About Us
Authentic Diaries started because we got tired of cookie-cutter vacations. The kind where you see famous landmarks through a tour bus window, eat at chain restaurants, and leave without actually understanding a place. We wanted something different. So we built it. We send small groups to real neighborhoods, connect you with actual locals, and skip the tourist traps entirely. It's messier than typical travel. Better too.
Over time, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, quality, and clear communication. We treat each project as a partnership and aim for outcomes that last.
Our Approach
Our approach combines proven methods with modern tools. We start with discovery, align on goals, plan clearly, and execute with quality checks at every step.
Our Story
Founded in 2016, Authentic Diaries came from frustration. Our founder spent 15 years in the travel industry watching it become increasingly sterile. Same hotels. Same restaurants. Same photo ops. So she quit. Started taking friends on trips her way—smaller groups, longer stays, no itineraries. Those trips became legendary. Other people wanted in. By 2018 we'd run 47 trips across 12 countries. We're still small. Still picky about who we take and where we go. That's on purpose.
Meet Our Team
The people behind Authentic Diaries
We’re a team that values ownership, clarity, and growth. We celebrate wins, learn fast, and keep client outcomes at the center.
Marina Kovač
Founder & Trip Designer
Spent 15 years watching travel become boring. Decided to fix it herself. Has spent 900+ days traveling to 43 countries. Speaks four languages poorly and drinks espresso like it's oxygen.
Jure Novak
Ground Operations Lead
Handles the logistics that make magic happen. Connected to local guides across Europe. Solves problems you didn't know existed. Mountain climber in his spare time. Which isn't often.
Elena Petrov
Traveler Experience Manager
Makes sure your trip goes smoothly while you're out breaking your routine. Former journalist. Still asks too many questions. Knows 28 restaurants worth your time across the region.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Authenticity Over Aesthetics
We'll take you to a place with character over a place with perfect lighting. Real beats pretty. Always.
Small Groups, Real Conversations
Never more than 8 people per trip. Large groups change how locals interact with you. We don't do that.
Local Money, Local Voices
We pay local guides, eat at family-run restaurants, stay in independently-owned accommodations. Tourism dollars should benefit actual people.
Slow Travel Wins
Three weeks in one place beats two weeks across five countries. You can't understand somewhere by sprinting through it.