Catherine Dawson, Travel Agent in Livermore, CA

Catherine Dawson

Livermore, CA Travel Agent

Catherine Dawson

Livermore, CA

Storied Getaways LLC, an independent agent with WorldVia, a Travel Leaders Agency
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About
Certificates & Awards
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

At Sea, On the River, Alaska, United Kingdom, Europe

Interests:

Luxury Cruises, River Cruises, Expedition Cruises, Escorted Tours, National Parks

Suppliers:

Silversea, National Geographic - Lindblad Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, National Geographic Expeditions, Backroads

About Me

Enriching Voyages & Ventures: Expertly Planned

Glacier view, Alaska
Glacier view, Alaska

 My Philosophy: Stories Over Passport Stamps

True travel is about connection, not just checklists. My passion for global exploration was ignited years ago while living with host families in the UK and the Netherlands—experiences that taught me the best travel isn’t about just seeing a place, but feeling a part of it.

Today, I help curious travelers and families broaden their horizons through deep immersion in the nature, history, and culture that make our world so vibrant.

I love working with clients to identify experiences that balance expert support with the flexibility you need to truly explore. In a world of endless online options, my value lies in filtering out the noise to match you with the specific voyage, supplier, and pace that aligns with your personal style.

 

Cruising & Expedition Voyages

I never thought I would like cruises until I tried one. Then I was hooked! Gone was the need to pack and unpack, navigate city to city, just to see new sights. I could unpack once, sleep while the boat moved, and wake up refreshed for a new day of exploring!

Admittedly, my first experience was on a crowded party boat, but when I ventured to try different cruise lines, boat sizes and vibes, I love the incredible diversity of cruising options that exist. Selection of itinerary, pace of schedule and excursions along with the level of service and size of the boat ("shipboard experience") can be daunting to explore, but make a huge difference in fitting one's travel style and preferences.

Cruising is a great way to see the world. Spend your waking hours exploring incredible destinations and return to your floating hotel for a great night's sleep while it transports you to your next destination. I help you navigate the options for life at sea—where you unpack once while your ship carries you to new locations.

  • Firsthand Knowledge: I bring personal experience to your itinerary, from cruising experiences in Alaska, Mexico, Central America (including the Panama Canal transit) to the waterways of Europe and beyond. 
  • Expedition Travel: For remote destinations, my personal travels have taken me to Svalbard, Iceland, Jan Mayen, the Galápagos Islands, the Columbia River, the Napo River in Ecuador, and the Sea of Cortez.

Vetted Cruise Partners: Through World Via's affialiation with TLN, I offer elite access and amenities through these premier lines and more:

  • Luxury & Premium: Silversea, Seabourn, Explora Journeys, Oceania, Viking, Cunard, Ponant, Regent, Viking, Virgin, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America. 
  • River Cruising: Viking, Ama, Uniworld, Tauck, Avalon, Scenic and Riviera. 
  • Expedition Specialists: National Geographic Lindblad, Ponant, Silversea, Seabourn and Quark

 

Small-Group Land & Active Adventures

My favorite land-based journeys—from the villages and cities of Italy to the peaks of Peru—taught me the value of traveling with local guides who know the area deeply.

There is a "sweet spot" in travel: the expertly guided small-group tour (typically 8–20 travelers). I specialize in finding you the right fit, whether it is a regional immersion or a multi-country itinerary.

  • Cultural Immersion: You're making an investment when you plan an international trip. Small groups provide exclusive access—like private artisan workshops and meals at family estates—that large groups miss. I help you define your priorities to ensure an intimate pace and deep cultural context, turning your investment into a truly enriching experience.
  • Active Exploration: I have extensive experience actively exploring the U.S. National Parks with expert guides that enable a rich and unique active holiday. Abroad, whether it’s walking the Normandy coast or the Cotswolds of England, hiking in Iceland or kayaking in the Galapagos, I ensure your journey is as authentic as it is seamless.

 

The Storied Getaways Difference

I focus exclusively on globally-focused, immersive itineraries. I prioritize curated exploration over mass-market resorts or theme parks, ensuring every trip is a unique experience. 

Let’s write your next chapter. Message me to schedule a complimentary travel discussion today, and let’s craft a journey that is effortlessly planned and beautifully lived.  

 

Certifications & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world. Go with the pros.
Globus family of brands Specialist
Globus family of brands Specialist
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
Holland America Line Academy Specialist
NCL University - Associate Degree
NCL University - Associate Degree
NCL University - Bachelor's Degree
NCL University - Bachelor's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Princess Commodore Certified
Princess Commodore Certified
Seabourn Academy Graduate
Seabourn Academy Graduate
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Scarlet Certification
Seacademy - Scarlet Certification
Seacademy - Silver Certification
Seacademy - Silver Certification
Seacademy - Violet Certification
Seacademy - Violet Certification
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
AMA Academy
AMA Academy
AmaWaterways Specialist
AmaWaterways Specialist
Avalon Waterways Specialist
Avalon Waterways Specialist
Certified Cruise Counselor (CLIA)

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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