Leslie Henger

I have always loved traveling since I was young and remember taking annual vacations with my family growing up. This passion continued with my own kids, as my husband and I were stationed around the country in different places and he was deployed often. One particularly cherished tradition during my husband's deployments was planning our next family adventure together, with each member selecting a day and activity that was important to them. As a family, we have had the privilege of traveling to many wonderful places, and one example that comes to mind, is our cruise to Alaska. One person picked ice climbing up a glacier with a helicopter ride to get there, one picked King Salmon fishing on a charter boat, one picked a 5-mile hike in Denali and of course, mushing by another. Each experience enriched our family bond and ignited a shared spirit of adventure.

I am proud to say that this love for travel and adventure has been instilled into both our children and now they are quite the adventurers themselves and I always love to see where they will go next!

As far as travel style goes, I love it all, from big fancy resorts to small boutique charming hotels that are quaint and more intimate, to luxurious cruises! I think they all have a time and place. I also love great food and wine when I travel but need a little excitement too! Taking an Archery Lesson while staying at Ashford Castle was one of these things! It was completely out of my comfort zone, but my husband really thought it would be great. It turned out-it was!

I have also planned many events and trips for kids’ sports teams (many to Disney in Florida), charity fundraisers (golf tournaments) and multigenerational trips (Italy- organized private tours of the Vatican) for family and friends (custom Pearl Harbor trips in Hawai'i) and always try to find the balance between budget and expectations for all. It brings me joy when I see all the planning coming together and hear how much fun everyone had!

Overall, travel isn't just a pastime for me — it's a way of life that brings fulfillment and joy, both personally and in the connections I make along the way.