Open Horizon Journeys was founded on the belief that travel can do more than take us somewhere new. At its best, it can help us understand ourselves, others, and the world with greater clarity and intention.
After a long career in education and leadership development, the founder, Christina Driskill, witnessed firsthand how immersive experiences shape perspective, deepen empathy, and create lasting growth. Over time, travel began to feel like another powerful learning environment, where story, heritage, and place come together in meaningful ways.
The mission of Open Horizon Journeys is to help travelers move beyond simply visiting destinations and instead engage with them thoughtfully and personally, returning home not just rested, but changed in subtle and meaningful ways.
What types of trips or experiences do you offer, and what makes them unique?
Open Horizon Journeys designs custom and small-group experiences centered on cultural immersion, heritage travel, leadership-focused retreats, and milestone journeys. These experiences range from intentionally paced European itineraries to safaris, expedition cruising, and purpose-driven group travel.
What sets these journeys apart is the intention behind them. Rather than starting solely with logistics, each itinerary is shaped around how the traveler wants to feel, what they want to explore or reflect on, and the story they hope the journey will hold, not just where they will go.
How do you design experiences that are transformative or culturally immersive?
Every journey begins with listening. Before an itinerary takes shape, time is spent understanding a traveler’s values, interests, pace, and the deeper purpose behind the trip.
From there, experiences are thoughtfully designed to invite connection through carefully selected accommodations, knowledgeable local guides, rich cultural context, and space to slow down.
Transformation often happens in quieter moments, such as a conversation with a local expert, standing in a place layered with history, or simply having the time to be fully present. Open Horizon Journeys intentionally creates space for those moments to unfold naturally.
Can you share a memorable moment that illustrates the impact of your work?
One meaningful moment occurred not at the end of a journey, but during a leadership-focused conversation about travel itself. After the discussion, someone shared that the experience had shifted how they thought about why they travel, not just where they go.
That reflection affirmed the heart of the work. Even before departure, creating space for intention, curiosity, and reflection can be transformative. It reinforced the belief that meaningful travel begins long before the plane takes off and continues well after returning home.
Who is the ideal traveler for Open Horizon Journeys?
The ideal traveler is curious, thoughtful, and values depth over volume. Many are professionals, leaders, or couples who want travel to feel intentional, seamless, and aligned with who they are, rather than rushed or transactional.
They are seeking a trusted partner who can manage the details while designing experiences that reflect their interests, values, and sense of purpose.
What advice would you give someone planning their first transformational or small-group trip?
Start with intention rather than logistics. Ask yourself why this trip matters now and how you want to feel when you return.
When you plan from that place, destinations and details tend to align naturally, and the experience becomes not just memorable, but meaningful.
Learn More
Open Horizon Journeys
http://www.openhorizonjourneys.com