Michelle Patzlaff
Tour Director
Located
Minneapolis, MN
Bio
Based in Minneapolis, MN, Michelle is an International Tour Director whose passion for history, culture, and meaningful travel has taken her around the world. With more than 20 years of experience in the travel industry, a bachelor’s degree in History with minors in Geography and German, and certification as an International Tour Manager, she helps travelers connect more deeply with the places they visit through stories, local experiences, and cultural understanding. Raised on a farm in South Dakota, she brings a grounded, approachable style to every tour and thrives when travel has a clear purpose, whether it is competition, education, cultural exchange, or service. At Navigo, Michelle combines her love of travel, sport, and education to create memorable experiences for teams, focusing not only on the landmarks they came to see but also on the people and traditions that bring each destination to life.
Hear from Michelle Patzlaff
Italy is my favorite Navigo destination because it brings together so many of the things I love: rich history, extraordinary art, beautiful scenery, amazing food, and a deep passion for football, or soccer. Every region feels different, and my love for the country even inspired me to start learning Italian. Football is also my favorite sport to watch because of its nonstop pace, loyal supporters, and strong sense of community, and as a long‑time Minnesota United FC season ticket holder and Allianz Field tour guide, it felt very fitting that my first Navigo tour was escorting a women’s college soccer team through Italy.
I joined Navigo because I am at my best when travel has meaning, and I believe travel and sport can build understanding, create lasting friendships, and widen our view of the world. The most rewarding part of being a Tour Director is helping people experience moments they have imagined for years, whether that is standing in front of a famous landmark, finding a hidden local favorite, or trying something completely new, and some of my favorite memories come from connecting with people even when we do not share the same language.