"We have experienced what we sell first hand. We also have an enduring passion for travel that has led us around the world again and again. Our recommendations come from a rich and varied base of knowledge."
Articles and Biographical Links from Gig Gwin:
American Express Persona Magazine: "Jambo! Welcome!"
Stars and Stripes: "The Quest for Kilimanjaro" (Second Page)
Gig Gwin — CTC, DS
Owner & World Explorer
Gig has explored all 317 countries of the world. Not only a traveler, he is an enthusiastic adventurer by nature. Gig has climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, had a private audience with the King of Tonga and has planned or escorted more than a quarter million people around the world.
African Safari Expert & Wildlife Adventure Specialist
Gig has been on more than 10 distinct safari treks all over Africa and he has sent more than thousand travelers on their own safari. If you have the desire to see any of the 4 major wildlife adventures: African Safari, Antarctic, Galapagos Islands, and the Polar Bear Migration in Church Hill, CA then call Gig Gwin at 314-822-1957 or 888-325-1904.
Destination Specialist (DS) all nine world regions
These are just some of our Travel Experts. To contact one yourself call us:
In Kirkwood, MO 314-822-1957
In Bethalto, IL 618-259-1940
Donna Picataggio, Outside Sales Consultant
Specializes in Luxury Travel, Hawaii, Safaris, Europe, Asia, and Trips of Historical Exploration
From the time I first learned to read, I was entranced by stories about far away places; the more exotic the better! I turned this passion for knowledge and exploration into a career in education. I began teaching middle schoolers about the wonders of the world through geography and history.
I escorted student groups throughout Europe for many years. As time went on I expanded my horizons to other areas of the world----China, Australia, South America, and Africa. Most of these excursions were with Gwin's Travel and often the Gwin family.
As I retired from teaching, I used my love of travel to launch a new career. I'm able to use not only my experience as a traveler and group leader, but my knowledge of the history and culture of a diverse world population. Understanding of the world around us enriches us all, and I'm happy to be part of the community of travel.
Tasha Fine — Travel Consultant
Specializes in Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Wedding-Moons, and Luxury Travel
In the past 18 years I have been fortunate enough to travel to many different destinations. I enjoy planning vacations to Europe, Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii. I love being able to research a destination and give my clients the best possible value.
I book World Cruises with all of the major cruise lines. I am an expert in all of the major lines that host world cruises and will help you choose the world cruise voyage that is perfect for you. It is a wonderful opportunity to explore different intriguing ports of call with overnight options in certain cities. If you do not have time to explore the full world voyage you can participate in a partial world voyage.
Karen Avery — CTC, DS, Travel Consultant
Specialize in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons
I have been in the Travel Industry for 35 years, which includes 20 years with Maritz Travel where I booked travel in every genre (leisure, corporate, groups), as well as personal travel for Mr. Bill Maritz and other VIP's. I also have extensive experience as a Travel Director. I joined Gwins Travel in December of 2007 as an outside contractor and officially came on board full-time in September 2008. I have earned both my CTC (Certified Travel Consultant), and DS (Destination Specialist) certifications. Over the past several years I have traveled extensively to places in Europe, China, Greece, Australia, Caribbean, and Mexico.
Colleen Campanella— Travel Consultant
Specialize in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and
Family Vacations
I have been in the Travel Industry for over 17 years. Beginning my travel career with Maritz Travel Company, which I was graciously able to experience all aspects of corporate travel. I had the opportunity while with Maritz Travel Company to see the world as a Travel Director. I decided that I wanted to stay in the Travel Industry and learn the leisure side, and my path led me to Gwins Travel, where I've found that to be such a rewarding experience. I specialize in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons as well as Family Vacations.