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About
Welcome to Haven Lands, a travel agency born from a deep passion for meaningful journeys—experiences that feel right, inclusive, and truly authentic. Haven Lands is the result of a life path shaped by a love for animals, beautiful landscapes, and human connection. I grew up in a small town in the French Alps, surrounded by mountains, forests, and lakes—my favorite escape for long walks, sometimes accompanied by dogs from the local animal shelter, which I regularly volunteered to walk.
Israel: Land of Mountains and Wonders
Later on, I traveled extensively—to Italy, Turkey, Switzerland—but it was Israel that left the strongest impression. I spent two years in a French high school in Jerusalem, and during that time, I explored every corner of the country, often hitchhiking, discovering its stunning biodiversity and archaeological wonders. I realized Israel was so much more than beaches and the Western Wall—I was captivated. I settled in Jerusalem for good in 1995, while continuing to travel back and forth to France, rediscovering both countries over time. That’s how I came to develop two great geographic loves: Israel and France.
Volunteering & Social Commitment
I later worked for the Joint, a major American NGO, for nearly 16 years. Not exactly a natural path for someone with a background in literature—but my activist readings had deeply influenced my views on social justice. I worked in the senior social department, where I created volunteer programs and intergenerational activities for animal lovers—programs that are still thriving today. I take pride in curating the most memorable trips for seniors and the young at heart—just ask my beloved late grandmother, with whom I shared countless adventures! From flea markets in the suburbs of Lyon to monasteries deep in the Judean Desert—there’s nowhere I didn’t take her!
The Galilee
Eventually, I moved to the Upper Galilee and entered the world of rural tourism in Israel, which I represented at conferences in Europe on behalf of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism.
Later, I created my first purpose-driven tour: a journey through Israel tracing the footsteps of animal activists and visiting sanctuaries—organized in partnership with the Paris-based agency Nomade and Jerusalem’s Sk.Tours. I also curated weekend getaways in the breathtaking vegetarian village of Amirim, where I now live—and I loved every moment of it, until the pandemic brought travel to a halt.
The Donkeys Journey
Not long after, during a volunteer mission for the Starting Over sanctuary, I traveled across France and Europe looking for sanctuaries that could welcome rescued donkeys from Israel. Along the way, I discovered peaceful, protected lands—true havens of harmony—for both animals and the incredible humans who care for them. It sparked the desire to introduce these places to fellow travelers who support animal welfare and care deeply about nature.
Haven Lands Travels
This incredible journey, along with a solidarity stay I later organized at one of those sanctuaries—La Garie—as well as the thousands of tips I’ve shared over the years for anyone planning a trip to France or Israel, naturally led me to create Haven Lands. A space where I can bring together all my experience, offer personalized guidance, and share a travel philosophy that is conscious, meaningful, and full of discovery and well-being—alongside encounters with inspiring people.
It’s truly my love for immersive travel and my long-standing commitment to animal advocacy that have shaped the heart and soul of Haven Lands.
Of course, I can also plan all kinds of trips with the same care and attention—whether for vacations, business, or any other purpose. I’m happy to handle bookings and online arrangements on your behalf. Don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more!