Travel Advisor
Kathleen Ortiz
Planning travel since 1984, Kathleen completed forty years in the travel industry in December 2024. She is a group travel specialist who has visited thirty-three countries, organizing and escorting groups across the United States, Western Europe, and the Mediterranean. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies and a Master of Arts in Latin American Area Studies, was a 2017 recipient of the Alfred R. Nelson Marquis Who's Who Lifetime Achievement Award, and has published over ninety newspaper articles. She speaks English, French, and Spanish.
Where Kathleen Shines
Areas of Expertise
River Cruises & Rail
Pilgrimages & Faith Travel
Central Europe & Latin America
Get to Know Kathleen
A Few Questions
What is your favorite destination and why?
"The rivers of Europe and the Americas. I have cruised the Danube, the Rhine, the Mississippi, the Ohio, the Cumberland, and the Missouri on authentic paddle wheelers. Every river tells a story — and Machu Picchu, which I have a Master's to understand, is different when you are there."
What is your travel philosophy?
"Land tours, pilgrimages, and river cruises through the heartland of Europe showcase the culture and history of those who built the civilizations I love to explore. Why retire when the world of travel has so much to offer?"
Most memorable travel moment?
"Machu Picchu. I have a Master's in Latin American Studies — I have studied it, read about it, and then I stood there. It is different when you are there. Cairo and Jerusalem were the same."
What do clients say about working with you?
"That I know the history behind every destination. I do not just book trips — I contextualize them. Nine confirmed guests have recommended me, and they say I am efficient, keep them informed, and have great ideas."
The All World Difference
The Virtuoso Advantage
When you book with Kathleen, you are not just booking a trip — you are tapping into the world's leading luxury travel network.
Exclusive Amenities
Room upgrades, daily breakfast, resort credits, and early check-in — privileges reserved for Virtuoso guests at the world's finest hotels and cruise lines.
Insider Access
Private shore excursions, behind-the-scenes tours, and local guides who open doors you simply cannot book on your own.
Seamless Planning
Every flight, transfer, reservation, and contingency handled — so the only thing you have to do is be present for the journey.
A Network Built Over Decades
Forty-five years of relationships with the planet's best operators means the impossible becomes routine — and the routine becomes remarkable.
Ready to Plan with Kathleen?
Connect directly to start crafting your journey.