Travel Consultant Tuesday: Stephanie Luskin

In this week's edition of #TravelConsultantTuesday, we sat down with Synergy International Travels Stamford Team Leader, Stephanie Luskin. Check out our full interview to learn more about her expertise in the Caribbean plus where she's crossing off her bucketlist next week.

What inspired you to become a Synergy International Travels consultant?
I always knew that I wanted to have a career that enabled me to travel and experience different parts of the world. Growing up, I had traveled domestically to places like Oregon and Montana which gave me a taste for travel. So, as I pursued my International Business degree, I participated in the Disney College Program and studied abroad to expand my view of the world.

When studying in New Zealand, Stephanie was able to truly connect with the local Kiwi culture.

My first exchange program was centered on a course I took in New Zealand, called “The Study of Culture and Leisure.” We were able to immerse ourselves in the local culture, visit the North and South Islands, and even bungee jump! Then, I went to Costa Rica to work on my Spanish minor. I spent the semester studying and interning at the Marriott. So, when I graduated and learned more about an opportunity to work with Synergy International Travels , I was hooked.

After her time spent living and working in Costa Rica, "pura vida" has taken on a whole new meaning for Stephanie.

We see that you’ve traveled to 16 countries, that’s impressive! Where do you specialize in sending customers?
The Caribbean is my specialty. I’ve visited eight islands so far, but Jamaica is truly my favorite. To me, it always comes back to the people. Their service and approach to hospitality makes visitors truly feel at home. Not to mention, the food is so delicious!

Stephanie captured this epic shot in Negril during one of her recent trips to Jamaica.

How do you help travelers decide which part of the Caribbean (or Mexico) is the right fit for them when they need a beach getaway?
By working with a travel consultant, you’re going to be paired not only with the destination that’s right for you, but also the perfect resort. I discuss aspects of travel with my clients beyond where they want to visit so that I can get a better understanding of the distinct “vibe” you’re looking for on vacation. Then, once we’ve identified the right resort for you, I can help match you up with activities that are going to make for the optimal experience.

As a travel expert, Stephanie's knowledge of a destination extends into the best excursions to explore a destination.

What are the other advantages to booking with you versus online?
When you book with me, you have access to an expert with first-hand experience all over the globe. Beyond the places I’ve visited personally, I've had training and researched countless more. If there is something I need more information about, I have a team of colleagues and experts I can get in touch with to ask questions, so we can always provide you with the most up-to-date information. Not to mention, we never charge any additional fees on our packages. Plus, if you do have an emergency, you can contact my Stamford (CT) location 7-days a week or our 24/7 emergency support line if it’s after hours.

Having visited bucketlist spots as far-flung as the Taj Mahal, Stephanie is able to consult her clients on travel questions of all kinds.

What destinations will you be crossing off your bucketlist in 2018?
The next big trip I have planned is in Ireland over Saint Patrick’s Day. I’m doing a big self-drive itinerary which we’re really excited about, especially now that it’s just a couple weeks away! We’ll be driving from Dublin to Galway, then we’ll do a tour before driving south to Killarney. That’s where we’ll be on St. Patty’s Day before traveling back to Dublin!

With a big self-drive of Ireland on the horizon, Stephanie is set to add knowledge of another country to her repertoire.

What do you think people would be most surprised to learn about your role as a travel consultant?
People often think that travel consultants can’t do anything beyond what’s available online. But what they don’t recognize is how many years of destination and resort knowledge we have collected. Our shared passion for this industry translates into our work both when we’re in the office and traveling ourselves. When we visit a destination, we look at it with a different set of – often very critical – eyes compared to your average traveler. As travel consultants, we’re excited to take time out of our personal vacations to meet with sales managers and tour properties so that we can learn the nuances of each resort. It’s not uncommon that we’ll visit two or three hotels in one vacation! We do all of this so that we can enhance our expertise and make sure that you are getting the best experience as our customer.

When Stephanie visits a new destination, she is sure to schedule resort tours so that she returns home with an understanding of room categories and amenities on property.

Where can travelers connect with you to start planning their next vacation?
I'm available via email at LuskinS@Synergy travel or phone at 203-357-1300. Or, if you're in the Stamford, Connecticut area, I'd love to schedule an in-person consultation in our office. I look forward to helping plan your next amazing travel experience.