About

A Perspective Shaped by Discovery

A photo of Open Atlas Travels founder Anne Bettesworth.

I’m Anne Bettesworth, founder of Open Atlas Travels. My approach is shaped by a deep curiosity about the world and a belief that the most meaningful travel stays with you long after you return.

These are a few of the moments and places that have stayed with me — and continue to shape how I travel.

experience behind the approach

A photo of Anne Bettesworth standing between ruins in Caracol, Belize

Caracol Mayan Ruins, Cayo, Belize

I’ve explored 45 countries and counting — not for the sake of numbers, but because firsthand experience sharpens perspective. Traveling this way allows me to plan with nuance, anticipate the details that matter, and match travelers with places that truly fit.

Behind the scenes, I bring years of project management experience shaped through roles at two of the world’s most recognized travel and hospitality brands. That foundation informs how I design each itinerary—thoughtfully paced, well-coordinated, and seamless from start to finish. 

I’m especially drawn to natural beauty and wide-open spaces — hiking trails, wildlife, and time outdoors. I rarely return to the same destination twice, preferring contrast and discovery over repetition. That instinct shapes how I design trips: each one should feel distinct, immersive, and deeply aligned with the traveler. 

Some of my most memorable experiences have been on safari across Africa — witnessing thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River during the Great Migration and trekking to see gorillas in the rain forests of Uganda. I also have a longstanding love for the Caribbean, where island landscapes and an unhurried rhythm offer a different kind of restoration. Closer to home, I’ve hiked extensively through U.S. national parks, experiences that deepened my appreciation for active travel.

That curiosity shapes how I approach travel planning: each trip is carefully researched and tailored to the individual traveler. I believe the best journeys feel effortless for the traveler—the result of thoughtful planning and careful design behind the scenes.

Inspiration

A curated collection of destination guides I’ve written to inspire—sharing my perspective and ideas for each place, while client trips are designed from the ground up, fully tailored to you.

A photo of Sete Cidades, São Miguel, Azores

Sete Cidades, São Miguel, Azores (2025)

Discover the Azores: 4 Islands, Infinite Wonders

The Azores are a rare gem in the Atlantic—authentic, charming, and still off the beaten path compared to similar island destinations. With far fewer tourists, they offer a peaceful escape for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and volcanic beauty. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives that wind through small, welcoming villages, as well as world-class hiking trails that showcase the islands’ unique terrain. It’s a destination where unspoiled nature and cultural charm come together for a truly unforgettable experience.

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A photo of Shoal Bay East Beach, Anguilla

Shoal Bay East Beach, Anguilla (2024)

Anguilla: Where Simplicity Meets the Sea

Anguilla is defined by its natural beauty and laid-back authenticity. The beaches are stunning—soft white sand and water so clear it hardly feels real—yet they remain uncrowded and unspoiled. Days drift between independent beach bars and excellent local restaurants, where everything feels relaxed, welcoming, and unpretentious. It’s a place that captures the essence of the Caribbean without the crowds or commercialization.

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A photo of a rhino at Kapama Karula Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Kapama Karula Private Game Reserve, South Africa (2013)

South Africa: A journey through safari, coast, and culture

South Africa holds a special place for me as the setting of my first safari—an experience that’s impossible to replicate, no matter how many follow. There’s something unforgettable about seeing wildlife in its natural environment for the first time, and South Africa offers that in a way that feels both immersive and accessible. What makes it especially compelling is the variety: you can pair safari with Cape Town and the Winelands for a well-rounded trip, or extend further to Victoria Falls or the beaches of Mozambique. It’s also one of the most logistically straightforward—and often more affordable—ways to experience a high-quality safari.

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Ready to start planning?

Deadvlei, Namibia (20215