Libby Cecchi shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Libby, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m gallivanting, of course! During my 20s, 30s, and 40s, I was walking a path mostly set for me by happenstance. I was raising children and enjoyed my career, even though it was one I kind of stumbled into. When I turned 48, I stopped following the path and, yes, wandered a bit because I didn’t know what I was looking for. During this interlude, a series of events pushed me to discover the work I wanted to devote myself to and choosing the work with real intention. My travel business, Gallivant & Traipse, was born of this idea: I create mostly planned journeys for my clients, yet I build in flexibility and allowances for serendipity. Just like life would have it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Libby Cecchi, Chief Travel Operator of Gallivant & Traipse and a certified travel advisor with Fora. I’m fun, friendly, and completely in love with France which is why it has become the heart of everything I do. My inspiration comes from the French word “flâneuse” which describes a woman who strolls, lingers, and takes her time. That spirit guides my approach to travel. So while I have to do some advance planning because certain things require tickets or reservations, I try as much as possible to leave room for spontaneity, curiosity, and discovery.
When I host trips, we explore in micro groups of only four or five travelers. This lets us stay in boutique lodging, wander through villages in our own car that I drive, and connect with French hosts in meaningful ways. Our pacing is calm and comfortable with just a few activities each day, space to rest, and options for anyone who has more energy. Most of my clients don’t speak French but I do, and very well, so I handle the conversations and the logistics. Everyone gets their own room and bathroom which adds to the sense of ease. More than anything, I love watching the delight on my travelers’ faces whether they are savoring chocolate mousse, strolling a garden, or standing in awe before a medieval chateau.
For those who prefer to explore independently, I also offer personalized trip planning based on your preferences. I study regions, routes, neighborhoods, and experiences across France and supply end-to-end itineraries with practical advice on transportation, lodging, food, and activities. Digging into French travel sites, reading travel books, and listening to experts is my happy place which is why designing your perfect itinerary feels like a true pleasure.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Interestingly, I felt the most powerful when I let go of something. Here’s the story: All my life I’ve been the shortest person in every situation and I was endlessly teased for it. (Please don’t ever ask a short person how the weather is down there. Serious eye roll.) I’m sure I whined about this to my parents enough times, and at some point in elementary school my mom said to me, “Honey, if you’re going to be short, be the shortest.” And suddenly it dawned upon me that this wasn’t something that could be fixed, so I may as well embrace it. And heck, being the shortest was actually winning at being short! Ever since then, it hasn’t bothered me to be short. We all have something we have to deal with, and being “vertically challenged” is really not a big deal in the scheme of things.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’m sorry – I just cannot come up with an answer to any of these questions. Please reach out if this is absolutely mandatory and maybe we can work something out?
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
It’s great to be able to answer this question as yes, 100% absolutely. I am Libby through and through. As I mentioned before, I was shy as a child, so I wasn’t fully myself; I always held back a little. In early adulthood I was myself with my friends and family, but I definitely had a different personality at work with colleagues and clients. What’s great about running my own business is that Gallivant & Traipse is a true creative expression of myself. It’s fun and a little irreverent.
As the Chief Travel Officer (and owner!) of G&T, my personality is my brand. Since I’m in charge, I get to decide. I no longer have to work for anyone, bend to their standards, or represent their practices. To wit: I can fully be my authentic self. And if that means I use the expression “to wit” which may make people roll their eyes, well then, let them! Additionally, I am actually good at my job, which instills confidence and allows me to show my true self.
Funnily enough, I had started along the path of the travel industry way back after I graduated from college with a French degree. I applied to an international corporate travel company but after three rounds of interviews, the manager gave the job to an internal applicant. Suddenly faced with car payments and rent, I quickly secured an entry-level job which led to an amazing yet unintentional career. At this point in my life, with the opportunity to get back into the travel industry, I’ve realized that this is exactly what I was meant to do and have become who I was meant to be.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
I guess at my core I am a friendly, bubbly, funny, slightly extroverted woman striving to become wiser. I am also sensitive, a bit lazy, and tend toward frugality. I like to make people feel at home and I’m a people-pleaser. Is this because I’m the first born or because I’m a Minnesotan? Probably both! I hope what people would say about me is that I am a good friend, a good listener, and a great dancer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gallivantandtraipse.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gallivant_and_traipse/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572023609505
