“Every day there’s something to enjoy and cherish,” says Reyes of her zest for life, which also reflects what she believes traveling is all about. This year’s trip to Colombia will be her NextTribe trip leader debut, and she cannot wait to show everyone her beautiful and colorful home country. “When I go to Colombia, I’m going home,” she says. “This is the first time I’ll be going with women who maybe haven’t been before, and they’re going to experience all the things I love about my country for the first time, which is a very exciting experience.” Reyes’ knowledge of Colombia is encyclopedic, as befits someone who’s a cultural anthropologist with a knack for liaising. In her free time, when she’s not playing music, writing books, and making art, she works a coordinator for several Colombian music groups while they tour.

NextTribe is taking a small group of women ages 45+ to Colombia in July. With Victoria as the leader. Find out more here.

Whether it’s in the music industry or on a NextTribe trip, Reyes puts an emphasis on cultivating relationships and strengthening bonds. Learn more about her.

Where do you live?

 I have two homes right now, NYC and Austin, Texas. 

Marital Status?

Divorced

Occupation?

My day job from August-May is as a learning support coordinator at a private school in New York called the Rudolf Steiner School. I also have a few side hustles as: artist liaison in the music industry, educational consultant for Waldorf Schools in North and Central America, and a guide for NextTribe for the summer 2025 trip to my home country– Colombia!  

How did you become a trip leader for Colombia?

I went on the Cuba trip with NextTribe in February of 2024 and had a blast and loved it so much, I knew I wanted to start planning more trips with NextTribe. In Cuba, we talked a little bit about Colombia, and before I knew it, Jeannie [Ralston, NextTribe’s founder and CEO] asked if I was interested in guiding it. I said yes, of course! 

What’s your favorite aspect of being a trip leader?

I am very excited about being a trip leader for various reasons: First, we are going to my home country, and I can’t wait to tell everyone about it and show everyone around. 

I can’t wait to show everyone around my home country!

Also, I am not a classroom teacher now, but I was a high-school history teacher for 20 years at the Austin Waldorf School. I am a total nerd about history, including the history of Colombia.  So I am super-excited to share any historical context I can bring to the group. I am also happy to be going to a couple of places in Colombia I have not yet been to and to have that experience with NextTribers!

How would you describe your leadership style?

I love collaborative leadership. I think it is important to read the room and be open to feedback about the needs of a group anytime you are leading a group of humans. I like to have clear communication and transparency. People need to feel trust and know there is someone guiding them. We can have a great time and that can include practicing good listening when the time calls for it. 

Favorite place to visit and why?

This is tough. I love so many places! I don’t think I can pick one. 

What’s your dream travel destination?

My dream travel destination is Africa! 

Do you believe in wearing sweatpants on the plane? If not, what’s your go-to outfit?

I like to wear comfortable pants, though they are not usually sweatpants, I prefer yoga pants with pockets. I’m always wearing a crossbody bag so I have easy access to my passport. 

Do you have a favorite souvenir from your travels?

I have a carved stone that I was gifted by an indigenous man in Peru. It’s my travel stone that’s gone everywhere with me since 1995.

Do you have any travel rituals or tips that you swear by?

Pay attention for there is wisdom to learn every place you go! 

What is your favorite place or experience to share with NextTribe groups?

The food! Like the Colombian banana; it’s a little bit different than anywhere else. I’m also excited for them to see all the colorful neighborhoods too. Colombia has just recently become a hub for tourism, there’s just so much to share that’s different from any other place.

What’s your favorite thing about leading a group of all women?

Women are so wonderful to be around. Girls just want to have fun and be nice to each other.

What’s your trick when people are tired and dragging? Do you have favorite kind of pick-me-up?

Having a little quiet moment to lie on the grass or or just sit and close the eyes is always a good option. Forest baths, sun baths, or any quiet and contemplative walk: Even just a few minutes of these can make a difference. I have experience guiding meditation and visualization exercises to connect with the body; I love to do that as well. Snacks are always good, too!

How would you describe the “vibe” of a NextTribe trip?

Warm and friendly. Relaxed and practical. Energizing and fun. Restful and contemplative. Safely adventurous and exploring. Learn and enjoy great company. Experience life on our beautiful planet—and always art, music, and food!