Journey Beyond Destination
Transformative Travel for the Culturally Curious
"Transformative travel is about connecting
ethically with cultures, communities, and yourself."
- Zani McPherson
Small Groups
Friends
Families
Team Building
Wander Women
Solo Female
Travelers
over 50
Barrier-free
Accessible Travel
Our Story
Born from a passion for solo travel and inspired by her own transformative adventures,
Zani McPherson founded Journey Beyond in 2023. Zani personally plans and leads all our unique journeys, taking travelers to less-frequented destinations steeped in ancient history,
art, and local traditions.To honor our commitment to sustainability, many of our trips feature
eco-friendly accommodations
wherever possible and offer opportunities for travelers to engage in projects that
support the family-owned businesses and local communities we visit.With Journey Beyond, you're never just a spectator; you're a participant,
connecting deeply with the heart of every destination. Join us in exploring the world purposefully.
Our Mission
Our mission is to elevate travel to a transformative act of connection, respect, and discovery. Through consciously curated, multi-day itineraries in select destinations, we honor local traditions, learn from their history, and appreciate their arts
while promoting sustainability and inclusivity.By collaborating with ethical partners, we prioritize sustainability and accessibility.
Our journeys offer unique experiences that inspire cultural curiosity, celebrate diversity,
and ensure that every traveler—regardless of ability—feels welcomed and empowered.
Our Vision
We aspire to be a trusted name in ethical, sustainable, cultural tourism.We believe every journey has the power to foster compassion and promote unity
in a diverse world. We envision a world where tourism plays a supporting role in
transforming perspectives, leaving a positive, lasting imprint
on the hearts and minds of everyone involved.
Small Group Adventures
Unlike mainstream tourism, we specialize in exclusive, small-group adventures with
no more than ten travelers, allowing for a more personal and immersive experience.Our founder and owner, Zani, is a seasoned traveler herself and has personally lived in or spent
significant time at every destination, ensuring that each itinerary is thoughtfully pieced together and brimming with unique opportunities you won’t find in a guidebook.
Her MO (modus operandi) is, "I know because I go."
Her firsthand experience guarantees you’re in the best of company.Offering travel that goes beyond the bucket list, our journeys leave you with unexpected stories to tell,
rich connections to cherish and memories to treasure for a lifetime.
Small Group Celebrations
Celebrate life's most precious moments with Journey Beyond Destination.
We craft custom journeys that bring families and friends together for unforgettable adventures.Whether it's a milestone birthday, a dreamy destination wedding, a long-awaited anniversary,
or a family reunion, let us create an experience that captures the magic of your celebration.From charming eco-lodge retreats to cultural tours with a unique perspective,
every detail is organized with authenticity to make your celebration one of a kind.Let us take care of the planning so you can skip the stress and simply embrace the journey ahead.
Wander Women over 50
At Journey Beyond Destination, we know that comfort and safety are as vital as the
enriching experiences you seek. With us, you’ll enjoy a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation
in the company of women who share your love for authentic travel and meaningful connections.Founded by a solo female traveler over 50, Zani knows firsthand the transformative power of exploring the world and is uniquely attuned to the needs and desires of women in this vibrant stage of life.Now is your time to travel deeply and slowly with kindred spirits who understand life's journey well. Click on the link below to join our private Facebook group and be the first to know about our women-only trips.
🪷See you there!
Barrier-free Tourism
We believe travel should be an enriching and joyful experience for all, no matter their physical abilities.
That's why we design secure, inclusive, and barrier-free itineraries that empower travelers
who use mobility aids to explore the world with confidence and ease.Every detail of our journeys is carefully planned, from accessible accommodations to the
support of qualified guides who understand and prioritize your needs.We also offer personalized itineraries for families and small groups. Whether it’s navigating historical landmarks, enjoying cultural experiences, or savoring breathtaking landscapes,
we ensure that every moment is comfortable, seamless, and most of all, accessible.At Journey Beyond Destination, our mission is to provide peace of mind so you can focus on
what truly matters—creating meaningful connections and lasting memories.
Let us help you experience the transformative power of travel, your way.
Testimonials
“WOW! This was one of the most magical trips of my life."
"This was my first time in Morocco and my first time on a guided trip, and I can’t recommend going with Zani enough. She connects with anyone authentically and is so full of life, laughs, and stories that there was never a dull moment. This isn’t just a trip; it is soul food. A celebration of the beauty of the people, music, land, and mysticism of Morocco with people who will feel like family by the end of it!Thank you so much, Zani, for an absolutely unforgettable adventure!”By Laura H
for Bucket List - Morocco 2023
“Our journey through Morocco with Zani was nothing short of extraordinary.”
"From the moment we signed up for the 2023 Bucket List - Morocco trip, Zani promised us magic, and she more than delivered.She introduced us to the authentic heartbeat of Morocco, far beyond the typical tourist trails.What truly sets Zani apart is her unique blend of meticulous planning and boundless creativity. Her passion for Morocco is not only enriching but also contagious; she infused every moment with enthusiasm and genuine joy.Zani didn't just lead a tour—she created a tapestry of memories and connections that will stay with us forever.Her expertise, charisma, and love for this beautiful country will not only enrich your experience but also leave you grateful for the opportunity to have met someone as remarkable as Zani.”By Shane M
for Bucket List - Morocco 2023
"Truly a trip of a lifetime.”
“I traveled with Zani through Morocco in September 2023, and it was such an incredible journey. Zani has such a deep connection to the local culture and residents that meant we didn't just get the classic tourist experience. We connected with locals and got a chance to have private concerts with some incredibly talented musicians. Zani had a special love for music, and, in a way, it felt a little like a tour through the various Moroccan music cultures, including Gnawa and Chaabi. Truly a trip of a lifetime.”By David R for Bucket List - Morocco 2023
“Zani showed us a truly special side of Morocco."
“We had an unforgettable trip in Morocco with Zani.
While I primarily book my own travel and organize my own trips, I traveled with Zani in her Bucket List Morrocco tour in 2023. I found that the most beautiful and profound moments of my trip with Zani were because of Zani’s authentic relationships with people and were experiences I could not have had on my own. Zani has a rich knowledge of the place, incredible charm and authenticity, and a sense of awareness that can safely shepherd you through a country and allow for rare and privileged access to culture, people, and place. An absolute highlight was staying in an ancient kasbah in the middle of an oasis and having a private concert in the kasbah's main hall. It was a surreal setting!
Highly recommend!”By Phoebe R and Daniel M for Bucket List - Morocco 2023
“Always Truly Unique Experiences with Journey Beyond Destination."
“In 2023, I took a small group tour to Morocco with Journey Beyond Destination and was blown away by the planning and authentic experiences. But as a solo female traveler over 50, I wanted a trip for myself with the same immersive experience we had in Morocco.As someone who loves exploring the world but often finds the planning part overwhelming, Journey Beyond Destination took all the stress away while crafting the perfect itinerary for me. My August 2024 trip to Latvia truly exceeded my expectations. Zani nailed it by offering a balance of guided exploration, a chocolate-making workshop, wine tasting, and plenty of personal time to absorb the country's beauty and culture.Latvia wasn’t even on my radar before this trip. I chose it on her suggestion, and it turned out to be a hidden gem. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty was simply magical. I especially loved the emphasis on local, handcrafted goods—from the breadmakers to the enthusiastic artists creating traditional Latvian products.If you're a woman eager to explore new places without the stress of organizing everything yourself, I can’t recommend Zani and Journey Beyond Destination enough. Her personalized approach, curating truly authentic experiences, means you're not just passively visiting a destination—you’re actively creating memories for a lifetime.By Linda P. for Discover Lovely Latvia, 2024
