Hello! I'm Christian Carpenter.
Founder & Creative Director, The House of Wanderlust
My Story
I've spent years exploring every corner of the Pacific Northwest - from hidden smugglers coves in coastal Oregon to remote mountain passes in the Cascades, from Indigenous cultural centers to family-run farms that have fed communities for generations. What started as personal curiosity evolved into a systematic methodology for discovering the authentic soul of a place.
Living in Astoria, Oregon has given me front-row access to one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world, but more importantly, it's taught me that the most meaningful travel experiences aren't found in guidebooks  - they come from intentional planning, cultural respect, and deep local connections. I don't rely merely on the photogenic fame of renowned landmarks. Instead, I find the best experiences when exploring on a deeper level: through the lens of science, history, art, culture, and nature.
I realized that conventional travel planning fails in two ways: it either overwhelms people with too much information, or it funnels them into the same tourist experiences everyone else has. There had to be a better approach - one that was systematic enough to be reliable yet flexible enough to embrace spontaneity, comprehensive enough to miss nothing yet focused enough to respect local communities. That realization became The House of Wanderlust, and the methodology became the DISCOVER Framework.
Why The House of Wanderlust Exists
The Problem: Most travelers rely on generic guidebooks, influencer recommendations, or algorithms suggestions that prioritize popularity over authenticity. They miss the trail that locals actually hike, the restaurant where families have gathered for generations, the cultural protocols that transform visitors into welcomed guests.
The Answer: I created the DISCOVER Framework - a proprietary, 8-phase system that combines systematic research, cultural sensitivity, local community validation, and personalized curation. It's the methodology I wish I'd had when I started exploring the Pacific Northwest, and it's what I now teach to clients and students worldwide.
What Makes Us Different
Values That Guide Everything We Do
Cultural Sensitivity & Respect
We prioritize Indigenous perspectives, honor cultural protocols, and ensure our recommendations benefit local communities rather than exploit them. Tourism should create mutual value.
Sustainability & Environmental ResponsibilityÂ
We recommend businesses with strong environmental practices, promote Leave No Trace principles, and prioritize experiences that protect rather than harm the places we love.
Authentic Connection Over Photo Opportunities
While we'll help you find stunning views, our focus is on meaningful experiences that create lasting memories  and genuine understanding - not just social media content.
Quality Over Quantity
We'd rather you fully experience three incredible places than superficially check off fifteen. Depth of connection beats breadth of consumption, every time.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Everyone deserves transformational travel experiences. We work to ensure our planning accommodates diverse needs, abilities, and  backgrounds.
Education & Empowerment
We're not gatekeepers - we're teachers. Our goal is to empower you with skills and methodology so you can become an expert explorer yourself!
Life in Astoria
When I'm not researching hidden gems or planning client adventures, you'll find me exploring the Oregon Coast. Astoria itself embodies what I love most about the Pacific Northwest travel - it's a place where maritime history meets contemporary art, where commercial fishing traditions coexist with craft coffee culture, where you can watch harbor seals from Victorian-era homes perched on hillsides. This town has taught me that the best destinations are lived in, not just visited. That philosophy infuses every itinerary that I design.
Let's Plan Your Next Adventure
Whether you're ready to book comprehensive planning or just want to chat about possibilities, I'd love to hear about your travel vision.
Or reach out directly: carpenter@thehouseofwanderlust.com
