Southwind’s own Tom Damon has once again been named a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist. Since 2005, Tom has earned a place on this prestigious list for his mastery in crafting once‑in‑a‑lifetime journeys to Peru, Ecuador, the Galápagos and Patagonia. With more than 20 consecutive years of recognition, he stands as the longest‑tenured Top Travel Specialist for South America.
Each year, Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) unveils its Top Travel Specialists—a hand‑picked collection of the world’s most exceptional trip designers. These are the rare experts who elevate travel from a simple itinerary to a work of art. The 2026 list highlights advisors whose deep regional knowledge, on‑the‑ground relationships, and creative problem‑solving set a new benchmark for bespoke travel. Their craft goes far beyond logistics; it’s rooted in intuition, cultural fluency, and the ability to anticipate a traveler’s needs before they’re spoken.
CNT describes its Top Travel Specialists as the industry’s most trusted designers—professionals who deliver access, creativity, and seamless execution that ordinary planning simply can’t match. Each specialist is vetted for regional expertise, insider connections, and ability to craft highly personalized, culturally immersive itineraries. For travelers and editors, these people are the go‑to resource to “open doors,” solve problems before they arise and transform travel into something artful and unforgettable.
For Tom, designing an ultimate trip means capturing the spirit of South America—it’s warm and welcoming culture, majestic landscapes, and endless opportunities for adventure—while never compromising on small details that define high‑quality travel planning. He maintains his first‑hand expertise through field visits – most recently, he traveled with his family to Ecuador and the Galápagos to cruise aboard the M/Y Sea Star boutique yacht, experience the beachfront Finch Bay Eco Hotel and the Andes around Quito.
Each year, Condé Nast Top Specialists gather in‑person and online to exchange insights, share best practices and discuss emerging trends. CNT also consults Tom for his destination expertise. In 2007, he helped design the inaugural itinerary for Condé Nast’s Iconic Trips series to Machu Picchu, Cusco and Sacred Valley of the Incas. In 2025, he was interviewed for the feature “The Best Time to Visit the Galápagos Islands—And How to Do It.”
Former CNT editor and Consumer News Director, Wendy Perrin, also recognized Tom in her 2026 WOW List, a curated selection of exceptionally knowledgeable and well‑connected trip planners worldwide, organized by destination and specialty.
Tom joined Southwind Adventures in 1994, over the years, he has risen to be a Senior Travel Consultant and President. A husband and father of two teenagers, he has a special talent for designing family‑friendly itineraries, including the customizable Family Andean Discovery in Peru. With a BA in Environmental Science, an MS in Natural Resource Management, and decades of outdoor experience, Tom excels at matching travelers with the right level of activity and adventure.
To begin planning your own tailor‑made journey, complete the Southwind Adventures Private Trip Request Form or call Tom at 1‑800‑377‑9463.
Tom’s Top 3 Favorite Southwind Trips:
1) World of the Incas: Iconic Itinerary in Peru
2) Hiking the Patagonian Andes in Argentina and Chile
3) Galápagos Wildlife Odyssey in Ecuador
Join Tom and Southwind in crafting an extraordinary trip!