meet mckenna
After graduating from the University of Iowa in 2022 with a degree in Enterprise Leadership and Media Entrepreneurialism, I spent a year on the road as a Leadership Consultant, traveling to 10 states and visiting 17 universities along the way. As fate would have it, a good friend introduced me to team upannaway… and the rest is history. I call Iowa home, but the world my playground. As a lifelong travel enthusiast, I’m thrilled to bring my creativity and energy to the upannaway team as Travel Coordinator and Marketing Manager!
Favorite Trip: Tokyo, Japan where I was an exchange student at just 12 years old!
Go-to Karaoke song: my favorite go-to karaoke song is “Cowboy Take Me Away” by The Chicks.
Where do you dream of traveling next? I’ve had my sights set on Paris for quite some time now! The city of love is calling, and I must go. One of my biggest dreams? Breakfast in bed at the Ritz Paris. Give this girl an espresso and a croissant, and she’s happy.
Who do you love to travel with most? I truly appreciate a solo travel moment. It pushes me out of my comfort zone and allows me to think more intentionally. I move slower, notice more, and find beauty in the little things.
Travel tip? Wherever you go, do one thing that scares you. Take yourself to dinner. Spark conversation with someone new. Try the boldest thing on the menu. Immerse yourself in the culture—and learn something while you’re at it.
Favorite hotel? I’ve completely fallen for Villa Igiea in Palermo. A classic, sea-kissed gem with soaring ceilings, sweeping views, and sunlight that floods through the windows at dawn. It’s peaceful, elegant, and endlessly inspiring.