Recognized International Travel Leaders 2025

For the past six years, my family and I have lived and traveled continuously around the world, visiting every continent in a 13-month span and documenting the experience as full-time travel creators. Along the way, our YouTube channels have grown to more than 700,000 subscribers, drawn not to glossy brochure travel, but to the real version: the logistics, the decisions, the tradeoffs, and the moments that don’t fit neatly into an Instagram square. After decades spent running digital marketing agencies, I co-founded ABC Trips, a luxury and adventure travel agency focused on high-touch, experience-driven travel—polar expeditions, African safaris, expedition cruising, private yachts, and deeply cultural itineraries designed for solos, couples, groups, and families. The work sits at the intersection of brokerage, storytelling, and logistics, with a strong bias toward knowing what’s genuinely worth the splurge—and what’s just good marketing. Along the way, I’ve served as a quoted travel industry source for major publications, appeared on network news segments and podcasts, and collaborated closely with leading travel brands, lodges, and expedition operators worldwide. My commentary often focuses on luxury and expedition travel, family and multigenerational travel, travel trends, and what it actually takes to design a location-flexible life that works long-term. These days, my time is split between: - Advising clients on exceptional luxury and adventure travel through ABC Trips - Serving as a media source and collaborator for journalists and brands - Continuing to explore the world with my family—still learning, still curious I’m not especially interested in chasing trends or shouting into the void. I value thoughtful questions, smart conversations, and people who care about doing things well—and enjoying the ride while they’re at it. If our paths cross, there’s a good chance we’ll have something interesting to talk about.

Founder of TRAVI World, a comprehensive travel guide platform covering 17+ destinations worldwide. With expertise in global tourism trends, destination insights, and travel industry analysis, I provide in-depth knowledge on hotels, attractions, and experiences across Dubai, UAE, Bali, and other popular destinations. Passionate about helping travelers discover authentic experiences and make informed travel decisions.

Christina Gales is a luxury travel advisor and founder of Christina Gales Travel, a boutique travel consultancy specializing in European itineraries, Caribbean escapes, elevated family travel, milestone celebrations, and luxury ocean and river cruises. A Fora and Virtuoso-affiliated advisor based outside Chicago, Christina has planned hundreds of trips across 20+ countries and serves over 100 clients nationwide. With extensive destination training across Europe, the Caribbean, Iceland, Hawaii, and Mexico—plus specialist certifications in luxury travel, cruise planning, and ecotourism—she brings both breadth and depth to every journey. Her preferred status with 8,500+ hotels, resorts, and cruise lines globally allows her to secure exclusive perks and VIP experiences for clients. As both a travel professional and mother of five, Christina is frequently sought after for her expertise in family travel strategy, multi-generational trip design, and making luxury travel approachable for real families. She speaks regularly on European travel planning, destination trends, the psychology of travel, and the shift toward meaningful, purpose-driven travel experiences. Her itineraries favor local culture, boutique hospitality, and personalized experiences over mass-market tourism. Known for her warm, collaborative approach and concierge-level support, Christina helps travelers feel confident, connected, and inspired—from dream to departure to memories that last a lifetime

As a seasoned travel advisor, I have immersed myself in the world of travel, constantly seeking out the latest trends, hidden gems, and unique destinations to ensure that my clients' trips are nothing short of extraordinary.

Stephen Pike is the Founder and CEO of TravRisk, a Canadian travel preparedness and Travel Risk Management expert with more than 30 years of international travel and occupational safety experience. He specializes in helping organizations and travellers make better decisions under uncertainty through practical preparedness, risk awareness, and human judgment. Stephen is the author of Beyond the Booking: Modern Travel Risk and the Rise of Duty of Care, which explores how modern travel has evolved beyond traditional safety advice and why preparedness has become an essential travel skill. His work bridges the gap between travel planning and real-world travel, focusing on the point where organizational systems, technology, and individual decision-making intersect. His areas of expertise include travel preparedness, travel safety, business travel, duty of care, ISO 31030, travel disruptions, traveller behaviour, destination risk, digital dependency, travel scams, crisis response, artificial intelligence in travel, and decision-making under pressure. He is frequently sought for commentary on breaking travel events, airline disruptions, geopolitical developments, travel technology, and the changing expectations of modern travellers. Stephen's commentary is known for translating complex travel issues into practical, actionable insights. Rather than simply describing what happened, he helps audiences understand what it means, why it matters, and how travellers and organizations can respond more effectively. His core philosophy is that preparedness—not fear—is the foundation of safer travel, and that while travel has become more connected and convenient than ever before, it has also become more complex. His work emphasizes capability, resilience, and informed human judgment as the keys to navigating today's travel environment. Stephen is available for interviews, expert commentary, podcasts, television, radio, and print media, and is committed to providing timely, balanced, and publication-ready insights that help journalists explain travel events with context and clarity.

I’ve spent over seven years at Yonder Travel Insurance mastering the 'fine print' so travelers don't have to. My expertise lies in deconstructing complex policy language into clear, actionable advice, whether I’m recommending the ideal plan for a unique itinerary or guiding a client through the intricacies of the claims process. By maintaining key partnerships with top insurance providers, I stay at the forefront of industry trends to provide unbiased, expert insights that help travelers maximize their benefits and navigate the unexpected with confidence. I use this experience to craft insightful responses on behalf of Yonder to further educate the public on travel insurance, which you can explore in my featured articles section.

Jennifer Spatz is the Founder of Global Family Travels and a leader in regenerative, community-based tourism. A cultural anthropologist at heart, she designs immersive travel experiences grounded in her company’s mission to Learn, Serve, and Immerse—connecting travelers meaningfully with local communities, cultures, and natural environments. Through partnerships with global and local nonprofits, Jennifer integrates regenerative tourism principles and aligns programs with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Her journeys combine cultural exchange, educational experiences, homestays, and community-driven projects that strengthen social and environmental systems in the destinations visited. Her insights on regenerative travel have been featured in TravelAge West (“Regenerative Meets Family Fun”) and on the podcast Regenerative Tourism: When Sustainability Isn’t Enough. (see all news links here: https://www.globalfamilytravels.com/news)

I’m the founder of Limitless Morocco Tours and a Morocco travel expert with hands-on experience designing private tours, desert adventures, and cultural journeys across Morocco. I specialize in helping travelers experience authentic Morocco through customized itineraries, local guides, and immersive desert experiences in places like Marrakech and Merzouga. I regularly share expert insights on Morocco travel, safety, itineraries, and best practices for first-time visitors.

I’m founder of Terra Voyage Pro Club — the first and only Europe-focused B2B travel platform that combines professional training, white-label itineraries, and visa expertise for travel advisors and agencies. My career in global travel and hospitality spans over 25 years. I’ve represented luxury hotel chains across Europe — including Leading Hotels of the World and Small Luxury Hotels — and promoted boutique properties to top tour operators. I’ve built direct partnerships with hoteliers and DMCs in Italy, France, Spain, and Switzerland, and represented the partner of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises in Europe and the US. Today, through Terra Voyage Pro Club, I help travel professionals sell Europe with structure, confidence, and storytelling — turning expertise and clarity into their strongest business advantage.

Why do some travel experiences stay with us for the rest of our lives while others disappear before we've even unpacked? That question has shaped my career. As a Travel Sommelier and founder of Hidden Travel™, I explore what transforms an ordinary trip into an unforgettable experience. After years of firsthand exploration and an earlier career in alternative medicine working with elite athletes, executives, and performers, I came to see travel differently. The most memorable journeys aren't defined by a single landmark or luxury hotel—they're shaped by hundreds of intentional decisions working together. Today, I combine that systems-based perspective with years in the field to help travelers, destinations, and hospitality brands create experiences that are more meaningful, immersive, and memorable. My work spans editorial storytelling, destination ecosystems, custom travel design, and Ageless Explorer, a movement built on the belief that our greatest adventures shouldn't have an expiration date. Learn more at JenAhana.com or contact me directly at jen@jenahana.com for media opportunities and collaborations.

A leading expert on motorhome holidays in New Zealand. Offering practical tips, hidden-gem itineraries, and commentary on travel trends for your story, with a focus on sustainable travel. With 20 years of experience helping thousands of people explore New Zealand on the ultimate road trip. Our focus is on high-quality, sustainable travel. Available to provide expert commentary, tips, or full quotes on: New Zealand travel trends, the best self-drive itineraries (both North & South Island), tips for first-time motorhome travellers, sustainable tourism and travel in NZ, the New Zealand tourism industry

I am the founder of Latin Adventures, a boutique Destination Management Company specializing in luxury, sustainable, and tailor-made travel across South America. With over a decade of experience in the travel industry, I design high-end journeys that combine comfort, cultural immersion, and responsible tourism in destinations such as the Galápagos Islands, Peru, Patagonia, the Amazon Rainforest, and Easter Island. I work closely with travelers from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, creating personalized itineraries that balance exclusivity, authenticity, and seamless logistics. My expertise includes luxury adventure travel, multi-country itineraries, wildlife experiences, and sustainable tourism practices that support local communities and conservation efforts. I am frequently consulted for insights on luxury travel trends, safe and responsible travel in South America, and how travelers can experience iconic destinations while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.

China Travel Expert & Cultural Insider Experience at crafting immersive journeys across China, I specialize in unveiling authentic stories behind this vast nation. From ancient Silk Road cities of Xinjiang to misty rice terraces of Guilin, I help travelers and media navigate China's cultural treasures beyond the typical tourist trail. As a bilingual China travel specialist, I offer insider perspectives on: Emerging destinations and hidden gems across China's diverse regions Cultural etiquette, local traditions, and cross-cultural insights Sustainable and responsible tourism in sensitive areas Silk Road history and its modern-day significance Regional cuisine, from Uyghur pilaf to Sichuan hotpot Navigating China's evolving travel regulations Off-the-beaten-path adventures for discerning travelers I work with journalists, travel writers, and content creators seeking authentic China stories beyond the headlines. Whether you need expert commentary on travel trends, destination features, or cultural insights, I provide nuanced perspectives rooted in firsthand experience and deep local connections. Available for interviews, podcast appearances, article contributions, and expert commentary on China travel and culture. Martina

I'm a mom of 2, and travel often with my husband and kids. I've travelled to nearly 40 countries and lived in 7. My website, Tiny Footsteps Travel, reaches tens of thousands of readers each month. With almost 10 years of experience as a school teacher, I create thoughtful, eco-conscious travel guides on my site that are family-friendly and inclusive for kids of all ages. I create itineraries, videos, and resources that make meaningful travel accessible for parents and their children. I primarily cover the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America, Scandinavia (especially Sweden, Denmark and Iceland) and the British Isles. I ensure that my readers have a true picture of what their trip entails through honest feedback based on real personal experiences.

I am a Central America Travel Specialist and Luxury Itinerary Designer at Mayan Gateway, with deep expertise in curating high-end, experiential journeys across Guatemala, Mexico, and the region. My focus is on connecting discerning travelers with authentic cultural heritage, sustainable luxury, and private, off-the-beaten-path expeditions. With a professional background in project management and customer experience, I specialize in the logistics of luxury travel in remote locations—from private helicopter transfers in the Mayan biosphere to exclusive access to indigenous artisan cooperatives. I am passionate about promoting Central America as a world-class destination that balances exclusivity with deep cultural respect and environmental conservation.

Travel Advisor & Founder of Let's Go Globetrotting, a boutique travel agency specializing in luxury, adventure and group travel. Former US/Canada Tour Leader Traveled to 60+ countries across all 7 continents

As the Founder and Chief Travel Curator of trvl.gr, I specialize in uncovering Greece’s most authentic and sophisticated travel experiences. With deep expertise in luxury hospitality and destination storytelling, I bridge the gap between traditional tourism and the modern traveler’s desire for 'quiet luxury' and hidden gems. My mission is to showcase the unseen side of the Greek islands, from heritage stays to sustainable travel trends.

Vanessa Kromer is an award-winning luxury travel advisor, founder and Editor in Chief of Maison Voyage Magazine, podcast host, and luxury travel creator with more than 16 years of experience designing bespoke journeys for discerning travelers worldwide. As the founder of a seven-figure luxury travel business, she specializes in luxury hotels, Europe, Italy, France, luxury cruises, safari, and emerging high-end travel trends. Vanessa is recognized for her expertise in boutique and independently owned luxury hotels, destination strategy, premium air travel, luxury rail, expedition and ocean cruises, and personalized itinerary design. She works closely with luxury hospitality brands and tourism partners around the world while helping affluent travelers discover exceptional destinations beyond the obvious. In addition to advising hundreds of clients each year, Vanessa leads the editorial vision for Maison Voyage Magazine, where she writes about luxury hotels, destination trends, culinary travel, wellness escapes, and meaningful travel experiences. She also hosts the Maison Voyage Podcast, interviewing global travel experts, hotel leaders, and destination specialists. As both a travel advisor and media publisher, Vanessa offers a unique perspective on how luxury travel is evolving. She regularly comments on luxury travel trends, consumer behavior, hospitality, boutique hotels, cruises, destination strategy, travel planning, creator partnerships, women in business, entrepreneurship, and building a modern luxury travel brand. Her work has been featured in regional and national media, and she is frequently sought after for expert commentary on the future of luxury travel, premium hospitality, and the experiences today's affluent travelers value most. Based in St. Augustine, Florida, Vanessa continues to inspire travelers through editorial storytelling, strategic partnerships, and expertly designed journeys that celebrate authentic luxury and meaningful connection.

I am an online entrepreneur, author, and travel scholar specializing in high-end travel, cultural exploration, and local destination experiences. As the founder of Paradize.life, a travel website dedicated to collecting luxury destination knowledge, I am an expert in helping travelers find unique experiences, local secrets, and personalized itineraries across Europe, Asia, and beyond. My area of expertise is deep travel research and writing, where I track future trends, review top destinations, and create content to inform and motivate modern travelers. Although I have not visited each country personally, my strength is transforming in-depth research into clear, informative, and SEO-optimized content connecting travelers with luxury services, from private jet charters to luxury resorts and unique tours.

I'm Hamid, the founder of Chegaga Travel, a Morocco-based travel company specializing in private tours, tailor-made itineraries, Sahara Desert adventures, cultural experiences, and luxury travel throughout Morocco. With more than 15 years of experience in Moroccan tourism, I have helped travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe discover Morocco through customized journeys designed around their interests, travel style, and pace. My expertise includes Morocco travel planning, Sahara Desert tours, cultural tourism, luxury travel, family vacations, private transportation, and authentic local experiences. I regularly share insights on Morocco's destinations, travel trends, safety, culture, and sustainable tourism. Since 2010, I have worked directly with travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe, helping them design personalized Morocco itineraries that combine cultural immersion, authentic local experiences, and comfortable private travel.