My professional experience and expert partners in each destination allow me to thoughtfully customize your trip for your unique wants and needs. The planning will be stress-free from start to finish. You might even say it was enjoyable! And once travel begins you will have freedom to become fully immersed in your experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- We prioritize your wants and needs when crafting your experience.
- With our extensive network of partners, we can offer a spectrum of options, from mild to wild and bring your vision into reality.
- Our first-hand destination experiences give you the benefit of an "insider" and I will treat your vacation with the same care as if it were my own.
- You are not a transaction, you are my guest. When you contact me, you always get me. No phone tree and no holding.
- I work with you from the early planning stages and all the way to your departure.
- During travel I am there as a back up to assist should you need some additional support.
- I will ask for your feedback after your return. This allows me to make your next trip even better.
- I hold exclusive industry accredidations with the International Airlines Tansport Association
- I am an active member of Cruise Line Intl. Assoc. and the American Society of Travel Advisors.
- I have built my agency on integrity which is reflected in the positive reviews from clients who return to me again and again.
My passion for cultural exploration and cooking started as a child and was fostered by my father who introduced me to both. This interest led me to a career in the culinary arts starting with a degree from Le Cordon Bleu, then with the Seattle restaurant scene and eventually becoming a private chef.
While my travels started as a teen I didn't brand out internationally since my early 20's. I have always been drawn to the sights, tastes and smells of each destination. I love to wander the local food markets, chat up the vendors and nibble my way through the food stalls. It's just something that I always a language I understood and it connected me to to the place and people in a unique way.
Anthony Bourdain sums it up for me.
"Food is everything we are. It’s an extension of nationalist feeling, ethnic feeling, your personal history, your province, your region, your tribe, your grandma. It’s inseparable from those from the get-go."
AREAS OF SPECIALTY : ALASKA, MEXICO, CULINARY TOURISM
I’m lucky enough to have flown well over a million miles during my adult life. Seeing so much of the world has given me an adventurous spirit and a curious mind. My head and heart are full of remarkable experiences from Boston to Brussels to Bangkok and Bangladesh.
While I’ve been able to roam all over the US, often to fly fish, most of my travel has been Asia & Europe focused. I believe that the breadth of my travel will allow me to create rich and seamless travel experiences for you.
Together we can plan a short family getaway to a single destination or a complex trip that covers multiple destinations via multiple modes of transport with a larger group of diverse ages and backgrounds. Travel is so beautifully varied, and there is a trip for every season and every reason.
DESTINATION SPECIALTIES : ASIA AND EUROPE
Next Phase Travel specializes in three distinct realms: Alaska's untamed beauty, the sun-soaked Mexican Riviera, and the culinary destinations and experiences of the world. My experience of these diverse destinations sets us apart, ensuring your Alaska cruise adventure, Riviera Maya retreat, or food and wine exploration is meticulously crafted for an unforgettable experience. Trust us to turn your travel dreams into reality, offering a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and gastronomic delight.
A cruise is a wonderful way to get a taste of Alaska. And when paired with 3 or more days on land, you are exposed to more of it's unspoiled beauty! There is a variety of itineraries and customized options for that once-in-a-lifetime true Alaskan experience. From mild to wild, Alaska has it all.
When you crave something warm and exotic Mexico has that and more! Glorious beaches, magical cenotes, colonial architecture and ancient ruins. And let's not forget the diverse cuisine and rich culture. But for me, it is the warmth of the people that leave a lasting impression.
I offer a variety of culinary tours and experiences for destinations around the world. This might be a river cruise to the wine regions of France or Spain. Perhaps you care to taste your way through Italy with walking tour of Campo de Fiori. How about a market tasting tour or a cooking demonstration led by the chef from your European river cruise?
As a comprehensive travel advisor I also plan for many destinations around the world. My extensive network grants access to a diverse selection of cruise lines, resorts and tour companies. Your package can be crafted to be all-encompassing to include travel insurance, flights, transfers and sightseeing to ensure a seamless and memorable journey.
Federal Way, WA
+1-877-736-5149
julia.liess@avoyanetwork.com