our team
Your Ultimate Travel Companions
Our Travel Designers are all about understanding your unique preferences to create a trip that's as unique as you are. Get to know our team and find your perfect travel match, or click the button below to submit a general inquiry, and we will pair you with the perfect fit.
dedicated to crafting your dream journey.
Find My travel advisor
Kristin Winkaffe, founder of Winkaffe Global Travel, specializes in crafting luxury travel experiences that are both authentic and sustainable. With a background in international development and human rights, she brings a deep understanding of cultural and environmental impact to every trip. Having traveled to 55+ countries, she infuses each itinerary with unique insights. A new mom with a jetsetter baby and an iced coffee aficionado, Kristin is perfect for clients seeking high-end, immersive journeys that are as responsible as they are remarkable.
Favorite Travel Memory: Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro
Favorite Hotel: Any Six Senses Hotel
Please note that Kristin specializes in high-end, luxury travel experiences and generally does not accept trips with budgets under $750 per person, per day. This ensures that she can maintain the exceptional standards of luxury and personalized service that define her offerings. If your travel budget does not meet this criterion, we have other talented advisors on our team who would be delighted to assist you with your travel planning needs.
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Sustainable Luxury Travel
Kristin
Emiliya
Emiliya is your go-to for thrill-seeking adventures. With 35 countries under her belt, she excels at uncovering adrenaline-pumping experiences and hidden gems. Whether it’s exploring SE Asia or chasing whales, Emiliya’s enthusiasm ensures unforgettable adventures. An agility trainer with her German Shepherd and a lover of all things adventurous, she’s perfect for clients craving heart-racing, immersive journeys packed with culture and excitement.
Favorite Travel Memory: Meeting Audrey Hepburn's former neighbors in Switzerland
Favorite Hotel: Alila Villas Uluwatu
Adventure Travel
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Kathryn
Kathryn is our Food & Wine travel expert, blending 10+ years of project management experience with a passion for culinary adventures. With a knack for uncovering the best local dining spots and wine experiences, Kathryn ensures each trip is a gastronomic delight. When she’s not planning trips, she’s enjoying tapas with friends, golfing, or savoring a new wine. Perfect for clients who love to explore through food and drink, Kathryn’s itineraries balance must-see sites with local recommendations for an unforgettable experience.
Favorite Travel Memory: A solo road trip up Highway 1 to the beautiful vineyards of Sonoma
Favorite Hotel: Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Food & Wine Travel
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Kim Magaraci
Kim is our go-to expert for national parks and ski travel. Since 2016, she's explored the diverse landscapes of America, crafting over 5,000 guides and itineraries. From the Tetons to the Jersey Shore, Kim’s extensive travel experience ensures clients get the best advice for their adventures. She’s a master at planning ski trips, highlighting the best runs and après-ski spots. Passionate about visiting every National Park, Kim excels at creating immersive experiences. Perfect for nature and ski enthusiasts, she’ll help you uncover the magic of each destination.
Favorite Travel Memory: A sunrise thunderstorm in Grand Teton
Favorite Hotel: Fairmont Banff Springs
National Parks & Ski Travel
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Heide Taylor
Heide is our expert in all things Spain. Originally from Michigan, she has called Madrid home for the past 7 years. Heide's background in visual effects in NYC and LA fueled her love for big city energy and diverse cultures. Fluent in Spanish, she connects deeply with locals and uncovers Spain's hidden gems. Heide loves planning trips around live music events and quick weekend getaways. Perfect for those seeking authentic adventures, Heide’s expertise will guide you through Spain and the world's lesser-known treasures and vibrant cities.
Favorite Travel Memory: Babysitting Alpacas in The Netherlands
Favorite Hotel: Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine
Spain Expert
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Melanie Rafalski
Melanie Rafalski is our Asia travel expert, bringing a rich blend of cultural experiences from her time traveling and living in Asia and Europe. Her love for travel began while teaching English abroad, sparking a passion for cultural exploration. Originally from Michigan and now a 20-year resident of NYC, Melanie loves the balance of city life and nature. From ramen and karaoke nights in Japan to savoring a glass of Sancerre in the Loire Valley, Melanie’s deep knowledge will guide you through unforgettable journeys in Asia and beyond.
Favorite Travel Memory: A multi-day wedding celebration in India
Favorite Hotel: Aman Tokyo
Asia Expert
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Aundrea Koger
Aundrea is our behind-the-scenes organizational guru, ensuring every detail of your trip is perfectly executed. From booking seamless flights and luxurious hotels to reserving tables at exquisite restaurants and scheduling unique adventures, Aundrea's meticulous planning guarantees an unforgettable travel experience. With her background in ecology and sustainability, she's passionate about creating travel experiences that support local communities and environments. Aundrea's dedication ensures that every Winkaffe Global Travel journey is not only extraordinary but also meaningful and impactful.
Favorite Travel Memory: Babysitting Alpacas in The Netherlands
Favorite Hotel: Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine
Travel Coordinator
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