Inside the 2025 Travel + Leisure A-List: Meet the REYA Clients Defining Exceptional Travel

Today, we’re thrilled to announce that three of our esteemed partners have been named to Travel + Leisure’s 23rd annual A-List - a curated guide of the most exceptional travel specialists in the world, each vetted by T+L editors for their expertise and ability to make travel dreams a reality. Kevin Jackson of EXP, Katrin Kirchhoff of Travel Pioneers, and Maija de Rijk-Uys of Go2Africa have earned this prestigious accolade. Their recognition highlights their unwavering dedication, deep expertise, and passion for crafting extraordinary journeys that celebrate the power of travel while respecting the environment and supporting meaningful conservation efforts.

Maija de Rijk-Uys: Go2Africa - Eastern and Southern African Safaris Specialist

Maija de Rijk-Uys, the driving force behind Go2Africa, possesses a deep-seated passion for Africa's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With a wealth of knowledge and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Maija has established Go2Africa as a premier provider of bespoke safari experiences in Eastern and Southern Africa. 

She shares, “As a South African, I seek to curate meaningful experiences in the region, like chimp trekking, catching Nile perch on Rubondo Island, or glamping in southern Tanzania.”

Whether it's tracking the Big Five or witnessing the Great Migration, Go2Africa ensures that every journey is tailored to exceed expectations. Maija's second inclusion in Travel + Leisure's A-List underscores her unwavering commitment to delivering unforgettable adventures while promoting conservation and community engagement.

View T+L A-List Profile | View Press Center

Kevin Jackson: EXP Journeys - U.S. National Parks

Kevin Jackson, co-founder of EXP Journeys, is an accomplished adventurer and expedition leader with a career defined by extraordinary global pursuits. From summiting Mt. Aconcagua and scaling Kilimanjaro 13 times to leading treks to Everest Base Camp, Kevin’s passion for exploration knows no bounds. 

He shares, “With 16 years of planning trips to U.S. national parks, I know how to make moments special—like arranging a dinner with a former Navajo code talker.”

With over a decade of guiding experience across the Western United States and a deep expertise in the region’s geology, he crafts immersive journeys that blend adrenaline, education, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Beyond private expeditions, Kevin designs corporate retreats, adventure challenges and leadership experiences for Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits alike. His inclusion in Travel + Leisure's A-List spotlights his dedication to crafting unforgettable adventures that challenge, inspire, and connect travelers to the world’s wildest corners.

View T+L A-List Profile | View Press Center

Katrin Kirchhoff: Travel Pioneers - Nicaragua and Panama

Katrin Kirchhoff, co-founder of Travel Pioneers, is a passionate travel designer with two decades of expertise in curating immersive journeys through Latin America. With a thoughtful approach to slow travel, Katrin specializes in crafting one-of-a-kind itineraries across Nicaragua and Panama - from private island retreats to overnight stays in Indigenous Emberá communities. 

She shares, “As a female-owned company with two decades of experience in Latin America, we craft every itinerary with a thoughtful approach to slow travel.”

Within Travel Pioneers, she creates seamless, hand-crafted experiences that celebrate cultural nuance and create memories to last a lifetime. Katrin’s debut on Travel + Leisure’s A-List honors her dedication to designing authentic, transformative journeys that connect travelers with the destinations they explore.

View T+L A-List Profile

In an industry as competitive and fast-moving as travel, it’s the creators of truly transformative experiences - those rooted in authenticity, cultural connection, and respect for the environment - who stand out. Kevin Jackson (EXP Journeys), Katrin Kirchhoff (Travel Pioneers), and Maija de Rijk-Uys (Go2Africa) have been recognized for their incredible work, crafting unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting positive impact on both travelers and the destinations they explore. At REYA Communications, we’re proud to celebrate their well-earned recognition on the A-List and look forward to continuing to champion their efforts to make travel more meaningful, sustainable, and inspiring.

If you’re looking for your next expert source to quote or need a specialist to navigate your next travel story, email us at alexandra@reyacommunications.com.