We were published as an ‘inspiring story’ in Voyage Denver Magazine. Below is the article released on May 19, 2020.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhonda Macier Lathen.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Rhonda. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there. My first vacation abroad was to a popular Caribbean destination. Immediately I was smitten with wanderlust and started researching, planning, and traveling further away and to more exotic places each year. I’ve watched many businesses start and flourish while I assisted them as their accountant. My ultimate dream was to start my very own business and combine my love of travel, along with the joy of trying new cuisine around the world.

Tell us how you started this adventure? With the support of friends and family, I launched Culinary Latitudes Travel to focus on culture and cuisine. I spent countless late nights building a business plan, creating a website, navigating paperwork, and learning the ins and outs of marketing and travel hosting. My background in accounting helped me manage the financial side early on—even when the website wasn’t quite perfect!

Today, I love helping couples, families, groups, and solo travelers experience unforgettable adventures with a focus on fine dining. I also collaborate with chefs to create meaningful culinary journeys for their communities. When I'm not planning travel, I enjoy cooking, playing piano and flute, and participating in local activities and events.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you? Like any business, challenges are inevitable—but with patience and persistence, they’re manageable. The most significant setback came during the 2020 pandemic, when travel came to a standstill. Instead of bookings, Culinary Latitudes focused on dreams. Adopting the motto “Dreams never go away,” we began offering virtual vacations in partnership with our preferred vendors—providing a welcome escape during uncertain times.

Please tell us about Culinary Latitudes Travel. I’m a travel advisor specializing in luxury vacations with a focus on fine dining. Through Culinary Latitudes, we partner with top-tier vendors to deliver unforgettable experiences—blending culture, adventure, relaxation, and incredible cuisine (fun fact: Belgium boasts the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita!).

We offer hosted trips for groups of 12–20 or help clients create custom culinary journeys. Our S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Tourism) club gives members access to exclusive perks and promotions. We’re proud to have worked with well-known chefs and are building more partnerships—many enjoy a well-earned break, while others love showcasing their talents through private demos. Whenever possible, we make sure the lead chef travels free—our way of saying thank you.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business? My mother used to say I was the luckiest person on earth as jobs would fall into my lap. I feel that this same luck has followed me into my own business. With a little hard work, I’m able to connect with like-minded people who either support me or use my services.

Words directly from the Founder and Owner: Some of my favorite memories involve catching fresh fish in the Caribbean to enjoy as sashimi, or discovering a tucked-away café in Italy serving pasta passed down for generations. These moments inspired me to combine my love for travel and cooking into Culinary Latitudes Travel.

With over 20 years of experience designing itineraries, I create custom journeys for travelers of all ages—focusing on culture, cuisine, and one-of-a-kind experiences. My goal is to explore every continent, with Antarctica still on the list.

Originally from Louisville, Colorado, I’ve lived in Florida and now split time between travel, family, and life with my husband, our blended family of six kids and eight grandkids, and three big, lovable dogs. When home, I’m often in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes.