Dr Andrew Merling

Meet Dr. Andrew Merling

Travel has always been more than a hobby for me—it has been a lifelong passion and creative outlet. Long before I became a luxury travel advisor, I was the person friends, family, and colleagues turned to when they wanted an unforgettable trip. They knew I had a talent for finding exceptional hotels, extraordinary restaurants, unique local experiences, and hidden gems that most travelers never discover. Planning those journeys became something I genuinely loved, and eventually that passion led me to join Fora Travel.

By profession, I am a Clinical Psychologist in New York City. While psychology and luxury travel may seem like very different worlds, they actually complement each other remarkably well. My career has taught me how to listen carefully, understand people’s unique personalities and preferences, anticipate their needs, and appreciate that no two individuals experience the world in the same way. Those same skills now shape every itinerary I create.

I specialize in luxury and premium travel, designing personalized experiences that are as seamless as they are memorable. Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant European itinerary, a luxury cruise, an exclusive resort, or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, I believe the smallest details often make the biggest difference.

My planning style is meticulous. I enjoy researching every aspect of a destination—from the finest hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants to neighborhood cafés, private guides, transportation logistics, and experiences that reflect the authentic character of a place. The result is a journey that feels effortless because every detail has been thoughtfully considered in advance.

I also understand that every traveler has different needs. Some clients simply want access to exceptional hotels with VIP amenities, preferred rates, complimentary upgrades, and other exclusive Fora partner benefits. Others want a fully customized itinerary that includes daily sightseeing plans, restaurant recommendations, transportation, private tours, and insider suggestions. Whether you need a simple hotel reservation or comprehensive trip planning from start to finish, I’m happy to tailor my services to your preferences.

As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I also enjoy helping LGBTQ+ travelers plan vacations where they can feel welcomed, celebrated, and completely at ease. Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon, an anniversary trip, an LGBTQ+-friendly destination, or simply want guidance from someone who understands the nuances of inclusive travel, I’m committed to helping you create an experience that’s both luxurious and authentic.

Clients describe me as exceptionally detail-oriented, responsive, organized, and genuinely invested in making every trip special. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all vacations. I believe luxury travel should reflect who you are, what inspires you, and how you want to experience the world.

My goal is simple: to create journeys that are not only beautifully planned, but deeply personal—so you can relax, immerse yourself in the destination, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Luxury travel isn’t just about where you stay—it’s about how every moment of your journey comes together.