Meet Kimberly Shankland | Chief Experience Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberly Shankland and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberly, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing most people don’t realize about our industry is how much ongoing learning and behind-the-scenes work it takes to plan a single trip. It’s not just booking flights and hotels—we’re constantly training, staying updated on destinations, and nurturing relationships with partners worldwide. Add to that the long hours, including being on call 24/7 whenever clients are traveling, and it becomes clear that it’s not always glamorous. People often see the incredible destinations we visit and think it’s all fun and games, but there’s a lot of unseen effort and dedication involved to ensure every trip runs smoothly.

What should our readers know about your business?
I started Integrity Destinations in 2017 after working as an independent contractor with another travel company. That experience gave me a solid foundation, but I quickly realized I wanted to build something of my own—something rooted in strong values, a deep passion for travel, and a personal connection to the people I serve. That’s how Integrity Destinations was born.

Our name isn’t just a brand—it’s a promise. Integrity is the core of everything we do. We believe in honest advice, transparent pricing, and doing right by our clients, even when it’s not the easiest path. What truly sets us apart is the level of personal attention and care we put into every itinerary. There are no cookie-cutter trips here. Each journey is designed based on our clients’ unique preferences and goals, backed by firsthand experience, trusted partnerships, and a great deal of behind-the-scenes effort.

Since opening our doors, we’ve grown through word-of-mouth, long-term client relationships, and a reputation for being detail-oriented, honest, and client-focused. I’m incredibly proud of the trust we’ve earned—our clients not only return to us year after year, but they also refer their friends and family, and that loyalty means everything.

That said, the road hasn’t always been easy. Starting from scratch meant wearing every hat—booking, marketing, accounting, you name it. There were long nights, growing pains, and plenty of moments that tested my resolve. I’ve had to learn when to ask for help, how to delegate, and how to adapt when the industry shifted. I’ve also made it a priority to invest in continuous learning so I can provide clients with the most up-to-date and meaningful travel experiences possible.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? Relationships are everything. Whether it’s clients, suppliers, or team members, treating people with honesty and respect will take you much further than a quick transaction ever could. And through it all, staying grounded in my “why”—helping people create unforgettable memories and giving them real value for their time and money—has kept me moving forward.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my business, it’s this: we’re not just booking trips. We’re building relationships, solving problems, and showing up for our clients every step of the way. That’s what Integrity Destinations is all about—and that’s what continues to inspire me every single day.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want them to see why I love living in Colorado Springs—the incredible views, the fresh air, and all the little experiences that make this place feel like home.

We’d start with one of my favorite spots: Garden of the Gods. But instead of just walking it, I’d book us a Segway tour. It’s a fun, relaxed way to take in the towering red rock formations and learn a bit about the park’s history. Afterward, we’d swing by Jives Coffee Lounge in Old Colorado City for a cozy cup of coffee and maybe catch some live music if we’re lucky. We’d spend a few hours exploring the local shops and galleries before grabbing dinner at Paravicini’s—their homemade Italian always hits the spot.

A day in Manitou Springs would definitely be on the itinerary. I’d skip the Manitou Incline and take us up to the summit of Pikes Peak on the Cog Railway. The ride is peaceful, and the views from the top are absolutely worth it. Back in town, we’d walk through the arcade, try a few of the mineral springs, and wrap it up with a relaxing soak in the cedar tubs at SunWater Spa. It’s the kind of place where time slows down. Crystal Park Cantina would be a great spot for lunch—good food, good views, and a laid-back vibe.

Midweek, I’d plan a day trip to Cañon City to visit the Royal Gorge. We’d walk across the suspension bridge, maybe take the gondola or zipline if we’re feeling adventurous, and then hop on the Royal Gorge Train to see the canyon from a different angle. It’s such a scenic, peaceful ride and always a favorite with visitors.

Back in town, we’d check out the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. Both are well done and give you a real feel for the heart of the city. One evening, we’d head to Lumen8 for dinner—great food and amazing views around sunset. Afterward, we might grab a drink at Shame & Regret and just catch up, talk, and enjoy the night.

Of course, we’d carve out a full day for the outdoors—maybe a hike at Red Rock Canyon Open Space or a visit to Seven Falls. If we’re in the mood for something quieter, North Cheyenne Cañon Park is always beautiful. Lunch at Ivywild School would be a fun break—there’s something for everyone there, and the atmosphere is super laid-back.

To end the trip, we’d do brunch at The Margarita at Pine Creek, then spend a slow afternoon at Bear Creek Nature Center or, if we’re up for a little drive, head out to Paint Mines Interpretive Park. It’s like nothing else around here—colorful rock formations that feel totally out of place in the best way. And of course, before they leave, we’d grab a scoop (or two) at Josh & John’s Ice Cream—because that’s just a Colorado Springs tradition.

It would be the kind of trip that balances adventure with connection, and that really shows off what makes this place so special.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to my family. They’ve been by my side through every step of this journey—supporting my dreams, managing the long nights, and stepping in when I’m traveling to learn about new destinations. They’ve even helped with the behind-the-scenes tasks that keep everything running smoothly. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and hands-on support have meant the world to me. I truly couldn’t do this without them.

Website: https://www.integritydestinations.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/integritydestinations

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-shankland-cta-2bb58425/

Facebook: https://facebook.com/integritydestinations

Image Credits
I took all of the photos.