Alexandria
324 Broadway
Alexandria, MN 56308
Fax:
800 Number: 800-645-2331
Phone: 320-762-1544
Hours:
Monday – Friday – 9:00am – 4:00pm
Call to schedule an appointment.
Bursch Travel – Alexandria, MN
Advisors
Kassondra R.
Years at Bursch Travel: I’ve been traveling my entire life, but with Bursch Travel for just over one year.
Top Travel Memory? One favorite vacation memory is staying in the Monteverde Cloud Forest of Costa Rica, it’s the definition of serenity. Another memorable moment is watching the sunrise over the Indian ocean in Padang Bai, Bali.
Never Travel Without… Sunscreen, battery pack for your phone, and lots of layers! You’ll be able to have the best time with a fully charged cell and appropriate clothing for whatever weather may come.
Best Foodie Find? I’m an expert at finding top notch international cuisine (especially Thai food) in just about any location I visit- recently I discovered a little hole in the wall establishment near Jackson, WY that served the best pineapple fried rice I’ve ever had. My family ordered it to go, and we ate, in our pajamas, around a cozy campfire overlooking Jackson Lake. I wasn’t surprised when I later learned they had won several James Beard awards over the years.
What’s On Your Bucket List? My short list includes Norway, Antarctica, Thailand, and to see the infamous underwater waterfall of Mauritius.
Specializations? All things Asia! I’m a PADI Advanced Open Water SCUBA Diver and it’s a passion that has led me to plan trips in many parts of the world. I am also a backpack camper and an avid hiker, National Park vacations are another highlight of my adventure planning experience.
Top Travel Tip? Talk with your advisor about the cultural Do’s and Don’ts of your upcoming international travels. Many things we do here in America can be interpreted much differently in another country. I also take the time to learn a few phrases in the native tongue, specifically “please,” “thank you,” and “where is the bathroom?”
Kim V.
Years at Bursch Travel: 14 years
Top Travel Memory? Private charter plane over the Blue Hole, Belize and petting a wild wombat Wolgan Valley of Sydney Australia.
Never Travel Without… packing cubes.
Best Foodie Find? Traveling Spoon pasta-making class in Rome. A wonderful way of connecting with a local through food!
What’s On Your Bucket List? A South African safari!
Specializations? Hawaii, Alaska, Italy, Ireland, Iceland, river & ocean cruises, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, Ecuador, South Korea, customized Europe, and group travel.
Top Travel Tip? Always bring a water bottle. Hydration is so important! And good walking shoes.
Jessica R.
How many years have you been with Bursch Travel and/or in the travel industry? I have been with Bursch Travel and working in the travel industry for 6 years.
What is something you never travel without? I always travel with Liquid IV or another electrolyte mix, a high-quality reusable water bottle that keeps ice cold for hours, a sturdy backpack, and reliable walking shoes.
What is one of your top travel memories? While staying just outside Rome, Italy, I visited a small local grocery store. I was selecting fresh, seasonal strawberries when an elderly gentleman noticed me. Though he spoke only Italian and I responded in English, he was intent on helping me pick the best strawberries. His kindness and willingness to assist a stranger is a moment I will always cherish.
What destinations are on your bucket list? Tahiti, the Maldives, the Great Barrier Reef, and South Africa are some of the incredible places I hope to visit.
What’s your best foodie or off-the-beaten-path discovery? In Rome, Italy, I discovered a local gem called Nannarella Osteria, renowned for its exceptional pasta and delicious artichokes. In Anaheim, California, Joe’s Italian Ice is an absolute must-try for a refreshing treat. And in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, Run Run Chinese stands out as a small takeout spot serving some of the most authentic and flavorful Chinese cuisine I have ever experienced.
Do you have any specializations? Yes! I specialize in all things Disney, as well as travel in Alaska, Hawaii, Tahiti, Italy, Germany, and river cruising.
What is your top travel tip? When traveling internationally, always carry a photo or digital copy of your passport in case it’s lost or stolen. Also, be sure to take moments throughout your journey to pause, soak it all in, and enjoy the experience.
What is your favorite destination and why? Italy ranks as my favorite destination because of its incredible variety. You can explore stunning coastlines, the majestic Swiss Alps nearby, and the picturesque Tuscan countryside—all in one trip. The diversity of experiences Italy offers is truly unmatched.
Shelley A.
Years at Bursch Travel: 35 years.
Interesting Facts: I never actually planned on working in the travel industry. I thought I was going to be a secretary, but 40 years later I’m still here and loving every minute of it!
Most Memorable Travel Request: I planned a trip to Robinson Caruso Island off the coast of Chile. It’s known for its dive sites and native wildlife such as firecrown hummingbirds and fur seals.
What are your travel related specialties? I have Specialist Certificates for Princess Cruises, Globus, Alaska, Disney, Hurtigruten, Royal Caribbean, Mexico, Jamaica, and Sandals to name a few. I also know Belize and Alaska very well.
Bucket List Destinations: Australia and New Zealand.
