Indonesia

Emily Stewart

Chicago, IL Travel Agent

(21 reviews)
I have travelled to 20+ countries after my first study abroad experience in the Gold Coast of Queensland Australia. I have hands on experience backpacking and solo travelling in a number of destinations including Europe, Southeast Asia and Morocco. These experiences were deeply enriching to me and I would love to share the wisdom I acquired while on my travels. Whether it be recommending a neighborhood off the beaten path or finding you the perfect custom nature trek-- I have all the resources and tools to make your upcoming trip unforgettable! In booking your perfect getaway, I specialize in: arts & culture, foodie/gastronomy, spirituality & introspection, health & relaxation (spa) and nature. My goal is to connect you to experiences where your desires and passions unite while embracing the beauty of the unknown. I can't wait to book your next adventure.

Specializations

Byron Bay Travel Agent Specialist

Byron Bay is a competitor in best hippy spots, part surf town, part spiritual escape, part music-fueled playground. I’ve...

Byron Bay Travel Agent Specialist

Byron Bay is a competitor in best hippy spots, part surf town, part spiritual escape, part music-fueled playground. I’ve spent enough time there to know it’s not just about what you do, but how you feel while you’re doing it. And if you want to experience Byron properly — not just tick off tourist spots, but really live it. I can help you build a trip that hits all the right notes.

I’ve stayed in everything from beachy hostels filled with travelers swapping stories in the kitchen, to more tucked-away spots that feel like a true retreat. I’ve walked the lighthouse trail at sunrise, watching the first light hit the most easterly point of Australia, dolphins surfing the waves below. It’s one of those simple moments that sticks with you forever.

If you’re learning to surf, there’s no better place to start. Byron’s breaks are beginner-friendly but full of life. There’s something magical about standing up on your board for the first time while locals cheer you on like they’ve known you for years. (They probably have because Byron’s like that.)

The nightlife here is surprisingly electric for a town this chill. You can start your evening with a beach bonfire or a sunset beer at the Rails, and end up dancing at The Northern or some pop-up warehouse party with a live DJ you’ve never heard of but will definitely be following on Spotify the next day. And the music festivals are next level! From Bluesfest to small grassroots gatherings, Byron knows how to throw a party with soul.

But it’s not all parties and surfboards. There’s a soft, slightly psychedelic undertone here. A hippy spirit that’s never really left. You’ll find it in crystal shops, in the sound healing sessions on the hill, in the barefoot locals selling handmade jewellery at the Sunday market, and in that general vibe that says: take it easy, take your shoes off, take a breath.

Whether you’re looking to find yourself, lose yourself, or just spend a few days somewhere that feels like summer all year round, I know how to plan the perfect Byron escape: surf lessons, beach days, late nights, early hikes, kombucha, and all.

Vietnam Travel Agent Planning Expert

When it comes to planning an unforgettable journey through Vietnam, I bring more than just logistics. I...

Vietnam Travel Agent Planning Expert

When it comes to planning an unforgettable journey through Vietnam, I bring more than just logistics. I bring lived experience, personal connection, and a deep love for this vibrant, complex, and endlessly fascinating country.

From the moment I arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, dodging scooters and biting into a $2 bánh mì from a street cart that blew my mind, I knew Vietnam had its hooks in me. I’ve ridden the iconic coastal train, watching rice paddies blur into ocean views, stopped off in beach towns like Nha Trang to swim in turquoise waters, and even bought hand-painted artwork from a vendor who just happened to walk by at the right time.

My journeys have taken me from the buzzing energy of Hanoi, where I wandered the Vietnamese Fine Arts Museum and fell in love with the depth of modern Vietnamese creativity — to the quiet majesty of Ha Long Bay, floating through ancient limestone caves that feel like another world entirely.

Along the way, I’ve met travelers from every corner of the globe & sharing stories over egg coffee, laughing on overnight trains, and always, always eating. Vietnamese food is not just a highlight, it’s a reason to travel all on its own. Whether it’s delicate bowls of ph?, smoky grilled meats wrapped in fresh herbs, or fiery dipping sauces that make your eyes water and your heart race, I know where to find the real thing — and how to plan a trip around it.

Vietnam is not a check off the list, it's a place I understand now. And when I plan a trip for you, it’s personal. Whether you're after high-energy cities, peaceful beaches, cultural deep-dives, or just really, really good food, I’ll build an itinerary that’s thoughtful, balanced, and full of moments you’ll never forget.

Let’s design your dream trip through Vietnam... one motorbike ride, night market, and seaside sunrise at a time.

Key West Travel Agent Expert

Why I Keep Coming Back to Key West (And Why You Should, Too) There are places you...

Key West Travel Agent Expert

Why I Keep Coming Back to Key West (And Why You Should, Too)

There are places you visit once and love, and then there are places that become a part of who you are. For me, that’s Key West. I’ve been coming here since I was a little girl, packed into the backseat of the family car with sand already in my shoes before we hit the Seven Mile Bridge. Now, as an adult, I still come back almost every year. The island just has a grip on me. Frankly, I’m not trying to break free.

There’s a kind of magic to Key West that’s hard to describe unless you’ve felt it: the way roosters casually strut across the street like they own the place (because they kind of do), the sudden urge to ditch your shoes the second you arrive, and the fact that you can ride your bike in a swimsuit and no one bats an eye.

And speaking of bikes, riding around Key West is still one of my favorite things to do. I usually start my mornings with a slow roll through the quiet streets before the heat kicks in. If you’ve never done Lloyd’s Bike Tour, do it. Lloyd is a local legend. His tour is part history, part improv, part comedy show. One minute you're smelling jasmine, the next you're stopping to meet a random turtle or taste a key lime cookie. It's as Key West as it gets.

Then there’s Duval Street. A place where the party never really ends, it just changes shape depending on the hour. One night you’re sipping wine on a balcony with a live jazz band playing below… and the next you’re barefoot in a dive bar, singing karaoke with a guy who swears he used to tour with Jimmy Buffett. Honestly, both are perfect.

Food-wise? Let’s be clear: Key West is a snacker's paradise. There are almost too many amazing spots to name, but you have to try the conch fritters. Golden, crunchy, salty. And as for key lime pie. Nowhere else does it right. It's creamy, tart, with the perfect graham cracker crust, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get it topped with a mile-high cloud of meringue. I was more of a fan of whipped cream but that is just me.

When I’m not eating or biking or chasing roosters, I’m out on the water. Whether it’s snorkeling over technicolor reefs, sailing on a sunset cruise with a plastic cup of rum punch, or just floating in the turquoise shallows, the water in Key West is the kind of clear that makes you rethink your whole life. I’ve had moments out there where I genuinely forgot what day it was, and I think that’s kind of the point.

And then there are the random little things that make Key West feel like a fever dream in the best way: the guy walking a parrot on his shoulder down Whitehead Street. The backyard chickens that sound off at 6 a.m. like clockwork. The endless choices of hot sauce at every table. The giant metal manatee mailbox I’ve passed for years and silently high-fived in my mind.

But it’s not just the quirks or the sunshine or the pie. It’s the people. There’s a kind of laid-back, no-rush, tell-me-your-story energy here that’s rare. Strangers become friends over drinks. Locals give directions like they’ve known you for years. There’s a southern hospitality here, mixed with that chill island vibe that you just can’t fake.

And maybe that's why I love planning trips to Key West. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, I can help you skip the guesswork and go straight to the good stuff: the hole-in-the-wall restaurants, the sunset catamaran that doesn’t feel touristy, the local artist’s studio hidden behind the coffee shop, the perfect time of day to bike to Fort Zachary for a swim.

Because Key West isn’t just a vacation for me. It’s a ritual, a memory in motion, a place I return to when I need sunshine, music, good food, and to feel just a little more human.

Once you go, you’ll start coming back, too.

Japan Travel Agent Specialist

If you’re dreaming of Japan, I can help you live it because it was one of my...

Japan Travel Agent Specialist

If you’re dreaming of Japan, I can help you live it because it was one of my absolute favorite travel destinations! From the moment I checked into the iconic Park Hyatt Tokyo, with its sweeping skyline views and Lost in Translation mystique, I knew I was in for something unforgettable. My trip wasn’t just a tour; it was a full immersion into the core of Tokyo, during the most magical time of year: cherry blossom season.

One night I was seated at Sukiyabashi Jiro, the legendary sushi temple made famous by Jiro Dreams of Sushi, savoring every bite of perfect rice and impossibly fresh fish... and the next, I was deep in a neon-lit game of laser tag in the backstreets of Shinjuku, laughing until I couldn’t breathe. That’s the beauty of Japan: quiet tradition and electric chaos, existing side by side.

I shared this trip with a special friend, and we made the most of every moment — from sipping sake at tiny, tucked-away izakayas to dancing into the early hours at WOMB, one of Tokyo’s most legendary underground nightclubs. The music, the energy, the people — it was the kind of night that doesn’t need translation.

That mix of high-end, hidden-gem, and totally spontaneous? That’s what I bring to every trip I plan. Whether you want to trace cherry blossoms through Kyoto, eat like royalty in Tokyo, or uncover the side of Japan most tourists miss, I know how to build a trip that feels personal, exciting, and unforgettable, because I’ve been there, and I lived it.

Why I Love Rome (Rome Destination Expert)

There are few places in the world as magical, beautiful, and transformative as Rome. This city stole...

Why I Love Rome (Rome Destination Expert)

There are few places in the world as magical, beautiful, and transformative as Rome. This city stole my heart from the very first moment, through its food, art, and history. Walking its streets feels like stepping into a living museum, where every corner holds a story and every meal is a love letter to passion.

The Art and History That Inspire the Soul

Rome is inseparable from the Renaissance. The paintings in the Vatican will absolutely floor you. Works so detailed and divine, you can hardly believe human hands created them. As an artist, I found myself moved to the core by the energy of these masterpieces. Legends like Michelangelo poured their genius into walls and ceilings that still radiate power centuries later.And it’s not just the art, the architecture is mind-blowing. The Colosseum and the Pantheon stand as testaments to Italian mastery of math, engineering, and design. To stand before them is to witness the brilliance of a civilization that built structures meant to last forever.

A City of Flavor and Passion

Of course, Rome is just as famous for its food as it is for its art. Italians live for flavor, and no dish embodies that more than pasta. While classics like cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana, and gricia are must-tries, my favorite is Zozzona—the most savory, indulgent, and unforgettable pasta you’ll ever eat.Pair that with world-class coffee and chocolate, and you’ll taste Rome’s soul in every bite and sip. Espresso in Italy is an experience: no lingering at a table. Just a quick order, a quick delivery, and a quick shot at the bar. Don’t forget to say Grazie before walking out! Breakfast is simple but special, sweet pastries from bakeries that could double as art galleries. Or, if you want something savory, try a pizzette (a mini pizza).

The Language, Style, and Energy

Italian isn’t just spoken, it’s performed. Every word is enriched by the hands, eyes, and heart of the person speaking it. It’s as melodic as the city itself.Shopping in Rome is another adventure. From timeless designer fashion to artisanal leather goods, you’ll find styles and craftsmanship you won’t see anywhere else in the world.For adventure? Hop on a scooter or rent a moped. There’s no better way to explore the winding streets and hidden gems of Rome.

My Experience in Rome

I stayed in Trastevere, a charming neighborhood buzzing with life, and just a short walk from the famous Trevi Fountain. Tossing a coin into its waters is more than a ritual. It’s a promise that you’ll return to Rome. And trust me, you will want to return.

Why You Should Let Me Book Your Rome Adventure

Rome is an experience that will change you. Between the food, the art, the history, and the people, you’ll find yourself falling in love over and over again. I don’t just book trips, I create tailored experiences. With me, you won’t just “see” Rome; you’ll feel it. I’ll guide you to the best local eats, the most inspiring sights, and those unforgettable little cultural details that most tourists miss.

Rome stole my heart, and I’d love to help it steal yours too. Let’s book your Roman adventure today.

Oaxaca Travel Agent Expert

With firsthand experience living in Puerto Escondido, I can tell you it's the perfect destination for adventure,...

Oaxaca Travel Agent Expert

With firsthand experience living in Puerto Escondido, I can tell you it's the perfect destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant local traditions, Puerto Escondido offers a unique experience that combines the best of both worlds.

As someone who spent time immersing myself in the local culture, I know the ins and outs of this coastal gem. I can guide you to the best surf spots—trust me, it's not all about Zicatela! For beginners, I highly recommend Carrazallio and La Punta. Whether you're learning to ride your first wave or perfecting your skills, these beaches are ideal for all levels. Plus, I’ll show you how to get around like a local, including navigating the collectivos (local buses) to make sure you’re always in the right place at the right time.

When it comes to food, Puerto Escondido is a paradise for your taste buds. As a fan of authentic Mexican cuisine, I had my fill of incredible breakfasts—think chilaquiles topped with sour cream and avocado. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the fruit—it’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. I can direct you to the best local spots for fresh, flavorful meals.

Beyond the beaches and food, Puerto Escondido’s charm extends to its artistic community. I lived near an art gallery and studio where I got to paint alongside the talented owner. The vibrant local art scene is something that truly inspired me, and I’m excited to share some of the best local artists with you. If you're into creativity, this is the place to explore and find your own artistic flow.

The culture is rich, and the connection to nature is profound. I had the opportunity to experience plant medicine in San José del Pacífico and the magical, free-spirited energy of Zipolite. With my experience, I can also help you connect with the local traditions, whether it's participating in a sound bath, burning copal for spiritual cleansing, or savoring a homemade mole. Every part of Puerto Escondido was grounding, nourishing, and deeply connected to the earth.

Whether you’re looking to surf, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply unwind, I can curate a Puerto Escondido experience tailored to your interests and needs. Let me help you discover the magic of this place!

Thailand Travel Agent Planner

My journey through Thailand was nothing short of transformative. From the vibrant energy of Bangkok to the laid-back...

Thailand Travel Agent Planner

My journey through Thailand was nothing short of transformative. From the vibrant energy of Bangkok to the laid-back beaches of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and Koh Samui, I immersed myself in the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the country. I dove off the shores of Koh Samui, swam over coral reefs (and cut my feet doing it), drank fresh coconuts, and shared boat rides with travelers from all over the world. In Koh Phangan, I hiked mountain trails and deepened my yoga practice, which continued during a month-long stay in Chiang Mai. There, I learned to cook Thai food from scratch, including green curry paste—ate countless bowls of amazing Asian cuisine, and connected with a creative community of digital nomads. I painted some of my best artwork, visited serene temples, walked among monks, and explored the depths of vipassana meditation. One of the most unforgettable moments? Laughing uncontrollably during the best Thai massage of my life...until the masseuse laughed along with me. From hidden speakeasies to spiritual stillness, Thailand gave me a little bit of everything. I loved every second of it.

Lake Placid Travel Agent Specialist

Living in Lake Placid During COVID: A Healing Chapter   During the height of the COVID era,...

Lake Placid Travel Agent Specialist

Living in Lake Placid During COVID: A Healing Chapter

 

During the height of the COVID era, I found myself living in Lake Placid for a few months, a small mountain town that became my refuge and reset. Surrounded by the Adirondacks, I discovered how deeply healing nature could be. Daily walks around Mirror Lake, hikes through Henry’s Woods, and spontaneous outdoor adventures,often guided by my high school buddy and her husband’s business, Experience Outdoors that helped ground me in the present and reconnect with something bigger than myself: Mother Earth.

 

What struck me most was how accessible it all was. Lake Placid is not just a luxury resort town, but a realistic and affordable getaway for Americans looking to unplug. The air quality is unparalleled, the forests and mountains are alive with energy, and the water feels sacred. Nature here isn’t just scenery, it’s rich, immersive, and vibrantly alive. Whether you’re paddleboarding at sunrise or walking through golden autumn trails, you feel part of something ancient and essential.

 

The town itself had a warmth I didn’t expect. There are amazing local restaurants, a true family vibe, and a peaceful pace of life that felt like medicine. Lake Placid taught me how to slow down, tune in, and live more intentionally. It wasn’t just a place to escape the hustle it was also a place to connect back to my soul.

Morocco Travel Agent Expert

Morocco is a full blown sensory experience. It’s the scent of orange blossom in the morning, the labyrinth...

Morocco Travel Agent Expert

Morocco is a full blown sensory experience. It’s the scent of orange blossom in the morning, the labyrinth of medinas that twist like riddles, the way mint tea feels sacred after a long day of exploration.

And I know this because I lived it, for a full month, from Agadir to Tangier. I traveled light, but came back full with stories, flavors, friendships, and the kind of insight you can only gain by walking the country on foot.

That’s why I believe I’m the right person to plan your Moroccan journey. Not from a glossy travel brochure, but from lived experience that stretched across cities, mountains, coastlines, and cultures. 

I’ve Done the Journey From the Ground Up

While some people skim Morocco’s surface from luxury resorts, I took the long road: Agadir to Essaouira to Casablanca, then inland to Fez, into the mystic blue of Chefchaouen, and finally to Tangier. Each stop brought something distinct, a different dialect, rhythm, spice, and soul. It was raw, real, and winding. I navigated it with a backpack, a Polish travel companion, and two incredible Moroccan women who welcomed us into their world. With them, I really feel I belonged in Morocco for that short month. And that connection changes everything.

I Know the Medinas 

If you’ve never been inside a Moroccan medina, imagine this: an ancient maze bustling with life. One wrong turn and you’re lost among the scent of cumin, the shimmer of brass lanterns, the tug of merchants with charm as strong as their bargaining skills. But that’s part of the magic. I learned quickly how to navigate the medinas, from dodging faux guides to recognizing fair prices. I can steer you toward the best handmade goods, the authentic textiles, and the shopkeepers who treat you like family, not a dollar sign. I know where to go, and more importantly, where not to. 

I Ate What the Locals Eat

You haven’t tasted Morocco until you’ve sat cross-legged in a local riad kitchen, sharing steaming tagine with your fingers. Or folded a warm msemen flatbread around honey and butter while the call to prayer echoes from a nearby mosque. Tagine, harira soup, mint tea so sweet it could be dessert. I tried it all, from family homes to street vendors. I can guide you toward the real flavors, far from the overpriced tourist menus, and help you avoid the “sightseeing stomach” that many travelers fall prey to. (Pro tip: eat where the locals are eating. Always.)

I Understand the Culture Deeply

Morocco is stunning and spiritually alive. From the chanting of the adhan (call to prayer) that drifts over cities five times a day, to the gentle modesty and strong hospitality of its people, I was constantly learning.Traveling with Moroccan women offered me access to customs I might’ve missed: how women socialize, how to dress respectfully, what is considered polite (and impolite), and how to navigate cultural nuance without offending or misstepping. This means I can design a culturally sensitive itinerary where you’ll feel safe, respected, and welcome as a guest. Not a tourist.

I’ve Seen the Mountains and the Coast

Morocco is a country of contrast. I stood in awe before the reddish cliffs of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, their silence only interrupted by distant goat bells. I wandered Essaouira’s windy Atlantic coast, feeling like I stepped onto a postcard.Whether you want to surf in Taghazout, hike in the Rif Mountains, get lost in Fez’s old city, or ride camels through desert dunes. I’ve done it or I’ve met someone who has. I know how to piece together an itinerary that flows with the land’s natural peaks and valleys.

I Know Where to Sleep, Safely and Beautifully

Riads are where you sleep but they are also portals! Courtyards with fountains,intricate tiles, and rooftop terraces make Moroccan accommodation unlike anywhere else in the world. But not all riads are created equal. Some are overpriced, hard to access, or uncomfortable.Because I stayed in a variety of accommodations—from backpacker hostels to cozy mid-range riads. I can help you find places that balance beauty, location, and price, based on what kind of traveler you are.

Morocco changed me. It humbled me. It taught me that the best travel experiences happen in the in-between moments: haggling in Arabic over a scarf, sipping tea while cats wander around your feet, or watching the sun fall over the mountains with sand still on your shoes.

If you want a trip that’s rich with texture, full of meaning, and totally unforgettable, I’ve got you. Whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie, a spiritual seeker, or someone craving color and life, Morocco is waiting. And I know how to take you there.

Australia Travel Agent Specialist

Let Me Plan Your Trip to Australia! Australia shaped who I am. From the golden shores of Surfers...

Australia Travel Agent Specialist

Let Me Plan Your Trip to Australia!

Australia shaped who I am. From the golden shores of Surfers Paradise to the graffitied alleyways of Melbourne, my time in Australia has been filled with the kind of experiences you carry with you forever. That’s why I believe I’m the perfect person to plan an unforgettable trip to the Land Down Under: I know the country not just from a tourist’s lens, but from living, working, loving, and growing there.

My first encounter with Australia came during a study abroad semester at Griffith University on the Gold Coast. I lived in Surfers Paradise, a name that lived up to every expectation. Between lectures and late-night Tooheys-fueled adventures, I dove into the culture, literally and figuratively. I lived with four Australians who became my first true connection to the country. Through them, I learned Aussie slang, proper meat pie etiquette, and how to appreciate the laid-back lifestyle that defines the coast.

One of my proudest (and most touristy) moments was holding a koala, fulfilling a childhood dream. Another was learning to surf in Byron Bay. Though my attempt was marked by an unfortunate (and visible) booger moment in front of my painfully attractive surf instructor. I still laugh about that day. These moments, while funny and sometimes awkward, are part of what makes Australia so memorable. It invites you to drop your guard and embrace the ride.

Later, I returned to live in Melbourne, a city that matched my creative, eclectic side. I spent 2.5 years between Collingwood and South Yarra, neighborhoods that felt like different worlds yet both so vibrantly Melbourne. I managed a paleo café, where I learned the pulse of daily life and earned regulars who treated me like family. On weekends, I’d head to the 12 Apostles for a taste of grandeur or dance under the stars at bush doofs. Those wild, open-air music festivals that define Aussie subculture.

I fell in love in Australia...both with a person and with life itself. I saw kangaroos in the peaceful countryside and watched the sunrise at Bondi Beach, quietly regretting not jumping into the iconic Icebergs pool. I made friends who became family, whose voices I still hear when I crack open a Tooheys or hear a didgeridoo in the distance.

Australia isn’t just stunning landscapes and exciting cities; it’s the people, the disposition, and the little moments the sunburned noses, Vegemite debates (always a layer on toast WITH butter), and spontaneous road trips. Because I’ve lived these experiences firsthand, I understand how to design a trip that captures the heart and soul of Australia beyond the postcards.

I’ve seen the country from both the inside and outside. I’ve lived like a local and loved like a traveler. I know where the magic hides, whether it’s a beach shack in Byron, a Melbourne laneway café, or a hidden lookout in the bush. I want to share that magic, raw, real, and unforgettable with you! Reach out for more info.

Greece Lefkada (Ionian) Travel Advisor Specialist

Why I’m the Perfect Person to Plan Your Trip to Greece A Love Letter from Someone Who...

Greece Lefkada (Ionian) Travel Advisor Specialist

Why I’m the Perfect Person to Plan Your Trip to Greece

A Love Letter from Someone Who Lived It

When people dream of Greece, they picture whitewashed villages, golden sunsets, and turquoise seas — and while all of that is real, it barely scratches the surface. Greece is a one of a kind place that I was fortunate enough to live in for a few months! From sailing through the Ionian to sipping ouzo with locals, I immersed myself in every part of Greek life. I learned its tendencies, its language, its flavors — and I want to help you experience that side of Greece, too. Not just the picture-perfect one, but the living, breathing, magic-filled one that you carry home with you.

I Lived in a Cat Sanctuary (Yes, Really)

I began my Greek journey in the most unexpected way: surrounded by cats on a hillside overlooking the sea. I lived in a cat sanctuary with dozens of furry companions, each with its own quirks and charm. My days started with morning light spilling through olive trees, coffee in hand, and a few dozen curious eyes watching me stretch. That sanctuary taught me to slow down and live in the present — a lesson that shaped the rest of my time in Greece.

I Learned to Sail in the Ionian

Learning to sail was one of the most exhilarating things I’ve ever done. The Ionian Sea is a dream — calm waters, hidden coves, and islands that rise out of the sea like secrets. I spent days out on the water, learning the ropes from seasoned skippers and exploring bays most tourists never find. Whether you're craving adventure or serenity, a sailing trip in Greece is something I can confidently plan — because I’ve lived it, sunburns, rope burns, and all.

I Learned to Speak (and Feel) the Language

I didn’t become fluent, but I learned to speak with respect and heart. I practiced “efharistó” (thank you) until I could say it like a local — not just as a word, but as a way of connecting. Greeks are warm and generous, and making even a small effort with the language opened up conversations, laughter, and friendships I’ll never forget.

I Swam in Waterfalls and Fell in Love (Maybe More Than Once)

Just outside Nydri is a waterfall I visited often — a quiet little Eden tucked into the trees. I’d go for a dip, journal in the shade, or simply sit and listen to the sound of water on rock. Greece has a way of making even the smallest moment feel like a gift.And yes, I kissed a few Greek men. There’s something about the romance of Greece — the way the stars hang low, the sea breeze wraps around you, and the people flirt like poets. It’s not always about grand love stories, but about letting yourself be open to beauty, connection, and the unexpected.

I Fell in Love With the Beaches

Let’s talk about the beaches — because they deserve their own love letter. Desimi was my quiet escape, a peaceful bay where the water was as calm as glass. I swam and floated, often with no one else around. Porto Katsiki, framed by stunning cliffs and brilliant turquoise waters, was dramatic and cinematic — a place that made me gasp every time I saw it. Nydri Beach was my daily favorite, perfect for a post-painting dip or lazy afternoon sunbathing. Vliho and Perigali offered a more local, laid-back feel, where the Ionian Sea lapped gently at the shore and time seemed to stretch. These beaches aren’t just beautiful — they’re soulful, and I know exactly when and how to enjoy them without the crowds.

I Painted, Practiced Yoga, and Ate Like a Goddess

Greece gave me the space to reconnect with myself. I deepened my kundalini yoga practice in open-air spaces, painted daily, and found inspiration in every shade of blue. I also spent time in local kitchens learning to cook pastitsio (a savory pie I dream about to this day) and classic, comforting moussaka.The meals? Unreal. Whether it was grilled octopus on the water, buttery spanakopita in a stone courtyard, or a spoonful of honey-drenched loukoumades, I ate with joy and gratitude. I sipped ouzo, clinked glasses with expats and locals, and learned how much of Greek life happens around the table.

I Worked Remotely and Built a Life

Even in the midst of paradise, life kept going — and I kept teaching English from my laptop. I juggled Wi-Fi connections, time zones, and lesson plans, and in the process, learned how to blend work with wanderlust. I can help you do the same — whether you're looking to work remotely, take a creative sabbatical, or simply find a place to pause and dream again.

 

So... I’ve done it. I didn’t just skim the surface — I dove in, heart first. I’ve lived the quiet mornings, the thrilling adventures, the odd missteps, and the unforgettable moments that make Greece more than a vacation spot — they make it a story worth telling.Whether you want to hop islands, find the best hidden beach, eat like a local, or unplug completely, I know how to design an experience that’s deeply personal and completely unforgettable.Let me help you fall in love with Greece — with an open heart.

Destination Specialties

Bangkok

East and Southeast Asia

Casablanca

Africa

Corfu

Europe

Da Nang

East and Southeast Asia

Florence

Europe

Ho Chi Minh City

East and Southeast Asia

Huatulco

Mexico

Key West

USA

Melbourne

Australia & New Zealand

Osaka

East and Southeast Asia

Phuket

East and Southeast Asia

Rome

Europe

Sydney

Australia & New Zealand

Tangier

Africa

Tokyo

East and Southeast Asia

Hanoi

East and Southeast Asia

Key Largo

USA

Kyoto

East and Southeast Asia

Lake Placid

USA

Marathon

USA

Marrakesh

Africa

Milan

Europe

Montreal

Canada

Puerto Escondido

Mexico

Whitsunday Island

Australia & New Zealand

Zakinthos

Europe

Australia & New Zealand

Morocco

Africa

Australia

Australia & New Zealand

Japan

East and Southeast Asia

Thailand

East and Southeast Asia

Vietnam

East and Southeast Asia

Italy

Europe

Greece

Europe

New York

USA

Essaouira

Africa

Byron Bay

Australia & New Zealand

Monte Alban

Mexico

Koh Samui

East and Southeast Asia

Surfers Paradise

Australia & New Zealand

Islamorada

USA

Duck Key

USA

Mexico

Oaxaca

Mexico

Saranac Lake

USA

Burlington

USA

Ha Long Bay

East and Southeast Asia

Cephalonia

Europe

Vatican City

Europe

Koh Phi Phi

East and Southeast Asia

Lefkada

Europe

Tokyo Disneyland

East and Southeast Asia

Queensland

Australia & New Zealand

Reviews

(21 reviews)

Chi-Town

Reviewed By Griffin T - Dallas, Texas | Traveled to Chicago | Illinois | USA

Thanks Emily for a well planned weekend in Chicago. We are all married with kids and wanted to plan a trip away. She recommended the best restaurants (Chicago's food scene is unreal) —we all left a few pounds heavier. Luckily we didn't have any flying delays. 5 stars!

EMILY STEWART RESPONDED

"My pleasure! So glad you enjoyed yourself."

Perfect Trip to Lefkada

Reviewed By Priscilla Trent - New York | Traveled to Lefkada | Greece | Europe

Emily coordinated a trip for my family to go to Lefkada-- and it was incredible. We loved the greenery that the Ionian side of Greece offered. From the amazing food to the breathtaking landscapes, this was exactly what we needed to escape the hustle and bustle of the City. Thanks Emily!

Fun Times in Brooklyn

Reviewed By Tiffany R. - Alabama | Traveled to Brooklyn | New York | USA

I went to Brooklyn to visit some friends from college and reached out to Emily to help me find a hotel, flight, and recommend a few things to do. Overall the trip was great and all went smoothly! Thank you!!

Arts in Berlin!

Reviewed By Becky Vlaho - New York | Traveled to Berlin | Germany | Europe

I travelled solo to Berlin to get some inspiration for my art. With Emily's recommednations and bookings I wanted to stay weeks longer!! Overall, it was great and appreciate it so much.

Trip down to SB

Reviewed By Xavier - Bay Area | Traveled to Santa Barbara | California | USA

We live in the bay area so aren't very far away from Santa Barbara. We wanted to get away from the kids for a romantic anniversary weekend. Emily is quite the romantic herself!! She planned couples massages, an intimate dinner and a wine tour! The best part? On the wine tour I was connected with an old friend from the reserves. Small world! The only thing I would have changed was the checkout said Noon and they wanted us out by 11, but it ended up being ok.

Amazing Time Down Under

Reviewed By Rory Spellman - Connecticut | Traveled to Queensland | Australia | Australia & New Zealand

We had an incredible experience booking with Emily on our trip to Australia. This was our first time going and her expertise from studying and living there helped a lot. We checked out some of the best spots on the East Coast. Our favorite place was Byron Bay-- you have to go! It was amazing to not worry about the details. Would book with her again.

Best Honeymoon Trip

Reviewed By Cameron Blavatsky - Chicago | Traveled to Costa Rica | Central America

We’re not fancy-resort people but we wanted adventure, nature, and something real for our honeymoon. Emily totally got us. They planned an unforgettable trip through Costa Rica, with just the right mix of wild and cozy. Our time near Arenal was incredible like hiking through lush jungle, soaking in hot springs, and waking up to howler monkeys and volcano views. Every place we stayed had character, charm, and a deep connection to the landscape. We spent our days chasing waterfalls, spotting sloths, and eating amazing local food, and never once had to stress about logistics. Emily made everything smooth and simple, so we could just be in the moment. This was the perfect start to our married life with muddy boots, big smiles, and jungle magic.

Back to My Roots

Reviewed By Dara & Lina - New York | Traveled to Cambodia | East and Southeast Asia

Visiting Cambodia was more than a vacation for us, it was a deeply personal journey. Emily understood that from the start and treated our trip with so much care and thoughtfulness. We spent a few days in Phnom Penh, where Emily helped us blend meaningful family visits with time to explore the city — from the Royal Palace to hidden street food gems that tasted like our childhood memories. It was emotional and raw and we loved it. From there, we traveled to Siem Reap to finally see the temples we’d heard about our whole lives. Exploring Angkor Wat at sunrise was something we’ll never forget — it felt spiritual, grounding, and awe-inspiring all at once. This trip helped us reconnect with our heritage in ways we didn’t know we needed. We felt supported every step of the way, and completely at peace knowing everything was handled with care. Thank you, Emily, for helping us come home.

Solo in Japan

Reviewed By NinatheNomad - Hawaii | Traveled to Japan | East and Southeast Asia

As a solo traveler, I’m picky — and Emily got it. Every train, ryokan, and ramen stop felt curated just for me. Japan was smooth, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Family Trip to the Keys

Reviewed By The Johnsons - Conneticut | Traveled to Key West | Florida | USA

Emily planned the perfect family escape. We snorkeled, wateched sunsets, and ate conch fritters galore! Everything was easy, fun, and totally stress-free. The kids didn’t want to leave, which was so satisfying for us.

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