My purpose is to inspire and enable others to have transformative experiences, with the knowledge that travel can be a force for good. I believe that there is an explorer in each of us and that adventure and discovery are essential elements of the human experience. We are living in extraordinary times. Never before have meaningful experiences been more important or accessible.

After college, having studied Marine Biology, and becoming a dive instructor, I realized a profound passion for sharing the world with others. Seeing firsthand the impact and joy these moments provided, I knew, early on, I had found my life's work. I spent the next decade guiding and handcrafting, adventures for others around the world.

Now, I've spent 20 years working globally in the digital, start-up and experiential travel space helping iconic brands like Disney, REI, Backroads, and The Clymb, both build and scale, meaningful experience-based businesses.

Today, I'm the CEO and Founder of MODERN ADVENTURE which exists to distill the beating heart of a brand into extraordinary content and travel experiences.

I have been an active participant on Non-Profit and Start-Up boards, having served on the boards of Sustainable Travel International, Young Travel Professionals, and the Adventure Cycling Association. I currently serve as the Strategic Advisor and Board Member to the Adventure Travel and Trade Association (ATTA), and frequently speak at flagship events around the world.

In 2017, I presented a TEDxPortland talk about the transformative power of travel and investing in experiences, instead of more stuff that has over 1.5M views. I also serve as Board Member, Investor, and Advisor to early and growth-stage travel startups.

I deeply value community, and actively invest time, and resources, in those that have the power or potential, to inspire, convene, and be catalysts for progress and change. 

CEO & FOUNDER, MODERN ADVENTURE

Luis Vargas

Jo runs the teams that create and operates all of of Modern Adventure's experiences around the world as well as their customer service and account management teams. The personal care and attention she brings to everything she does is the cornerstone of the quality of MO/AD experiences. She is always raising the bar, bringing her best, and demanding it from others.

CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER AND CO-FOUNDER, MODERN ADVENTURE

Joann Vargas