Travel Advisor: Melissa Rose Ooka

Favorite destination?

Antarctica

Why is that your favorite destination?

Antarctica has been my favorite place because it was the most off the beaten track destination I have ever visited. Experiencing the nature and wildlife in such an unpopulated part of the globe was a transformative and other worldly experience! 

What destination is on your bucket list?

The Arctic Circle and North Pole are on my bucket list among many other destinations.

Why is that destination on your bucket list?

When I am wanting to escape the summer heat, I often think of a place that is crisp and refreshing and the Arctic comes to mind as the perfect destination. I visited the South Pole when I was in Antarctica and am curious about the North Pole.  I have read that the North Pole is actually warmer than the South Pole! 

What destinations have you visited?

I have traveled to all 7 continents and the countries I have visited are listed below, but there is so much more to see!  
Argentina, Chile
Egypt, South Africa, Eswatini (aka Swaziland)
Cambodia, China (Mainland and Hong Kong), India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand
Antarctica
Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth) 
New Zealand
Belgium, England, France, Germany,  Greece, Italy, Monaco, Netherlands, Russia, Scotland, Spain Switzerland
Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec)
United States (over 40 states and Guam)
Mexico, Costa Rica

Why should someone book their vacation with you?

Booking a vacation is essentially helping someone realize their dream. People should book their vacation with me because I am committed to making dreams come true!   They also get an added bonus because I am a well-seasoned traveler that is organized,  personable, service-oriented, and conscientious about the work I do.

What travel industry certifications have you earned?

AAA River Cruise Certification

Are you fluent in a language other than English? If so, what other language(s) do you speak?

French and Japanese

One thing you’d like our members to know about you?

When I was living in Australia, I took flight lessons and flew solo in a Piper Tomahawk.