Best Travel Agencies

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Working with a reputable travel agent takes the stress out of travel. Use our guide to research the best travel agency for you. Travel agencies handle transfers between multiple destinations, event planning services, group travel arrangements and more. Many agencies are starting to market themselves in new ways, often by catering to niche markets.

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How to find a travel agency

Accreditation.

Travel agencies aren't required to obtain licensing or certification, though recognized organizations accredit and certify members. Travelers can confirm a travel agency's accreditation by looking for the accrediting body's logo on a travel agency's website or brochure.

  • ASTA accreditation: ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) accreditation assures clients that the agency operates under ASTA's code of ethics and will communicate with clients about unexpected changes to travel plans.
  • IATA accreditation: IATA (International Air Transport Association) accreditation provides agencies with a Sales Agency Agreement and a TIDS number that authorizes sales of international and domestic airline tickets.
  • Unaccredited agencies: If considering an unaccredited travel agency, take into account that their lack of accreditation could mean they are inexperienced or have had service problems that caused a loss of accreditation.

Credentials

Credentials are similar to accreditation, though on an individual level. Some travel agents obtain certification through The Travel Institute, which confirms the agent's interpersonal skills and destination knowledge. These types of certifications ensure that travelers are working with an agent that has the necessary experience to anticipate travel issues and provide solutions.

  • Certified travel associate (CTA): A CTA is a professional who has a minimum of 18 months in the travel industry and has passed courses to enhance skills and service.
  • Certified travel counselor (CTC): A CTC has the skills of a CTA, advanced industry training and five years of industry experience.
  • Certified travel industry executive (CTIE): A CTIE is a travel industry professional who has management training within the travel agency.

Travel agencies charge fees for services provided to clients to account for time spent researching and booking travel arrangements. Keep in mind that a travel agent’s inside knowledge of travel-related discounts may make booking through an agency less expensive than self-booking over the internet.

  • Airline ticket procurement fee: Travel agencies charge an airline ticket procurement fee for purchasing tickets on behalf of the traveler.
  • Travel agency service fees: Other common travel agency fees include fees for booking hotels and rental cars and for time spent researching trips.
  • Itemization of costs and fees: While there is no law requiring travel agencies to provide an itemized breakdown of costs and fees, you can request this information to ensure fees are reasonable.

International travel planning

Planning a trip to another country is typically more complex than planning a domestic trip due to extra paperwork and the need to know details about the destination country. A trusted global travel agency can help manage details and paperwork on your behalf.

  • Destination-specific research or specialization: Some agents with certification from The Travel Institute are trained in region-specific bookings while others charge for time spent researching destinations.
  • Hotel and flight packages: Using a global travel agency to book international hotel and flight packages can cut costs even after agency fees are added. To check for savings, compare online price listings to prices provided by the agency.
  • Visa and passport requirements: Having visas and passports in order is vital when traveling to other countries, so confirm which documents are needed with the agency early in the trip-planning process.

Group travel planning

Planning a trip for a group can be challenging because some facilities cannot accommodate groups. Travel agencies find suitable venues and transportation for the entire group. A global travel agency can help you with international group vacations.

  • Large-group discounts: Travel agencies have access to discounts based on established relationships with hotels and airline companies to secure a great price for group bookings.
  • Transportation: A large group is not going to fit in a standard rental car. Confirm the travel agency is able to book a van or several cars to meet the group's transportation needs.
  • Itinerary details for the group: In addition to sleeping arrangements and transportation, eating out and visiting tourist attractions can be problematic for a group. Ask the travel agency to arrange the fine points of the group's trip in addition to handling the larger details.

Land and sea planning

Planning a vacation involves more than selecting a country and booking hotel and airfare. Hiring a travel agency can help make sure travelers enjoy every stop in their itinerary.

  • Add a cruise: Talk to your travel agency about adding some sea travel to any vacation. Different onboard accommodations and ports of call allow travelers to extend the reach of their trips.
  • Seamless transfers: Making the transfer from onshore accommodations to a cruise ship can eat up almost an entire day, but a travel agent takes care of the hassle by arranging travel to the port at the right time.
  • Planning excursions: Ask the travel agent to arrange desired shore excursions at the ship's ports of call that enrich other planned itinerary stops.

Types of travel agencies

Commercial travel agencies.

Commercial travel agencies cater to business travelers. These agencies specialize in tracking down deals for business travelers to help companies manage travel costs.

Online travel agencies

Travel agencies that exist only in cyberspace provide clients with the convenience of online booking and discounts that are available only to professional travel agencies. Some agencies offer both online booking and walk-in service for clients.

Niche travel agencies

Niche travel agencies provide clients with specialized knowledge of a region. This enhances the travel experience for clients by ensuring paperwork is in order and providing specific, often first-hand, knowledge of the area tourists are visiting.

Membership associations

Memberships associations give travelers access to the organization's travel planning services for the cost of an annual membership rather than charging per transaction. This type of agency offers the most benefit to frequent travelers.

Who uses travel agencies?

International travelers.

International travelers can cut the stress of planning trips to other countries when a global travel agency manages the details. This includes making sure each traveler has the proper paperwork and booking suitable travel accommodations.

Business travelers

Business travelers can take advantage of savings associated with discounts available only to travel agents. Some travel agencies also handle the detailed expense report paperwork required by the accounting departments of most companies.

Group travelers

Group travelers can save time when looking for accommodations that have room for the entire group by using a travel agency. Group bookings through an agent can also save you money.

Travel bargain seekers

Travel bargain seekers can discuss their travel budget with a travel agent. This is a way to determine what discounts and money-saving packages a travel agency can arrange.

Travel agencies FAQ

Most travel agencies don’t charge customers, meaning the only price you pay is the cost of your trip. Agents are typically paid commissions by the hotels or airlines. Some travel agents may charge service fees from $100 to $500, but that money is usually applied toward the cost of your trip if you complete travel arrangements through the agency.

To know if a travel agency is legit:

  • Review the agency’s website for a physical address and phone number.
  • Check for industry certifications and associations with professional organizations like the American Society of Travel Advisors.
  • Read reviews to learn about client experiences. Ask for a list of references.
  • Make sure the agent accepts credit cards.
  • Compare pricing to make sure cost isn’t too high or too low.

No, it’s generally free to use a travel agent. A travel agency may charge a service fee or a booking fee, but it’s common for this fee to apply toward the cost of your trip.

The four main types of travel agencies are:

  • Commercial travel agencies , which cater mainly to business travelers
  • Online travel agencies that help people plan their trips entirely online
  • Niche travel agencies , which specialize in arranging trips to specific areas
  • Membership associations that provide travel services as a benefit to members

Using a travel agent is a more personalized experience than booking online — and sometimes cheaper. Travel agents are experts who can find the best deals on flights , cruises, hotels and activities. Agents are often available 24/7 in case of problems. And there’s usually no extra cost to use one.

Yes, a travel agent can save you money, especially if you’re traveling internationally to unfamiliar territory or if you’re organizing a trip for a big group. In addition to finding you the best deal, a travel agent saves you time planning and researching — often at no cost for services.

Travel agencies:

  • Find the best deals on flights, hotels, cruises and activities for individuals, families, businesses and groups
  • Give clients personalized attention and advice for trip planning
  • Offer trip insurance
  • Save you time and stress
  • Are available 24/7 in case of a problem and advocate on your behalf

No, you don’t need to tip a travel agent. A great way to show appreciation is to refer friends, family members and co-workers. Some people choose to write a thank-you note and/or give a small gift.

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Travel agency reviews

HotelPlanner.com

HotelPlanner uses online technology to connect customers with hotel group sales managers. Founded in 2003, HotelPlanner offers group travel services in more than twenty languages and partners with more than 50,000 hotels worldwide.

  • Guaranteed lowest group rates : For consumers booking 10 or more rooms per night, HotelPlanner matches or beats the prices offered elsewhere.
  • Free room for the planner : The group's coordinator, the person who set up the hotel block, is provided with a free room when booking more than the minimum number of required rooms for the block.
  • Local experts : A local expert is assigned to each group to provide advice about navigating the city and enjoying activities.
  • Easy bid requests : The electronic room-booking process for groups is quick and easy to navigate. Travelers fill in the form and wait for hotels to bid on their travel, cutting out hours spent on the phone and putting negotiating power in the hands of the traveler.
  • Hotels bid on clients : HotelPlanner provides clients with the option to have hotels bid for the client's business, ensuring the best rates and packages.

Tours4Fun

Tours4fun is a full-service travel agency, offering both brick-and-mortar and online customer service options.

Royal Holiday

Royal Holiday Vacation Club offers memberships that let you travel to nearly 200 destinations in over 50 countries. It has over 100,000 members and has been in business since 1983. Royal Holiday Vacation Club is a subsidiary of Park Royal Hotels and Resorts.

Global Work & Travel

The Global Work & Travel Co. is an Australia-based youth travel organization that specializes in travel for people ages 18 to 30. With offices in the United Kingdom and Canada and over 1,200 travel partner organizations, you will get help with planning and logistics at every step of your journey.

Vantage Deluxe World Travel

Vantage Deluxe World Travel was established in 1983 when it started offering affordable deluxe travel to select groups, like teachers unions and alumni associations. Since then, the company has escorted almost half a million travelers all around the world.

Global Vacation Network

Global Vacation Network is a membership association that provides condominium packages and advice for saving on other travel-related details, such as airfare.

smarTours

The smarTours company has been in business since 1996, offering low-cost group vacation tours to exotic worldwide locales. To date, more than 150,000 satisfied travelers have used smarTours to book their holiday.

Liberty Travel

Liberty Travel is a traditional brick-and-mortar travel agency with a presence in several major cities in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, New England, Illinois, California and Florida.

Fox World Travel

Fox World Travel has 11 regional vacation travel agencies in Wisconsin and has agents who set up trips for corporate travelers all over the United States.

  • Find a way : Agents are trained to find a way to put client requests first, even if the requests are challenging.
  • Group travel : Traveling in groups is made easy with trips designed for wedding parties, schools, media events, and a range of customizable options.
  • Business travel division : The business travel division specializes in meeting the unique needs of business travel like meeting planning services, attendee management, online event booking and more.
  • Travel tools available : Travel tools that simplify traveling, such as currency converters and a flight tracker are provided online for clients to use.
  • Online booking : Vacation packages can be viewed and booked online through the company website.

Zicasso

Zicasso partners with multiple travel agencies that specialize in specific styles of trips or destinations and puts agencies together with travelers. Founded in 2006, by two world travelers, Zicasso serves the luxury travel market from its headquarters in Mountain View, California.

Trafalgar

Trafalgar offers guided tours of popular vacation destinations, such as Europe, North America, South America and Asia, in larger groups of up to 52. Trafalgar also partners with the TreadRight Foundation to support underprivileged communities and work toward sustainable tourism practices.

  • Authentic experiences : The guides that are assisting travelers live and work in the communities being toured.
  • Travel options : All Trafalgar tours are guided tours, but there are numerous options to choose from. Travelers can decide on a family vacation, country explorations, special interest tours and more.
  • Keep options open : Flexibility is built into the travel itinerary for exploring destinations with several nights of free exploration on every tour. This allows travelers to revisit favorite sites or explore areas not covered by the tour group.
  • VIP treatment : Trafalgar trips provide exclusive access to sights so travelers avoid waiting in lines.
  • Friendly experience : Local guides greet clients and treat them as friends, providing comfort and a sense of welcome in a strange land.

Audley Travel

Audley Travel has offered custom-made trips based on client input since opening their doors in 1996. With more than 75 destinations and travel types that range from luxury to road trip, vacationers can create and enjoy their own ideal holiday away.

  • Preplanning assistance : Clients can browse the website or discuss interests with a travel planner to get destination ideas.
  • Detailed planning : A specialist helps plan each detail of the trip until the client is satisfied and approves the itinerary.
  • Pretrip preparation assistance : The assigned specialist is available for questions and reviews the client's itinerary four days before departure.
  • Midtrip support : Clients are provided with a number to call that is manned 24/7 if assistance is needed.
  • Multiple destinations : Trips to over 75 worldwide locations are offered by Audley Travel.

Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.

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The 2024 WOW List: 95 Top Local Fixers in Countries Worldwide

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The WOW List is a collection of exceptionally knowledgeable and well-connected trip planners around the world. They have been rigorously road-tested, based on my decades of experience as a travel journalist and based on the latest trip reviews from travelers who used my WOW approach to ensure an extraordinary trip. In 2023 they quickly found solutions to the travel complications and disruption that arose: They rerouted travelers away from wildfires and floods, kept them cool and comfy amid extreme heat, helped them bypass unprecedented tourist crowds and lines, restored whole days of sightseeing missed because of flight cancellations, and lessened the impact of hotels’ sky-high prices, understaffing, and skimpflation. We know they did this because of your trip reviews . We continue to monitor trips and update The WOW List in real time.

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Africa Asia Australia and Pacific Canada Caribbean, Central America, Mexico Cruises and Yacht Charters Europe Middle East South America USA

Egypt Jim Berkeley, Destinations & Adventures International

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Read Jim’s Insider’s Guide to Egypt .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Morocco Hicham Mhammedi Alaoui and Radia Tehitahe, Experience Morocco

Hicham Mhammedi Alaoui and Radia Tehitahe: Morocco

Read Hicham and Radia’s Insider’s Guide to the Sahara Desert .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Morocco Michael Diamond, Cobblestone Private Travel

Michael Diamond

Read Michael’s Insider’s Guide to Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains, Morocco .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Safaris: Southern and Central Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius Cherri Briggs, Explore, Inc.

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Read Cherri’s Insider’s Guides to Namibia Adventures , Zimbabwe , Zambia ,  and Madagascar .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Safaris: East Africa and South Africa Dan Saperstein, Hippo Creek Safaris

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Read Dan’s Insider’s Guides to South Africa Safaris   and East Africa Safaris .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Safaris: Southern and East Africa Julian Harrison, Premier Tours

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Read Julian’s Insider’s Guides to Botswana’s Small Safari Camps   and Cape Town and South Africa’s Winelands .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Bali and Indonesia Diane Embree, Michael’s Travel Centre/Bali Barong Tours

Diane Embree

Read Diane’s Insider’s Guide to Bali .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Central Asia, the Silk Road, and Uzbekistan Zulya Rajabova, Silk Road Treasure Tours

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Read Zulya’s Insider’s Guide to Uzbekistan .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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China: Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan Mei Zhang, WildChina

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Read Mei’s Insider’s Guides to Beijing , Yunnan Province , and China’s Big Cities and Small Villages .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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India, Bhutan, Nepal Sanjay Saxena, Nomadic Expeditions

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Read Sanjay’s Insider’s Guides to Agra and the Taj Mahal , Delhi , and Secrets of India .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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India Bertie and Victoria Dyer, India Beat

Bertie and Victoria Dyer

Read Bertie and Victoria’s Insider’s Guides to Rajasthan   and Mumbai .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Japan Scott Gilman, JapanQuest Journeys

Scott Gilman

Read Scott’s Insider’s Guide to Classic Japan .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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The Maldives and the Seychelles Justin Parkinson, Linara Travel

Justin Parkinson

Read Justin’s Insider’s Guides to the Maldives   and the Seychelles .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Mongolia Jalsa Urubshurow, Nomadic Expeditions

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Read Jalsa’s Insider’s Guide to Mongolia .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Sri Lanka Miguel Cunat, Sri Lanka in Style

Miguel Cunat

Read Miguel’s Insider’s Guide to Sri Lanka .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Southeast Asia: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos Sandy Ferguson and Ethan Crowley, Asia Desk

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Read Sandy and Ethan’s Insider’s Guides to Thailand , Vietnam , Southeast Asia , Bangkok , and Laos .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam Daniel Fraser, Smiling Albino

Daniel Fraser

Read Daniel’s Insider’s Guide to Thailand Like You’ve Never Seen It .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Australia and Pacific

Australia Stuart Rigg, Southern Crossings

Stuart Rigg

Read Stuart’s Insider’s Guides to Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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French Polynesia (Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea) and the Cook Islands Kleon Howe, The Art of Travel

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Read Kleon’s Insider’s Guide to Bora Bora, Tahiti and French Polynesia .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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New Zealand Jean-Michel Jefferson, Ahipara

Jean-Michel Jefferson

Read Jean-Michel’s Insider’s Guides to Active New Zealand and Queenstown .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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New Zealand and Australia Sarah Farag, Southern Crossings

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Read Sarah’s Insider’s Guide to New Zealand and Australia .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Atlantic Canada: Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island Jill Curran, Maxxim Vacations

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Read Jill’s Insider’s Guide to Newfoundland and Labrador . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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French Canada: Quebec Centuries of history, majestic megafauna, indigenous culture, pristine landscapes, and a strong dose of France, all within a short flight (or even a drive) of many U.S. locales: This is Quebec. Browse Montreal’s street art with an internationally acclaimed artist, hop on a seaplane for a picnic on a remote beach, get VIP access to observe whales and black bears in the wild. Click on the button below and we’ll connect you with a side of Canada you’ve never seen before.

Pacific Northwest: British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies Sheri Doyle, Pacific Northwest Journeys

Sheri Doyle

Read Sheri’s Insider’s Guides to Seattle , San Juan Islands and the Olympic Peninsula , and California Coast .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Western Canada: British Columbia, Canadian Rockies, Northwest Territories, Yukon Marc Telio, Entrée Canada

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Read Marc’s Insider’s Guide to British Colombia . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Caribbean, Central America, Mexico

Bahamas and Caribbean Yacht Charters Picture sparkling seas, the waves lapping at your boat, a captain who knows every secret snorkeling spot, toes-in-the-sand beach bars where you can stop for a drink, fabulously fresh seafood—prepared by your private chef—to enjoy at night…. All that can be yours when you charter your own vessel. But of the hundreds that are based in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, which to choose? And how do you know that its crew can make the magic happen, and that its water toys are up to snuff? We know yacht-charter experts who spend a good portion of every year inspecting boats and their crews to find the very best. Tell us what you have in mind, and we can match you to the right specialist for your specific needs.

Belize Patricia Johnson and Rachael Wilson, Absolute Belize

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Read Patricia and Rachael’s Belize Insider’s Guide: Azure Waters, Green Jungle . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Cabo Julie Byrd, CaboVillas.com

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Read Julie’s Insider’s Guides to Los Cabos Villa Vacations   and Los Cabos Beach Vacations .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Caribbean Islands and Dive Vacations Meg Austin

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Read Meg’s Insider’s Guide to the Scuba Diving in the Caribbean and Bahamas . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Costa Rica Irene Edwards, GreenSpot

Irene Edwards on a zip line

Read Irene’s Insider’s Guide to Costa Rica Luxury Eco-Travel . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Costa Rica Priscilla Jimenez, Costa Rica Expeditions

Priscilla Jimenez

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Yes, you can still travel to Cuba. Legally and privately. The Cuba experts we know have worked in the country for years and are well connected to artists, musicians, historians, TV personalities, and the best privately-owned boutique B&Bs, casas particulares , and paladares . They can have you learning the secrets of a perfect mojito from a local bartender, enjoying a night out at a pop-up jazz club, bird-watching on a day trip into the countryside, and strolling Havana with a former architect or journalist (who now earns more as a private guide).

Mexico Zachary Rabinor, Journey Mexico

Zach Rabinor

Read Zachary’s Insider’s Guides to Puerto Vallarta , Mexico City ,  and the Riviera Maya .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua Pierre Gedeon, Costa Adventures

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Read Pierre’s Insider’s Guide to Nicaragua . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Cruises and Yacht Charters

European Barge Cruises Ellen Sack and Caroline Klein, Barge Lady Cruises

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Read Ellen and Caroline’s Insider’s Guide to France’s Waterways .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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European Rivers and Luxury Cruises Worldwide Tom Baker, Cruise Center

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Read Tom’s Insider’s Guides to Alaska Cruises and Mediterranean Cruises .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Expedition Voyages Ashton Palmer, ExpeditionTrips

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Read Ashton’s Insider’s Guides to Antarctica Cruises , Arctic Cruises , and Small-Ship Alaska Cruises .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Luxury Cruises Worldwide Mary Jean Tully, Cruise Professionals by Tully Luxury Travel

Mary Jean Tully

Read Mary Jean’s Insider’s Guides to Asia Cruises and Africa Cruises .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Yacht Charters Picture sparkling seas, the waves lapping at your boat, a captain who knows every hidden cove, quaint villages to explore by day, fabulously fresh seafood—prepared by your private chef—to enjoy at night…. All that can be yours when you charter your own vessel. Maybe it’s a sailboat on the Dalmatian Coast, a catamaran in Tahiti, a bareboat charter in the Caribbean, or a mega-yacht on the Great Barrier Reef. But of the thousands out there, which craft and crew to choose? We know yacht-charter experts who spend a good portion of every year inspecting boats and their crews to find the very best. Tell us what you have in mind, and we can match you to the right travel specialist for your specific needs.

Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Poland Gwen Kozlowski, Exeter International

Gwen Kozlowski

Read Gwen’s Insider’s Guides to Austria , Hungary ,  and the Czech Republic . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg Tom Stinglhamber, Brilliant Ideas

Thomas Stinglhamber

Read Tom’s Insider’s Guide to Belgium . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Croatia (plus Bosnia, Montenegro, Slovenia) Ala Osmond, Exeter International

Ala Osmond

Read Ala’s Insider’s Guide to Croatia . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Croatia Jay Ternavan, JayWay Travel

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England and the British Isles Travelers bound for the United Kingdom and Ireland seek a broad array of experiences for which there is a broad array of sources. Do you need a castle in the countryside for a 50th birthday party or a manor home for a family reunion near the university where your kid is in college? A week of hiking in the Cotswolds or meeting the most interesting local characters in the hidden pockets of Ireland? The more specific you can be about your trip goals, the better we can direct you to the right fixer for your needs.

England, Ireland, Scotland Jonathan Epstein, Celebrated Experiences

Jonathan Epstein

Read Jonathan’s Insider’s Guides to Killarney and County Kerry, Ireland ,  Scotland , and the Cotswolds . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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England, France, and Italy Jennifer Virgilio, Queen of Clubs

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Read Jennifer’s Insider’s Guide to Paris with Perks . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Read France Trip Reviews Read Italy Trip Reviews

France Philip Haslett, French Promise

Philip Haslett

Read Philip’s Insider’s Guide to Provence and the French Riviera . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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France Michael Eloy and Alex Zglinski, Trufflepig

Michael Eloy and Alex Zglinski

Read Michael and Alex’s Insider’s Guides to Paris for Food Lovers  and Burgundy . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Germany and beyond (Austria, the Netherlands, Scandinavia) Claudia Schwenger, Trufflepig

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Read Claudia’s Insider’s Guide to Bavaria, Germany . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Greece Certain Greek islands, especially those visited by cruise ships, can be a mosh pit in high season, and the logistics of getting between islands can be surprisingly complicated. The right expert can steer you to the most reliable ferry operators, ensure there’s a taxi to pick you up at the pier, even arrange for private boat rides to secret islands. There are hundreds of Greek islands to choose from, of course—each with its own unique character—and the right expert can design an itinerary with just the right combo of ancient history, modern culture, near-empty beaches, sleepy villages, pulsating nightlife, or whatever it is that you want most. Tell us via the button below, and we’ll help as best we can.

Greece Jacoline Vinke, Trufflepig

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Greece Mina Agnos, Travelive

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Read Mina’s Insider’s Guide to the Ionian Islands . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Iceland Iceland has awesome landscapes and unusual adventure activities, from volcano diving to geothermal-pool hopping. But it is surprisingly expensive, and soaring tourism has caused demand—for accommodations, activities, all-terrain vehicles, glacier adventure guides, etc.—to outpace supply, driving prices even higher. What’s more, the country’s tourism infrastructure is geared to mass-market group tours. For the right local fixer to deliver a private, custom-tailored itinerary with unique experiences, click on the “Ask Wendy” button below.

Iceland Chris Gordon, Icepedition

Chris Gordon

Read Chris’s Insider’s Guide to Iceland Adventures . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Iceland, Denmark, and the Faroe Islands Mads Tange Christensen, Nordic Star

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Read Mads’s Insider’s Guide to Off-the-Beaten-Path Iceland . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Ireland Travelers bound for Ireland seek a broad array of experiences for which there is a broad array of sources. Do you want to hike the trails of Killarney National Park, stroll through Galway with a local musician, meet artisans and farmers in the countryside, overnight in an 800-year-old castle, or rent a Georgian manor home for a family reunion? The more specific you can be about your trip goals, the better we can direct you to the right fixer for your needs.

Italy   Andrea Grisdale, IC Bellagio

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Italy   Luisa Grigoletto, Trufflepig

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Italy, France, England  Jennifer Virgilio, Queen of Clubs

Contact Jennifer Read Italy Trip Reviews

Read France Trip Reviews Read England Trip Reviews

Italy and Switzerland Brian Dore and Maria Gabriella Landers, CIU Travel

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Read Brian and Maria’s Insider’s Guides to Venice , Florence , Umbria , and Tuscany .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Italy: The Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera  Anna Merulla and Emanuela Raggio, BeautifuLiguria

Anna and Emanuela

Read Anna and Emanuela’s Insider’s Guide to The Cinque Terre and the Italian Riviera . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Italy: Puglia Antonello Losito and Alison Pike, Southern Visions Travel

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Read Antonello and Alison’s Insider’s Guide to Puglia . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Italy: Sicily and the Aeolian Islands only Marcello Baglioni and Matteo Rota, Agave Travel Creative

Marcello and Matteo

Read Marcello and Matteo’s Insider’s Guide to Sicily . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and beyond in Eastern Europe Greg Tepper, Exeter International

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Contact Greg Read Trip Reviews

Malta Jason and Damon Camilleri Allan, Exclusively Malta

Jason and Damon Camilleri-Allan

Read Jason and Damon’s Insider’s Guide to Malta . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Norway Torunn Tronsvang, Up Norway

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Read Torunn’s Insider’s Guide to Wild Norway .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Norway and Scandinavia Jan Sortland, Norwegian Adventures

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Read Jan’s Insider’s Guide to Norway . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Portugal and Spain Gonçalo Correia, Tours for You

Gonçalo Correia

Read Gonçalo’s Insider Secrets of Portugal . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Romania Raluca Spiac, Beyond Dracula

Raluca Spiac portrait

Read Raluca’s Insider’s Guide to Romania . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Spain and Portugal Pablo Calvo

Pablo Calvo

Read Pablo and Gonçalo’s Insider’s Guides to Spain’s Basque Country   and Portugal .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Spain and Portugal Virginia Irurita, Made for Spain and Portugal

Virginia Irurita

Read Virginia’s Insider’s Guides to Madrid , Barcelona , Andalusia , and The Algarve, Portugal .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Spain: Andalusia and Southern Spain Iván Ricoy, Genuine Andalusia

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Read Iván’s Insider’s Guide to Southern Spain . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Sweden, Finland, and Scandinavia Leigh Landis, Exeter International

Leigh Landis

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Switzerland and Road Trips Through the Alps Nina Müller, Cosa Travel

Nina Mueller

Read Nina ‘s Insider’s Guide to the Secrets of Switzerland . Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Turkey Karen Fedorko Sefer, Sea Song Tours

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Read Karen’s Insider’s Guides to Istanbul   and Turkey’s Aegean Coast .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Turkey Earl Starkey, Sophisticated-Travel

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Read Earl’s Insider’s Guides to Istanbul   and Cappadocia .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Arabian Peninsula Nick Rhodes, Arabian Lux

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Egypt and Jordan Jim Berkeley, Destinations & Adventures International

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Egypt, Jordan, Oman, and beyond, incl. Central Asia Jonny Bealby and Dan Waters, Wild Frontiers

Jonny Bealby Dan Waters

Read Jonny and Dan’s Insider’s Guide to Oman .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Israel Joe Yudin and Jonathan Rose, Touring Israel

Joe Yudin and Jonathan Rose

Read Joe and Jonathan’s Insider’s Guides to Jerusalem   and Israel .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Joe and Jonathan Read Trip Reviews

Morocco (see Africa, above)

Turkey (see Europe, above)

Argentina, Chile, Patagonia, Uruguay Maita Barrenechea, Mai10

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Read Maita’s Insider’s Guides to Buenos Aires   and Argentina’s Wine Country .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Argentina, Chile, Patagonia, Peru, Ecuador, and beyond Tom Damon, Southwind Adventures

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Read Tom’s Insider’s Guides to Patagonia   and Machu Picchu .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and beyond Paul Irvine, Dehouche Travel

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Read Paul’s Insider’s Guides to Rio de Janeiro   and Trancoso .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

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Chile, Argentina, Patagonia Jordan Harvey, Knowmad Adventures

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Read Jordan’s Insider’s Guide to Chile .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Jordan Read Trip Reviews

  Colombia Boris Seckovic, Amakuna

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Read Boris’s Insider’s Guide to Bogotá, Colombia .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Boris Read Trip Reviews

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Peru Allie Almario, Premier Tours

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Read Allie’s Insider’s Guides to Quito and the Northern Andes   and the Galapagos Islands .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Allie Read Trip Reviews

Peru and Bolivia Marisol Mosquera, Aracari

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Read Marisol’s Insider’s Guides to Secrets of Peru , Bolivia: The Salt Flats Are Just the Beginning   and Peru for Food Lovers .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Marisol Read Trip Reviews

Alaska Judith Root, Entrée Alaska

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Read Judith’s Insider’s Guide to Alaska .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Judith Read Trip Reviews

American West and National Parks Melissa Ladvala, West Bench Adventures

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Contact Melissa Read Trip Reviews

California and Hawaii Jay and Dani Johnson, Coastline Travel Advisors

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Read Jay and Dani’s Insider’s Guides to Maui , Oahu , and the Big Island .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Jay and Dani Read Trip Reviews

California and the Pacific Northwest Sheri Doyle, Pacific Northwest Journeys

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Read Sheri’s Insider’s Guides to Seattle ,  the San Juan Islands and Olympic Peninsula , and the Perfect California Coast Road Trip .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Disney and Orlando Michelle Allen, Travel Magic

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Read Michelle’s Insider’s Guide to Disney World, Orlando .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

Contact Michelle Read Trip Reviews

Ski Vacations in the U.S. Rockies  Meg Austin

Read Meg’s Insider’s Guide to Skiing the Rocky Mountains .  Check Wendy’s pricing tip .

* While these Trusted Travel Experts are road-tested and well-respected, and I have known them for years, I don’t make any representation as to their financial stability or the suitability of their arrangements. I am connecting travelers with trip planners, and can help during the travel-planning process, but I cannot be held responsible or accept any liability for what happens after that. As always, to protect yourself, pay with a credit card and buy third-party travel insurance .

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2024 A-List Travel Advisors

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

USA, Canada, & Caribbean

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Want to tour the Louvre after hours? Tag rhinos in Rwanda? Get married on Mykonos? Throw a milestone birthday party on St. Barts? Or take a luxurious cruise to the Arctic? Our travel advisors have you covered. In our 22nd annual A-List, we present a directory of the most influential vacation specialists in the world, vetted by the editors at  Travel + Leisure .

Featured Advisor: Bob Preston

Courtesy of Respective Travel Advisor

As a 17-year veteran of luxury travel, Preston knows how to impress his clients. For a 60th birthday trip to France for 10 women, he designed a week of fashion, art, Black heritage, and jazz, culminating in a gala dinner in Paris.

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Roar Africa Safari

Travel specialists have never been more essential than they are right now, with their invaluable ability to pivot, re-book and offer advice. We picked 10 standouts in the luxury field from across the world, a directory of those who embody that above-and-beyond spirit essential in the past year.

Christoper Sitwell, Cazenove + Loyd

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Wilmot-Sitwell has been working in travel for more than three decades. The co-owner of a 16-person London-based agency specializes in long-haul luxury, often to far-flung sites in rural Africa and Asia. The team there spent much of 2020 canceling or postponing trips—most recently, unpicking rescheduled itineraries to the Tokyo Olympics when a ban on foreign spectators was announced.

The firm anticipated today’s conscious-travel concerns from the outset, always focusing on owner-run and locally staffed independent operations, such as preservation outfit Campfire in Zimbabwe. Cazenove + Loyd also offsets the entire carbon cost of its research recces via a partnership with CommuniTree , a 12-square-mile tropical reforestation project in Nicaragua. Clients can easily opt into this, too; anyone whose itinerary swoops through the country can visit the project and personally plant the trees.

Learn More: Here

Tanya Dalton, Managing Director UK, Greaves

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Dalton leads the UK office of this India specialist outfitter, which was founded by her Mumbai-born grandfather in 1978 and later run by her mother. With generations’ worth of in-depth experience and exclusive connections at her fingertips, she arranges custom trips as luxe as they are immersive. Depending on their interests, travelers may find themselves granted entrée to private palaces, sacred religious sites and landmarked government buildings; meeting with celebrated curators, authors, artisans, jewelers, chefs or astrologers; or exploring desert wilds while staying at plush mobile camps.

Dalton’s team—45 in Delhi and Mumbai, and 15 in the UK—helped extract some 40 clients from India at the start of the pandemic, as borders closed. Now she’s helping guests plan their return. On her radar currently are safaris to spot India’s rising tiger population, top-end hotel openings in Rajasthan and a new single-suite wooden boat that’s perfect for privately cruising the Ganges, Bhagirathi and Hooghly Rivers.

Jules Maury, Scott Dunn Private

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Maury runs this offshoot of the UK-based travel firm, focused entirely on bespoke itineraries. Much of her work during the pandemic involved extended stays for home-schooling families who were looking to live and work in a new locale, whether spending two and a half months at Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives or a month in residence at Antigua’s Jumby Bay. Another guest commandeered the five-room Sheldon Chalet in Denali National Park, an ultra-secluded property accessible only by a 45-minute helicopter ride.

The SDP team follows multiple pro-social protocols when it travels and encourages clients to follow suit, including the Pack for a Purpose program, in which visitors pack requested supplies in their luggage for distribution at the destination. It’s laser-focused on ethical practices, too. Animal welfare is a priority, so providers that offer bullfighting or elephant riding are not used, and there’s a pledge that 90 percent of all operators will not provide single-use plastics to guests by the end of 2023.

Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africa

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The Zimbabwe-born Calmeyer has carved out a discrete niche as the ultimate elite safari planner, with the ability to pull off near-impossible requests, even during the pandemic. Rwanda’s government requires a negative PCR Covid-19 test for visitors, but offers only the throat-swab version at Kigali airport—a problem for one Roar Africa client, desperate to go gorilla-trekking but phobic about anything touching his throat. Calmeyer set up a protocol change, arranging for a nose swab to be administered instead.

She has offices in Nairobi, Johannesburg and Cape Town, with the HQ in New York, and Roar Africa continued to pay drivers, freelance guides and its staff even during lockdown, as governmental support in situ was scant. Roar Africa supports several social programs, including an all-women anti-poaching academy in Kenya, which has so far graduated almost 30 fully trained rangers, and underwrites a scholarship at a college of tourism in South Africa that trains women to work at local hotels and lodges.

Catherine Heald, Remote Lands

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Remote Lands’ expertise centers entirely on planning ultra-luxury trips for Americans to Asia, with offices in New York and Bangkok, plus country managers in every locale.

Heald and business partner Jay Tindall try to ensure a positive impression both for their guests and by them, encouraging clients, for example, to fund the digging of a water well for a local family whenever Siem Reap in Cambodia forms part of the itinerary. Conscious of the higher carbon footprint of itineraries that span the continent, the pair deliberately minimize the number of flights, private or commercial.

Last year, a Texas couple who were planning to go solo to Asia to celebrate both his 70th birthday and their 40th wedding anniversary had to postpone, and instead Heald helped them turn their three-week, four-country trip into a reunion with their grandchildren, whom they plan to take along this November.

Beks Ndlovu, Founder of African Bush Camps

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Ndlovu has maintained momentum, despite the safari industry’s devastating year. The operator and hotelier kept his entire 600-person staff employed while also unveiling Khwai Leadwood, a new high-design lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. It’s the latest in his eco-conscious properties; he has rolled out 16 of them in 15 years across three countries, a remarkable achievement. Each has a light footprint, via solar farms and water recycling, while also offering direct support to surrounding communities via the company’s ABC Foundation.

Even amid the logistical and medical constraints of the past year, Ndlovu seamlessly pulled off a recent journey for 14 people to Zimbabwe via private plane. “There was a lot of juggling, but it was well worth it,” says Ndlovu, who advocates for guests to spend their tourism dollars with brands that preserve wilderness areas and empower minorities and locals. “We continue to make the effort in identifying key talent that we can support and help rise to the surface.”

Cedric Reversade, Unique Properties & Events

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Luxury travel was already tilting toward villa rentals before the pandemic made the idea of privacy, and self-containment, even more appealing. The London- and Paris-based Reversade and business partner Koskas offer discreet access to the world’s best rental homes in hot spots like Saint-Tropez, Ibiza and Capri while also acting as a travel concierge.

Take the California client who had bought a piano nobile on the Grand Canal in Venice, just before the first lockdown—and for whom they managed to secure a visa even when borders were shut. They also arranged excursions in the city, like a day on Burano with the glassblowers and a night visit to San Marco. Or the polo-loving English client who ditched her Chelsea townhouse for a seafront estate in Ibiza they’d wrangled on her behalf as lockdowns loomed; she then took trips around Spain, including lunching with a retired rejoneador from whom she bought two horses to ride at her country estate.

Cari Gray, Gray & Co.

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Based in Santa Monica, Calif., Canadian expat Gray runs a lean team of about 10 with a particular expertise in active luxury. Take the trip to Argentina and Uruguay which shuttled her guests between cycling spots by private jet. It was due to start just as Argentina shuttered its borders last March, so Gray’s team pivoted, re-booking the group on a similar itinerary in California within 24 hours.

She’s determined that the lavish sums spent by clients truly uplift every destination, especially in developing areas. One pair of travelers sponsored GPS collars on a research project for rescued elephants at a local animal reserve in Namibia and witnessed the process firsthand. And an always recommended pit stop in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco is one of the late Eve Branson’s projects, which employs local women making crafts. It isn’t all do-gooding, though: Gray is renowned for arranging Michelin-caliber chefs to cater alfresco at the end of a day’s hiking.

James Jayasundera, Ampersand Travel

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Sri Lanka is one of the rare destinations in Asia that have managed to create a program that allows visitors to experience the country during the pandemic, and no one is a better expert to help navigate an itinerary in that new normal than Rome-raised Jayasundera and his five-person, almost two-decade-old firm. Visitors can stay in designated hotels, he explains, and even go sightseeing, as long as they remain in “bio bubbles” to protect the local populace from imported infection.

Jayasundera started early, noting the preferences of each of his 12-strong family as they traveled constantly in his childhood, and has made such attention to detail a hallmark of his commercial operation. Inclusivity is a longtime passion, with a strong presence in the LGBTQ community among both staff and clients, and efforts to use female guides where possible to offset challenges around equality.

Mark Duguid, Carrier

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The 60-person, Manchester-based Carrier plans less than 5,000 trips per year, allowing it to retain a reputation for flexibility. It’s willing to change itineraries within hours of departure and never charging amending fees. Duguid and his team were well placed, then, for the challenges of last year: See the couple from the UK who seized the chance to travel when permitted during a break in lockdowns, heading impromptu to the Maldives as an add-on to a last-minute visit to Dubai. Carrier recognized the appeal of the outdoors for travelers in the last year, too, and created an exclusive trip to Octola in Finland’s Arctic Circle, a five-star private wilderness reserve where local guides hosted open-fire lunches and ran excursions on husky sleds and snowmobiles.

Duguid reports a surge in so-called revenge spending, noting that the average booking value for 2021 has risen 90 percent year over year, with clients indulging in once-in-a-lifetime trips after lockdown restrictions loosen.

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Over the years exceptional customer service has become known as the “ Dynamite Difference ”! Dynamite Travel also offers luxury travel content creation and high-quality products through our eCommerce stores!

Services Dynamite Travel Provides

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Vacation Packages

We will provide you with assistance with preparing your flight and hotel package. Airport transfers, excursions, and travel protection can also be bundled into select vacation packages. Deposits for packages are a great option if you would like to pay over time on your vacation.

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Destination Weddings & Ceremonies

We love working with couples of all types! We provide assistance with planning for destination weddings, honeymoons, vow renewals, anniversaries, and more!

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Business Travel

We will assist you and your company’s employees with creating your vacation package. We can also book cruises, staycations, and corporate retreats for your business as well.

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Group Travel

We will assist you with vacation packages for planning family reunions, class reunions, and other forms of group travel!

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Luxury Cruises

With so many companies to choose from we will help you choose the ship and sailing that is perfect for you!

Client Testimonials

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Dynamite Travel Planning Process Steps

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Let's Talk!

We will have a free consult call with you about your upcoming travel plans and address your questions.

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Sign Authorization For Consult Fee

To get started with your travel planning recommendations, we will collect your signed authorization for the consult fee.

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Let's Discuss

We will present our findings and recommendations to you via email for your review.

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Presentation of Recommendations

We will have a planning call/email to discuss the details of the recommendations to help you narrow down your final choices for your luxury vacation.

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Finalize Itinerary and Pay Deposit

We will collect your vacation deposit/payment and finalize your vacation plans. You will be provided with a free customized E-Itinerary that includes all of your travel plans. We will prepare you with everything that you'll need to have an unforgettable luxury vacation.

It’s more than just a transaction

We want to assist clients that align with our mission and understand the value of personal interactions, bespoke experiences, exploring curated journeys, and indulging in well-deserved luxury getaways. We work with sophisticated travelers who enjoy the finer things in life and we are here to help those clients meet their luxury travel goals.

Sample Itineraries

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CONTACT US TODAY AND RECEIVE YOUR FREE CONSULT CALL

Dynamite Travel [email protected] 1-800-697-6765 Ext. 2 (Appt. Only)

Monday — Thursday 9am — 5pm ET

Friday 9am—12pm ET

SERVICE AREA

We service clients all around the world!

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Phone: +1 818-907-0014

Toll Free: +1 877-817-1714

Fax: +1 818-337-7369

Mail: [email protected]

Expert Travel Associates is the premier and full-service travel management company dedicated to providing corporate and leisure travel management services since 2003.

As a member of IATA (International Airlines Travel Agent), we comply with strict principles of professional conduct and ethics. In addition, we are members of CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) and Better Business Bureau.

Expert Travel Associates is a full service travel management company.

Expert Tours & Travel serves many organizations, each with a custom service configuration. Whether you require on-site services, or regional, national or global support, you owe it to your organization to select a corporate travel management company who knows the business from the ground up.

Tourist Places

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OUR PARTNERS

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Evyssa Vacations Logo Global Voyages Inc

Let us plan your next luxury getaway!

Surrender the burdens of travel planning and reclaim your precious time. Dive into the joy of creating cherished memories with your loved ones, knowing that every aspect of your journey is flawlessly managed by our dedicated travel professionals.

We curate personalized itineraries and deliver them with exceptional service.

Leave the hassle of itinerary research and design to our experienced travel advisors. We'll handle all the booking and management of your trip components, giving you the freedom to focus on what truly matters: cherishing quality time with your loved ones.

Welcome to a journey curated exclusively for you. Rely on us to be your unwavering compass in the expansive realm of travel, ensuring that every moment holds significance.  Ready to get started?

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Travel Arrangement Services

How do we work?

Our work is based on years of experience, in-person and online training, extensive travel, vast industry affiliations, and a big network of reliable partners — all to enhance your vacation and ensure a seamless planning and booking experience, as well as memories of trips to last a lifetime.

How Evyssa Vacations Works as a Travel Agency?

Luxury Travel Redefined For Leisure and Businesses

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

For Leisure Your Personal Escape into Luxury Getaways

Discover the unique touch of our travel advisors' expertise, as we craft a journey that truly reflects your travel style and preferences, ensuring a personalized experience that resonates with your expectations. From romantic getaways to family vacations, and from cruises to rail adventures, our tailor-made itineraries are designed to deliver unforgettable experiences. Let us transform your travel dreams into reality, with the luxury and comfort that you deserve.

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

For Business Elevating Incentive & Rewards Travel to New Heights

Step into the world of incentive travel programs with us. Perfect for companies seeking to reward, motivate, and unite their teams, our travel solutions blend business objectives with exceptional travel experiences. From group retreats to performance-driven getaways, our expertly curated travel programs are more than trips; they're investments in your team's success and company culture.

Let's start planning your next luxury getaway

Choose the travel type and our expert travel agents will design a custom itinerary for you, your family and your friends!

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

Romantic Getaways

Embark on a one-of-a-kindtrip with your partner on our curated romantic getaways. Ideal for anniversaries, honeymoons, or just for getting away from the mundane!

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

Family Vacations

Bring your family on a memory-making journey with one of our family vacation packages. We help plan itineraries that the whole family - not just the kids - will love!

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

Luxury Group Travel

Small groups, big groups? No problem! From bachelor/bachelorette parties to friendly get-togethers, our luxury group travel plans take the stress out of planning in bulk.

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

Cruises & River Cruises

Voyage across the open seas or coast along exotic landscapes with our cruise and river cruise packages. Choose from classical cruise itineraries or from private yacht charters, sailboat adventures, and all-inclusive catamaran rentals!

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

Rail Vacations

Go town-to-town with ourrail vacation travel plans. Race across beautiful landscapes and rediscover howthe journey is just as grand as the destination.

Evyssa Vacations · Luxury Escapes and Custom Getaways

Ultimate Adventures

Scratch items off of your bucket list with an ultimate adventure itinerary! Be it a safari in East Africa or a hike through the Himalayas, Evyssa Vacations helps make planning for the extraordinary simple.

We are an Award-Winning International Travel Agency

We have been recognized by several organizations and media outlets. Our expert travel agents have been creating memories and serving our clients since 2009. Evyssa Vacations is a proud member of the  American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA)  and  MAST Travel Network  and we are accredited by the  International Association of Travel Agents Network (IATAN) . ‍

MAST Travel Network 2023 Award - Global Voyages Inc - Evyssa Vacations

Luxury vacations designed with you in mind!

We assist with your itineraries as much - or as little - as you need us to. From simple logistics planning to designing entire itineraries, Evyssa Vacations works with you every step of the way to help make your plans a reality.

Ideas based on our experience.

As certified travel agents, we work for you, our client. Customization is what we do best, and it looks different for each client. Our end to end services help you make travel decisions that best suit your needs, our creative consultants always come up with ideas and recommendations you might not otherwise consider, and we make sure your trip components are booked through trusted tour operators.

Making the best decisions.

We act as your advisor and your advocate, we help you understand where it makes sense to splurge or where to hold back, and assist in making sure that you make the best decisions for yourself and your family.

Custom itineraries.

Every itinerary is unique and catered to you. We plan for your budget, your party, and your interests to ensure that your vacation is stress-free and truly memorable!

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Echoes of delight from our customers

We love to make our clients happy! And we love to hear their feedback after they returned from vacation. Here are a few of them.

Research & Itinerary Design Retainer

We charge a nominal retainer to insure a commitment to one- another, and our reciprocal respect for each other’s time. This is paid before any quotes are worked on.

Treat yourself to the luxury vacation you deserve!

Indulge in 5-star service, exclusive amenities, mouth-watering culinary delights, and unique activities. Breath-taking views await. Where will your next adventure take you? Let's design your custom itinerary!

Amadeus Silver III Pickleball Tour

August 5 - 14, 2023 European Pickleball Vacation on Luxury River Cruise

Amadeus River Cruises & Evyssa Vacations will bring you a unique experience!

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Honeymoon in Tahiti

Explore the most beautiful and exotic locations in French Polynesia on your luxurious honeymoon.

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Honeymoon Adventure in Costa Rica

Get a taste of Costa Rica's world-class highlights on an ultimate adventure.

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Couple's Getaway in Aruba

Discover the happiest island on the Caribbean and immerse yourself in pure luxury.

Travel with Evyssa Vacations - Highlights

Recommendations of the month for your next luxury getaway

As someone who appreciates the finer things in life, you understand that a luxury vacation is more than just a trip - it's an experience. This month, we've curated a selection of destinations that truly embody the essence of luxury.

Destination Wedding in Sandals

"Love Takes Flight": A Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Showcase in Hoffman Estates

An exclusive event tailored for couples who are dreaming of an unforgettable and unique destination wedding and honeymoon.

Best Luxury Travel Destinations

Goddesses Abroad: A Women-Only Group Photoshoot in Italy

Elevate your travel game and join our exclusive sisterhood of sophisticated women who explore the world together.

Pickleball River Cruise

European Pickleball River Cruise or Land Vacations

Embark on an extraordinary Pickleball adventure, where friendly matches unfold on European courts and the charm of Europe embraces you.

Adult-Only Cruises To Europe and The Caribbean

Adults-Only Cruises to Europe and the Caribbean

Get pampered while you save big on your luxury cruise vacation!

Honeymoon in Tahiti

Embark on the perfect Tahiti honeymoon and create your unforgettable moments in paradise.

Family Vacations

Scandinavia, Peru, Alaska, London, Italy are just some of the best destinations for family fun.

Rest easy as we take charge, ensuring a stress-free experience!

Luxury means different things to different people. Our job is to make sure you get the best value for your money. We partner with top service providers and hand-picked tour operators to deliver top-tier amenities and benefits to you! We want your time away to be well spent enjoying authentic experiences. We customize your personal adventures to your individual interests and travel styles. Our mission is to offer a seamless vacation planning process and peace of mind. Elevate your journey by having a dedicated travel advisor by your side. Your satisfaction is our main priority.

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Travel Experts

Travel Advisors

Ruth Wood

I am excited to share my love of travel and experience around the world with you. I offer bespoke trips to places near and far. I have had the fortune to live in many places around the world. Starting in New York, and living there... read more

Wendy Tipton

Wendy Tipton

At Life List Travel, I make it easy to finally fill your life with the journeys you’ve long been dreaming of. From relaxing river cruises that roll you right past castles, to exclusive tours that take you up close to the world’s greatest cultural treasures,... read more

Pam Gay

There will always be a Luxe Traveler.The traveler who defines luxury as seeing the world in authentic and intrepid ways. Upon planning, embarking and experiencing a journey, this traveler feels forever changed.My job is to make this happen in an effortless way, maximizing travel confidence... read more

Mollie Darch

Mollie Darch

MD Travel’s mission is to create exceptional travel experiences through our expert knowledge and seamless planning process. MD Travel clients enjoy exclusive access, extra perks and amenities as a part of our affiliation in several luxury travel networks.Interests: Family Travel, Honeymoons, Beach & Sun, Safari,... read more

Marcia Kirsh

Marcia Kirsh

Born and raised in Brooklyn NY, I started traveling to Europe on family trips as a teenager...and there I got bitten by the travel bug. I have since visited over 40 countries and often return to my favorite cities in Asia and Europe. I have... read more

Luan Del Prete

Luan Del Prete

Hi! I am Luan and love traveling, the great outdoors, hiking, dancing, exploring with my husband.Interests: Adventure, Ocean CruisingDestinations: Argentina, Australia, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico read more

Kathie Snyders

Kathie Snyders

Do you want to experience a destination and not just travel through it? I specialize in curating cultural experiences that establish connections between you and your chosen destinations, facilitating genuine encounters with local culture and people.I work with you to help you plan a vacation... read more

Catherine Norton-Valverde

Catherine Norton-Valverde

Travel has been my passion as long as I can remember. For three decades + I have traveled the world having visited 63 countries to date. I lived 3 years in Paris and have spent extensive time in Italy, Spain, as well as Kenya and... read more

Barbara Garlasco

Barbara Garlasco

Barbara works one-on-one with clients to craft once-in-a-lifetime trips to some of the most beautiful and unique destinations around the world. Before joining The Luxury Route, Barbara was in advertising and sales in New York City for two decades. Today, she spends her free time... read more

Kathy Komar

Kathy Komar

In early 2018, I joined the Authentic Travel Group as an Independent Contractor affiliated with Travel Experts, a Virtuoso Company. I design luxury travel journeys around the globe. I am professional, detail oriented, extremely organized and I love to please my clients.After 25 years in... read more

Beth Dwyer

I first experienced the delight of traveling as a child of 5 when our grandparents took 30 family members to Jamaica for a spring break. My early years were full of coast to coast family road trips across the US and Great Britain. Family travel... read more

Maryanne Scully

Maryanne Scully

I have had the pleasure of working in the Travel Industry for most of my career. I began in leisure travel and eventually migrated to corporate travel. I worked for mega travel agencies such as Carlson Wagonlit and American Express and on Fortune 100 travel... read more

Alicia Pacini

Alicia Pacini

It has been said that the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. The experiences travel has afforded me have broadened my viewpoints and uncovered passions. As a hair designer for over 10 years, travel has been invaluable... read more

Christina Schlegel

Christina Schlegel

I craft luxury cruise experiences for well-traveled retirees, empty nesters, and discerning professionals seeking cultural enrichment.My invitation: experience the perfect balance of destination exploration and relaxation on your travels. You want to delve into a new destination or rediscover a favorite one, but you also... read more

Jane Howard

Jane Howard

My love for travel began in the late 60's with a family trip to Mexico. In college, I traveled to Europe and knew I wanted a career in the travel industry. I began selling travel in 1981 and enjoyed 19 years of travel consulting and... read more

Debbie Dos Santos

Debbie Dos Santos

I began my travel career traveling the USA as a little girl in the back of a station wagon with my parents and siblings- with no seat belts! Wanderlust set immediately. My desire to explore compelled me to earn my MBA in International Business and... read more

Naomi Spak

Naomi relishes in finding distinctive experiences that go beyond the must-sees to include local favorites and hidden gems. Traveling with her own family has allowed her to discover unique activities the whole family will enjoy. She is always on a mission to find what’s new... read more

Richard Muller

Richard Muller

I grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia and attended Lycoming College where I earned a BA in English and History. After graduation from college, I studied in Graz, Austria, and became hooked on travel. I spent thirty-four years teaching English, primarily British Literature and... read more

Rachelle Adams

Rachelle Adams

After a brief stint to earn a bachelor of arts, Rachelle eschewed her plans to attend law school and ran away to become an international flight attendant. What was supposed to be a brief sabbatical from school ended up becoming her chosen career and she... read more

Toni Glick

I have traveled to various parts of the world and in 2024 I will be taking my 60th cruise. I have a strong attention to detail and provide excellent customer service.My cruise line certifications include: Azamara Globetrotter Certification, Regent Cruises Specialist, Oceania Certified Advisor, Silversea... read more

Travel Experts, Inc.

"the perfect hosts".

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Travel Experts, Inc. was established in 1989 as a pioneering host agency, designed to support and promote the businesses of independent travel consultants around the country. Travel Experts is also a proud member of Virtuoso, giving their travel consultants access to exclusive, added-value arrangements with top travel providers. For more information, call 800-274-2544 or contact Travel Experts via email at [email protected]. Further details about Travel Experts are also available on the web at http://www.travel-xperts.com/.

Virtuoso Member Since 23 Oct 2000

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Access to the world’s best travel advisors, offering expert advice and worry-free planning.

Special rates and connections with nearly 2,000 travel partners worldwide.

VIP amenities, upgrades, and experiences you can’t get on your own.

The experts in boutique travel to Peru and South America

Custom-designed Luxury Tours Since 1998

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Trusted by over 5,000 satisfied travelers every year

Personalized

Your personal travel advisor works with you to create the perfect tailored itinerary.

Private Tours

All tours are private unless otherwise indicated. Enjoy individual attention and exceptional service.

Local Knowledge

Our staff and guides are knowledgeable, professional, and passionate about their home country.

In-trip Support

All our travelers receive complimentary 24/7 emergency assistance from English-speaking staff.

Explore our collection

Book With Confidence

Postpone your trip at no cost up to 30 days prior with zero fees with open dates. Learn more.

Peru inspiring packages

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Machu Picchu Classic

Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

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Amazon to Machu Picchu

Amazon, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

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Historical Peru

Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Nazca, Cusco, Lima & Machu Picchu

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The Great Regions of Peru

Amazon, Colca Canyon, Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu, Nazca & Titicaca

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Titicaca & Machu Picchu

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Titicaca

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Cusco & Classic Inca Trail

Cusco, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

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Andean Highlights

Colca Canyon, Cusco, Lima, Machu Picchu & Titicaca

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Luxury Amazon Cruise and Machu Picchu

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Amazon Cruise

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Sacred Valley highlights & Machu Picchu

Other fully customizable south america packages.

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Galapagos & Machu Picchu

Galapagos, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

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The Highlights of the Galapagos & Ecuador

Cuenca, Quito, Galapagos & Guayaquil

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Patagonia Highlights

El Calafate, El Chalten, Puerto Natales & Torres Del Paine

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Santiago & Atacama

Santiago, Valparaiso & San Pedro de Atacama

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Santiago & Easter Island

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Argentina Highlights

Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls & El Calafate

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Discover Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Buzios, Iguazu Falls, Salvador de Bahia & Manaus

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Buenos Aires, Santiago & Patagonia

Santiago, Valparaíso, Puerto Natales, El Calafate & Buenos Aires

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Brazilian Paradise

Rio de Janeiro, Búzios & Florianópolis

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A Day In Foodie’s Paradise

Enjoy the epitome of destination dining at MIL restaurant in the Sacred Valley. Experience the soul and flavor of Peruvian cuisine and traverse high-altitude landscapes by only lifting your fork: an expertly crafted, 8-course gastronomic tour through Peru.

Build your dream trip with expert guidance

Be inspired by our collection of packages and contact us . We will be in touch within 1 business day.

Your personal expert travel advisor will help craft and tailor the perfect dream trip just for you.

Embark on your journey. We take care of everything from start to finish, so all you have to do is enjoy.

Traveler to traveler

Our expert team are explorers from diverse backgrounds with something in common, a passion for Peru

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Grecia Fuentes

I was born in Lima and I currently live in La Paz. I studied Public Relations, but my life has always been linked to tourism where I have been working for more than 10 years. I am passionate about my country, and I believe that everyone should someday discover Peru for its great cultural, gastronomic and natural wealth. I have been lucky enough to visit most of Peru, including the Coast, Andes and Jungle! In my spare time, I love to cook and eat, but above all, I like to spend as much time as possible with my baby boy.

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Silvia Rincon

Maracaibo, Venezuela

I am extremely passionate about traveling. I love Latin American landscapes, from the Caribbean beaches, to highlands of the Andes, to the magical Patagonia lands. I truly believe sustainable tourism is essential for traveling, to ensure that future generations enjoy the same landscapes we see today. I have worked in the tourism industry for over ten years. I value friendship and happiness, so you will find a friend in me. In my spare time, I love to travel, go to the beach, get some wine, meditate and read a good book.

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Debbie Sutcliffe

I was born and raised in Peru and have 21 years of experience in the tourism industry. I'm passionate about traveling and being able to create memories by showcasing my country. I consider myself lucky to have traveled the world on a cruise ship for over 10 years, giving me the opportunity to explore different destinations and learn about countries' customs, food and cultures. I love to bake, barbecue, visit the beach and, of course, travel and explore new destinations. I am also a big believer that every country has its own charm, but Peru will always have a special place in my heart.

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Leila Dancuart

I was born in Lima, Peru, but my mom is from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and my dad is from Lima. I can speak fluent English, Spanish, and Portuguese! Travelling has always been my passion, and learning about different cultures and trying new experiences is my favorite thing to do. Because of this, I studied Hotel & Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. After graduating, I found an opportunity to learn more about the tourism industry while customizing & crafting trips to South America! When I'm not working, I love to visit new restaurants, coffee shops, nearby bars, spend time with family and friends, take dance lessons, and discover new music and movies. My favorite food is Nikkei, which is a fusion between Peruvian and Japanese or Peruvian-Italian cuisine. One of my favorite drinks is coffee & Pisco Sour too!

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Melissa Schenk

Stuttgart, Germany

I was born and raised in Germany . I received a bachelor’s degree in Health and Tourism Management from the University of Economics and Environment Nürtingen-Geislingen in Germany. During a semester abroad in Peru I got to know various places in the country and fell in love, so I decided to move back to Lima after the pandemic.

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Noelia Castro

Noelia was born in Lima, she got her bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Houston. Always eager to travel the world, she consistently explored Peru including: Cusco, Ica, Piura, Pasco, Junín, La Libertad, Cajamarca, Huánuco and San Martin.

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Mikey Blount

Prague, Czech Republic

I was born in Prague to a Czech mother and an American father, growing up I often moved between the two countries, which fueled my passion for travel from a young age. While studying for a psychology degree in the UK, I used part-time work to finance my travels in Europe and Asia. However, after a two-week field trip working on housing issues in Salvador, Brazil, I became hooked on Latin American culture, food, and lifestyle.

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Our specialists

At Inca Expert, we believe in enriched travel. We have sought the expert opinion of our preeminent specialists to craft for you the most authentic experiences possible.

Meet Our Experts

We have sought the expert opinion of our preeminent specialists to craft for you the most authentic experiences possible.

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Kim MacQuarrie Four-time Emmy Winner and Author

Embark on a memorable journey in great comfort

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Allyson and John K.

North Carolina, USA Traveled to: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Aracelli Gutierrez

Saint Louis, MO, USA Traveled to: Lima, Cusco, Lares, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain

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Hand Picked hotels

Stay in premier properties with authentic character

Support ethical and sustainable tourism

Local providers.

We build partnerships with providers that support development and employment in their local communities.

Ethical Trekking

We work with trekking operators that respect their employees and protect local ecosystems.

Community Building

Inca Expert Travel supports local charities that empower yout and promote growth in underserved communities.

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Book with confidence

Postpone your tour with zero cost up to 30 days prior to arrival with open dates

Travel + Leisure

10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. 

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity   travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

Courtesy of Variety Cruises

How to Become a Travel Agent—Because, Believe It or Not, the Industry Is on the Rise

By Scott Bay

How to Become a Travel Agent—Because Believe It or Not the Industry Is on the Rise

There’s a reason “how to become a travel agent” has been a continuously trending search phrase on Google—it is a career path that offers a flexible work environment and schedule, ample travel opportunities, and an immersion into a supportive world-wide industry. It's a surprise to some in 2023: Once the internet became widely available, it was largely believed that needing a travel agent was obsolete. However, even though the brick-and-mortar agencies with punny names in strip malls have vanished, the career is on-the-rise .

New software options are making it easier than ever for people to make money planning trips, either as a side hustle or as a full-time business. That’s why Cherikonda, India-based stay-at-home mother, Maya Kapoor-Miller, decided to enter the professional world as a travel agent this year, at 31. “I knew nothing about the travel industry prior to signing up,” says Kapoor-Miller, who decided to use San Francisco-based booking platform Dreamport to establish her online travel advisor business. “It is my first business in life, and the only one that you can start with no investment.”

But there's also a rise in demand. When people ventured back into the world after the pandemic, travel agents saw an overwhelming amount of business . And that momentum hasn’t stopped—when travel is complicated, like it was in 2020 and 2021, travelers turned to professional trip planners to create a seamless vacation. For better or worse, traveling has remained complicated and chaotic, with new rules being implemented (like Americans needing to pay a fee to visit Europe in 2024 ) and airline strikes and staffing issues. Offloading all of the nitty-gritty details to someone else is more appealing than ever.

For those entering the field, there's also the age-old motivator: a love of travel. 

Shelton Ellis, who is based in North Carolina, recently saw these opportunities and left behind more than 20 years in public relations and global advertising to turn his passion into a career. “I was born with a wanderlust that would wear Rick Steves out,” Ellis says. “I decided to take the leap and follow that lifelong yearning. Transitioning into this role was really about learning how to monetize what I'm passionate about.”

Whether you are looking for a new career path or a lucrative side-hustle—or simply curious about those taking the plunge—here’s how to become a travel agent, from the qualifications and education required, to anticipated earnings, according to those who have made the shift in the past year. 

What exactly does a travel agent do?

Travel agents, or travel advisors (the term is mostly interchangeable), manage everything that goes into a trip for their clients: the flights, car transfers, accommodations, restaurant reservations, and more—they even inspire the itinerary. The reason people turn to travel agents, aside from having a helping hand during any travel chaos , is also to tap into the travel agent’s first-hand knowledge of destinations, and their industry partnerships, which often lead to perks such as hotel upgrades, ideal airplane seats, and experiences that can’t be found on a search engine.

“You have to remember that as a travel agent, you will be a guide for people during their happiest moments—family reunions, weddings , baptisms, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that people have dreamt of,” says Kapoor-Miller. “It has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a travel agent. You navigate people, inform them, and help them choose.”

So, how do you become a travel agent?

There are many ways to become a travel agent, from joining an existing travel agency , to starting an independent business from the ground up. Others are opting for one of the buzziest start-ups in the travel industry, Fora . When it launched in 2021, the software company, which trains and provides search engine-optimized profile pages to advisors—at one point had a waitlist of over 30,000 people eager to begin a part-time gig. Travel photographer and Condé Nast Traveler contributor Amanda Villarosa is currently in the process of joining.

“I'm the person that friends and family come to for travel recommendations, tips and tricks, and general travel advice,” says Villarosa. “After discovering Fora and looking into it, I realized that it could be the perfect side-hustle, considering I'm already so involved in the industry.”

With additional flexibility, Villarosa was able to move from New York City to splitting her time between Denver and Los Angeles . She says that the sign-up was quite straightforward. “You're given a dedicated Fora email and have access to advising tools and fellow Fora advisors,” she says. “The training is in the form of Zoom meetings and videos, which you have the option to watch at your own pace. Once completed, you take a certification quiz and you're on your way to advising.”

The other ways in are slightly more involved. To begin an independent practice, you go about it like many other businesses. You will have to create an LLC, establish a business name, cultivate marketing materials, build a website, find clientele, and more.

Ellis found something in the middle, choosing to connect with an established travel agency. “Don't be afraid to reach out to an agency looking to take on new advisors and is willing to mentor," says Ellis. "I was fortunate to learn so much from Annie Chambers, the owner of Crafted Escapes , who has seven years in the business.” He now knows the ropes on everything from using itinerary-building software to destination-specific training, to the sales and marketing aspects of the trade.

Is there required education or qualifications?

Ellis says that there's no certification, per se, required to become a travel advisor, but there are countless training courses available like Departure Lounge ’s classes on navigating the industry through hotels and tour operators. He said it’s also important to stay on top of travel trends. Ellis recently completed travel agent training programs provided by premier cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages , Ritz-Carlton Yachts , and Cunard to help agents sell their products more accurately.

How much does a travel agent make?

What a travel agent earns depends on how many trips they successfully book for their clients. The entire model is commission-based, meaning agents earn a percentage of the total cost of the vacation they orchestrate. Many travel advisors choose to charge a flat-rate planning fee in addition to their commission, but balance is key—if you charge a high planning fee, it could lead to potential clients going elsewhere.

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Fora ’s website states that “some of our full-time, expert advisors earn well into the six figures (or beyond).” So a lucrative career may be on the horizon, for those who are able to build a robust client base and excellent industry connections.

How much you make can also depend on where you live around the world. “I am being paid in dollars,” says India-based Kapoor-Miller. “So the currency fluctuations of the local exchange rate are not something I am worried about.”

What are the key skills required to become a travel agent?

“Travel agents need a mix of customer service, communication, destination knowledge, organizational, and problem-solving skills,” says Kapoor-Miller. “But I would say that adaptability, flexibility, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity top them all—you have to put yourself in other's shoes, and understand the requirements, hopes, and expectations of your clients along with any worries and questions they may have.”

It’s vital to have a passion for traveling, even the aspects of the process that aren’t as exciting, such as learning about new airline routes, train schedule updates, and industry news. “It can be an information-heavy hustle, and I believe it's important to be excited about it as that energy definitely transfers to your clients and partners,” Villarosa says.

Should travel advisors choose a specialization?

Many travel advisors have found success through becoming an expert in a few types of travel and destinations. “It's important to become an authority and learn as much as you can through personal experiences and continuing education,” says Ellis. “As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community , an avid snow skier, and scuba diver, I know not only the popular destinations but others that are off the beaten path, equally safe and adventurous for all travelers.” This helps travel agents establish a competitive edge, and hopefully convince potential clients to choose them for their expertise.

What are the benefits of being a travel agent?

“Flexibility tops them all,” says Kapoor-Miller. “And the ability to start without industry knowledge. If you worry that you are too old for this job, the good news is that this is a job you can enter and enjoy at any age.”

Another great perk is the "Familiarization trip,” says Ellis. “Tourism boards and hotels invite agents to visit and familiarize themselves with a particular country and its properties. After all, any accomplished salesperson should learn everything they can about their products first-hand...even if they're in Bora Bora.” It's hard work, but someone's got to do it. 

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Intense shelling rocks eastern Ukraine.

expert travel agency

By Andrew E. Kramer

SEVERODONETSK, Ukraine — Several intense artillery barrages by Russia-backed separatists on Saturday targeted a pocket of Ukrainian government-controlled territory around the town of Svitlodarsk, a spot that has worried security analysts for weeks because of its proximity to industrial infrastructure, including storage tanks for poisonous gas.

The artillery fire picked up along the entire length of the front line, Ukraine’s interior ministry said in a statement in which it reported mortars, artillery shells and rocket-propelled grenades being fired “along the whole line of confrontation.” It was about double the level of the previous two days, the statement said.

The Ukrainian defense ministry said Saturday night that two soldiers had been killed and five injured.

The most frequently targeted area from midnight until about 2 p.m. on Saturday was in the vicinity of Svitlodarsk, near a chemical plant in separatist-controlled territory about six miles away. The site has seemed ripe for provocation, Ukrainian military analysts have said.

The sprawling plant is one of Europe’s largest fertilizer factories. A stray shell from returning fire from the Ukrainian Army risks hitting pressurized tanks and more than 12 miles of pipelines holding poisonous ammonia gas. The United States has warned the Russian government could stage an incident with poisonous chemicals to justify intervention.

Residents in the village of Luhansk, near Svitloldarsk, said both sides had been opening fire in recent days.

“When we are very nervous, we will leave,” said Yana Tinyakova, 31. “But we built this house with our hands. We don’t want to leave. This is ours. We have no place to escape to. If even we had a place to go, we don’t want to, because this is our home.”

The area is also seen as a potential flash point for a nearby water and pipe network that crosses the front line and supplies drinking water to several million people on both sides of the conflict, including residents of the city of Donetsk, one of the capitals of the two self-declared separatist states backed by Moscow in eastern Ukraine. A cutoff of that water supply amid fighting in 2014 hastened an outflow of refugees from the city.

On Saturday, Russia’s Interfax news agency, cited Eduard Basurin, a spokesman for the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic, as saying that shelling had damaged a pumping station and water pipes. He said the water supply was again at risk.

With each side of the conflict striving to control the narrative as much as any disputed piece of ground, the reported loss of water for residents in the Russian-backed areas came as a setback for Ukraine as it reinforced Russian assertions of dire conditions for civilians.

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday ordered ministers in his cabinet and members of Parliament to travel to front-line villages, the head of the Ukrainian security council said.

The move seemed intended to signal to Ukrainians that he was rallying his government to defend the country, while officials could also help draw international attention to civilian suffering in front-line towns.

Andrew E. Kramer is a reporter based in the Moscow bureau. He was part of a team that won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize in International Reporting for a series on Russia’s covert projection of power. More about Andrew E. Kramer

  • International

May 25, 2022 Russia-Ukraine news

By Rhea Mogul , Joshua Berlinger, Hafsa Khalil and Adrienne Vogt , CNN

Regional military chief: Ukrainian forces have withdrawn from contested town of Svitlodarsk

From CNN's Kostan Nechyporenko

Russian forces have taken the contested town of Svitlodarsk in the eastern Donbas region and Ukrainian forces have withdrawn, according to Pavlo Kyrylenko, head of the Donetsk regional military administration.

"About 10,000 civilians remain in occupied Svitlodarsk," Kyrylenko said Tuesday. "No more than 30% of the population left the city. Today, May 24, the Russian army entered Svitlodarsk in the Donetsk region. Russian flags have already been hoisted there."

According to Kyrylenko, Svitlodarsk had been surrounded on three sides, and the city had not been under intense shelling, so much of the civilian population remained.  

"This is not a retreat [of the Armed Forces of Ukraine], but a regrouping," he said. "This is the right and logical decision in this situation to save the lives of [the military] and regroup."

Pro-Russian Telegram channels showed images of the Russian flag being hoisted over the city administration building in Svitlodarsk.

Kyrylenko also described the situation as "very difficult" in Lyman, a city further north in Donetsk region. "The situation there is now one of the tensest along the entire front line," he said.

200 bodies found in ruins of Mariupol high-rise, Ukrainian official says

From CNN's Maria Kostenko

A Ukrainian official from the Russian-controlled port city of Mariupol claimed 200 bodies had been discovered in the rubble of a ruined high-rise building, another gruesome find in the city that has been devastated by months of Russian bombardment. 

Petro Andriushenko, adviser to Mariupol Mayor Vadym Boichenko, said in a statement on Telegram Tuesday that around 200 bodies were found during the dismantling of the rubble of a high-rise building near a suburban gas station. The bodies were found in a basement underneath the wrecked building in an advanced state of decomposition, he added.

"Due to the refusal of locals to collect and pack up the bodies of the dead, the Russian Ministry of Emergencies left the site," Andriushchenko said. "The bodies of the dead remained in place. The stench can be smelled almost throughout the quarter due to partially dismantled debris."

CNN was not able to immediately verify Andriushchenko's claim. Andriushchenko is not in Mariupol but has served as a clearinghouse for information from residents remaining in the city. 

Residential buildings heavily damaged during the Russian attack on the southern port city of Mariupol, Ukraine, on May 11.

Ukrainian officials say more than 20,000 residents of the city died during three months of war — a figure that cannot be independently supported — and many of the dead have been hastily buried in courtyards. 

Andriushchenko said the process of reburying the dead has been complicated by Russian officials' insistence that reclaimed bodies be brought to a morgue and that a person claiming a body must agree to record a video in which the applicant says the deceased was killed by the Ukrainian military. 

"The city has turned into a continuous cemetery," Andriushchenko said. 

Society "may not survive" Putin's war, says billionaire George Soros

From CNN's Jeanne Sahadi

Russia's invasion of Ukraine may have marked the start of "a third world war," and Russian President Vladimir Putin must be defeated "as soon as possible" if the world wants to preserve civilization.

That was the stark message that Hungarian-born billionaire and philanthropist George Soros delivered on Tuesday to attendees at the 2022 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

"Even when the fighting stops, as it eventually must, the situation will never revert" to where it was before, warned the 91-year-old   Soros. "Other issues that concern all of humanity — fighting pandemics and climate change, avoiding nuclear war, maintaining global institutions — have had to take a back seat to that struggle. That's why I say civilization may not survive."

The former hedge fund manager, who is chair of Soros Fund Management LLC and founder of the Open Society Foundations, is famous for using his wealth to help foster open societies and create inclusive democracies with governments that are held accountable.

But after the events of September 11, he noted, the tide began to turn against open societies. As a result, "repressive regimes are now in the ascendance and open societies are under siege," he said Tuesday. "Today, China and Russia present the greatest threat to open society."

Society 'may not survive' Putin's war, says billionaire George Soros

Society 'may not survive' Putin's war, says billionaire George Soros

Ukrainian special forces release video of military using foreign-made kamikaze drones.

From CNN's Vasco Cotovio

The Ukrainian military has for the first time released footage of special forces using foreign-made  kamikaze drones  targeting Russian positions. According to the Ukrainian military, the drone was equipped with a powerful explosive that caused damage to a Russian tank after it flew into it. 

"The combat use of kamikaze UAVs is a constant practice for SOF of Ukraine in the war with Russian invaders," the Ukrainian military said. "This is a good example of how the help of foreign partners together with the training and professionalism of our soldiers give positive results at the front."

The US sent 100  Switchblade drones  to the Ukrainian military in April. The small, portable, so-called kamikaze drones carry warheads and detonate on impact. The smallest model can hit a target up to 6 miles (about 10 kilometers) away, according to a company that produces the drones.

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Sharjah Airport Authority to showcase expansion plans for Sharjah Airport at ITB Berlin 2024

Sharjah Airport Authority to showcase expansion plans for Sharjah Airport at ITB Berlin 2024

  • International

August 10, 2023 - Russia-Ukraine news

By Chris Lau, Christian Edwards, Elise Hammond , Adrienne Vogt and Tori B. Powell , CNN

Ukrainian shelling kills at least 1 in Donetsk town, Russia-backed official says

From CNN's Josh Pennington and Duarte Mendonca 

Service members of pro-Russian troops stand guard in Svitlodarsk, Donetsk region, Ukraine on May 25, 2022.

At least one woman was killed and seven other people were injured as a result of shelling by Ukrainian forces on the contested town of Svitlodarsk in the eastern Donetsk region, a Moscow-backed official said Thursday.

Russia-appointed Svitlodarsk Mayor Maxim Kozlovsky said a missile hit a residential building, wounding people in the courtyard and in their homes. 

A child was among the injured, he added.

Svitlodarsk, which is located southeast of the embattled city of Bakhmut, has been occupied by Russian forces since May last year.

Russia says it repelled Ukrainian drone attacks on Crimea and Moscow

From CNN's Aruzhan Zeinulla

Russia's Defense Ministry said it foiled a Ukrainian drone attack near Crimea early Thursday and confirmed earlier reports from Moscow's mayor that two drones had also been shot down near the capital.

The ministry said two drones were shot down near Sevastopol, the largest city in Russian-occupied Crimea, while nine other drones were "suppressed by electronic warfare capabilities" and crashed into the Black Sea.

Two other drones headed toward Moscow were also shot down by air defenses over the neighboring Kaluga region and over Odintsovo district on the outskirts of the capital, the ministry said.

Sergei Sobyanin attends an exhibition in Moscow, Russia on November 17, 2022.

Earlier, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said two drones were shot down as they approached the Russian capital — the second such attempted attack reported by the official in two days.

No casualties or damage were reported from the alleged drone attacks.. 

CNN has not independently confirmed the alleged attacks, which follow a string of reported Ukrainian drone attack attempts  on  Russian cities and territory occupied by Moscow.

This post has been updated with additional information.

It's early morning in Kyiv. Here's what you need to know

From CNN staff

Volodomyr Zelensky speaks to the media in Vilnius, Lithuania on July 12.

Two drones were shot down as they approached the Russian capital Thursday, Moscow's mayor said, the second such attempted attack reported by the official in two days.

It comes a day after Kyiv's forces shelled Russia's western Belgorod region, leaving one person dead and several wounded, according to its governor.

Meanwhile, Ukraine said it struck a Russian command post  on Wednesday in the southern city of Nova Kakhovka in the Kherson region. The city is located on the Moscow-occupied east bank of the Dnipro River, where Russian state media and military bloggers  claimed  Ukrainian forces carried out a raid Tuesday.

Catch up on the latest headlines:

  • Zelensky appeal: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his call for more air defenses following a Russian attack that left two people dead in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia . He said he would continue to work with allies on Ukraine's request for US-made F-16 fighter jets. Meanwhile, the White House is  downplaying a CNN poll  that shows most Americans oppose Congress providing additional funding to support Ukraine in its war with Russia ahead of a reported  administration request for more aid.
  • Frontline accounts: After months of headlines about Russian incompetence and disarray, Ukrainian troops are learning that Moscow’s better troops — the paratroopers on the southern frontlines — have not forgotten their training. “You shouldn’t honor the enemy,” one Ukrainian soldier told CNN. “But don’t underestimate him.” Read our exclusive report from the front lines here.
  • Donetsk attacks: Ukrainian shelling killed a child in the eastern city of Donetsk, the head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic said. The Moscow-backed official also accused Ukraine of using cluster munitions — a claim CNN cannot independently verify. Kyiv has provided the Pentagon with a report about the use of controversial American cluster munitions in the fight with Russia, a Ukrainian official told CNN. 
  • Belarus latest: Poland will send more troops to its border with Belarus after the country’s Border Guard asked for 1,000 more people to be deployed there, Polish official news agency PAP reported. Tensions have been escalating in recent weeks between the NATO member and key Kremlin ally after Warsaw accused Minsk of allowing Russian mercenary group  Wagner  to move toward the border. Meanwhile, the US took action against the regime of Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko to mark the third anniversary of the fraudulent election in the country and his brutal crackdown on protesters.
  • Russian history: Russia's Ministry of Education this week unveiled new history textbooks with sections about the "special military operation," — a term President Vladimir Putin uses to refer his war in Ukraine — the annexation of Crimea and Western sanctions. Critics say the move is a part of a sustained effort to indoctrinate school children and stifle any independent thinking.
  • Spying allegations: A German national has been arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia, the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office said. Prosecutors said the man worked for a government agency that equips German armed forces.

Drones shot down near Moscow in second attempted attack in 2 days, Russian mayor says

From CNN’s Josh Pennington

Two "attack" drones were shot down as they approached the Russian capital on Thursday morning, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said, the second such attack reported by the official in two days.

“This early morning, around 4 a.m., the air defense forces shot down two attack UAVs flying towards the city. One in the Kaluga region, the other near the Central Ring Road,” Sobyanin said in a Telegram post.

No casualties or damage have been reported.

On Wednesday, the mayor said two drones were shot down in Moscow, amid a string of reported Ukrainian drone attack attempts on Russian cities .

CNN has not independently confirmed the reported attacks.

Zelensky reiterates call for more air defenses following deadly Zaporizhzhia attack

From CNN's Radina Gigova

Volodymyr Zelensky visits the Patriarchal Church of St. George in Istanbul, Turkey on July 8.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday reiterated his call for more air defenses following a Russian attack that left two people dead in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia.

"Today, Russian terrorists hit Zaporizhzhia again — an ordinary building was hit, a church and a residential building were damaged," he said in his evening address. "Our entire territory needs much more air defense systems than we have now."

He said the Ukrainian military is working "step by step" to ramp up Air Force capabilities.

"I have no doubt that F-16s will be in our skies," Zelensky said, referring to the US-made fighters jets that he has asked allies to provide for the past few months.

"Tomorrow I will continue this work, trying my best to provide more protection for the sky." 

Kyiv submits report to Pentagon on cluster munition use

From CNN's Alex Marquardt

Ukraine has provided the Pentagon with a report about the use of controversial American cluster munitions in the fight with Russia, a Ukrainian official told CNN on Wednesday. 

The official said the information transmitted to the Defense Department included both the number of rounds fired and the number of Russian targets destroyed, though the official declined to say what those figures are.  

The expected report was a request by the US as part of the  agreement  to send artillery rounds with cluster bomblets — known as DPICMs — to Ukraine. In an interview with CNN last month, Ukraine’s Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said he was planning to submit the report to his counterpart, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.

CNN has asked the Pentagon for comment. 

Ukrainian officials have said they expect the DPICMs to be more effective than standard artillery rounds, particularly against large groupings of Russian troops and equipment. Last month, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said they were “having an impact on Russia’s defensive formations and Russia’s defensive maneuvering.”

The US, Russia and Ukraine are not signatories to the Convention on Cluster Munitions which bans the production and use of the weapons and was signed by more than 100 countries. 

Ukrainian shelling kills child in Donetsk city, Russia-backed official says

From CNN's Josh Pennington

A child was killed and three other people were injured after Ukrainian shelling in the eastern city of Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), said Wednesday. 

"A little girl has been killed as a result of a Ukrainian shell hitting a two-story house in the Petrovskyi district of Donetsk. According to initial reports, two more people were injured. [Another] person was wounded in the Kyivsky district," the Russia-appointed official said in a Telegram post.

Pushilin also claimed Ukrainian forces used "cluster-type artillery." CNN is not able to independently verify his claim.

Ukrainian troops on southern front learn not to underestimate their enemy

Exclusive from CNN's Nick Paton Walsh, Kosta Gak, Olha Konovalova, Florence Davey-Attlee and Brice Laine

Rammed back into the bushes, out past destroyed Bradleys and ageing Humvees, the Soviet-era T72 lowers its turret to fire. Its targets are Russian positions, imperiled by  Ukraine’s push south , just past the building over the horizon. Three rounds whistle into the distance, the tank is spotted, and is gone in a swirl of dust.

The front line near Robotine has been the focus of Ukraine’s renewed counteroffensive. And for troops here, the fight has been as tough as it has been to hear  critical Western analysis  of its pace. They have been dealt a tough hand: taking on a prepared Russian military, with donated NATO equipment that’s not always kept at NATO service standards. The Humvee in which CNN was driven to the front — becoming the first media to reach this part of Ukraine’s counteroffensive — had threadbare tires.

“They are wrong,” says Vitaly, a tank operator from the 15th National Guard, of Western criticism of their progress. “We have success. Sometimes more, sometimes less. It depends on how fortified they (the Russians) are.” The Russian troops had a year to get ready, he notes, adding: “The biggest problem is underestimation of the enemy.”

That is less of an issue for the troops here, who must speed past the destroyed US-donated Bradleys that litter the road after their earlier, troubled assaults. During a week spent with troops around the town of Orikhiv, CNN saw a palpable improvement in morale as some advances appeared to be made.

Read the full story here.

Senior Ukrainian official defends speed of counteroffensive progress

From CNN's Gul Tuysuz

Mykhailo Podolyak, adviser to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, on Wednesday defended progress made by Kyiv in its counteroffensive.

He argued that before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Russian army was “hysterically feared and not even imagined to be effectively fought against.”

“In order to finally debunk another myth that yesterday people were afraid to even think about, everyone needs to be patient and closely monitor the high-quality work of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. They will in any case achieve a mandatory and fair conclusion. Russia will cease to exist as a military threat after the war in Ukraine. At least for Ukraine and Europe. Meanwhile... offensive operations continue,” he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

In a video released Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the counteroffensive hasn't been easy and is  "happening probably slower"  than some had hoped.

His remarks came  after CNN reported  that Western officials describe increasingly “sobering” assessments about Ukrainian forces’ ability to retake significant territory as they struggle to break through Russia’s multi-layered defensive lines, according to senior US and Western officials briefed on the latest intelligence.

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