You've got the vision.

Now you just need the expert who can make it happen.

I get it—you're smart. You're resourceful.
And man, have you got great taste.

You like to take the reins, figure things out, and get sh*t DONE (so you can make sure it’s done right).

But when it comes to travel planning, there are some things you just can’t get on your own (*hello* VIP treatment and insider access!)

MAYBE:

It's a celebration

Anniversary, birthday, the fact that you have time off ... this one needs to be GOOD.

MAYBE:

It's tricky

(tr-tr-tr-tricky (tricky) trrricky)

You're combining destinations, or visiting a place that's hard to tour on your own, or wrangling a multi-gen family (or a rowdy group of friends) and you want that extra level of service that makes things EASY.

MAYBE:

It's once-in-a-lifetime

And you're not spending all this money and flying all that way to feel like you could be anywhere. You want to explore your interests, go deep on the local culture, and find that sense of place you've been CRAVING.

(OR MAYBE It's ALL THREE)

YOU WANT TRAVEL THAT's:

More Seamless

Pre-arranged services—like airport transfers, tours, activities, restaurant reservations, and ground transportation—that maximize your time and make travel effortless.

More In-depth

Private guides, insider recommendations, and exclusive access that provide deeper cultural understanding and create an unforgettable experience.

More Luxurious

Personalized, VIP treatment and the best hotels so you can relax, recharge, and just be in the moment.

It's time to call in the big guns

This vacation is too special to settle for generic travel advice.

You're looking for those expansive moments that help you disconnect from your day-to-day and reconnect with your loved ones (or heck, yourself). 

And you want to make sure you're maximizing your limited vacation days in a way that's meaningful TO YOU.

You need help from a pro

“Thank you for everything! You have planned two of the best trips of my entire life—and I will never be able to thank you enough.”



— Peter J.

New York, NY

So just what is a next-level trip?

Imagine coming back from your vacation...

01

With an envy-inducing IG feed and a journal full of unforgettable memories

02

Saying to your travel companion, "How can we ever top this?"

03

Feeling effortlessly enriched and flawlessly fulfilled

04

With an understanding of the local culture and a strong sense of place

05

Recharged, reconnected, and reinspired

SAY LESS.

Let's unpack it

(see what I did there? 🧳😉)

01

Expert Itinerary

Cut through the noise and arrive at your destination confident that you have the most interesting and efficient itinerary—no wasted time ... or overpacked schedules.

02

Insider Activities

I’ll pull from my years of expertise to layer in recommendations for the TOP things to see and do (and eat) each day—based on YOUR intereststhen leverage my connections to make it happen.

03

Luxury Accommodation

VIP bookings at the best hotels so you KNOW that room is going to be worth what you're paying (because hotel prices these days!).

04

VIP Treatment

I'll work with my extensive network of on-the-ground partners to make sure you get the BEST private guides and drivers, behind-the-scenes and skip-the-line access where available, and the most personalized service.

05

Effortless Execution

Concierge services, ground transportation, reconfirmations, resources, documentation ...  I'll handle all the details so everything's in place before you depart—and you don't have to worry about a thing.

HOW IT WORKS

01

Tell me what you want

I'll create the best possible itinerary outline based on your requests, then get you a quote from my local partners.

02

Leave it to me

We'll refine the itinerary if necessary, then I'll get to work behind the scenes, booking the hotels and arranging top-notch services and touring.

03

Enjoy your trip

Arrive knowing everything is taken care of, so you can just have fun and enjoy your vacation.

“You always have the best recommendations for travel, restaurants, and local attractions. You were the one who told us to go to a ryokan in Hakone as a stop on our honeymoon and it's now one of my favorite places on earth.”
“You always have the best recommendations for travel, restaurants, and local attractions. You were the one who told us to go to a ryokan in Hakone as a stop on our honeymoon and it's now one of my favorite places on earth.”

— Sheila S.  |  Chicago, IL

ALL the THINGS:

AN EXPERTLY CRAFTED ITINERARY OUTLINE

  • The most worthwhile destinations, efficient logistics, and ideal pacing
  • A mix of must-see highlights & insider spots
  • Up to 2 itinerary revisions

Curated Touring

  • Unique, beyond-the-ordinary experiences, exclusive access, and immersive activities
  • Concierge services for restaurants, transfers, theater and performance tickets, etc.
  • Fast-track and skip-the-line access where available

Seamless service

  • Access to the top guides, drivers, and luxury services in each destination
  • Grand transportation arranged in advance
  • 24-hour local support while traveling

VIP HOTEL BOOKINGS

  • The best rooms at the top hotels
  • Added-value benefits like free breakfast, complimentary upgrades, spa credits, and more
  • Request for VIP treatment for each stay

Essential resources

  • A detailed, day-by-day itinerary with personalized recommendations
  • Operational specifics like pick-up details, drivers’ phone numbers, appointment times, etc.
  • Recommendations for the best places to eat in each destination, from street food to Michelin-starred

extras that add to the experience

  • Cultural & historical info add context and meaning
  • Practical tips & advice like what to pack and what shape the plugs are
  • Fun stuff like book & film recs and even recipes and playlists for before & after your trip

DETAILS

DETAILS

Timeline

Once you onboard, I'll get back to you with a preliminary itinerary outline within 2 business days.

Availability

In order to provide a high level of service, I only take 3 clients per month. Make sure you're one of them.

Investment

Planning fee starts at $1450 for trips of up to 10 days. Apply now.

Mary R.  |  Bellevue, WA

"It's a trip we'll never forget"

We just returned from a terrific two weeks in Guatemala. We told Stephanie our interests and she handled all the research and details. The arrangements couldn’t have gone more smoothly and she provided wonderful recommendations for meals and sightseeing. It’s a trip we’ll never forget.

Ramón M.  |  Kansas City, KS

"We have created lifelong memories"

You have done a tremendous job helping us with our trips over the years and we have created lifelong memories as a direct result of your careful planning and advice. Thank you for all the effort over the years.

Lori & Bill P.  |  Bellevue, WA

"We're still talking about our trip"

We’re still talking about our Georgia trip! The guide and driver rank among the best of any trip you have organized for us. We felt safe, and our guide was fascinating, organized, punctual, and friendly—we loved her. The hotel was uber cool and the itinerary was thoughtful. We really enjoyed the program, food, guide, driver, and all of Georgia! It was a great trip!

AS SEEN IN:

  Hola!
I'm Stephanie

As they say, it’s not what you know, it's WHO you know. AND NOW YOU KNOW ME.

I've helped hundreds of clients take the trips of their dreams

I used to plan trips for billionaires.

I’ve been in the industry since 2007 and spent 11 years working at one of the best private tour operators in the world. I’ve planned customized trips for HUNDREDS of demanding, discerning clients (think Succession, but nicer). In fact, I was named a Top Travel Specialist in Condé Nast Traveler in 2021 and 2022.

But whenever I was researching my own trips, I saw a lot of generic travel advice that just focused on fancy hotels or hot-right-now restaurants and missed the rest of the experience—or worse, was crowdsourced from a complete stranger.

That's why now I'm putting my skillsknowledge and expertise to work for YOU.

BEHIND
the COURSE

With gentle encouragement and an art director's eye, I collaborate with my couples to create effortlessly editorial images full of pure love, stunning backdrops, and natural moments (with just enough guidance!)

Light is my biggest inspiration, and I find weddings to be complex, joyous, fashion-filled, emotional, utterly beautiful celebrations that I can't get enough of.

ENNEAGRAM 8, CREATIVE TO MY CORE, ARTIST, ROMANTIC, JANE AUSTIN STAN


about
 abigail

Inquire Today

as seen in

Harpers Bazaar / Vogue Marie Claire / Weddings Magazine

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As a globally celebrated wedding photographer with nearly two decade’s experience, Tec Petaja brings an innate knowledge of composition, mood, and light to every moment he captures.

by abigail fitzgerald

About
     Author

the

Inquire Today

as seen in

Harpers Bazaar / Vogue Marie Claire / Weddings Magazine

You bring the vision, I'll bring the know-how.

Think of me as your travel fairy godmother. My goal? To bibbidi-bobbidi-boo the cultural insights, exclusive access, and personalized touches that create an INCREDIBLE experience—one you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Tap Into MY

Expert Advice

 Comprehensive Knowledge

Insider Connections

Essential Resources

Curated Recommendations

Recent Bookings

Food & folk art in

Mexico

Highlights of

Spain

Couple Time in

Italy

Ruins & Culture in

Peru

HONEYMOON IN

Japan

LUXURY & ADVENTURE in

Australia

"We'll remember this trip for years to come"

Thank you for your attention to all the details to make our trip so special. I wouldn’t have found the beautiful winery hotel on my own, and it was the most memorable part of our trip. It is truly a special place, and one which we will remember for many years to come.

We will definitely be consulting you for any future trips and will recommend you to our friends.

— Nicole P.

Boston, MA

“Five years ago, I was broke, miserable, and overwhelmed. Now, my business is thriving and makes 3x as much as it did before.” 

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— Serena

“I can't even begin to explain how transformative this has been for my business. I felt so supported and seen throughout the process.” 

Lorem ipsum dolor amet pickled roof party artisan cray organic. Succulents cloud bread food truck glossier cardigan celiac vegan dreamcatcher selfies neutra forage. Street art biodiesel echo park man braid banjo YOLO. Pork belly everyday carry keytar biodiesel, letterpress ennui shoreditch vegan.

— Daren

Kind words

This is for you if:

You want a vacation that's fun and interesting, but you don't want to do the work of planning it

You want most activities pre-booked so you don't miss out on the most unique and memorable experiences

You love being pampered and want the extra level of service that private guides and drivers provide

You want an expert itinerary that strikes your perfect balance of adventure and relaxation

You're planning a complicated trip or going somewhere you haven't been before

You have high standards

It's probably not for you if...

All you want is to sit by the pool and drink margaritas (no shade, just not what I do)

You like to just wing it when you travel and are okay with missing out on stuff

You prefer to travel independently and don't want the highest level of service

You don't mind spending the time figuring out which places are worthwhile, and know how not to overpack your itinerary

It's a quick trip to a place you're familiar with

You're high-maintenance

FAQ

(Frequently Asked Croissants 🥐)

WHAT’S THE BTS ON THIS? HOW EXACTLY DOES IT WORK?

I’ll design an itinerary based on your requests and my expertise, then work with my network of top-tier ground operators to book services.

Working with local partners allows me to get you the BEST guides, drivers, and touring; arrange things like internal transportation so everything is seamless; and provide you with a 24-hour local contact while you’re traveling.

Suppliers work in different ways, so I may book hotels separately (I prefer this when possible since it gives you more flexibility), or through the ground operator. Likewise, billing may go through my agency, Fora, or through the supplier directly, depending on how they work.

Regardless, I’ll make sure you have clear and transparent terms and cancellation policies.

WHY SHOULD I WORK WITH YOU INSTEAD OF DIRECTLY WITH A LOCAL COMPANY?

Specialist companies can sometimes be myopic with their suggestions, or cookie-cutter with their itineraries. (There. I said it. 🫣) With my Concierge Travel Planning service, I’m pulling from my taste, experience, and expertise to design an itinerary based on what YOU want.

I know how to listen to YOUR requests (and anticipate your needs), then merge those with MY curated recommendations and THEIR on-the-ground resources—so you get the ideal trip.

In addition, I have access to companies that don’t work with the public, as well as the relationships—built up over more than a decade working at one of the best private tour operators in the world—to get you the MOST interesting and exclusive experiences and the HIGHEST level of service.

WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH YOUR FEE?

Charging a planning fee is standard among travel advisors, as it covers our time and expertise.

In my case, you’re getting TOP-NOTCH advice and recommendations gleaned from my 15+ years of industry experience. For 11 of those years, I planned ultraluxury private tours that included the VERY BEST of everything, and I’m giving you access to that knowledge and expertise at a fraction of the cost. I’m also saving you HOURS of research and planning—and arranging things you couldn’t on your own.

I make a commission on the bookings, which allows me to keep my fee low. You pay the same price for hotels and services as if you booked directly.

But by going through me, you get HUNDREDS of dollars worth of added value, like free breakfast, hotel credits, complimentary upgrades, and more, which add up to A LOT more than the cost of my planning fee. So really, you’re coming out ahead (and that’s not even girl math).

Win-win!

WHAT IF I WANT A SHORTER TRIP?

For trips of fewer than five nights, please email me.

HOW DO I KNOW IF IT’S WORTH IT FOR ME TO BOOK THIS SERVICE?

This service isn’t right for every trip. If your travel budget is in the four digits, my Personalized Itinerary Planning service is probably a better fit.

But once you start getting into the five- and six-digit travel budget, this service is perfect for you. The more special/important/expensive/once-in-a-lifetime your trip is, the more it’s worth it to invest in making sure the trip is going to be unforgettable. (In fact, if you have a six-figure travel budget—and I’ve arranged *many* trips with this price tag—this service is a STEAL.)

If you’re unsure which service is right for you, I recommend booking a Destination Discovery Call so I can help you clarify and advise next steps based on your needs.

WHY DO I HAVE TO PAY TO TALK TO YOU?

Charging for the call benefits both of us because your time is valuable, as is mine.

On your end, it’s really a courtesy fee so I make sure I’m not sitting on an empty Zoom call.

On my end, it’s a way for you to dip a toe before taking the plunge, so I want to make sure you’re getting something out of it. Whether you decide to book with me or not, I want you hang up with your questions answered and a clear path forward. If you don’t, I’ll refund the call fee.

And if you do decide to book my services, the cost of the call will be applied toward the final payment.

JUST WHAT IS A VIP HOTEL BOOKING?

I’ll tap into my hotel partnerships to get you added-value benefits like free breakfast, complimentary upgrades, spa credits, and more. I'll also reconfirm the booking a couple weeks ahead to make sure everything is in order, and VIP you before you arrive to request extra-special treatment.

I’M NOT LOOKING FOR THE MOST OVER-THE-TOP-EXCLUSIVE HOTELS. CAN I STILL WORK WITH YOU?

Yes! I only work with 5-star hotels (or best-available, depending on the destination) since they're my expertise and where I can provide added value through my partnerships. BUT, there's a range within that, and I’ll help you find the right luxury hotel for YOU.

CAN’T I JUST BOOK THROUGH MY CREDIT CARD/LOYALTY PROGRAM AND GET ALL THE SAME BENEFITS?

Technically the benefits may be the same on paper, but the relationships are where it’s at. THAT'S how you get the best rooms, the upgrades, and the personalized, VIP treatment.

Consider this: whereas you may only stay at a hotel once, I’m potentially booking it again and again, so they want to keep me (i.e. YOU) happy.

And if you’re part of a hotel loyalty program, why not book through me and STACK your benefits?

DO YOU BOOK THINGS LIKE FLIGHTS, TRAINS, AND RENTAL CARS? WHAT ABOUT VILLAS AND CRUISES?

The short answer is, it depends. Let’s break it down:

  • Flights: If you need a flight to get from place to place during your trip, I'll work with my local partners to arrange that for you. I don’t book international flights to and from your destination because a) there’s no advantage for you and b) I specialize in on-the-ground services. However, I’m happy to suggest routes and itineraries where appropriate.

  • Trains: Yes, whether you need a point-to-point transfer or want a luxury hotel train like the Royal Scotsman or Andean Explorer, I can book trains as part this service.

  • Rental Cars:  No, this service includes private drivers, or transfers by train or plane where necessary. If you prefer to drive yourself, my Personalized Itinerary Planning service will be a better fit for you (though please note that I do not book rental cars.)

  • Villas: I love booking villas that are part of a larger resort since they give families and friend groups the best of both worlds: all the services and amenities of a resort with a private space to relax together. However, independent private villas are a whole world that I’m not well versed in, so I don’t book them.
    
  • Cruises: Yes, I can arrange small luxury cruises as part of a comprehensive itinerary. Examples include the Peruvian Amazon, the Galapagos, and the Nile—I work with these regularly and know the products well. I don't arrange large-ship cruises, such as to the Caribbean or Alaska.

DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE, AND CAN YOU BOOK IT FOR ME?

For this kind of trip, I highly, HIGHLY recommend it.

Look at it this way: you insure other expensive purchases, like your car and your diamond engagement ring, so why wouldn’t you insure a non-refundable trip? (It always boggled my mind how many of my former clients wouldn’t insure trips that cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. 🤯 I’ve had more difficult conversations about that than I care to remember.)

I always suggest a comprehensive plan that covers trip interruption and delay. Cancel-for-any-reason insurance may also be an option, depending on what state you live in; it can be expensive, but covers a lot more if you think there’s a chance something might come up that would prevent you from traveling.

I can book travel insurance for you; feel free to email me with questions and I’m happy to help.

HOW FAR AHEAD SHOULD I START PLANNING MY VACATION?

For most destinations, I think about 6 months out is the sweet spot to ensure availability and avoid disappointment. Some destinations and peak seasons may require planning a year in advance. That said, working with a pro can be extra helpful for last-minute trips (please note that I charge a supplement for crunch-time arrangements). 

If you have questions about timing your trip, feel free to email me or book a Destination Discovery Call.

I DON’T EVEN KNOW WHERE I WANT TO GO—IS IT WORTH IT FOR ME TO WORK WITH YOU?

Absolutely—I’ve talked MANY clients through this over the years! I recommend booking a Destination Discovery Call so I can get to know you and what you want for your vacation. Then I can recommend some destinations and give you next steps.

CAN YOU HELP ME WITH ANY DESTINATION IN THE WORLD?

Pretty much. I haven’t been everywhere, but I know a lot about a lot of places, and if I don’t have the answer, I have the resources and connections to get it. If I can’t help you, I’ll refund you.

I HAVE SPECIAL INTERESTS OR REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS TRIP—CAN YOU HELP ME WITH THAT?

Been there, arranged that! In fact, that’s the perfect reason to work with a pro: I can streamline the process for you, make sure your itinerary includes exactly what you want and need, and get you access to the coolest special-interest stuff (or the unique-needs services) that you wouldn’t be able to arrange on your own.

WHY SHOULD I USE YOU INSTEAD OF ANOTHER TRAVEL PLANNER?

I’ve been in the travel industry since 2007 and have won awards for my expertise. At my previous job, top travel advisors came to ME for their most important clients

So if you want to know you’re getting top-notch recommendations and planning, I’m your girl.

I DON’T WANT TO TOTALLY OUTSOURCE THE TRIP-PLANNING PROCESS—I ENJOY IT!

I totally get the thrill of planning your own trips—it’s part of the adventure! 

And over the years, I’ve worked with many extremely well-traveled clients who love pairing their vision and special interests with my expertise and resources to co-create an unforgettable experience.

While I handle the logistics and arrangements, you’re free to read, research, and explore your interests—and then tap into my connections to make your requests happen.

I LIKE TO BE INDEPENDENT WHEN I TRAVEL—DOES THIS SERVICE MAKE SENSE FOR ME?

I’ve heard this from many clients over the years.

The beauty of this service is that it combines the flexibility of independent travel—since services are just for you and are adaptable on the ground based on your mood, interests, energy levels, etc.—with the added layer of service and depth of cultural exploration that private guides and drivers provide.

Once my clients discover the benefits of comprehensive private travel services, they return saying it’s one of the best trips they’ve ever taken and end up booking with me again and again.

YOUR DREAM VACATION CALLED—IT WANTS YOU TO STOP MESSING AROUND AND START PACKING
YOUR DREAM VACATION CALLED—IT WANTS YOU TO STOP MESSING AROUND AND START PACKING

You've been pining for a fulfilling yet luxurious vacation more than season 3 of The White Lotus.

But how do you make that happen on your own—especially when you have so much on your plate already?

Answer: YOU DON'T.

You need an expert to help you maximize your time—and your enjoyment.

✓ An itinerary that perfectly balances exploration with much-needed downtime

✓ Unique, insider activities based on YOUR interests

✓ Friendly, knowledgeable guides and drivers who make the experience easy and unforgettable

✓ Hotels and VIP treatment that make you want to move in

✓ Seamless arrangements so travel feels effortless

✓ The sense of place that makes you feel like you're SOMEWHERE—not anywhere

Enter moi, the award-winning luxury travel expert who can make your travel dreams come true.

TAKE YOUR NEXT TRIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL
TAKE YOUR NEXT TRIP
TO THE NEXT LEVEL