Home Page - American Express Travel Insiders

Beth Blaustein

Solo Traveler

1-877-741-2267
beth.blaustein@altour.com

Interests:
Architecture, Gardening, Local History & Culture, Museums, Music, Party Planning, Philanthropy, Reading & Writing, Scuba/Snorkel, Sightseeing, Speaks a foreign language, Theater & Concerts, Wine Enthusiast

"Traveling solo is the ultimate indulgence. Follow your interests and enjoy the experience!"

As a travel consultant with 25 years of travel experience, I understand the concerns of a "solo" or "reluctant" traveler and have assisted many "solo" or "doubting" clients to create their travel experiences and memories. I will be your personal GPS! I have traveled the world from Yellowstone National Park, to the Galapagos, to Iguassu Falls, to the Yangtze River, to St Petersburg, to Tanzania, and to almost every country in Europe. I am sympathetic and understanding and can assure you that you will never be lonely, whether you decide to travel by yourself or with a group. Opportunities abound! My knowledge and experience is yours to absorb! The ability to travel is a special gift. Traveling solo can be a liberating and enlightening experience. Do not let your fears overtake your desire to see the world. Contact me.

Susanne Plumley

Italy

1-877-737-1625
susanne.plumley@altour.com

Interests:
Animals & Marine Life, Beach, Boating, Food, Football, Gardening, Hiking, Horeseback Riding, Mountains, Museums, Music, Photography, Reading & Writing, Scuba/Snorkel, Sightseeing, Speaks a foreign language, Sports & Fitness

"The surreal Blue Grotto - a sea cave on the coast of the Isle of Capri - is one of the island's biggest attractions and a definite "must see!""

From Milan and the gorgeous Lakes Region (this region showcases stunning Lake Como, Lake Lugano, Lake Maggiore and the region of Lombardy) to the sophisticated resorts of Positano and the Amalfi Coast, Italy is a country full of rich history, beautiful scenery, great food and friendly people! You'll want to visit the Vatican in Rome, Duomo in Florence, St. Marks's Square in Venice and the Gothic Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan. The Isle of Capri is still my favorite place with its unparalleled views, delicious food and first-class shopping. Don't miss a visit to the Blue Grotto! Also, make sure to visit the gorgeous seaside villages of Amalfi, Ravello and Sorrento, And, if you have the time, you'll want to include a side trip to the Cinque Terre - a rugged portion of coast on the Italian Riviera that showcases a lovely set of seaside towns. If you prefer to experience a slower-paced Italy, a visit to the small, quaint towns of Sienna, Lucca, Pisa or Assisi in Tuscany are a must. All of these beautiful villages - as well as many others - offer fascinating history, local delicacies, handiworks and endless outdoor and fun activities for bikers, hikers, foodies and people of all ages. Feel free to contact me anytime to help create your special Italian getaway - a getaway that you are sure to remember and cherish for a lifetime!

Tammy Hardin

Luxury

1-877-849-1467
tammy.hardin@altour.com

Interests:
Arts & Crafts, Beach, Food, Gardening, Sightseeing, Wine Enthusiast

"Many upscale luxury cruises lines are offering all-inclusive which is a great value."

I am a Certified Cruise Specialist with over 26+ years of experience selling luxury cruises. I am a travel professional who pays attention to details and likes to plan great vacations for my clients that include an element of uniqueness tailored to their needs and wants. Over my years in travel, I have established great relationships with cruise lines and local destination management companies located in countries all over the world. These valuable contacts have allowed me the opportunity to incorporate custom shore excursions for my clients that go beyond the normal in-port sightseeing trips. The experience is very different from the normal bus programs that are offered by the cruise lines themselves. One of the things I offer my repeat customers is a custom newsletter that includes updates on new and existing cruises and what's new in the travel industry in general. Contact me, as I would like to plan your next cruise vacation!

Yoshie Hlaca

Alaska and B.C.

1-877-737-1577
yoshie.hlaca@altour.com

Interests:
Architecture, Arts & Crafts, Food, Local History & Culture, Museums, Music, Reading & Writing, Sightseeing, Theater & Concerts

With over two decades in the travel planning business, it takes a special destination to turn my head. All it took was one Alaskan cruise and I was hooked - this fascinating terrain is absolutely breathtaking, with vast, sweeping landscapes on par with places like Switzerland or New Zealand. Whether it is the Glacier route or the Inside Passage, you will forever remember the magnificent scenery and the adventures. I have traveled the area by foot and by sea, and a cruise is the absolute best way to see this amazing destination - but my travel experience extends past the water. With a personal knowledge of Alaskan territories and Canadian cities, I can also assist you with day trips and stays outside the ship before or after the cruise. Contact me today and let's get started.

Lesley Trudelle

France

1-844-712-4285
lesley.trudelle@cruiseplanners.com

"Ask me where to find the award-winning fromagerie and patisserie in Paris so you can see for yourself why each holds the honor."

I've been to France more than 30 times, and because my best friend lives there, I've got Insider tips that are truly local. I'll debunk myths about how the French perceive Americans and have you calling it your second home in no time. After all, what's not to love about the unhurried quality of the French way of life, devoid of calorie counters and filled instead with delectable wine and cuisine? Experience the country's flavors for yourself at invitation-only culinary festivals-I've got the inside scoop. With my guidance, you can visit ruins that few tourists even know exist or climb to one of the most spectacular locales for viewing Paris in all its glory. Photo buffs will love the postcard-perfect opportunities waiting around every corner and no one can resist the colorful landscapes of Provence that once charmed the likes Cezanne and Van Gogh. All this is only a small fraction of the wonders that await you-just contact me today to discover how much about France there is to love.

Yoshie Hlaca

Japan

1-877-737-1577
yoshie.hlaca@altour.com

Interests:
Architecture, Arts & Crafts, Food, Local History & Culture, Museums, Music, Reading & Writing, Sightseeing, Theater & Concerts

"Luggage shipping door to door is very inexpensive and dependable, mostly overnight, so you don't have to carry your large and heavy luggage on the train or in the crowded station."

To truly understand a place as diverse and unique as Japan, you need nothing short of a local. Born and raised in this wonderful country, I am eager to share my understanding of Japan's rich history, language and culture. I'll make sure you see more than your average tourist (and then some) while traveling this exotic island. With 25 years of professional travel counseling under my belt, I can customize the trip to your specific needs -recommending the best museums, sightseeing, hotels and restaurants in each area. I'll take you past Tokyo and Kyoto, introducing you to less-traveled locations like Nara, Nikko or Kyushu. Call or email me today, and let me show you what I've known all of my life - that with a little planning and forethought, almost anything is possible in Japan.

Diana Volpi

Aruba

1-877-764-6262
diana.volpi@altour.com

"Aruba offers a unique cultural mix of some 40 different ethnic groups."

Located in the heart of the southern Caribbean just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba offers a unique cultural mix of some 40 different ethnic groups that is reflected in its heritage and its people, springing mainly from Caquetio Indian, African and European roots. This fascinating culture, and the beauty of this island, inspired me to become a certified Aruba Specialist by the Dept. of Tourism in Aruba. On the south and west coasts are miles of pristine white beaches that rank among the most beautiful in the world; the northeast coast is rugged and wild; and the interior is desert like with a variety of cacti and dramatic rock formations. I have traveled to Aruba many times and have stayed at most of the hotels on the island, sampled restaurants, shopped and visited the tourist attractions on this island that measures less than 20 miles long and six miles across for an area of just 70 square miles. Let my appreciation for this Caribbean gem coupled with my first-hand knowledge guide you to the right place for your next vacation.

Jason Hedrick

East Africa

1-877-779-8593
jhedrick@ciazumano.com

Interests:
Arts & Crafts, Beach, Food, Football, Hiking, Local History & Culture, Mountains, Museums, Music, Photography, Reading & Writing, Scuba/Snorkel, Sightseeing, Speaks a foreign language, Sports & Fitness, Theater & Concerts, Wine Enthusiast

"Pack light in terms of clothing: most lodging will have laundry facilities and planes in this country have greatly reduced luggage capacities."

East Africa is a feast for the senses: it will lure you in and never let go. From myriad cultures living as they did hundreds of years ago, to natural wonders like the migration of the massive wildebeest, things in this part of the world have their own special kind of magic. As both a Master Kenya and Tanzania Specialist, I've traveled these regions enough to be keenly aware of what can't be missed, what to avoid, and how to navigate the unique logistics of this kind of journey. I'll set you up to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro or arrange an up-close encounter with gorillas in Uganda. From touring ancient slave markets to a spending a day in the company of orphaned elephants, your experiences here may cause you to view the world as if for the very first time. Bring plenty of camera memory: No other location begs to be photographed with quite the same ferocity. With me as your guide, you'll discover the soul of a land unlike anything you've ever known. Just contact me today to get started.

Darlene Mulkewich

River

1-877-759-7736
darlene.mulkewich@altour.com

Interests:
Food, Gardening, Local History & Culture, Music, Sightseeing, Spa, Wine Enthusiast

Imagine cruising your way down the historic Rhine or Nile Rivers, the wind at your back. Perhaps the Seine or Rhone in France, the Volga in Russia, or Portugal's charming Douro are more your style. Whichever you choose, your river cruise experience is always leisurely, casual and exciting - and the best part is that you only unpack once and all your meals and tours are included. Within a short stroll from the ship are charming squares, historic castles and important sites as well as fantastic marketplaces; and the ships average 130 passengers, offering a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Sold yet? Drop me a line today and let's start planning your dream river cruise.

Manny Karvounidis

Greece

1-888-482-4153
vegalika@yahoo.com

Interests:
Food, Football, International Sporting Events, Local History & Culture, Reading & Writing

"Visit local taverns and try the ouzo and tsipouro (similar to Italian grappa). Both are often served with meze—Tapas-style snacks."

My birthplace and home for 17 years, Greece is my favorite destination to visit, which I do often. I speak the language fluently so I'll do what it takes to get your needs met. Whether you seek the historical wonder of the Acropolis, the serenity of Corfu's beaches, or the incredible sunsets of Santorini, who better to guide you than an agent who has lived all of it? Ours is a culture of hospitality and fellowship: treat locals well and you will always be welcomed as a friend. I can prepare you for the cultural differences like no other agent can, highlighting important philosophies like how in Greece, we drink life in-slowly-just as we savor our wine. Do as the locals do and immerse yourself in the moment, and you will experience fully the miracle of this country. My expert advice translates to the most authentic encounter for you, from the must-see sights to the finest local cuisine. A life-changing journey is just a phone call away-so contact me today!

American Express Travel Insiders

HANDCRAFTED TRAVEL

Discover new places through tailor-made itineraries with your passions and personal interests top of mind. Travel Insiders plan your entire journey including air, transfers, hotels, dining, and the extras you crave.

LIKE A LOCAL

Travel Insiders live and breathe their destinations and specialties. Impassioned about the people, the places and culture, Travel Insiders ensure you experience the authentic and unexpected while staying within your budget.

INSIDER BACKING

1. CHOOSE A TRAVEL INSIDER

Browse our roster of expert Travel Insiders and find your perfect match. You can even choose a Travel Insider who shares the same interests as you.

2. GET INSPIRED

One on one, let your Travel Insider know what you hope to find on your next adventure. Discuss budgets and fees upfront, your travel preferences and those of your companions. With your approval, your Travel Insider will begin designing your one-of-a-kind journey.

3. YOURS TO APPROVE

Your Travel Insider will send a proposed itinerary directly to you. Review it, ask questions, make changes with your Travel Insider until you are satisfied, excited, and all the details fine tuned to perfection.