Melissa Schoen - Independent Affiliate of Elli Travel Group

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Melissa Schoen - Independent Affiliate of Elli Travel Group Leveraging my relationship with our vast network of travel partners around the world, I help create journeys that form lasting memories. Let's go!

Planning a trip is personal, and when you work with me, it’s about more than just booking flights and hotels. It’s about...
13/02/2025

Planning a trip is personal, and when you work with me, it’s about more than just booking flights and hotels. It’s about creating an experience that feels uniquely yours (plus all the extra special touches- room upgrades, resort credits, and perks you won’t find online).

Dreaming of a one-of-a-kind dining experience? I can arrange a private beachfront dinner, a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or even a culinary adventure with a local chef.

My job is to take the stress out of travel and turn it into something seamless, meaningful, and unforgettable. Where to next? Let’s make it your best trip yet.

With White Lotus’s Season 3 premiere this month, it’s no surprise that Thailand will be topping travel lists everywhere....
12/02/2025

With White Lotus’s Season 3 premiere this month, it’s no surprise that Thailand will be topping travel lists everywhere.

I love Thailand – but if you’re interested in Southeast Asia, consider these destinations that are just as fabulous, less crowded, and offer incredible luxury-hotel options:

✨ Laos: Explore Luang Prabang’s temples, cruise the Mekong, and enjoy Laotian-French fusion cuisine.

✨ Cambodia: Catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, relax on Koh Rong’s beaches, or unwind at one of the many luxury resorts.

✨ Malaysia: Escape to Langkawi’s beaches or experience the culture of Kuala Lumpur.

✨ Indonesia: I’ll show you the best of this iconic destination.

Ready to you to explore Thailand and beyond? Let’s start planning!

Hawaii feels like a reset button, and Sensei Lānaʻi takes that to a whole new level. This retreat is all about you—custo...
09/02/2025

Hawaii feels like a reset button, and Sensei Lānaʻi takes that to a whole new level. This retreat is all about you—custom spa treatments, private fitness sessions, and wellness programs that truly deliver. Beyond the spa, you can explore the island or enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes that are as nourishing as they are delicious.

Insider Tip: Ask me to arrange a guided meditation at sunrise or a private culinary experience—both are musts for an incredible stay.

Ready to experience a new kind of Hawaiian escape? Let me take care of the planning!

Two big trends in travel right now? Cabo and luxury all-inclusives—and Grand Velas Boutique Cabo brings them together pe...
06/02/2025

Two big trends in travel right now? Cabo and luxury all-inclusives—and Grand Velas Boutique Cabo brings them together perfectly. Opened in February 2024, this adults-only resort is redefining what an all-inclusive experience can be.

Forget the outdated stereotypes—Grand Velas raises the bar with exceptional dining at five unique restaurants. And with a private concierge available via text, every guest enjoys personalized service that makes your stay unforgettable.

While there’s no need to leave the property (thanks to the incredible dining and curated on-site experiences), your concierge can also arrange memorable excursions: whale watching, sunset tours of Cabo’s iconic El Arco, or a visit to Land’s End.

Ready to experience Cabo in a whole new way? Get in touch today!

For those in the know, Sublime Comporta is the destination everyone’s talking about. Just an hour from Lisbon, this casu...
05/02/2025

For those in the know, Sublime Comporta is the destination everyone’s talking about. Just an hour from Lisbon, this casually chic retreat has been compared to Ibiza but with a laid-back vibe. Here’s why you should consider staying at Portugal’s trendiest hideaway:

• Beautifully designed rooms and villas, many featuring private plunge pools, fireplaces, and wood-planked patios with floor-to-ceiling views

• A stunning 42-acre estate surrounded by cork trees and rice fields, offering both privacy and natural beauty.

• Farm-to-table dining that celebrates fresh, local ingredients

Reach out today to experience one of Portugal’s best destinations.

Is an African Safari worth it? Absolutely. I hear this question all the time, and the answer is always yes! An African s...
02/02/2025

Is an African Safari worth it? Absolutely.

I hear this question all the time, and the answer is always yes! An African safari is unlike any other trip. With so many moving parts, it’s something I recommend planning well in advance—and that’s where I come in. From finding the perfect lodge for your travel family to tailoring your itinerary, we’ll ensure every detail is covered.

Want an idea of what’s possible? Take Thorntree River Lodge, just minutes from Victoria Falls. Here, you’ll start your day with game drives, spotting elephants, lions, and other iconic wildlife. Afterward, retreat to your spacious suite with a private plunge pool and breathtaking river views.

Let’s make your safari the adventure of a lifetime—start planning today!

Special-event travel is having its moment. Taylor Swift may have reignited the excitement of planning trips around event...
01/02/2025

Special-event travel is having its moment.

Taylor Swift may have reignited the excitement of planning trips around events, but the idea of turning fixed-date occasions into unforgettable adventures is nothing new to me, and I’ve got some incredible recommendations for your next getaway:

✨ Vivid Sydney: The city transforms into a kaleidoscope of color during Australia’s annual festival of lights, music, and ideas.

✨ Monaco F1 Grand Prix: Stay aboard the luxury Explora II cruise ship for race week and enjoy Monaco’s glamour in style.

✨ Osaka World’s Fair 2025: Discover groundbreaking innovation, then extend your journey to Kyoto.

✨ Rio’s Carnival: Arrive early to explore the city’s legendary beaches before the festivities begin.

What’s next on your list? Let me know!


Is a safari still on your travel bucket-list? This is finally the year to start planning – and I have some great recomme...
30/01/2025

Is a safari still on your travel bucket-list? This is finally the year to start planning – and I have some great recommendations!

If Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls is on your list, I've found a must-visit retreat to experience it all. Victoria Falls River Lodge sits right on the Zambezi River, guaranteeing you front-row views to Africa's most amazing wildlife show with easy access to one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls.

Want more recommendations or ready to start planning your Zimbabwe adventure? Let’s chat!

Rio Sagrado is your perfect base for exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley—and just wait until you see the setting. Along the b...
28/01/2025

Rio Sagrado is your perfect base for exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley—and just wait until you see the setting. Along the banks of the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Andes, this incredible property lets you experience the magic of the region in style.

Start your day with a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, a true bucket-list adventure. Explore the ancient ruins, take in the views, and enjoy the quiet moments that make this place unforgettable. Back at Rio Sagrado, relax by the river, enjoy Peruvian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, or just take in the peaceful beauty of the valley.

Ready to discover Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley like never before? Let’s plan your trip to Peru.

The Maldives has no shortage of luxury resorts, but Patina Maldives? It's something special. Even at full capacity, it f...
25/01/2025

The Maldives has no shortage of luxury resorts, but Patina Maldives? It's something special.

Even at full capacity, it feels like your own private island paradise – thanks to cleverly designed spaces and hidden nooks. Nine incredible restaurants, bars, and three food trucks serve up sustainable cuisine all day long. (Don't miss KŌEN: Japanese and Nordic flavors create some of the most memorable meals you'll ever have.)

But here's what really makes me smile: you can help seed coral reefs, care for rescued sea turtles, or spend your afternoon with wild dolphins.

Ready to experience one of the Maldives' best-kept secrets? Let's plan your escape!

Elli Travel is excited to announce that we are finalists for a 2025 Virtuoso Award: Highest Annual Growth for Hotels & R...
24/01/2025

Elli Travel is excited to announce that we are finalists for a 2025 Virtuoso Award: Highest Annual Growth for Hotels & Resorts.

As a team of 54 luxury travel advisors we are honored to be recognized by Virtuoso as a leading hospitality agency. Thank you to our clients who support us throughout the year. And thank you to our hotel partners who welcome our clients with open arms.

Same rates, more benefits!

Morning volcano hikes and afternoon snorkeling with sea lions? Yes, please! That's just a typical day at Pikaia Lodge in...
23/01/2025

Morning volcano hikes and afternoon snorkeling with sea lions? Yes, please! That's just a typical day at Pikaia Lodge in the Galápagos Islands. This eco-luxury lodge sits on top of an ancient volcanic crater, giving you the perfect home base for exploring one of Earth's most adventurous destinations.

The best part? You get to explore by land and sea. Hop on their private yacht to discover different islands, hike volcanic trails that look like another planet, and visit the legendary giant tortoises. After all the adventures, your spacious ocean-view room is just the retreat you need.

Insider Tip: Don't skip the educational programs - they bring the islands' unique wildlife and conservation story to life in ways that captivate both kids and adults.

Anyone can visit Sicily—but I’ll help you experience it. With insider access to places like Villa Sant’Andrea, my client...
23/01/2025

Anyone can visit Sicily—but I’ll help you experience it. With insider access to places like Villa Sant’Andrea, my clients enjoy perks and personal touches no online booking site can provide.

Wake up to ocean views at Villa Sant’Andrea in Taormina, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or rustic osterias, explore vineyards on Mount Etna, or spend the day boating along Sicily’s stunning coastline.

When you work with me, you’re getting so much more than a vacation—you’re getting an adventure designed just for you. Let’s plan your perfect Sicilian escape.

2025 is your invitation to explore the world like never before! Below are some of the unforgettable - and trending - adv...
21/01/2025

2025 is your invitation to explore the world like never before! Below are some of the unforgettable - and trending - adventures we can plan together.

Galápagos Islands — Charter your own yacht, get close to incredible wildlife, and explore the islands with an itinerary created just for you.

Bhutan — Trek through the Himalayas then relax in lodges that embrace nature. It’s a journey of peace, adventure, and luxury.

Patagonia, Chile — Hike across glaciers, stay in luxury eco-camps, and experience exclusive guided treks through some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth.

Iceland — Witness the Northern Lights, explore lava caves, and relax in countryside retreats—just you and the wonders of Iceland.

(Advisor tip: Travel during the shoulder seasons to experience these incredible places with fewer crowds)

Let’s start planning your 2025 adventure!

There's something magical about a resort that knows exactly where to place itself. Amanera resort sits 60 feet above Pla...
19/01/2025

There's something magical about a resort that knows exactly where to place itself. Amanera resort sits 60 feet above Playa Grande, where just 25 casitas enjoy what might be the Caribbean's most spectacular address.

This Dominican Republic property spans 2,000 acres and features a stunning golf course – reimagined by Rees Jones from his father's original design, with more coastal holes than any course in the Western Hemisphere.

The Bay View Pool Casitas is my favorite spot to wake up (even if you sleep through sunrise - no judgment). For pure bliss, head to the spa for their signature Taíno-inspired treatments. A favorite evening ritual? Ordering a hand-rolled cigar and local rum to your private clifftop dinner.

Ready to discover your own slice of Dominican paradise? Save this post or reach out today to start planning!

Namibia is shaping up to be one of this year’s most exciting eco-adventure destinations, and my partnerships with compan...
17/01/2025

Namibia is shaping up to be one of this year’s most exciting eco-adventure destinations, and my partnerships with companies like Wilderness allow me to book private adventures you won't find anywhere else.

You'll be able to explore Namibia with expert local guides who know every inch of this unique landscape. Watch desert elephants roam through ancient valleys or spot beautiful oryx against orange dunes. (Message me about booking a hot air balloon experience, too!)

Get in touch to start planning your one-of-a-kind journey through Namibia!

A new year brings with it the chance for a fresh start – especially when it comes to new adventures. If you're consideri...
15/01/2025

A new year brings with it the chance for a fresh start – especially when it comes to new adventures. If you're considering where to travel this year, here are some trending destinations for 2025:

• Calabria, Italy: The Italy that most tourists haven't discovered yet

• Antarctica: Your wildest expedition dreams come true

• Montenegro: Game of Thrones-worthy castles without the crowds

• Salta, Argentina: Rainbow-painted mountains and amazing high-altitude wines

• Turkish Riviera: The crowd-to-beach ratio is unreal (trust me on this one!)

Get in touch with me to explore these destinations or to discover what other spots are trending this year!

Belmond's classic river cruises are one of the best ways to explore Europe—here's why I love them: Small Ships, VIP Expe...
14/01/2025

Belmond's classic river cruises are one of the best ways to explore Europe—here's why I love them:

Small Ships, VIP Experience: Belmond's ships are designed to make you feel like a VIP from the moment you step on board. With fewer guests, you'll enjoy spacious cabins and exclusive access to areas larger ships can't reach.

Unique Itineraries & Private Excursions: Belmond's cruises feature curated itineraries that take you beyond the standard tourist spots: private vineyard tours in Burgundy to exclusive guided walks through medieval Austrian towns.

Gourmet Dining: Dine on regional specialties as you sail through some of Europe's most culinary-rich areas. Enjoy French cuisine on the Rhône, local wines in Tuscany, or discover the regional dishes of Central Europe along the Danube—all with impeccable service.

Message me to start planning your VIP cruise!

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