The Splendid Traveler

06/18/2024

St. Lucia was absolutely stunning! Each Caribbean island offers its own unique charm, and I was lucky to experience what St. Lucia has to offer. From the Pitons to the coral reefs, there’s so much to explore, which is one reason I like St. Lucia - there's a lot to do. Snorkeling, hiking, and lounging on the beach were highlights of my trip. The island is so lush! If you’re curious about visiting St. Lucia or any other island, let’s chat about planning a personalized trip tailored just for you!

05/17/2024

That Wānaka Tree. No idea who started this trend, and I can’t find much info on why exactly this tree is famous but it draws a crowd and we got a kick out of the hype. Wanaka is an amazing destination - one of my favorites in New Zealand.

05/15/2024

Feeling lucky to have stayed at this gorgeous lodge that was once Shania Twain’s summer home! 🌟 The views here are the highlight. The house was crafted by Shania herself! 😍

05/11/2024

If you get an email from me this week….

05/09/2024

We made it to New Zealand and we’re having the best time. We spent one night at the beautiful and now we’re already off to our next destination. Creating my own travel itineraries is always a challenge - I love cramming in as many different hotel stays as possible so I can gain as much knowledge to be able to craft itineraries better for my clients, but sometimes I wish I had more time at some of these fabulous lodges. Thank goodness I have an amazing husband who supports my ambitions and is always down to travel on whatever itinerary I create.

04/29/2024

This week is all about putting the final touches on dream itineraries for my clients before I jet off to New Zealand! 🇳🇿 I can't wait to explore the finest luxury hotels and tours on New Zealand's South Island. It's our first big international trip since COVID + baby, so I'm claiming it as my super delayed honeymoon. Here's to love, adventure, and travel! Here's a photo from my last trip to New Zealand. 💕✈️

02/16/2024

Hey there, friends! ✨ It's been a minute since I shared a bit about myself, so why not now!

🏡 I live in Georgetown, Texas, just a short drive away from Austin, soaking up life with my happy toddler, sweet husband, and two awesome step-kiddos, who are with us half the time.

Pre-COVID, my days were a whirlwind of excitement in downtown Austin - jet-setting adventures, happy hours, and exploring the hottest restaurants around. 🌆 But life has its seasons, and right now, I'm embracing motherhood while still fueling my passion for travel by scouting out dreamy destinations and properties for my amazing clients when I can.

There's something truly magical about curating tailor-made itineraries that perfectly reflect my clients' personalities and travel preferences. ✈️ It's the part of my job that fuels my passion!

So here's to embracing every chapter of this wild ride, cherishing the moments with loved ones, and making every journey an unforgettable adventure! 🌟

12/15/2023

I just received a glowing review from my lovely clients, who wrapped up an unforgettable month exploring the wonders of Australia & New Zealand! It makes me so happy to help create dream journeys for my amazing clients. Ready to plan your next adventure? Let's make it extraordinary! Reach out today!

12/04/2023

I know it's been so long since I've made a post. I've been feeling uninspired to post and busy planning travel for my clients. These photos are from our family vacation to Cabo. We love hiring a professional photographer during our family vacations. ☀️

05/26/2023

Oahu, most think of the big buildings and crowds, but, when you go to Turtle Bay, escape the craziness of Waikiki and soak up the sun on secluded beaches and at pretty pools.

The moment I arrived, I was blown away by the panoramic ocean views that seemed to go on forever. —it was pure bliss! 😍 Every room has an ocean view. 🌊

Turtle Bay recently went through an epic makeover, going from a modest 3-star resort to a swanky oasis. 💫 It's all about laid-back luxury! 💎

I'm already trying to figure out when I can bring my family here! 💕

Ready to plan your very own Hawaii adventure? Reach out for personalized tips and assistance to make your tropical getaway unforgettable! 🌺

05/14/2023

So happy to spend Mother’s Day with my sweet Hamilton! I’m so thankful for my lil angel.

This year vs. last year. Where did my baby go? All of the sudden I have a toddler 😱

02/15/2023

Happy Valentines Day! We had the best time celebrating with a baby-free night at the Four Seasons Austin over the weekend.

01/09/2023

I’m so lucky to have the best clients! Planning this honeymoon was so fun!

01/06/2023

We didn’t get the California Christmas that we planned, but we had the best time in Port A! It was my first time seeing a Texas beach. Everyone warned me that Texas beaches were not pretty, but I loved it! I was absolutely shocked at all of the vehicles on the beach. We rented a golf cart - a must while visiting the area. Of course, I am obsessed with a dignified luxury hotel, but since there isn’t any on the island, we opted to stay in a vacation rental at , which I loved because there was a pool, restaurant, and golf course on the property and it was close enough to town. If you have any recs to check out on our next trip, please comment! Here were my faves from the trip:

Place to stay:

Our Fave Restaurants: , Irie's Island Food, and Miss K Bistro

Coffee: Coffee Waves

01/04/2023

Our California Christmas was unexpectedly cancelled We’ve made the most of it and spent a night at the JW Marriott Hill Country San Antonio because they have beautiful Christmas decorations, had breakfast at Hotel Emma (one of my favorite hotel breakfast of all time), and then we headed to Port Aransas. I saw a Texas beach for the first time!


A couple notes about booking air travel through The Splendid Traveler:
- I do not book Southwest for clients, but I have some clients that book it on their own. For my Austin clients, many find it hard to avoid Southwest completely because they have so many great direct options, but other airlines have been catching up the past few years as the Austin population grows.

- For my personal travels, I typically prioritize direct flights over airline loyalty (except when going to Australia/NZ my airline of choice is Air NZ). If I can avoid a layover, I will, so I do book Southwest if they have the best direct flight option.

- For my clients, all flights I book have a 24 hour emergency number associated with the reservation, so you never have to wait on hold—or wait for me to get an answer to you while I wait on hold—when issues arise.

- Of course I do everything I can to avoid any issues for my clients, but with traveling, if you do it enough, it’s inevitable that you’re going to encounter issues - weather, strikes, delays, traffic, etc. It’s important to keep calm and not let it ruin your travels.

10/13/2022

As an inspiring minimalist, photos are my favorite souvenirs. We took these photos about a year and a half ago, and oh my, the kids have changed so much in such a short time. We also now have a new addition to the family since then!

I love that we will forever have these photos to commemorate our fun time in Maui together. We made the best memories.

I highly suggest having a professional photoshoot during your special travels. Of course, we all take tons of iPhone photos, but there’s nothing like having professional photos to hang on your wall. We used and that’s what I usually suggest to my clients as well. I’ve never had a client regret it.

09/26/2022

09/26/2022

09/15/2022

The Splendid Traveler has access to special perks and amenities for my clients at most luxury properties worldwide. Here is a post where I break down some of my favorite affiliations and what it means for you if you book your hotel stay through me!

By our affiliation with Departure Lounge, The Splendid Traveler has access to special perks and amenities for our clients at most luxury properties worldwide. Here is a list of some of our favorite affiliations. This is not an all-encompassing list. If you're wondering about a particular hotel, lodg...

08/08/2022

We loved our time enjoying the cooler weather at Carmel Valley Ranch. There’s so many activities on property and things to do in the area. It’s an amazing place for families. On property we went on hikes, participated in a garden tour, and went beekeeping. We also enjoyed the pool on property and the restaurant - breakfast is included by booking with me btw. The town of Carmel-by-the-sea is so charming with good restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms. Monterey has Cannery Row and the aquarium, kayaking, whale watching, and more fun activities. I love the nearby Point Lobos Nature Reserve for easy hikes in beautiful scenery. Big Sur is a great day trip.
If you’re considering a trip to Northern California, I’d love to assist!

06/21/2022

There is nothing better than hanging out with my sweet baby. Spending 6 nights in Cabo away from the stresses of life was magical.

05/20/2022

Hi!! I haven’t done an intro post in a while. I’m Alicia, and I was inspired to start my business in 2015 after I returned from a 9 month solo trip. I did not want to go back to a cubicle job, and I really wanted to use the things I learned while on the road to help other people get the most out of their travel experiences.

Starting my business was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I am passionate about putting together personalized itineraries for my clients.

How can I help you with your future travels?

05/03/2022

New Zealand is finally open! I started The Splendid Traveler because of my love for planning travels to Australia & New Zealand, and I could not be more excited to start sending clients to New Zealand again. Beyond New Zealand’s sheer beauty, there’s so much more to appreciate—like the vineyards producing youthful New World wines, the Lord of the Rings sets in the rolling hills, and the fascinating culture. And, of course, there are the luxury stays you have to look forward to. Through my New Zealand travels, I’ve stayed at nearly every luxury Virtuoso property in the country. I understand the nuances of each region and resort or hotel—which means I can craft a New Zealand itinerary uniquely customized to how you want to travel. If you’re considering a trip to NZ, I’d love to chat with you!

04/27/2022

We’re going places, baby! I can’t wait to share my love of travel with baby Hamilton. Where should we go first?

04/08/2022

My faves! 💙

02/22/2022

The day is finally here! Australia is open! Crazy to think that it’s been closed for so long.

This picture is from 2014 when I traveled all around Australia. After I returned, I was so inspired by my love for Australia and New Zealand that I started The Splendid Traveler, so I could help travelers experience the best of these countries.

02/15/2022

My sweet forever Valentine. I can’t wait to make it back to the beach with you! 💕

📸

02/08/2022

Australia is reopening this month! I’m super passionate about planning personalized travel itineraries to Australia, and I’m so excited about this fantastic news. Australia offers so many different sceneries and activities. There's the white sand beaches and clear waters, red-tinted Outback and Down Under safaris, the vineyard-strewn valleys producing world-class wines, the cutting-edge dining scene, and incredible coffee culture.   
  
 
If you’re considering a trip Down Under, I’d love to chat with you about how we can work together to create a personalized itinerary. 

01/27/2022

Summer family vacations are for making lifelong memories! If you haven’t started planning your summer travels, now is the time. 🛩

The kids had so much fun at the Andaz in Mayakoba and it was one of our favorite Virtuoso breakfasts ever. Breakfast is always included for my clients at Andaz hotels - as well as upgrades (requested AT booking) and hotel credit!

Where are your summer travels taking you this year? I’d love to help you!

12/21/2021

My first post-pregnancy drink was a monumental occasion! 🍷I’m not a big drinker, but I missed having a glass of wine here and there. I’ve been saving this bottle of Cloudy Bay that I got right before I found out I was prego! Marlborough New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is my favorite wine and Cloudy Bay is one of my favorite vineyards to visit in the area. Wine always taste better when you drink it in the region it was made. I can’t wait to go back (and send clients again too).