cathedral. 

Amy MacMahon: Feast on deep dish pizza!

Amy is a natural storyteller. A former archeologist in the Middle East, she’s also worked as a history teacher, school principal, and a children’s book author, among others. She enjoys leading our Mackinac Island & Grand Hotel tour, as she regales guests with tales from the region’s past. 

She says, “Enjoy some great food – have the best homemade fudge, and Chicago-style pizza! Also make sure to experience the Great Lakes – they are salt-free and shark-free! Plus, don’t forget to take a photo at the birthplace of the Motown Sound.”

Plan your next trip with YMT Vacations

Inspired to travel? Whether you’re seeking a sunny beach vacation or an immersive cultural experience, we have a wide range of tours you can choose from. Our expert tour directors will make sure your trip is packed with a lot of fun, and they’re always happy to give you insider tips and great local recommendations wherever you go! So, where will you go next?