Sonoma & the Russian River Valley

I never left my heart in San Francisco or the Bay Area, it has always been here! (except for the first ten years I spent in Cleveland, not by choice. ) Growing up, I was fortunate to call two places home, San Francisco and my family's vineyard in Sonoma. A seasoned tour pioneer, I've spent over two decades in the tour and hospitality industry. English is my native language and I make poor attempts to speak Spanish, French, Italian, and Japanese. I have traveled extensively in Italy (my husband is Italian), the U. K. , France, and Southeast Asia, and lived in Tokyo for two years. After receiving my degree in Radio and Television from the University of San Francisco, I worked as a professional photographer and travel writer and landed a job leading wine tours in Sonoma and Napa Valley. That's when I realized that nothing makes me happier than watching people glow with excitement when they see the city for the first time, taste wine from a barrel, or being there when they share a return experience with family and friends. My worst tour experience was in Philadelphia standing in one place for almost 45 minutes while a guide with the personality of an eggshell talked about a pile of rocks. Not on my watch. My style is engaging, passionate, and approachable. My delivery is a blend of knowledge, facts, and humor, much like a fine Meritage. I take pride in delivering a uniquely personalized tour. No two tours are ever the same, as I tailor each experience to my client's interests and schedule. Whether you're interested in colorful history, local cuisine, art, nature, painted ladies, or modern architecture, I assure you that you will get the absolute most from your visit here. A tour is more than sightseeing. It should be an immersive and unforgettable experience that connects you with sights, sounds, smells, and tastes on the deepest level. My passion for San Francisco and the surrounding Marin, Sonoma, and Napa Counties is unwavering and I have made it my mission to explore every inch to show you only the juiciest bits. Tours can include iconic places like Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Chocolate, and the crookedest street as well as the many outdoor wonders like the Presidio, Alcatraz, Ocean Beach, the Cliff House, Japanese Tea Garden, Golden Gate Park, and the bridge. Muir Woods, Sonoma, and Napa Valley Wine Country, or we can do it all. My promise to you is to be on time, flexible and professional. I will help you with any planning questions you have. My experience in the industry has afforded me some great relationships with many of the resources I use on my tours. These relationships serve only to enhance my client's experiences. I do not accept gratuities or complimentary services from any restaurants, vendors, or places that we will visit or that I might recommend if asked. Also, have you ever handed your camera to someone only to have them cut off your head or not even include the landmark you were standing in front of? As a retired professional travel photographer, I will capture only the best angles of your experiences creating share-worthy masterpieces for all your social media! We can meet in San Francisco, Sonoma, or Napa at the pick-up spot of your choice. If you are traveling with your four-legged, I know all the friendlies and will show you to the best spots and smells! We can use a luxury SUV, or Uber to get to locations outside of walking distance, or I can ride along in your rental car as a step-up guide. Some of my best travel experiences have come from locals giving me great recommendations and restaurant tips only locals can give. I will be that local for you. Let your adventure begin. Warmly, Stacy BA Communications Radio/Television University of San Francisco American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified) English as a second language (ESL) Certified Black Belt Tae Kwon Do Professional Photographer Copywriters Guild Member San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers Member None.