A long time ago when film had to be loaded into large heavy metal cameras, J.C. Bark studied the great photographers and thought she’d become the next Dorothea Lange, but when she reckoned all the pitfalls that come with success; like jealousy, money, fame and hard work, she decided to pursue a simpler vocation.  The travel business seemed a natural since she already loved to travel, how hard could it be?  By the time she realized that becoming a Travel Agent involved actual work she was hooked.  

Over the next 26 years, she sold travel, taught travel and managed travel in  Kansas City, Nashville and Tucson, (where she drank her fair share of tequila hobnobbing with Caballeros).  Back in Nashville with Belle Meade Vacations, she functions as Head Greeter and Toilet Paper Procurer, with numerous illustrious responsibilities in between including making the time to arrange amazing travel adventures for the fortunate few.

She still follows the advice she received from a Lebanese street musician at midnight in Cuzco many years ago, “before climbing mountain finish you cognac”.

A few pearls of wisdom she’s learned along the travel route;

• Do not pet the Llamas in Machu Picchu, they have a nasty temperament.
• In Ireland, the sheep always have the right of way.
• Not all the Grand Canyon Mules like their jobs.
• Do not drive the rented moped on the beach unless you’d like to visit the local hospital.

2010, Next stop: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia.