Helen Stephan
Based in New York
Helen Stephan
Ask me about
My Story
Originally from Australia, I’ve called New York City home for the past 22 years. A lifelong traveler, I’ve explored 49 US states and 51 countries, and counting. As a mother of two teenagers, I understand the joys and challenges of family travel, but I also love every kind of journey—from cultural deep dives and adventurous escapes to simply relaxing on a beautiful beach.
Travel Style
I’m passionate about adventure, culture, and food. When I travel, I love crafting a mix of iconic sights with hidden gems. I am always up for traveling somewhere new, but I also love to revisit old favorites. Having traveled extensively with my teenage children to destinations like Brazil, Bulgaria, Peru, and Lithuania, I bring first-hand experience in creating enriching itineraries that work for families as well as solo travelers, couples, and groups. I believe travel planning should feel exciting, not stressful. My meticulous attention to detail allows me to create seamless, tailor-made itineraries that reflect each client’s style, pace, and budget. Whether you’re embarking on your first big adventure or returning to a favorite destination, I’ll work closely with you to design a journey that feels effortless, personal, and unforgettable.
Reviews (8)
Peter S.
travel to Mexico City
4 months ago
Helen immediately understood the sort of accommodations we were looking for, and delivered a perfect selection. She is intuitive, responsive and experienced. Helen helped us find just the right level of tours and shared restaurant recommendations from her personal experience. We’ll be back — what a luxury to work with someone who knows what they’re doing and loves what they do!
Albert O.
travel to Sydney
7 months ago
Helen is great.
Kristen I.
travel to London
9 months ago
Helen is always incredibly easy, helpful and informative when booking for me and this was no exception. She was also able to secure a late check out of 1pm for my reservation, which was very beneficial before my travel to Heathrow at that time. Other hotels I’ve stayed in across London would only give me an 11am late check out, max, if I did not book my hotel through Helen.
The welcome note, chocolates and ample fruit plate were exactly what I needed upon arriving from Edinburgh earlier in the day! She is a gem and I always completely rely on and trust her recommendations but more so, I know that when she makes a booking for me that it will be done perfectly and I will be treated like a VIP client every time ;).
Kristen I.
travel to Edinburgh
9 months ago
Helen spent an incredible amount of time booking my Edinburgh trip, which was also very last minute. Not only did she know how important it was to be making my first visit to see my daughter at Uni, but she helped me consider different alternatives, locations, and then worked her magic to extend my trip by an additional day despite having to book two different reservations!
She supported me throughout the entire process, even checking in with me when I arrived and throughout the trip. The hotel staff was kind, thoughtful and very friendly upon my check-in and I attribute so much of this to her asking the hotel to take care of me as a VIP client. They sent a lovely and large tray of cookies, chocolates and sweets which were perfect to enjoy a quick late night bite.
I will never book hotels again without Helen, no matter where I go, even if it’s for only a 1-night stay or much longer. She helps me feel comfortable with my requests for any price point and never makes me feel as if I am being annoying nor does she try to push me to stay at more expensive properties.
I cannot speak highly enough about Helen and she truly ensures that your travel experience will be exactly as hoped, at the highest levels!!
Luca P.
travel to Europe
about 1 year ago
Thank you Helen for our amazing Croatia and Montenegro trip. The trip was so thoughtfully planned and everyday we had something exciting to look forward to. Helen made sure we saw all of the iconic attractions and also found really niche ‘only local’ attractions that we never would have found ourselves - and these ended up being some of the best highlights of our trip.
Every detail was considered: flights, transfers, accommodation and activities were all planned seamlessly. Our hotels were comfortable, restaurants and food recommendations were delicious, and the arranged walking and Tuk Tuk tours were such a great way to view all the old towns. Our group had different ages and interests, and Helen was able to create an itinerary that suited everyone. We had historic walking tours in Dubrovnik, boat rides in the Bay of Kotor and island hopping in Hvar.
Thank you Helen for all of your thoughtful planning and local insight. Our Europe holiday was truly amazing!
Peter S.
travel to Mexico City
4 months ago
Helen immediately understood the sort of accommodations we were looking for, and delivered a perfect selection. She is intuitive, responsive and experienced. Helen helped us find just the right level of tours and shared restaurant recommendations from her personal experience. We’ll be back — what a luxury to work with someone who knows what they’re doing and loves what they do!
Albert O.
travel to Sydney
7 months ago
Helen is great.
Kristen I.
travel to London
9 months ago
Helen is always incredibly easy, helpful and informative when booking for me and this was no exception. She was also able to secure a late check out of 1pm for my reservation, which was very beneficial before my travel to Heathrow at that time. Other hotels I’ve stayed in across London would only give me an 11am late check out, max, if I did not book my hotel through Helen.
The welcome note, chocolates and ample fruit plate were exactly what I needed upon arriving from Edinburgh earlier in the day! She is a gem and I always completely rely on and trust her recommendations but more so, I know that when she makes a booking for me that it will be done perfectly and I will be treated like a VIP client every time ;).
Kristen I.
travel to Edinburgh
9 months ago
Helen spent an incredible amount of time booking my Edinburgh trip, which was also very last minute. Not only did she know how important it was to be making my first visit to see my daughter at Uni, but she helped me consider different alternatives, locations, and then worked her magic to extend my trip by an additional day despite having to book two different reservations!
She supported me throughout the entire process, even checking in with me when I arrived and throughout the trip. The hotel staff was kind, thoughtful and very friendly upon my check-in and I attribute so much of this to her asking the hotel to take care of me as a VIP client. They sent a lovely and large tray of cookies, chocolates and sweets which were perfect to enjoy a quick late night bite.
I will never book hotels again without Helen, no matter where I go, even if it’s for only a 1-night stay or much longer. She helps me feel comfortable with my requests for any price point and never makes me feel as if I am being annoying nor does she try to push me to stay at more expensive properties.
I cannot speak highly enough about Helen and she truly ensures that your travel experience will be exactly as hoped, at the highest levels!!