“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” Immerse yourself in this timeless truth as we set sail with 2024’s most seasoned travel gurus. As new hotspots emerge and old favorites are revamped, a select group of travel experts is changing the adventure game. They’re discovering hidden gems and giving familiar spots a fresh spin. Whether it’s luxury getaways, eco-friendly tours, or budget adventures, their insights are changing how we see the world.
Here we are in mid-2024, and these travel stars aren’t just known for their deep knowledge—they’re famous for sparking a love of travel in a new generation of globe-trotters. These are passionate about exploring the world and are committed to being mindful and respectful of the places they visit. They aim to educate themselves about different cultures to foster a greater sense of world citizenship. Each one of them has experienced a wide range of destinations and has set new standards in discovering the world.
Dive into the narratives of the top 6 travel experts of 2024 below, each a bridge to greater global understanding and respect.
Justin Walter
Justin Walter isn’t your average travel expert – he’s a TV travel host, expert, executive producer, and content creator all rolled into one adventure-loving package. Hailing from Naperville, IL, Justin’s Midwest roots and Italian traditions blend into his adventures, from devouring deep-dish pizza to hosting TV shows. Inspired by the popular American series, Survivor, this Chicago native turned his wanderlust into a career spanning both traditional and new media.
With over 15 years in the TV industry, Justin’s the guy you see sharing epic travel tips on Los Angeles’ number #1 News Channel KTLA, NBC’s “Chicago Today,” his travel talk show “Explore This” and even a guest co-host on Peacock’s “Global Child” travel series. He’s not just about the glitz on camera; he’s also been the brain behind many riveting travel stories for the Travel Channel and Discovery like diving into Shark Week as an Executive Producer.
But Justin doesn’t stop at TV. He’s been crushing the digital game for nearly a decade, collaborating with big names like Expedia, Princess Cruises, and Singapore Airlines. His secret sauce? Authentic storytelling that’ll make you want to book a flight ASAP.
Justin is also the founder of “Your Bucket List Guide” an inspirational travel brand. He’s on a mission to change the idea that a bucket list has to be something you wait to do until you retire or reach the end of your life but to seize those adventures NOW. He’s cooking up group trips, travel planning services, and killer guides to fuel your wanderlust.
With a perfect blend of Midwest values and globe-trotting expertise, Justin’s not just sharing travel tips – he’s inspiring a whole new way of seeing the world. Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter or a newbie dreamer, Justin’s your go-to guy for turning those bucket list fantasies into reality.
Vanessa Blasic
Vanessa Blasic is the creative mastermind behind BestSelf Compass, where you can unlock luxury travel for less with a single mission: to make luxury travel accessible for everyone. Thanks to her background as a traveling physician assistant, Vanessa has honed her travel hacking skills into a formidable superpower.
Many frequent travelers are only scratching the surface of saving on luxury vacations. She helps travel enthusiasts explore the world in style by saving big and earning points and perks. With her expertise, travelers unlock business-class flights and five-star resorts using points—achieving a celebrity-like travel experience without the hefty price.
Vanessa’s adventures around the world are nothing short of legendary. She has set foot on every continent and ascended the peaks of the world’s most formidable mountains, including the towering summit of Mount Everest
Through BestSelf Compass, she simplifies the complexities of travel points, providing a clear and straightforward path to maximize travel benefits. Not only has she nearly saved $1 million through travel hacking, but her success also serves as a powerful inspiration for others to do the same.
Professionals bewildered by point systems find solace in Vanessa’s tri-weekly newsletter and YouTube channel, where she delivers actionable insights. Her comprehensive course at BestSelf Compass elevates your travel experience tenfold through amazing travel experiences you’ve never heard about.
Vanessa uses the content and programs she builds to teach others how to be smart, enabling them to experience different cultures around the globe. Moving forward, she plans to expand her reach and help more people travel without breaking the bank while still feeling luxurious.
Jessica Griscavage
Celebrated in top-tier publications like the Wall Street Journal and Travel & Leisure, Jessica Griscavage leads Runway Travel with a blend of personal travel experience and industry expertise. As the CEO, marking 20 years in the travel industry, her journey from planning honeymoons to now mastering multi-generational vacations speaks volumes. Her agency thrives on creating stress-free, tailored travel adventures for those who seek luxury mixed with unique experiences.
Jessica’s knack for making each client feel like family is supported by her team’s diverse skills and her deep connections within the industry. Runway Travel, a proud member of the esteemed Virtuoso network, offers perks like exclusive amenities and room upgrades that aren’t available to the general public. This insider access is a significant draw, pulling in clients who discovered the firm’s vibrant, fun vibe online and stayed for the impeccable service.
Jessica’s travel insights resonate widely, from her recommendations for Mediterranean cruises for Millennials in the Wall Street Journal to tips on multigenerational travel in AARP. As a result of her expertise, Runway Travel thrived during the pandemic, doubling in size and revenue by focusing on exceptional service and smart technology use.
Celebrating her firm’s rapid growth, she remains focused on enhancing customer experiences and expanding into niche markets like culinary journeys and unique family adventures.
Runway Travel, under Jessica Griscavage’s leadership, is redefining luxury travel by balancing indulgence with a strong commitment to sustainability and community support. This approach not only elevates travel experiences but also ensures they leave a positive impact.
Elyse Finamore
For the people who need a break but can’t face the headache of planning it, Travels by Elyse steps in as your personal vacation architect. Founded by Elyse Finamore during a particularly hectic maternity leave in 2022, this service transforms the chaos of travel planning into a delightful surprise. Imagine learning your vacation destination just as you’re about to depart – that’s the kind of stress-free travel experience Elyse crafts.
Unlike other travel agencies, Travels by Elyse doesn’t operate on commissions. You won’t find Elyse pushing pricey hotels to pocket a part of your spending. Instead, she earns her fee directly from you, guaranteeing unbiased choices that stretch from Airbnb stays to maximizing those credit card points for free flights or upgrades. Her Instagram, @travels_byelyse, spills over with free tips on packing and picking the essentials for different destinations.
Her clientele mainly comprises busy women juggling careers and life’s big moments like weddings or family outings. They turn to Elyse not just for her travel savvy but for her ability to inject the element of surprise and delight into travel, tailor-making experiences that fit any stipulated budget or locale, from a secret Caribbean getaway to a unique Airbnb adventure.
Elyse’s ethos circles back to a simple truth: travel broadens perspectives. She believes in the transformative power of new experiences, a belief inked into every surprise vacation she plans. This is what makes Travels by Elyse more than a service; it’s a gateway to global understanding, one surprise trip at a time.
Windy City Travel
Windy City Travel, renowned for its expertise in crafting relationship-based travel experiences, offers clients authentic, bucket-list adventures. With 38 years of industry experience, Lynn Farrell, President of Windy City Travel, has perfected the art of luxury travel, understanding the nuances that elevate travel to an art form.
Specializing in luxury itineraries for empty nesters, retirees, and multigenerational families, Windy City Travel provides personalized journeys with unparalleled access to exclusive on-the-ground services and tour guides worldwide. This ensures stress-free, seamless, and memorable experiences, allowing clients to focus entirely on their vacations.
Addressing the overwhelming options in modern travel, Windy City Travel’s team of experienced advisors continually expands their global destination knowledge. Their dedication to offering exceptional luxury adventures sets them apart.
Recognized for their outstanding service, Lynn has been invited to high-profile events, including sitting with the President of Mexico for a new tourism minister induction. She also serves on advisory boards for prominent travel entities such as AM Resorts, Marival Resorts, Preferred Hotel, ALG Vacations, and Signature Travel Network.
Beyond deluxe travel, Windy City Travel is committed to social responsibility. Through Travel Elevates, they connect travelers with social ventures that benefit local communities, providing education and economic opportunities. Certified as a women-owned business by WBENC, Windy City Travel merges luxury travel expertise with a mission to make a positive global impact.
Lynn Farrell’s lifetime of relationship-based travel experiences and her leadership at Windy City Travel have established the company as a leader in luxury itineraries.
Raven Moore
Looking for a travel guru who blends travel expertise with a dash of charm? Your search for a top-tier concierge service ends with Raven Moore, the force behind Raven’s Solutions. While working as an IT consultant, Raven jetted across the world for ten years, sparking her love of travel. She now uses this passion to create personalized vacations that perfectly satisfy her clients’ demands.
When you work with Raven’s Solutions, you get more than simply the ability to book flights and accommodations. Fancy an oceanfront villa? Task accomplished. Would you like a personal tour of the ancient sites? It’s all taken care of. Each tour is customized by Raven to fit your specific interests, needs, and budget.
Inteletravel Dream Maker, Luxury Travel Advisor, and CLIA Certified Cruise Counsellor – these honors are not just simply labels; they demonstrate Raven’s dedication to providing exceptional service and meeting the needs of her customers. Moreover, her connections with exclusive travel agencies like United, Marriott, and Hilton help her clients get special pricing and perks.
Raven’s dedication extends beyond logistics. She’s an advocate for responsible travel, promoting eco-friendly practices, and supporting local economies. Whether it’s offering tips on reducing your carbon footprint or recommending authentic local experiences, Raven ensures your travel is impactful in the best way.
Her travel blog is a treasure trove of insights, from hidden gems to the latest travel trends. With a knack for detail and a friendly approach, Raven’s advice is both practical and inspiring. Travelers seeking an enthralling experience can rely on Raven Moore and Raven’s Solutions to transform their visions of a memorable trip into a reality.
Erin Dilber
Seasoned globetrotter Erin Dilber isn’t just a travel agent, but a leading global digital marketer refining the face of travel planning. With TBL Trips, her boutique travel agency, she is making busy professionals’ vacation dreams come true.
Erin’s knack for curating luxurious, global vacation packages saves her clients precious time, effort, and money. With an extensive network and a rich history of personal travel, she blends exploration, relaxation, and luxury effortlessly.
Her clientele is packed with corporate professionals who know what they want but can’t squeeze travel planning into their packed schedules. From family vacations to solo adventures, mindfulness retreats, or even honeymoons, Erin has it covered.
Starting in 2018, Erin’s journey from organizing trips for family and friends to managing itineraries for top marketing and business professionals speaks volumes about her expertise. Her goal? To run her agency full-time with a dedicated team, especially as she steps back from her digital marketing career.
Erin’s commitment doesn’t stop at luxury. TBL Trips partners with diversity welcoming, gender-inclusive, businesses and prioritizes ecological sustainability. Erin ensures that her clients enjoy not only the best experiences but also contribute positively to the communities they visit.
So if you are looking ahead to your next luxurious getaway, or are an adventurous nomad, then Erin Dilber is the name you should have on your speed dial. Follow Erin’s travel adventures and tips on Instagram, @tbltrips, where every post promises a blend of wit, charm, and invaluable insights.
Cortney Armitage is an investigative journalist born and raised in Los Angeles. Though her job may be analytical, she loves the realms of storytelling & creating content as a freelancer. Having a degree in Masters of Letters (Creative Writing) from California State University, she has gained insights into writing standards and conventions. Cortney’s work has been featured in various publications and magazines. Her writings speak versatility which makes Cortney outshine many in her field of expertise.
