• Independent Traveller to 169 Countries
• Presenter of Travel Circles and podcasts
• Itinerary Planner and host of escorted trips
• History, Geography and Human Society Teacher
• University lecturer and School Principal
• Leadership presenter, mentor and coach

Annie is a seasoned world traveler and educator with a rich background in both professional and personal exploration. After a career in nursing, special education, counseling, and teaching History, Geography, and Society, she retired early as a school Principal to travel full-time. For 14 years, Annie has circumnavigated the globe, volunteering and undertaking epic overland journeys. She hosts a travel website, writes itineraries, and leads escorted trips.

Annie’s professional experience includes roles as an Assistant Professor at Bond University, training female Principals in Qatar, and teaching in Japan, Hong Kong, the UK, and Southeast Asia. With her vast cultural insights and engaging presentation style, she offers cruise line guests a unique, enriching perspective on global destinations.

Presentation Experience

Annie is a skilled presenter who has spoken at prominent events including the Australian College of Educational Leaders and the International Convention of Principals Leadership Conferences. Recently, she has been leading Women’s Circles for the Gold Coast City Council in Queensland, Australia, covering topics such as Foundations of Health, Life Transition, and Managing Emotions.

Destinations  Annie’s extensive travel experience allows her to tailor her presentations to the specific regions and destinations of each cruise itinerary. Whether exploring ancient civilizations, natural wonders, or historical landmarks, Annie highlights the unique and fascinating aspects of each port of call and the broader context of the destination’s history, culture, and significance.

• European Cruises: Annie brings to life the rich history of ancient cities and iconic landmarks, from the Roman Empire to modern European revolutions, showcasing the continent’s dynamic culture, art, and architecture.
• Caribbean & Central America: Focused on the vibrant mix of indigenous cultures, colonial history, and the stunning natural beauty of the Caribbean islands, Annie highlights local traditions, historical trade routes, and the wonders of the region’s biodiversity.
• Asian Cruises: Annie’s deep knowledge of Asian history and culture makes her talks a captivating journey through the Silk Road, the rise and fall of great empires, and the spiritual heritage of places like Japan and China.
• Australasia & South Pacific: With a keen understanding of the indigenous cultures, colonial pasts, and ecological significance of these regions, Annie’s presentations highlight the extraordinary biodiversity of Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.
• African & Middle Eastern Cruises: Annie emphasizes the ancient civilizations of Egypt, the intricacies of the Sahara, the Great Rift Valley, and the profound cultural and religious history that shapes this region, making each port of call come alive with rich historical storytelling.
• Antarctica & the Polar Regions: Annie’s expertise in geography and the history of exploration allows her to bring to life the story of polar expeditions, the significance of these unspoiled environments, and the impact of climate change on these fragile ecosystems.

Annie’s ability to blend historical insights with contemporary relevance ensures that each talk is both educational and entertaining, offering passengers a deeper understanding of the places they visit and a greater appreciation for the world’s incredible diversity.

It’s a Wild World: From Then to Now

• Stories from the 5 Oceans and 7 Seas: Pirates and Warships
• Wonders of the World: Then and Now
• Changing Borders and Political Shifts: How Many Countries?
• Circumnavigating the World: Following Ancient Trade Routes
• Colonization and Its Ongoing Impact
• Slavery: Its Historical and Modern Context
• Great Civilizations and Where to See Them Today
• Major Disasters: From Chernobyl to Aceh

Traveler’s Tips: What Every Traveler Should Know

• Becoming a Full-Time Traveler: Yes, You Can!
• Lessons Learned After 40 Years on the Road

Top 10 of Everything: Bucket List Destinations

• The World’s Great Spiritual Sites and Pilgrimages
• The World’s Great Overland Routes: Silk Road to Trans-Siberian
• The World’s Great Natural Wonders: Iguazu to Serengeti
• The World’s Great Man-Made Wonders: From Rome to Rio
• The Most Extreme Places to Visit: From the Dead Sea to the Himalayas