Emily Hegenberger
Based in Greater Chicago Area
Speaks English
Emily Hegenberger
Ask me about
My Story
Happiest on the slopes, in the water, or someplace I've never been! Capturing travel memories is my way of sharing the joy of discovery and maybe inspiring others to pack their bags too.
My Travel Style
I’m Emily Hegenberger, founder of GCG Travel. At the heart of my philosophy is the idea of seeing the world through globe-colored-glasses. It’s about embracing the richness, perspective, and joy that only travel can provide. It represents approaching travel with curiosity and embracing the transformative experiences that come from exploring new places and cultures. I have traveled to 35 countries, across six continents and 45 states. Each journey deepening my appreciation for the connections and insights that travel creates.
While I have been fortunate to experience many places firsthand, no one person can know every destination in depth. That’s why I rely on a global network of trusted partners and on the ground experts with deeply informed local knowledge. I design journeys that tell a story and create lasting memories. Hopefully, opening doors to new ways of seeing the world—not only while traveling, but also upon returning home.
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My reviews (8)
David H.
2 months ago
David H.
2 months ago
David H.
3 months ago
Emily was excellent in offering several great alternatives. She was helpful in answering our questions and provided great service.
Gail K.
3 months ago
Five stars!!! Emily made our Healdsburg trip effortless. She found us an incredible house that fit our group, budget, and vibe. Then she built a wine itinerary that mixed must-see estates with smaller, hard-to-book spots. Every detail was covered: driver, lunch, etc. When plans shifted, she adjusted incredibly fast. We felt like insiders the whole time. If you want a seamless, stress-free vacation, hire Emily. I definitely plan on enlisting Emily's help for my next trip!
Leslie B.
4 months ago
Emily was great to work with! She was very attentive throughout. She helped us find an incredible destination and checked in to make sure we had everything booked in advance. She is part of the reason our experience was so great!!
David H.
2 months ago
David H.
2 months ago
David H.
3 months ago
Emily was excellent in offering several great alternatives. She was helpful in answering our questions and provided great service.
Gail K.
3 months ago
Five stars!!! Emily made our Healdsburg trip effortless. She found us an incredible house that fit our group, budget, and vibe. Then she built a wine itinerary that mixed must-see estates with smaller, hard-to-book spots. Every detail was covered: driver, lunch, etc. When plans shifted, she adjusted incredibly fast. We felt like insiders the whole time. If you want a seamless, stress-free vacation, hire Emily. I definitely plan on enlisting Emily's help for my next trip!
My travel ideas (1)
Multigenerational Safari in Kenya: East Africa with the Extended Family
Journeying to East Africa—the birthplace of humanity—is like traveling back to where it all began. For me, it’s more than a destination, it’s a reminder of our shared connection to this planet and the life we share it with. Every ethical safari supports local communities, sustains conservation efforts, and helps ensure that these animals, our planet’s last great wild creatures, remain safe in their natural home. For my family, traveling together through East Africa became one of the most meaningful of our shared experiences. Many travelers describe a feeling of home in Africa. I now understand exactly what they mean.
Multigenerational Safari in Kenya: East Africa with the Extended Family
Journeying to East Africa—the birthplace of humanity—is like traveling back to where it all began. For me, it’s more than a destination, it’s a reminder of our shared connection to this planet and the life we share it with. Every ethical safari supports local communities, sustains conservation efforts, and helps ensure that these animals, our planet’s last great wild creatures, remain safe in their natural home. For my family, traveling together through East Africa became one of the most meaningful of our shared experiences. Many travelers describe a feeling of home in Africa. I now understand exactly what they mean.
Multigenerational Safari in Kenya: East Africa with the Extended Family
Journeying to East Africa—the birthplace of humanity—is like traveling back to where it all began. For me, it’s more than a destination, it’s a reminder of our shared connection to this planet and the life we share it with. Every ethical safari supports local communities, sustains conservation efforts, and helps ensure that these animals, our planet’s last great wild creatures, remain safe in their natural home. For my family, traveling together through East Africa became one of the most meaningful of our shared experiences. Many travelers describe a feeling of home in Africa. I now understand exactly what they mean.
Multigenerational Safari in Kenya: East Africa with the Extended Family
Journeying to East Africa—the birthplace of humanity—is like traveling back to where it all began. For me, it’s more than a destination, it’s a reminder of our shared connection to this planet and the life we share it with. Every ethical safari supports local communities, sustains conservation efforts, and helps ensure that these animals, our planet’s last great wild creatures, remain safe in their natural home. For my family, traveling together through East Africa became one of the most meaningful of our shared experiences. Many travelers describe a feeling of home in Africa. I now understand exactly what they mean.
My travel photos
