HER STORY ⟡ Janell McDonald
Hey there! I’m Janell, a self appointed travel-aholic and Travel Advisor. I absolutely love exploring new places, cultures, food, and getting out of my comfort zone. I grew up in Kansas City, Missouri and recently moved to Havre de Grace, Maryland with my husband and our two cats, Nutter Butter and Sir Fuzz-A-Lot.
I love pushing myself out of my comfort zone while traveling because every time I gain confidence and a deeper understanding of who I am and what I’m capable of. I think every woman should dive deeper within and push their own limits, you’ll be amazed what you can do! I have many “I can’t believe I did that!” moments. From running with the bulls in Spain, hiking the Cotopaxi volcano in Ecuador, getting purposely lost in Florence, snorkeling with sea lions in the Galapagos, donning a survival suit and floating in the frozen waters of the Gulf of Bothnia, and so much more.
Why I started: As a child my family would ask me, “do you want to go…” and before they could say where I would exclaim “Yes!”. “But you don’t even know where we’re going” they would respond. My thought was “but we’re going!” My entire life I have wanted to “GO!”. It doesn’t matter where, just as long as I’m going. This need to just go has only gotten stronger as I’ve gotten older. I want to constantly learn about the world and everything she has to offer and I want others to feel that passion as well. Planning a trip can be a daunting task but I absolutely love the details of it. That’s why I became a Travel Advisor. I love using my passion for exploration to make people’s hard earned time away even better.
What I love about being a business owner: You can’t beat the flexibility! I love being on my own schedule and working whenever and wherever I want!
Who or what inspires you: Honestly, every woman ever and my husband. Women are incredibly strong, resilient, creatures. When we work together we can quite literally change the world and that is beyond inspiring. My husband is my rock (cheesy but true!) He has served in the Army for the last 26 years, has more lives than a cat, and is constantly uplifting me and pushing me to be an even better human.
Piece of Advice or Favorite Quote: You cannot be what you cannot see. Someone has to be the first, why not you? I don’t remember where I heard it but it is so true. Why not be the first at something? Why not forge your own path? Why not push yourself to try new things?
What does beauty mean to you: Living life to your fullest and appreciating the true beauty of the world around you with minimal impact. I want to leave the world better than I found it. That means assimilating to the local culture of where I’m traveling, living as green as possible, and being kind to everyone who crosses my path.
What advice would you give your past self starting your business: Girl! Make a schedule for yourself already!
What would you like our Beauty Boost Members to know: My services are FREE!! No really. Working with me gets you a better vacation (free perks anyone?) for the same price you could book a trip for. Plus! You’re not having to spend the time and energy on researching. Any trip, big or small, I can help!
Where our community can find you:
Instagram: @ducksanddaisies
Lemon8: @luxurytravel4u
Website: https://www.foratravel.com/advisor/janell-mcdonald
Email: Janell.McDonald@fora.travel