Karen "Kiki" Cristello
Sacramento, CA Travel Agent· 2 Years of Experience
Areas of expertise
Destinations:
Japan, South KoreaInterests:
Arts & Culture, Bespoke Travel, Bucket List, Family Vacations, SafariAbout Me
Make Your Bucket List Travel Dreams Come True
Hello, fellow explorer!
I specialize in creating meaningful travel experiences that go beyond the surface, connecting you with the cultures and communities that make each destination truly remarkable. Working with solo travelers, couples, and families, I pay meticulous attention to every detail so all you have to do is show up and enjoy. Whether it’s Antarctica, Machu Picchu, Bhutan, African safaris, or elsewhere, there’s (almost) no place that’s off limits.
Destinations I Specialize In
- Japan! It’s my number one. I lived in Kyoto (that's where the name Latitude 35 comes from) and Tokyo in my twenties and try to go back every year because there’s always more to experience.
- African safaris — Because they’re such unique and amazing, sometimes once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
- Less-traveled countries and off-the-beaten-path destinations — such as Vietnam, South Korea, Bhutan, India, Rwanda, Tanzania, Belize, Oman — you name it. I really love sending clients to these places because there are often fewer tourists and you feel more immersed in the location.
Types of Travel I Love to Plan
- Deluxe and luxury custom tours — Clients enjoy these the most. You get a custom itinerary, personalized service, expert guides, drivers, and an overall seamless, easy experience.
- Tours with meaningful travel companies — Your activities benefit the local communities. For example, you stay in local hotels, use community transportation, have meals with locals, and make crafts with social benefit organizations.
- River cruises — These ships are smaller and more intimate than ocean cruises. Unpack once and see many fascinating ports along the way. I can even add pre- and post-cruise land explorations for you.
About Me
As a citizen of this precious planet, traveling helps me understand other cultures, make historical connections, dispel stereotypes, and in general, be a better human.
I've been to 40+ countries on six continents, about half solo. Highlights of my travels include safaris in Botswana; a helicopter ride over Victoria Falls; temple stays in Koyasan, Japan; ziplining, horseback riding and yoga in Costa Rica; cooking classes in Paris, Marrakech, and Chiang Mai; and so many more!
Last traveled to: Italy, Hawaii
Traveling next to: Central Europe, Antarctica
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I love planning memorable journeys and providing my clients with top-notch service. What’s on your bucket list? Contact me today and let’s start planning!
Latitude 35 Travel — Dream Big, Tell the Tale!
Ex-Japan Resident Who Knows the Ins and Outs
Konnichiwa!
I lived in Japan — Kyoto, Kamakura, and Tokyo — for four years, and I still consider it my second home. I try to go back every year because there’s always more to explore.
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are incredible, but Japan goes so much deeper than that. You can ski in the Japanese Alps, spend a night in a centuries-old temple, explore the history of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, or take a gold leaf class in Kanazawa. Maybe it’s sake tasting, a taiko drumming lesson, or a traditional matcha tea ceremony that calls to you.
That’s where I come in. I help you go beyond the obvious and experience the Japan I fell in love with: the one that’s vivid, unexpected, and soulful.
Contact me today and let’s start building your Japan dream trip!
Areas of expertise
Destinations:
Japan, South KoreaInterests:
Arts & Culture, Bespoke Travel, Bucket List, Family Vacations, SafariCertifications & Awards
