Francesca Baldanza

Trip Prep Specialist

Where did you grow up? What are some of the life experiences that led you to Backroads and shaped your worldview?

I grew up in Sicily and got hooked on mountain biking pretty early on. My journey as an athlete ran parallel to my desire to travel and see the world. I wanted to do something meaningful for people while feeling connected to nature every single day. While I was struggling with my career as a filmmaker, a friend introduced me to Backroads, and a new chapter began as TPS in 2018. I’ve traveled across Italy, Europe, and South America.

How did you learn about Backroads and what did you like about the TPS role? When did you start working for Backroads and where have you been a TPS? Do you/have you held any elevated roles (and where)?

My inclination for mechanical skills led me to become a crew chief during bike overhauls in the winter and work as a mechanic in the field during the summer. My responsibilities grew along with my enthusiasm, working in operations, handling the behind-the-scenes with more elevated roles; feels a lot like backstage filmmaking—preparing every detail for people, nurturing teamwork and leadership comes naturally to me.

What is your favorite part of being a TPS? Is there one trip or moment you remember from your time in the Field that has been particularly special?

There have been so many special moments—hiking the peaks of Patagonia, riding through the mountains of the Dolomites, or cycling the rolling hills of Tuscany with coworkers who became friends, and finding in them the kind of people I’d always dreamed of meeting.