Travel Advisor

Rita Carton

She/Her

Expertise

Boutique Travel,
Luxury,
Europe,
Portugal,
Ireland,
US,
Japan,
Food and Wine

Based in

Los Angeles

Languages spoken

English

Travel Advisor

Rita Carton

Profile details

About

A passionate traveler who makes it happen and plans elaborately. Love for travel is in my DNA, and I pride myself on finding unique experiences and securing reservations for seemingly impossible-to-get places to eat.

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Travel style

I thrive on a travel style that embraces the unconventional and seeks out the extraordinary. My preference leans towards boutique hotels that offer not just accommodation but an immersive experience, coupled with impeccable service. Exploring local cuisines is a key highlight of my journeys, as I believe great food is a gateway to understanding a culture. Beyond mere sightseeing, I value experiences that allow me to connect with new cultures and people, as I believe that travel, in its essence, is a soul-nourishing adventure.

Love to find unique restaurants and local food.

Rita's travel guides & trip reports

A yellow-painted pavilion in the water next to the shore

Guide

Journey Through Japan: An Insider's Guide to Experiencing the Country's Rich Culture and Breathtaking Landscapes

Japan is a country rich in cultural heritage and legacy, from its ancient samurai traditions to its refined artistic practices like sushi, anime and Zen Buddhism. The country is home to stunning...

View of city buildings in downtown Austin

Trip Report

Austin to Fredericksburg for the Solar Eclipse April 2024

In April 2024, I stayed at the Hyatt Regency Austin before leaving to go to Fredericksburg to witness the total solar eclipse. The Manager upgraded the three rooms we had reserved, made sure we had...

A brick walkway in Charleston lined with large trees.

Trip Report

Reflections on Savannah & Charleston: History, Hospitality & Hints of the Lowcountry

Savannah and Charleston were major hubs of the antebellum plantation economy, with their prosperity built on the backs of enslaved labor. The first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in ...

Trip Report

An African Odyssey: Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, Tracking the Big 5, and exploring Cape Town

My journey to understand Africa began in Johannesburg, where I visited the Apartheid Museum and Soweto — the epicenter of the anti-apartheid movement and the site of the 1976 uprising. This provided...

Rita and her husband posing in a cave at Vila Nova de Gaia beach

Guide

A Perfect Portugal All Around Country Trip with Hidden Gems

Portugal’s allure lies in its breathtaking diversity, offering a tapestry of experiences. From awe-inspiring monolithic complexes steeped in centuries of history, cork farms, wineries, sun-kissed...

A woman writing on the colorful Belfast Peace Wall and a man standing behind her waiting to write.

Guide

Belfast: A Treasured Northern Ireland City Often Overlooked

Belfast and Northern Ireland hold a unique charm and significance due to its rich history, cultural diversity, vibrant arts and music scene, excellent restaurants and stunning landscapes. The...

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Favorite hotels

Adare Manor

Sitting on 840 acres of pristine parkland, Adare Manor embodies Irish hospitality, as well as hosting a Michelin-starred restaurant, golf course and spa.

Fora Perks

★
Afternoon Tea for two.
★
Breakfast daily.
★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Alila Ventana Big Sur

Postcard-worthy Ventana Big Sur on California's Central Coast combines luxury and nature, offering breathtaking ocean views, serene redwood settings and a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Fora Perks

★
$100 food / beverage or spa credit.
★
Breakfast daily.
★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Ojai Valley Inn

Book well in advance to score a room at this beloved spa and golf escape in the hills.

Fora Perks

★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
★
Breakfast daily.
★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Auberge du Soleil

This no-kids resort has unmatched views across the valley and vineyards – perfect for romantic breaks and celebratory trips.

Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery

A luxurious stay within the historic medieval walls of Carcassonne, France, featuring elegant accommodations, fine dining and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Fora Perks

★
$100 food / beverage or spa credit.
★
Breakfast daily.
★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Lion Sands River Lodge

Experience the allure of the African wilderness in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa, where luxurious accommodations, wildlife adventures and serene riverfront views come together for an extraordinary safari stay.

Benesse House

A Tadao Ando-designed minimalist gem that’s more museum than hotel, on Japan’s art hub of Naoshima Island.

The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection

Iconic Dublin hotel with spectacular service, elegant dining plus rooms and accommodations for the discerning traveler.

Fora Perks

★
$100 food / beverage credit.
★
Breakfast daily.
★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Fiordland Lodge Te Anau

Surrounded by towering mountains, pristine lakes and lush forests, this luxurious lodge offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike

Governors Il Moran Camp

Experience the ultimate safari luxury at Governors' Il Moran Camp, nestled deep in the heart of Kenya's majestic Masai Mara.

Rita's travel photos

Picture of Rita eating Sardine Tavira Portugal

Picture of Kenamre to Mall's Gap drive with a mountain views

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Rita's reviews

Rita provided excellent options for dining including Res-Turkish and Kobalt Klub, both of which we enjoyed very much.

Sylvia Martin S.
Booked travel to Berlin
March 2025

Rita was very helpful both in arranging our itinerary as well as our accommodations. The tours she set up for us in Berlin were both outstanding and contributed to our appreciation of the city. We were able to have a great time in Germany with very little planning time due to Rita's outstanding recommendations.

Daniel S.
Booked travel to Berlin
March 2025

Rita helped us with every step in our travel plans. She helped with the overall itinerary and in options along the way. Our trip was a success and we had to spend very little time on planning due to Rita's expertise.

Daniel S.
Booked travel to Dresden
March 2025

Rita provided options allowing us to choose the one best suited to our trip. This hotel was lovely and we truly enjoyed it and the town of Dinklesbuhl which was a recommended stop from Rita.

Sylvia Martin S.
Booked travel to Germany
March 2025

Get in touch with Rita

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Rita within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).