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Courtney McCarthy

Chicago
9 Years of experience
Specialties

Sharing her wealth of curated knowledge and unwavering commitment to detail, Courtney takes a personalized approach with each of her clients as she crafts their memorable adventures around the globe.

Courtney’s vast experience in the travel industry began with her tenure as a Global Brand Manager for Starwood Hotels in Europe where she honed her skills in providing tailored recommendations. Her friends and family consistently sought her insider knowledge and refined tastes for their travels which was ultimately the impetus to her beginning her career as a travel advisor. Now, with nearly two decades in the travel business, Courtney serves as co-president of Elysian Travel, an esteemed affiliate of SmartFlyer.

With a colorful travel trajectory that includes living and traveling extensively across Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Africa, Courtney is well-equipped to help plan client trips all over the world. But no matter how many places she personally scouts, she has a tireless passion for fresh adventures enhanced by unique and exclusive experiences. Having stayed at the world’s most coveted hotels and destinations, Courtney brings her wealth of knowledge and boots-on-the-ground research to her discerning clients. She focuses on personalized itineraries across the globe, with an emphasis on accessing the seemingly impossible.

What has been your most memorable travel experience to date?

To date, there has been nothing quite like experiencing Dubai. I’ve been twice, and the grandeur of the hotels and architecture is unlike anything else I’ve seen in the world. It’s like an opulent oasis in the middle of the desert, set against the glittering waters of the Persian Gulf.

What does your perfect vacation day look like?

My perfect vacation day is a combination of sightseeing and relaxation. I love to start the day with a few hours of cultural immersion and sightseeing, like exploring the local markets or visiting the historical sites with a local guide. I always plan for leisure time in the late afternoon and cap off my day with a spectacular meal at a restaurant that’s not to miss in the destination I’m visiting.

Travel Tip

  • Always—always—book with a trusted travel advisor.