ABOUT

I started as someone who naturally planned detailed, thoughtful trips for myself and others—becoming the go-to person when friends wanted their travel to feel more intentional and less stressful. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just enjoying the planning itself, but the process of turning ideas into trips that actually flow.

I’ve also experienced travel that feels rushed, disconnected, or overwhelming, and that contrast shaped how I approach my work today. I focus on pacing, structure, and the details that allow a trip to feel cohesive from start to finish.

Now, I help clients who want more than a generic itinerary. I translate their vision into a well-organized, immersive experience so they can simply show up and enjoy it.

My Story

I’m a travel designer who specializes in designing curated, immersive itineraries for travelers who want more than a checklist of destinations. I work with clients who value ease, depth, and thoughtful planning, and who want their time away to feel both enriching and well-organized.

I take a highly personalized approach to every trip, focusing on pacing, logistics, and the small details that make a big difference. Whether it’s a multi-stop journey, a special celebration, or a restorative escape, I help ensure everything connects in a way that feels natural, intentional, and stress-free—so you can focus on the experience, not the planning.

When I'm not traveling, you can find me working as an educator at a local school district, being a mom to teens, and visiting local food and drink destinations on the beautiful California Central Coast that I am lucky enough to call home. 

Hi, I'm Rachel Gustafson

Travel Designer & Owner of Destinations.Designed