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	<title>Safari Archives - SmartFlyer</title>
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	<description>Full-service travel company catering to high-end corporate and leisure travelers worldwide</description>
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		<title>Maru Payán</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/maru-payan/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Opheli Garcia Lawler]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:10:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://smartflyer.com/?post_type=agent&#038;p=3823831310</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Believing the most meaningful travel experiences come from deeply engaging with a place, its people, its culture, and its stories, Maru designs exceptional trips rooted in immersion and authenticity. Maru’s curiosity about the world began while studying abroad in Switzerland, surrounded by classmates from around the world. Through those friendships, she discovered that the most [&#8230;] <a href="https://smartflyer.com/agent/maru-payan/" class="post-link" >Read More</a>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Believing the most meaningful travel experiences come from deeply engaging with a place, its people, its culture, and its stories, Maru designs exceptional trips rooted in immersion and authenticity.</p>
<p>Maru’s curiosity about the world began while studying abroad in Switzerland, surrounded by classmates from around the world. Through those friendships, she discovered that the most meaningful way to experience a place is by forging relationships with the people who call it home. This belief continues to shape the way she travels today. Rather than simply checking places off a list, Maru seeks to understand what makes each one unique: its culture, traditions, and the people who bring it to life. A recommendation from a local will always mean more to her than a guidebook—and she passes on this valuable intel to her clients.</p>
<p>Africa holds a special place in Maru’s heart. The continent continues to inspire, surprise, and challenge the way she sees the world, always leaving her eager for her inevitable return. Whenever she travels, Maru is particularly drawn to family-owned hotels, lodges, and hospitality brands where a strong sense of identity is evident in every detail. This sensibility is evident in the recommendations she passes onto her clients, reaffirming that the most memorable places are those created with intention and heart.</p>
<h2>Which destinations or hotels do you go back to again and again? Why?</h2>
<p>Some places feel less like a hotel and more like having a home base in a city you love. For me, those places are <a href="https://smartflyer.com/review/casa-polanco/"><strong>Casa Polanco</strong></a> in Mexico City, <a href="https://smartflyer.com/review/rosewood-villa-magna/"><strong>Rosewood Villa Magna</strong></a> in Madrid, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace in Switzerland, and <a href="https://smartflyer.com/review/rosewood-hong-kong/"><strong>Rosewood Hong Kong</strong></a>. They’re places I return to time and time again.</p>
<h2>What has been your most memorable travel experience to date?</h2>
<p>I could never choose just one. A family trip <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/sojourn-to-south-africa/"><strong>through South Africa</strong></a>, discovering <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/what-to-do-in-bhutan/"><strong>Bhutan and its culture</strong></a>, exploring the food scenes of <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/hong-kong-itinerary/"><strong>Hong Kong</strong></a> and <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/your-ultimate-mexico-city-guide/"><strong>Mexico City</strong></a>, watching the <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/twelve-day-tanzania-safari/"><strong>sun set over the Serengeti</strong></a>, experiencing the silence of Antarctica, and getting lost in <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/chelsea-guide/"><strong>New York’s museums</strong></a> have all shaped the way I see the world.</p>
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		<title>Ana Gabriela Gutierrez Lugo</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/ana-gabriela-gutierrez-lugo/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Opheli Garcia Lawler]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://smartflyer.com/?post_type=agent&#038;p=3823830966</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Rooted in the belief that the most memorable journeys are thoughtfully designed around each traveler’s lifestyle, Ana crafts travel that is authentic, easy, and rich in meaningful moments. Ana specializes in tailor-made journeys designed for couples, families, and discerning travelers seeking elevated stays around the world. Since diving into the travel industry in 2018, she [&#8230;] <a href="https://smartflyer.com/agent/ana-gabriela-gutierrez-lugo/" class="post-link" >Read More</a>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Rooted in the belief that the most memorable journeys are thoughtfully designed around each traveler’s lifestyle, Ana crafts travel that is authentic, easy, and rich in meaningful moments.</p>
<p>Ana specializes in tailor-made journeys designed for couples, families, and discerning travelers seeking elevated stays around the world. Since diving into the travel industry in 2018, she has built her career around creating seamless itineraries that combine exceptional service, insider access, and carefully curated details. Ana’s destination expertise crosses Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Over the course of her numerous scouting trips, she has developed a deep appreciation for how travel can connect people to culture, design, gastronomy, and meaningful moments.</p>
<p>Ana believes that the most memorable trips are those that feel effortless yet reflect each traveler&#8217;s individuality. She takes a highly personalized approach to planning, focusing on understanding her clients’ travel style, priorities, and pace before designing each itinerary. Her expertise ranges from luxury honeymoons and family vacations to milestone celebrations and multi-country journeys. Known for her attention to detail and warm, responsive service, Ana works closely with top hotels, guides, and travel partners worldwide to provide exclusive amenities through her affiliation with SmartFlyer, thoughtful recommendations, and unforgettable experiences.</p>
<h2>What has been your most memorable travel experience to date?</h2>
<p>One of the most memorable travel experiences I have had was <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/south-africa-and-botswana-safari-itinerary/"><strong>visiting Botswana</strong></a> and exploring the Okavango Delta. What made this trip so special to me was how unique and immersive the safari experience felt compared to any other trip I had taken before. The combination of wildlife, water, and lush vegetation created landscapes that completely left me speechless. I loved experiencing safari in different ways, especially through mokoro and boat safaris across the delta. Being able to quietly move through the water while observing animals in their natural habitat felt incredibly peaceful and unforgettable. One of the most special moments of the trip was seeing a pangolin in the wild, which is an extremely rare experience and something I will never forget. This journey changed the way I view travel. It reminded me that the most meaningful experiences come from slowing down and truly connecting with a destination. Botswana is a place that deeply inspired me.</p>
<h2>Which destinations are you looking forward to visiting? Why?</h2>
<p>One destination I am especially looking forward to visiting is Japan. It has become one of the most requested destinations among my clients, and I am excited to experience it firsthand. I have always been fascinated by the <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/10-night-japan-itinerary/"><strong>balance Japan has</strong></a> between modern cities, ancient traditions, and attention to detail. I also love Japanese food, so exploring the local cuisine and learning more about the culture and traditions would be an incredible experience for me. Another destination I would love to visit is China, <a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/map-out-bucket-list-trips/"><strong>combined with a trip</strong></a> to Mongolia. I think both destinations will continue becoming more popular in the coming years, and the contrast between them feels very interesting to me. Mongolia’s nomadic culture and wide-open landscapes are in stark contrast to China&#8217;s fast-paced growth and global influence today. I believe experiencing both destinations together would provide a deeper perspective on history, culture, and the different ways people live around the world.</p>
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		<title>Laurie Head</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/laurie-head/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hailey Petersen]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:19:14 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://smartflyer.com/?post_type=agent&#038;p=47695</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Laurie’s refined destination expertise, passion for discovery, and impeccable attention to detail create seamless, one-of-a-kind experiences for her clients. Laurie has always believed that travel is far more than just reaching a place—it’s about crafting moments that resonate, leaving a lasting imprint on the heart and soul. Laurie’s career spanned the retail space and corporate [&#8230;] <a href="https://smartflyer.com/agent/laurie-head/" class="post-link" >Read More</a>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Laurie’s refined destination expertise, passion for discovery, and impeccable attention to detail create seamless, one-of-a-kind experiences for her clients.</p>
<p>Laurie has always believed that travel is far more than just reaching a place—it’s about crafting moments that resonate, leaving a lasting imprint on the heart and soul. Laurie’s career spanned the retail space and corporate travel, dating back to the early 2000s, before she transitioned to luxury marketing, where she cultivated an intricate understanding of the finer details that allow her to turn travel dreams into reality.</p>
<p>After more than a decade living in Singapore and immersing herself in the luxury and design industries, Laurie returned to Sydney to establish Atelier Travel Co.—a perfect fusion of her lifelong passion for exploration and her expertise in high-end design with a service-led approach. With a global outlook shaped by years of living abroad combined with extensive travels, Laurie approaches her tailor-made itineraries with a balance of creativity and precision. From private island escapes in the Maldives to exhilarating African safaris to a cultural exploration of Europe’s storied cities, Laurie curates experiences that embody both elegance and adventure, always with an effortless sense of refinement.</p>
<p>Clients are drawn to Laurie not only for her exclusive insider connections to the world’s most prestigious hotels, cruises, and experiences but also for her thoughtful ability to infuse every itinerary with deeply personal touches. Her travel philosophy is as clear as it is inspiring: the perfect journey is one that feels effortless yet unforgettable, balancing indulgence with meaningful exploration. Whether it’s an immersive cultural adventure or a serene luxury retreat, Laurie ensures her clients enjoy memorable journeys that inspire, delight, and evoke the true spirit of discovery.</p>
<h2>What has been your most memorable travel experience to date?</h2>
<p>My most memorable travel experience was an extraordinary journey through Africa, where adventure, wildlife, and human connection came together in unforgettable ways. I had the chance to see the Big Five, watch lion cubs at play, and even visit a lion rehabilitation centre—an experience that touched me deeply, given my lifelong passion for animals. Equally impactful were the personal connections I made along the way: playing soccer with local children and meeting some of the warmest, kindest communities I’ve ever encountered. At night, the Okavango Delta unveiled skies so breathtaking that they remain etched in my memory to this day.</p>
<p>This journey felt like it was more than just a holiday; it was life-changing. I returned feeling profoundly grateful, forever inspired, and reminded of the true magic of travel—its power to connect people, places, and moments that stay with you forever.</p>
<h2>Which destinations are you looking forward to visiting? Why?</h2>
<p>I&#8217;m looking forward to exploring the polar regions—both the Arctic and Antarctica—destinations that feel like the final frontiers of adventure and discovery. Drawn by my love of wildlife, I dream of encountering polar bears, penguins, and seals in their natural habitats, where the raw beauty of nature remains untouched and awe-inspiring.</p>
<p>For me, Antarctica is one of the most unique and extraordinary landscapes in the world, a place of pure serenity where towering icebergs and endless horizons create a peace unlike anywhere else on earth. The Arctic, with its majestic wildlife and remote wilderness, promises the same spirit of wonder and connection. To me, these journeys are not only epic adventures but also privileges—rare opportunities to witness the planet at its most pristine and powerful, and to be reminded of how small yet deeply connected we are within the natural world.</p>
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		<title>Cori Abbruzzese</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/cori-abbruzzese/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hailey Petersen]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Jul 2025 20:12:29 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://smartflyer.com/?post_type=agent&#038;p=46586</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Guided by a love of authentic experiences and elegant simplicity, Cori crafts travel that’s as meaningful as it is memorable.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Guided by a love of authentic experiences and elegant simplicity, Cori crafts travel that’s as meaningful as it is memorable.</p>
<p>Having traveled to many of the world’s most inspiring destinations, Cori has built a career founded on her lifelong love of discovery. From the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast to the untamed beauty of the African bush, she has nurtured relationships with leading hotels, private charter providers, and trusted local guides—connections that allow her to craft journeys imbued with unparalleled sophistication and impeccable ease. Every detail is carefully tailored with privileged access and seamless service in mind, elevating each travel experience into the extraordinary.</p>
<p>Her hands-on experience offers clients the chance to travel with utmost confidence, knowing that every recommendation is grounded in genuine expertise and thoughtful curation. Through her carefully cultivated network, Cori grants access to an exclusive portfolio of luxury properties, private experiences, and insider perks that would otherwise remain out of reach for travelers. With a personal travel style that is immersive, intentional, and effortlessly elegant, she always prioritizes authenticity and connection, ensuring that every moment feels both meaningful and memorable.</p>
<p>Whether she’s arranging a Mediterranean yacht charter that drifts along dazzling azure waters or orchestrating a soulful escape to a remote mountain village in Peru, Cori designs tailored itineraries that reflect her clients’ unique pace, passions, and preferences. Based in the vibrant locales of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Park City, Utah, Cori operates as an independent affiliate of SmartFlyer and proudly belongs to the prestigious Virtuoso network. Her ethos is simple yet profound—to transform travel dreams into uniquely exquisite realities.</p>
<h2>What has been your most memorable travel experience to date?</h2>
<p>While it’s hard to choose just one standout experience, the journey to Gorilla’s Nest in Rwanda always rises to the top. Trekking through the morning mist, past terraced farms and into the dense forest, I followed the trackers with growing anticipation. Just as the mist lifted and sunlight broke through the trees, I heard it—the unforgettable sound of thick bushes being cleaved open and heavy breath. I knew what was coming, but I was completely unprepared for the sight. There he was, a magnificent Silverback. It&#8217;s a moment I&#8217;ll always remember.</p>
<h2>Which destinations are you looking forward to visiting? Why?</h2>
<p>As someone who thrives on curating once-in-a-lifetime experiences, <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/how-to-get-to-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Antarctica represents the ultimate frontier</a></strong>—remote, untouched, and awe-inspiring. An expedition filled with icebergs, crystal-blue waters, clear night skies, and, of course, land and sea creatures is high on my list.</p>
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		<title>Tarsilia Failla</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/tarsilia-failla/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hailey Petersen]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:53:28 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://smartflyer.com/?post_type=agent&#038;p=46440</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[With a natural knack for planning and a passion for creating cherished moments, Tarsilia curates journeys that are nothing short of extraordinary. Travel has been Tarsilia’s lifelong muse, shaping her worldview and igniting her sense of wonder. At just age fifteen, she made an unconventional choice—choosing a Danube River cruise over the traditional quinceañera. Little [&#8230;] <a href="https://smartflyer.com/agent/tarsilia-failla/" class="post-link" >Read More</a>]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With a natural knack for planning and a passion for creating cherished moments, Tarsilia curates journeys that are nothing short of extraordinary.</p>
<p>Travel has been Tarsilia’s lifelong muse, shaping her worldview and igniting her sense of wonder. At just age fifteen, she made an unconventional choice—choosing a Danube River cruise over the traditional quinceañera. Little did she know this decision would spark an enduring love affair with the world’s wonders. Years later, standing in the ethereal glow of an Icelandic ice cave, she exchanged vows with her partner, a moment of pure magic that intertwined her love for exploration with the intimacy of life&#8217;s most significant milestones.</p>
<p>Now a devoted wife and mother to two curious children, Tarsilia’s love for travel has only expanded. She wholeheartedly believes in introducing children to the beauty of the world early, not just as a visual experience, but as a chance to connect deeply with each culture’s essence and story. She’s living proof that luxury travel and family life can be perfectly harmonious, crafting itineraries that cater to every family member&#8217;s sense of excitement and discovery.</p>
<p>Tarsilia’s mission is to bring dreams to life through well-orchestrated journeys that intertwine adventure with relaxation and connection. To her, the world is brimming with beauty, wonder, and endless opportunities to create unbreakable bonds—a gift she is thrilled to share with others. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime African safari, a whirlwind European getaway, or a tranquil weekend retreat, she masterfully blends comfort, adventure, and meaningful connections into every experience. Exploring the world is not just about where you go, but the memories you take with you, and together with Tarsilia, those memories are sure to last a lifetime.</p>
<h2>Which destinations or hotels do you go back to again and again? Why?</h2>
<p>Every December, we’ve made it a family tradition to spend a few nights at Montage Palmetto Bluff, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite getaways. The kids adore the festive magic of the property and ask all year long when we’re going back. We never leave the grounds—just unwind, ride bikes, soak in the beautiful Lowcountry scenery, and enjoy all the seasonal extras. From writing letters to Santa and storytime with Mrs. Claus to porching and the daily Elf on the Shelf hunt, every moment feels special. The kids love earning Montage merit badges, which add a fun little adventure to each day—without the pressure of a packed schedule. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation, tradition, and holiday magic.</p>
<h2>Which destinations are you looking forward to visiting? Why?</h2>
<p>I’m counting down the days until the kids are old enough to explore Patagonia. The magic of its dark skies—a shared passion of ours—combined with the region’s incredible natural wonders, will make for an unforgettable adventure.</p>
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		<title>Cameron Shutts</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/cameron-shutts/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hailey Petersen]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2025 15:57:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">https://smartflyer.com/?post_type=agent&#038;p=45295</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[With an appreciation for travel that began on the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda, Cameron’s penchant for discovery has since taken him to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations—from the idyllic Greek Islands and the Amalfi Coast to the vast savannas of East Africa and the snowy slopes of Courchevel.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With an appreciation for travel that began on the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda, Cameron’s penchant for discovery has since taken him to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations—from the idyllic Greek Islands and the Amalfi Coast to the vast savannas of East Africa and the snowy slopes of Courchevel.</p>
<p>Known for crafting bespoke, luxury travel experiences, Cameron combines a concierge-style approach with an impeccable eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to his clients. Whether it’s a private sailing charter in the British Virgin Islands, a multi-stop European honeymoon, or a family-friendly safari that seamlessly blends adventure with comfort, Cameron excels at curating journeys tailored to individual preferences.</p>
<p>His process is deeply personal, attentive, and collaborative. Cameron listens intently and anticipates clients’ needs before they arise, working closely with his trusted network of local partners to ensure every trip is flawlessly planned. From start to finish, no detail is overlooked, creating effortless, unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the journey ends. For Cameron, travel isn’t just about visiting destinations—it’s about creating extraordinary, meaningful moments. Through his expertise, he invites travelers to craft something truly special together: a custom-tailored adventure designed to inspire.</p>
<h2>Which destinations or hotels do you go back to again and again? Why?</h2>
<p>Paris is a destination I’ll always return to. There’s something timeless about it—the energy, the elegance, the way a simple café moment can feel cinematic. I love discovering a new neighborhood each time I visit, whether I’m wandering the quiet streets of the Marais or watching the city come alive from a terrace in Saint-Germain. No matter how many times I go, it always feels like there’s more to uncover.</p>
<h2>Which destinations are you looking forward to visiting? Why?</h2>
<p>I’m looking forward to visiting Kenya and Tanzania to witness the Great Migration. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on the planet, and experiencing it in person has been at the top of my list. I’ve planned unforgettable safaris for clients in the region, but to see the vast herds move across the Serengeti and Masai Mara myself—alongside the incredible wildlife that follows them—would be a dream come true.</p>
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		<title>Christina Middleton</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/christina-middleton/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kayla Douglas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2020 15:46:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">http://smartflyer.com?post_type=agent&#038;p=19047</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[With a polished attention-to-detail combined with a discerning style and love for all things luxury, Christina Middleton specializes in designing high-end travel experiences in unique corners of the globe.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With a polished attention-to-detail combined with a discerning style and love for all things luxury, Christina specializes in designing high-end travel experiences in unique corners of the globe.</p>
<p>Prior to pursuing her passion for travel full time, Christina spent ten years in corporate technology while constantly traveling the world, seeking the best destinations. She knows first-hand that time and energy spent planning travel can be overwhelming; she believes that her clients’ valuable time should be spent de-stressing from their daily demands and looking forward to that blissful getaway they’ve been dreaming about versus spending countless hours planning it. Christina&#8217;s personal style is luxurious and sophisticated, contributing to her philosophy that like a personal stylist, designing luxury travel is unique to every client and is so much more than replicating an itinerary. She is passionate about providing her clients an exclusive, highly-customized view of the world, opening their minds and hearts to new experiences, cultures, and encouraging that magical sense of connectedness to new places, societies, and communities.</p>
<p>Whether it be a luxury safari in the Maasai Mara or Serengeti followed by a private island retreat in Seychelles, <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/gorillas-trekking-in-rwanda/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">gorilla trekking in Rwanda</a></strong>, a seductive coastal escape to <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/one-italian-summer-with-author-rebecca-serle/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Italy’s glamorous Amalfi Coast</a></strong>, an immersive sensory experience through India’s colorful sights, or skiing in Europe’s stunning Alps, she spends the time to get to know clients personally so that she can design the perfect, one-of-a-kind experiences. An East Coast native, Christina studied abroad in Southern Europe and later moved to London, where she took every opportunity to explore the best cities, towns, and countrysides that Europe has to offer. When she is not traveling to seek out new, exotic destinations she calls vibrant New York City home.</p>
<h2>What is your most memorable travel experience?</h2>
<p>Taking off from the dirt airstrip in Kenya with tears rolling down my face as I saw <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/kenya-luxury-safari/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the vast Mara</a></strong> down below, knowing immediately something inside of me had forever changed. I didn’t quite know what, but I knew I needed to return as soon as possible. As cliché as it may be, it was an experience that I hope everyone has the opportunity to have at least once in their lifetime. The locals inviting us into their home and educating us on their beautiful way of life, their appreciation for their community, their family and their animals. The simplicity, the peacefulness. Watching wildlife in its natural habitat. Though there are no words to describe what it’s like to be in the bush, I learned more and smiled more in five days than I could have ever imagined in my wildest dreams. That, in its own, is an experience I’ll never forget.</p>
<h2>What inspired you to become a travel agent?</h2>
<p>The two things that make me happiest in life are travel and helping others. I am a huge believer that we learn more by traveling than we can in any history book or news outlet and, above all else, that travel allows us to reinvent ourselves. It has the ability to expand our minds and challenge us in ways we never realized possible. Travel is a gift and, to me, being able to share this gift with others and have a hand in creating their lifelong memories is the most rewarding career imaginable.</p>
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		<title>Michelle London</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/michelle-london/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kayla Douglas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 25 Nov 2019 20:43:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">http://smartflyer.com?post_type=agent&#038;p=17052</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Michelle London has long loved to immerse herself in new cultures, get to know the locals, and soak up the essence of each destination she explores.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Michelle has long loved to immerse herself in new cultures, get to know the locals, and soak up the essence of each destination she explores.</p>
<p>When Michelle left her decade-long career in finance working with high net-worth individuals and families to travel all over the world on a <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/travel-as-a-tool-for-celebration/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10-month honeymoon</a></strong>, she had no idea she would ultimately become a travel advisor. But on her return, she couldn’t shake her love of travel and desire to share her passion for discovering new destinations. And after years of keeping insanely detailed spreadsheets and planning friends’ itineraries, she decided to turn her passion into a career.</p>
<p>Michelle understands how to cater to ultra-high net worth clients, focusing on making travel unique, personalized, and frictionless, and now creates highly detailed itineraries as the founder of boutique travel agency, <strong>Away We Globe</strong>. She feels honored to play a part in creating bucket list trips and incredible lasting memories for her high-end clientele. Now, Michelle travels extensively with her favorite travel companions – her husband and two daughters.</p>
<h2>What is your most memorable travel experience?</h2>
<p>My five-week road trip <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/ultimate-new-zealand-honeymoon-itinerary/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">all over New Zealand</a></strong> with my husband was amazing from start to finish. From swimming with dolphins in the wild, to lounging in outdoor bathtubs at our private cabin in the middle of nowhere, to camping under the stars by Mount Cook, to bungee jumping off of Kawarau Bridge on New Year&#8217;s Day — our trip was filled with something new and exciting every day. I was able to do it all with the love of my life!</p>
<h2>Which destinations/hotels do you go back to again and again? Why?</h2>
<p>I go back again and again to the cities in which I could happily live – Tokyo <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/best-paris-travel-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">and Paris</a></strong>. Each has some of the finest hotels, the most delicious food, fascinating art, stellar nightlife, and amazing people-watching (I could walk around both cities all day every day!). When I need a beach escape, <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/quick-romantic-getaways/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rosewood Las Ventanas in Cabo</a></strong> is one of my favorites. The hotel is stunning, has a true sense of place, and the service is amongst the most genuine and attentive that I’ve ever experienced.</p>
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		<title>Lauren Grubbs</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/lauren-grubbs/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kayla Douglas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 Feb 2019 15:01:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">http://smartflyer.com?post_type=agent&#038;p=10565</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[A Bay Area native currently residing in Newport Beach, Lauren Grubbs has been traveling the world for as long as she can remember.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Lauren, a California native with a wealth of industry connections and knowledge of far-reaching destinations, specializes in designing exceptional experiences.</p>
<p>Growing up in a family that prioritized experiences above all else, Lauren&#8217;s perspective on the value of travel was instilled in her at a young age. However, her experiences living abroad in Rio de Janeiro and Florence firmly cemented her desire to always prioritize exploration and travel in her life. This ethos has carried over into Lauren&#8217;s own family, as she and her husband are raising their son to be a global citizen; he received his first passport stamp when he was just a few months old!</p>
<p>When it comes to travel planning, Lauren’s approach is highly personalized and high-touch from the very first phone call. Not only does she invest time in understanding her clients’ preferences and desires for their trips, but she also gets to know them personally, allowing her to thoughtfully plan every detail. Lauren goes above and beyond, taking care of every detail – reservations to booked-out dining hotspots, exclusive access to access to cultural experiences with a private guide, and destination-specific tips and recommendations – ensuring that her travelers can relax and enjoy the destination as soon as they touch down.</p>
<p>For Lauren, the most rewarding aspect of being a travel advisor is the opportunity to curate unforgettable moments for her clients, fostering enduring relationships along the way. Her strong rapport with her clients as an advisor allows her to offer even more tailored recommendations when she&#8217;s out and about, exploring and researching new destinations.</p>
<h2>Which destinations or hotels do you go back to again and again? Why?</h2>
<p>Italy! I love everything about it – from the delicious food and wine to the warm and friendly people, the beautiful coastal regions and magical cities, the charm, and <strong><a href="https://smartflyer.com/story/in-pursuit-of-la-dolce-vita/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the pursuit of la dolce vita</a></strong>. Italy is somewhere that I continue to return to and will never grow tired of. It is also a client favorite, making it the destination I book the most. I love returning to discover new regions, scout new hotels, and check out new restaurants and experiences to further tailor my recommendations. I hope to return in the upcoming year, and this time with my son to introduce him to my favorite place on earth.</p>
<h2>What’s your strategy to overcome jet leg?</h2>
<p>I don’t have a magic secret, but I do have some tips! The second you arrive at your destination embrace whatever time it currently is there. Don’t let yourself think about what time it is at home! If it’s daytime, try to stay up for the whole day. If it’s evening, have a nice dinner, and a glass of wine, and call it a night. I also always take a sleeping pill my first night or two to ensure I get a full night’s sleep and don’t wake up at 3am wide awake for the day. With a full night of sleep, I know I will wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy wherever I find myself!</p>
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		<title>Kristina Miller</title>
		<link>https://smartflyer.com/agent/kristina-miller/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kayla Douglas]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jan 2019 22:39:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<guid isPermaLink="false">http://smartflyer.com?post_type=agent&#038;p=10229</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[As an anthropologist having spent more than a decade working in the field of international humanitarian development, Kristina Miller has traveled to some of the most exotic and remote parts of the world.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As an anthropologist having worked in international humanitarian development, Kristina has explored some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich destinations—lending every journey a depth few advisors can offer.</p>
<p>Now with more than a decade of experience designing bespoke travel for discerning global clients, Kristina Miller is a leading luxury travel advisor specializing in high-touch, high-impact adventure. Her approach combines the curiosity of an explorer with the precision of a seasoned professional, crafting journeys that balance exclusivity, authenticity, and seamless execution. Whether designing a multi-generational escape or a private adventure for two, Kristina ensures each itinerary is tailored with intention, delivering transformative experiences without compromising on comfort or personalization.</p>
<p>Through longstanding partnerships with premier travel networks like SmartFlyer and Virtuoso, Kristina offers her clients insider access to the world’s most exclusive properties, private experiences, and trusted local experts. Backed by a decade of cultivated industry relationships and a reputation for discretion, she orchestrates each journey with the highest level of precision, care, and personalization. Her clients—seasoned travelers, busy professionals, and families—turn to her for effortless planning, culturally enriching adventures, and travel that always exceeds expectations.</p>
<h2>What is your most memorable travel experience?</h2>
<p>I’ve been fortunate to experience many extraordinary journeys, but a few recent adventures stand out as truly unforgettable. A family safari with my children allowed me to see Africa through their eyes—an experience as enriching as it was awe-inspiring. Watching them engage with nature and wildlife in such an immersive way was not only educational but also deeply moving as a parent.</p>
<p>Another dream fulfilled was a journey through the Okavango Delta, where breathtaking wildlife encounters surpassed even my highest expectations. From there, I continued to Madagascar, a destination that was nothing short of magical—from trekking through ancient forests in search of endangered lemurs to unwinding on a pristine private island in a butler-attended villa. And in Bhutan, I found the kind of cultural depth and spiritual richness that leaves a lasting imprint. These experiences continue to shape the way I curate travel—deeply personal, meticulously crafted, and always inspired by the extraordinary.</p>
<h2>Which destinations are you looking forward to visiting and why?</h2>
<p>I’m always most excited to explore the destinations my clients are dreaming about—staying ahead of the curve allows me to deliver truly insider-level experiences. I believe in knowing a place intimately, not just from afar, which is why I prioritize traveling to the same places my clients are requesting. Currently, I have several upcoming trips to Italy, where I plan to do a deep dive into the country’s diverse regions—from iconic cities to lesser-known gems—so I can offer firsthand knowledge, vetted experiences, and the kind of thoughtful detail that turns a great itinerary into an exceptional one.</p>
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