Why I Chose Lake Life Travel: A Mom, Boater, and Lake Lover

Hi there! I’m Anita Burke—an engineer by degree, a government supply chain professional by day, and a passionate travel advisor by heart. But most importantly, I’m a married mom of two energetic young boys who share my family’s love for adventure and exploring lakes.

When I launched A Burke Trip in 2023, I was focused on helping families and groups create memorable vacations. Over time, I realized that my heart always led me back to the same kind of travel: Lakes. There’s just something about the sound of water against the shore, the excitement of going out cruising on a boat, and how simple it is to spend the day together on the water. It’s what my family gravitates toward, and I’ve come to realize it’s what makes us happiest. So now, I’m honing in on my true passion: helping others discover the joy of Lake Life Travel.

A Love for Lakes, Born in the Midwest

My love for lakes started early. Growing up, my family would take trips to visit Lake Altoona in Wisconsin. I have so many fond memories of those trips— spending time boating, swimming, building sandcastles on the beach with cousins and some fantastic boat naps. Those trips were the foundation for my passion for the water and the simple joys it brings.

When I married my husband Jeffrey, it was clear our shared love for lakes was no coincidence. He grew up managing a gas dock at his parents’ campground on the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri—a hot spot for boating, water sports, and all things lake life. Together, we built a life that’s naturally intertwined with the water, settling down and buying a house on a small lake in Kansas City when we moved here after getting married.

A Family That Lives for Lake Life

Now, with our two boys, we’ve carried on the tradition of lakeside living and turned it into a full-blown family passion. Not only do both sets of Grandparents now live on Lakes we can also visit throughout the summer, but we love taking road trips in the Midwest, towing our Centurion boat along for the ride visiting other lakes. Some of our favorite activities include wake surfing, tubing, and cruising to find the best swimming spots and dockside restaurants. Our boys have taken to the water like fish, and seeing their excitement as we explore new lakes together is what makes these trips so special.

Whether it’s discovering hidden coves, jumping into a clear blue lake, or just enjoying the sun as we cruise along, every lake trip has something new and exciting for our family. These trips aren’t just vacations—they’re a chance for us to connect, create memories, and unwind in a way that feels authentic to who we are.

Why Lake Travel?

So, why lake travel? For me, it’s simple: lakes are the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and connection. They’re where families can bond over shared experiences, where kids can unplug and just be kids, and where adults can slow down and enjoy the moment.

Unlike the hustle and bustle of beach vacations, lakes have a sense of calm that’s hard to match. There’s no fighting for space on a crowded beach or worrying about big waves knocking over your drink (PLUS NO SALT!). Instead, you get peaceful mornings, fun-filled afternoons, and cozy evenings by the water.

Plus, lake travel is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin, a more luxurious lakeside resort, or a vacation rental that feels like home, there’s something for everyone. It’s a chance to get outside, explore nature, and reconnect.

Sharing the Lake Life Love

When I decided to focus on Lake Life Travel, it wasn’t just about my own love for lakes—it was about sharing that love with others. Through A Burke Trip and this Lake Escapes Travel blog, I want to help families, couples, and groups create amazing lake vacations that leave them feeling connected, refreshed, and inspired.

I’ll be sharing everything I’ve learned over the years, from tips for traveling with kids to the best lake destinations for water sports, fishing, or just relaxing on the shore. I’ll also highlight some of our favorite lakes in the Midwest and beyond, as well as the hidden gems we’ve discovered along the way.

But more than that, I hope to build a community of lake travel enthusiasts who share my passion for the water. Whether you’re a lifelong boater or just dipping your toes into lake travel for the first time, there’s a place for you here.

What’s Next?

As I dive into this new chapter, my goal is to inspire others to embrace the fun of lake travel. Whether you’re planning a family road trip, a romantic getaway, or a group adventure with friends, I’m here to help you create a vacation that’s as unique as you are.

Through my blog, I’ll share stories from our own lake adventures, practical travel tips, and destination guides to make planning easier and more fun. I’ll also spotlight the communities and businesses that make lake travel so special—because every great lake trip starts with amazing people who share their love for the water.

Join Me on This Journey

If you’re someone who loves the sound of water, the thrill of exploring new places, or just the happiness of a day spent on the lake, I’d love for you to join me on this journey. Let’s swap stories, share tips, and build a community that celebrates the beauty of lake travel together.

Thanks for stopping by, and I can’t wait to help you plan your next unforgettable lake adventure!
-Anita Burke
Lake Lover, Travel Advisor, and Your Go-To Guide for Lake Life Travel