Featured Contributor Dana Rebmann

Dana Rebmann, writer for Luxe Beat Magazine, has a profound love of travel, food, and wine. Dana’s husband and two teenage daughters are just one example of her unabated globetrotting; they can all pack a carry-on bag at a moment’s notice. Dana explores the San Francisco Bay Area, but admits to having a soft spot in her heart for a warm beach. Dana expressed the value of traveling with her family by saying, “I’m always happier when I know there’s a trip in the near future. As much as I love the independence that comes when traveling, good company only makes it better.”

How did you discover your love of travel?

I think it started when I moved three thousand miles away from home to go to college in Southern California. Coming from New Jersey, I might as well have moved to a different country. Next came a semester I spent in Europe. There’s never been a reason to stop traveling. I hope there never is.

Which are you most passionate about: writing or photography?

I don’t think it’s a one or the other kind of choice. Pick the right ones and they make each other better.

What is your writing process?

I tend to get glimpses of inspiration when I’m right in the middle of something else. So I don’t forget, I always try to write it down, which means I have a lot of lists. But, lists seem to have a way of turning into fun stories with me.

When you get the chance to pick your travel destination, where do you go?

Somewhere with warm sand, and bright blue water.

If you could be anyone else, who would you be?

I like being me, especially when I get to sleep in. Waking up somewhere new is even better!

What is your motivation for being a luxury journalist?

The world is a big place. I like helping people decide where to go next.

Do you have a favorite experience from your travels?

Seeing how excited people get when they fall in love with a new destination. It’s contagious. It’s even better when I meet people who are already planning their next trip, while they’re still on vacation.

How does local food impact your travels?

Food tells a great deal about a location, so wherever I go I try to eat like a local. Poutine in Canada, sourdough bread in San Francisco, or cheesesteaks in Philadelphia. It’s easy to eat well when you travel; and chances are you’ll discover something new.

How do you enjoy spending your free time?

I love traveling with my family on an actual vacation, and often see things differently with my two teenage daughters in tow. I enjoy trying to cook some of the amazing things I’ve tasted along my way, and running; so that I can keep tasting things – like Belgian chocolate or warm beignets.

What do you see as the biggest impact on the change in the luxury market?

People are living longer, traveling longer, and traveling to more off the beaten path locales. Going somewhere new and out of your comfort zone is always easier when you know you’ve got a comfy bed to sleep in at night.

If you were stranded on an island, name one person and three items you would bring.

My husband, my Swiss Army knife, a glow in the dark yo-yo, and as much chocolate as I could carry. Chocolate makes life better wherever you are, yo-yos are fun, and just about anything is possible with a Swiss Army Knife.

You’re from Long Beach Island, New Jersey, what do you recommend a tourist do on their first visit?

If you came to Long Beach Island, New Jersey, you would spend summer days sitting in the sand, looking for dolphins, and the occasional humpback whale in the waves. Fresh seafood, white pizza, and custard (aka soft serve ice cream) would fill your nights.

What are three necessities that you won’t travel without?

I’m a big believer in traveling light – a carry-on only kind of girl – so my must-haves earn the space they take up in my bag. I never leave home without my Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones. They’re tiny, and guarantee silence. My cellphone, well, does it all – including snapping some great pictures – especially when I’m on the run. Which brings me to the last thing I won’t travel without, my running shoes. Jogging is a great way to get the lay of the land when you touch down in a new destination.

What does Luxe Beat Magazine mean to you?

Luxe Beat Magazine allows me to inspire others to travel, and see places they never dreamed they could visit. You can learn a great deal about the world we live in through travel.

To learn more about Dana, go to http://www.danarebmann.com.