Amanda Soria

Mexico Travel Agent Specialist

I’m your Mexico specialist because I’ve made it my mission to master every nuance of this vibrant country—from its world-class beaches and ancient ruins to its hidden cenotes, colonial towns, and luxury eco-resorts. While my deepest roots are in the U.S. (20+ years in Florida, 6 years in California, and New York-area family ties), I’ve immersed myself in Mexico travel through extensive personal trips, client successes, and dedicated research tailored to women and LGBTQ+ adventurers who want authentic experiences without the guesswork.

My Mexico expertise shines brightest in beach destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta, where I know exactly which resorts deliver true luxury, which all-inclusives prioritize guest safety and inclusivity, and how to layer in off-resort adventures like Chichen Itza day trips, Isla Mujeres catamarans, or Tulum’s boho-chic ruins and cenote swims. I’ve planned countless getaways here, from same-sex honeymoons in Cancun (complete with romantic beach dinners and private transfers) to girls’ trips in Riviera Maya (spa-focused with seamless cenote explorations) and anniversary escapes in Cabo (beachfront villas and queer-friendly nightlife). Clients rave about how I handle the details—vetting properties for welcoming vibes, timing transfers to avoid crowds, and curating itineraries that balance relaxation with discovery.

What sets me apart is my laser focus on safety and comfort for women and LGBTQ+ travelers in Mexico. I stay ahead of trends, knowing which Riviera Maya zones feel secure for evening walks, which Cabo neighborhoods offer vibrant yet low-key queer scenes, and how to navigate cultural nuances so you feel respected and at ease. Solo female clients trust my picks for boutique inns with strong security; couples appreciate my confirmations on couple-friendly bedding and attitudes; groups love my group-friendly transfers and women-only activity options. I factor in everything from peak seasons (avoiding spring break chaos) to weather patterns, ensuring your trip feels empowering, not overwhelming.

Beyond beaches, I guide clients to Mexico’s cultural heart: colonial gems like San Miguel de Allende for art walks and markets, Mérida for Yucatán food scenes, or Oaxaca for Day of the Dead if timing aligns. I know how to connect these with coastal bases for multi-stop itineraries that flow logically—Riviera Maya to colonial Yucatán, or Cabo flyovers to Todos Santos’ artsy vibe. My planning anticipates real traveler needs: English-speaking guides, reliable Wi-Fi at stays, dietary accommodations, and backup plans for weather or crowds.

With glowing client reviews, I’ve proven my ability to turn Mexico dreams into stress-free realities. As your specialist, I don’t just book trips; I create journeys where you feel safe to be yourself, pampered in luxury, and connected to Mexico’s soul. Whether it’s a quick beach reset, a cultural deep-dive, or a milestone celebration, I bring insider knowledge, empathy, and meticulous planning to every detail. Let’s make Mexico your most memorable adventure yet.

New York City Travel Agent Specialist

New York is woven into my story in a way that goes far beyond a single trip—I was born in neighboring New Jersey, lived on the outskirts of New York City for several years, and have family who were born and raised in the city. Growing up and spending so much time in and around NYC means I understand it as both a visitor and a local: how the city feels at different times of day, how neighborhoods change from block to block, and how seasons, weather, and events can completely shape an experience. That background allows me to design New York itineraries that are not only exciting and efficient, but also grounded in a real understanding of how the city actually works.

Because I know the ins and outs of the city, I can help you navigate far beyond the obvious. Of course, I can guide you through iconic sites like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, and the major museums—but I also know how to balance those with neighborhood explorations, local food spots (time to finally have the best NY pizza of your life!), quieter viewpoints, and time-saving shortcuts. I understand how long it really takes to get from Midtown to Brooklyn, when subways or rideshares make more sense, and how to cluster sights so you spend more time enjoying the city and less time feeling stressed or lost. Whether you’re drawn to classic Manhattan landmarks, the energy of Brooklyn, or lesser-known corners of the outer boroughs, I help you see the New York that fits your interests and comfort level.

Having family who are lifelong New Yorkers keeps me connected to the city’s evolving character—new restaurants, changing neighborhoods, seasonal events, and the subtle ways the vibe shifts over time. When I plan a New York trip, I bring that up-to-date, on-the-ground perspective to every recommendation, from where to stay to what to prioritize with limited days. I’m honest about what’s worth the hype and what might be overwhelming or underwhelming depending on your personality. Because I know New York from the inside, I can help you experience it in a way that feels thrilling rather than chaotic: clear daily plans, smart transportation choices, and realistic pacing.

As a travel advisor who centers women and LGBTQ+ travelers, I approach New York with a focus on feeling safe, supported, and at ease while still soaking up the city’s energy. I take into account neighborhood feel, walking routes, transit use after dark, and accommodation choices that align with your comfort level. My goal is not just to get you to the top travel destinations, but to curate a New York experience where you feel confident moving through the city—knowing where you’re going, what to expect, and how to make the most of every moment. When you book your New York trip with me, you’re tapping into a lifetime of regional connection, family roots in the city, and a planner who knows how to turn a big, intense destination into a trip that feels personal, manageable, and unforgettable.

California Travel Agent Advisor

With over six years of lived experience in California, I bring more than textbook knowledge — I understand how the state actually feels at street level in places such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Lake Tahoe. I know which neighborhoods are vibrant versus overwhelming, which routes make the most sense in real life, and how seasons, traffic, and local quirks affect a trip.

Since I specialize in women’s and LGBTQ+ travel, I naturally look at California through a safety-and-comfort lens, not just a “see everything” checklist. That means you can recommend areas, hotels, and activities where your clients can relax, feel welcome, and fully enjoy themselves—whether that’s choosing the right area in LA, a cozy base in Tahoe, or inclusive spots in the Bay Area.

I’m also skilled at crafting tailored itineraries, so I won’t send everyone on the same generic California loop. Instead, I translate my own experiences—commute times, hidden gems, pacing between cities, and realistic driving days—into trips that fit each client’s energy level, budget, and comfort zone.

California offers four-season appeal: where rugged coastline, snowy peaks, sun-baked valleys, and dynamic cities all sit within a day’s drive of each other. For travelers, this means you can get a mix of beach days, winter sports, harvest festivals, and forest escapes.

Los Angeles, California’s largest city, is a sprawling mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Visitors come for Hollywood glamour, beach communities like Santa Monica and Venice, and world-class museums, dining, and nightlife. Just as compelling are the everyday corners of the city: local coffee shops, open-air markets, diverse food scenes, and outdoor spaces that range from Griffith Park’s hiking trails to Malibu’s cliff-backed beaches. For women and LGBTQ+ travelers, LA offers a strong mix of inclusive nightlife, established queer neighborhoods, and wellness-oriented experiences like yoga, spa retreats, and health-focused cafes. With careful neighborhood and accommodation selection, visitors can enjoy a vibrant, affirming urban experience without feeling overwhelmed.

Farther north, San Francisco delivers a very different kind of urban energy—denser, walkable, and defined by its hills, bayside views, and historic cable cars. The city’s neighborhoods, from the Castro and Mission District to North Beach and Hayes Valley, offer rich layers of culture, activism, and culinary creativity. Travelers can pair classic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz with local experiences such as farmers markets, bookstores, waterfront walks, and community events. San Francisco has long been a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ history in the United States, and it remains an especially meaningful destination for queer and women travelers who value both safety and a sense of community. With its mix of charming boutique hotels, cozy cafes, and public transit, it’s an excellent base or gateway for broader Northern California itineraries. Plus for those foodies out there, I can tell you from experience they have the best sourdough and clam chowder!

Lake Tahoe introduces another facet of California entirely: alpine blue water ringed by pine forests and mountain peaks. Straddling the California–Nevada border, this region is ideal for year-round outdoor adventure. In winter, travelers can ski, snowboard, or snowshoe at well-developed resorts; in summer, they can swim, paddleboard, hike, or simply relax on lakeside beaches. Tahoe’s atmosphere ranges from laid-back and rustic to polished and resort-oriented, making it adaptable to couples, friend groups, and solo travelers seeking both nature and comfort. Despite the cold weather, Lake Tahoe feels like home – with a warm and friendly community ready to welcome people from all walks of life. When it comes to safety, Tahoe’s appeal lies in its clear trail systems, resort infrastructure, and the ability to choose accommodations that feel secure while still close to nature—such as well-reviewed lodges, cabins, or hotels near main town centers.

What ties all of these destinations together is California’s underlying spirit of reinvention and openness. The state is well-suited to travelers who want to mix iconic experiences with local, lived-in moments: grabbing tacos in a neighborhood spot instead of just a famous restaurant, taking a sunrise walk along the bay before a busy sightseeing day, or adding a quiet mountain or lake escape to balance city time. For women and LGBTQ+ travelers especially, California offers a wide range of communities where diversity is part of everyday life, and where thoughtful planning around neighborhoods, transportation, and lodging can create a trip that feels both inspiring and secure. With your on-the-ground experience across these cities and your focus on safety and inclusivity, California becomes not just a destination on a map, but a set of tailored experiences that match each traveler’s comfort level, interests, and dreams.

Florida Travel Agent Specialist

Florida is my home in every sense of the word. I’ve lived here for over 20 years, which means I understand this state far beyond the usual visitor highlights and glossy brochures. I’ve experienced Florida through hurricane seasons, sunrise beach walks, late-night drives on coastal highways, quiet off-season towns, and peak-holiday crowds. That lived experience lets me design trips that aren’t just pretty on paper but truly workable in real life: realistic driving times, smart sequencing of destinations, and the right balance of rest, exploration, and fun.

Over the years, I’ve traveled extensively to many of Florida’s most iconic destinations, including Boca Raton, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, St. Augustine, Orlando, Key West, and Tampa, along with plenty of lesser-known spots in between. Each of these cities has its own vibe—Miami’s high-energy nightlife and diverse neighborhoods feel very different from the historic charm of St. Augustine or the family-friendly buzz of Orlando’s theme parks, and I know how to match those differences to your personality and priorities. Because I know the local nuances—like which areas are more walkable, which beaches are quieter, where traffic can really slow you down, and how the feel of a city shifts between weekday and weekend—I’m able to help you choose not just the right city, but the right part of that city for your stay.

My long-term connection to Florida also means I understand the practical side of travel here: the reality of heat and humidity (one step out the door and you’re already sweating bullets), when afternoon storms are likely, how hurricane season can affect plans, and the best times of year to visit different regions. I’ve learned which experiences are worth the hype and which “must-dos” are skippable depending on your interests. When I build an itinerary, I factor in things like crowd patterns, seasonal events, and how much energy activities really require, so you’re not stuck in endless lines or exhausted from over-packed days. I will hand-craft your experience to your needs; whether you are looking for an adventurous getaway, a relaxing day for some much needed R&R, or a combination of both – your trip will flow in a way that feels intentional.

As a travel advisor who focuses on women and LGBTQ+ travelers, I look at Florida through the lens of comfort, safety, and belonging as much as entertainment. I pay attention to which areas feel more inclusive, which neighborhoods have welcoming dining and nightlife, and which properties take guest care and security seriously. When I recommend where to stay in places like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, or Key West, I’m not just picking based on price or star rating; I’m thinking about how you’ll feel walking back to your hotel at night, what the surrounding area is like, and whether it aligns with your comfort level and preferences. My goal is for you to feel both excited and at ease—able to fully enjoy your vacation without constantly worrying about logistics or safety.

Because I’ve spent so many years living and traveling within Florida, I’m also able to help you connect the dots between destinations in a way that makes sense. Maybe you want to pair beach time in Boca Raton with a cultural and nightlife-focused weekend in Miami, or mix Orlando theme parks with a relaxing end to your trip in Tampa or along the Gulf Coast. I know how to structure those combinations so you’re not backtracking or burning out, and I can offer honest guidance on what’s realistic for your timeline. Whether you’re dreaming of a quick getaway, a road trip, or a longer, slow-paced stay, I bring two decades of local perspective to every recommendation.

When you book your Florida trip with me, you’re not just getting someone who “knows the attractions”—you’re getting a local-level insider who has lived, worked, and played here for most of their life. I use that experience to anticipate the things you might not think to ask, suggest options that truly fit your personality, and design an itinerary that reflects how you want to feel on vacation: relaxed, safe, seen, and genuinely delighted by the places you visit.

Send me a message and let’s get that Florida dream vacation planned for you!

LGBTQ + Travel Agent Expert

Hi, I'm Amanda! Traveling has always been my greatest passion and I love helping others experience the world in ways that feel exciting, authentic, and safe. I specialize in LGBTQ+ vacations, women's getaways, and all-inclusive experiences.

Over the last two decades, I’ve built my life around exploring destinations in a way that feels immersive, safe, and affirming—especially for women and LGBTQ+ travelers who want more than a generic vacation. I’m not just piecing trips together from online reviews and stock photos; I’m drawing from years of lived experience in some of the United States’ most popular regions, plus ongoing research into queer-friendly and women-focused destinations around the world. My goal in every itinerary is simple: you should feel seen, respected, and completely yourself while you travel.

My specialty is crafting tailored vacations for women and LGBTQ+ travelers who value both adventure and safety. Safety is still one of the biggest concerns for solo female travelers and queer travelers, from harassment to local laws and social norms, which can change dramatically from one destination to another. That’s why I stay informed on up-to-date LGBTQ+ friendliness rankings, solo female travel trends, and destination-specific safety guidance, including which countries and cities are more progressive, what local customs to be mindful of, and where travelers have reported feeling most comfortable and welcomed. When I build an itinerary, I consider more than just “Is it beautiful?”—I ask, “Will you feel safe holding hands with your partner? Walking back to your hotel at night? Showing up as yourself?”

LGBTQ+ travelers still face issues like misbooked beds for couples, insensitive service, and properties that don’t truly understand their needs, especially in the luxury space. Women, especially those traveling solo, often weigh decisions about destination choice, timing, and accommodations through a safety lens before they ever hit “book.” I take those realities seriously. That means asking you detailed questions about your comfort level, identities, and priorities; checking supplier reputations and inclusivity; and confirming details like bedding, welcome attitudes, and local legal climates ahead of time so you don’t have to do that emotional labor yourself.

Because I’ve lived and traveled extensively within major U.S. hubs, I’m especially skilled at turning big, complex destinations into trips that feel manageable and personalized. In places like New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, and San Francisco, I help you choose the right neighborhoods, not just the right city—balancing access to sights with walkability, nightlife, and a general sense of comfort and safety. I think about things like how long it really takes to get from one area to another, how to cluster experiences so your days flow naturally, and how to build in downtime so you can actually enjoy the destination rather than just check boxes. For more relaxed spots like Lake Tahoe, Key West, wine regions, or smaller coastal towns, I focus on pairing the right style of lodging and activities with your desired pace, whether that’s active adventure, slow wellness, or something in between.

Many of my clients come to me because they’re tired of wondering, “Is this destination actually safe for someone like me?” or “Will I feel out of place here?” The reality is that LGBTQ+ and women travelers often adjust their plans based on perceived risk, avoiding certain regions or experiences altogether. My role is to take that worry seriously and respond with both empathy and expertise. I research legal environments, social attitudes, and on-the-ground stories; I leverage vetted partners who understand inclusive travel; and I combine that knowledge with my personal experiences as a woman who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community in diverse U.S. cities and beyond to offer you clear, honest guidance. You’ll always know why a destination or hotel is being recommended for you—not just that it’s “popular,” but that it aligns with your identity, values, and comfort.

Ultimately, I believe that everyone deserves to travel boldly and safely. I have vast experience traveling all across the US, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Soon, I'll be exploring a wide array of countries across Europe, Africa, and Asia. As a woman who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community, my mission is to use these first-hand travel experiences to create tailor-made trips where you can relax, be yourself, and explore with confidence. Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a romantic getaway, a friends’ trip, or a hosted group journey, you can expect itineraries that are deeply researched, personally informed, and tailored to how you want to feel on the road: confident, welcome, and completely yourself.

Lake Tahoe, California Destination Specialist

Lake Tahoe, California is an alpine paradise wrapped in one breathtaking lake. When you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by crystal-clear waters framed by Sierra Nevada peaks, pine forests, and year-round adventure that feels both wild and accessible. Straddling the California-Nevada line, Tahoe offers four distinct seasons: snowy winter wonderlands for skiing, summer beaches for paddling and hiking, vibrant fall foliage, and spring wildflower blooms along 72 miles of shoreline. 

South Lake Tahoe buzzes with energy—think Heavenly Resort gondola rides, bustling casino nightlife (on the NV side), and family-friendly spots like Emerald Bay State Park, where Vikingsholm Castle and Inspiration Point deliver postcard views. For a quieter vibe, head to Tahoe City or Homewood on the West Shore: cozy lodges, uncrowded beaches, and trails like Eagle Falls that lead to cascading waterfalls. North Tahoe’s Kings Beach offers laid-back lakeside dining, paddleboarding, and mountain biking, while the East Shore’s Sand Harbor dazzles with turquoise coves perfect for kayaking. 

Winter brings world-class skiing at resorts like Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley, Olympic host), Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood—beginner slopes to black diamonds, plus après-ski scenes from rustic pubs to upscale chalets. Summer shines for watersports: rent boats, SUPs, or jet skis; hike the Rubicon Trail for epic lake panoramas; or mountain bike Flume Trail. Year-round, hot air balloon rides, scenic drives on Highway 89, and boat cruises reveal Tahoe’s magic from every angle. 

For women and LGBTQ+ travelers, Tahoe feels welcoming and safe with its progressive ski-town culture, inclusive resorts, and low-key vibe. Stay in well-lit town centers like South Lake Tahoe or Tahoe City for evening walks; book LGBTQ-friendly spots like the Basecamp Hotel or Edgewood Tahoe; opt for women-led yoga retreats or group-friendly cabins. I’ve experienced Tahoe’s realities firsthand—after six years in California, including visits here—knowing winter road conditions, summer crowds, best shoulder-season deals, and how to pace multi-day itineraries so you savor without exhaustion. 

From my time exploring its trails, beaches, and slopes, I craft trips that match your comfort: romantic cabin getaways with hot tubs and fireplaces; active women’s groups with guided hikes and spa recovery; LGBTQ+ couples’ ski weekends with queer-friendly nightlife. Whether chasing powder days, lakeside sunsets, or forest escapes, Tahoe with me means insider routes, vetted stays, and peace of mind. Reach out today and let’s plan your perfect Tahoe chapter.