Elana’s love for connecting with people and emphasis on travel as a tool for self discovery act as the cornerstones of her approach to travel planning.
With a long-held fascination around how humans have plotted geography on globes, Elana has always enjoyed looking at and studying maps. From crossing state lines on the Pacific Coast Highway out west to walking the old city roads of Jerusalem, she often ponders how people similarly use maps to discover new places, and in turn, connect with others. To Elana, this is also her purpose as a travel advisor.
Elana prioritizes getting to know each of her clients to seamlessly curate itineraries that are tailored to their individual preferences. As each traveler has their own distinct tastes and desires, she understands that no two trips are exactly alike. It is through her “get-to-know-you” approach and paying attention to the details that Elana has evolved into a self-proclaimed “Memory Maker.”
With three kids of her own, Elana also understands that there will never be a perfect time to travel with kids or, for that matter, aging parents. But once you make the decision to travel, she will take care of the rest! Creating travel memories with those you love creates an opportunity for personal growth and expanding horizons, reminding oneself of their deeper purpose as a person, parent, friend, and beyond. While planning for time away may not always be easy, Elana encourages you to take that leap.
I moved to New York City immediately after graduating college, and Manhattan will forever have my heart. Since moving away, I’ve revisited New York more times than I can count, and it still lights me up every time I return. The energy is indescribable. You can stay in TriBeCa with your family, or uptown with girlfriends and have two wholly distinct experiences. It’s the perfect romantic getaway, especially when you make time to indulge at the finest restaurants. The world renowned accommodations are countless and each has their own unique vibe. What I love most is that I can have a different experience each time I visit, just by selecting a new hotel for my stay.
When I’m in a new destination, I love to absorb the culture of the area, but I also don’t want to overdo it! I love starting the day with a relaxing hotel breakfast. Especially if the spread is served on a patio, where I can observe local life. Then, I like to spend a half-day of touring, as I don’t want to miss out on learning about a place’s history. Afterwards, I plan some time to aimlessly wander on my own–there’s a synergy between spontaneity and presence that’s magical. When I freshen up and change for dinner, I often like to have a pre-dinner cocktail at a different nearby hotel, and then I’ll head to dinner, where I can enjoy the local cuisine. To finish my evening, I’ll walk around, see the city at night, and get back to my hotel leisurely.
Keep up with the places that deserve more than a bookmark, but a check-in.