Leslie Billingsley

Our 9-night romantic escape to Marrakech was nothing short of magical, and much of that magic can be attributed to Leslie Billingsley, our extraordinary travel advisor from Fora Travel. From the moment we began planning to the final farewell in Marrakech, Leslie’s impeccable attention to detail, seamless coordination, and ability to curate once-in-a-lifetime experiences ensured that our trip was flawless in every sense.

Leslie truly excels at crafting personalized itineraries, and it was clear from our very first conversation that she was invested in making our romantic trip as unique and special as possible. She took the time to understand our preferences, interests, and what we envisioned for a dream vacation—and she delivered in spades. The activities she arranged were like no other we had ever experienced, blending the rich culture of Morocco with moments of sheer indulgence.

We began our journey with a private, guided tour of the Majorelle Gardens, where Leslie had arranged an exclusive early morning entry before the crowds, giving us a peaceful, intimate experience surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant colors. Another unforgettable experience was a private cooking class with a local chef, where we learned to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes, including a flavorful tagine and delicate pastries. The setting was a beautiful riad, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming—just one of the many examples of how Leslie customized every aspect of our trip.

Leslie went above and beyond in curating experiences that we will never forget. One of the standout moments was a private hot air balloon ride at sunrise, soaring above the Atlas Mountains with breathtaking views of the desert landscape. As we floated high above the Earth, the early morning light bathed the terrain in golden hues—a truly magical moment. The balloon ride was followed by a private breakfast in the desert, complete with a traditional Moroccan spread and a champagne toast, making it feel like something straight out of a movie.

Leslie also arranged for us to have a private, guided tour of the Fes Medina, one of Morocco’s most famous and ancient medinas. The guide took us through hidden alleyways and local workshops where artisans were handcrafting beautiful leather goods and intricate tiles. These intimate experiences, off the beaten path, gave us an authentic taste of Moroccan culture and history—something we never would have found on our own.

Leslie’s connections and ability to negotiate the best accommodations truly elevated our stay. We stayed in some of the most beautiful, luxurious hotels and riads in Marrakech, and each one was more stunning than the last. In particular, the Selman Marrakech, which Leslie recommended, felt like a palace in the middle of the desert. From a spacious suite with a private terrace overlooking the sprawling gardens and the Atlas Mountains, to being treated to surprise room upgrades throughout our stay, the attention to detail in the accommodations was nothing short of spectacular.

The rooms were elegant, impeccably designed, and offered complete privacy—a perfect setting for our romantic escape. And when we were treated to a surprise room upgrade at La Mamounia, one of Marrakech’s most iconic hotels, the view from our private balcony overlooking the lush gardens was absolutely breathtaking. Every hotel and riad had been carefully selected for its beauty, ambiance, and personalized service.

Throughout our trip, we were never left wondering what was next or where to go. Leslie’s attention to detail and on-the-ground support made everything feel completely effortless. Whether it was a private driver waiting for us upon arrival at the airport or a smooth transfer from one location to another, the logistics were handled seamlessly. Every aspect of our travel, from airport transfers to excursions, was meticulously planned and executed.

Even when a minor issue arose (such as a small change to a tour schedule), Leslie’s team was quick to resolve it, ensuring we were never inconvenienced and our experience continued without interruption. This level of flawless execution made our trip feel stress-free and utterly indulgent.

What truly sets Leslie apart is her ability to surprise and delight. During our stay at La Mamounia, we were treated to a private dinner under the stars in a secluded garden, arranged by Leslie as a special surprise for us. The atmosphere was intimate and romantic, with soft lighting, fragrant flowers, and a traditional Moroccan feast prepared just for us. To top it off, Leslie had arranged for a local musician to play live music during our meal—an unexpected touch that made the evening even more magical.

Later in the trip, we arrived at our riad in the medina to find that Leslie had arranged for a private henna artist to give me a traditional henna tattoo as a keepsake of our journey. These little surprises, like the hand-delivered box of locally sourced pastries to our room, added layers of thoughtfulness that made the trip feel personal and deeply special.

Leslie’s expertise extended beyond accommodations and activities—her flight and transportation coordination were just as impressive. She helped us secure business class flights with fantastic upgrades, ensuring we arrived in Marrakech relaxed and ready for adventure. Additionally, all of our transfers were seamless, and the private cars and drivers she arranged were punctual, comfortable, and knowledgeable about the city. Every detail was taken care of, so we could focus on enjoying each other’s company and the beauty of Marrakech.

Leslie’s ability to customize the trip to our interests was remarkable. She took the time to understand not just our preferences, but also the little things that would make our trip special. Whether it was finding the perfect Moroccan-inspired souvenirs or recommending a local, lesser-known café where we could enjoy a quiet coffee together, Leslie's deep knowledge of Marrakech allowed her to offer insights that felt both exclusive and authentic.

From the personalized itineraries to the curated experiences, Leslie made sure that every detail of our romantic trip was exactly what we wanted—and more. The trip was the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and relaxation, and we felt thoroughly spoiled by her exceptional service.

In short, working with Leslie Billingsley to plan our 9-night romantic getaway to Marrakech was one of the best travel decisions we’ve ever made. Her expertise, attention to detail, and dedication to providing a completely customized, luxurious experience ensured that every moment of our trip was unforgettable. We truly felt like VIPs throughout the entire journey, and thanks to Leslie, we’ll carry these beautiful memories for a lifetime. If you’re planning a romantic getaway or any trip that requires flawless execution and bespoke experiences, I can’t recommend Leslie highly enough. She is the gold standard of travel advisors!

A Flawless Greek Islands Journey Curated by Fora's Leslie Billingsley – A True Travel Maestro

Working with Leslie Billingsley to plan my Ponant Greek Islands cruise was an experience I will cherish forever. Leslie’s dedication to providing a white-glove service, her unparalleled attention to detail, and her flawless logistical coordination turned what could have been a regular cruise into a once-in-a-lifetime voyage. She didn’t just meet my expectations—she surpassed them at every turn, creating moments of surprise and delight that made this trip absolutely unforgettable.

1. White Glove Service at Its Finest Leslie’s approach to travel planning is truly world-class. From our very first consultation, she took the time to understand not only what I wanted from the trip but also what would make it truly exceptional. It was evident that her focus wasn’t just on creating a standard itinerary, but on crafting a personalized experience that would exceed all my expectations. Every detail was handled with precision—be it seamless airport transfers, impeccable luggage handling, or ensuring I had the most luxurious stateroom with breathtaking views.

Her white-glove service truly began the moment I booked my trip and continued until the moment I returned home. Whether it was securing a private, exclusive dinner experience on Hydra or ensuring I had access to special onboard events with the Ponant crew, Leslie’s thoughtful touch was evident at every step of the journey.

2. Unending Attention to Detail What sets Leslie apart is her remarkable attention to detail. She doesn’t just plan a trip; she crafts a personalized experience from start to finish. For example, when I arrived at my hotel in Athens for my pre-cruise stay, I was greeted with a personal note from Leslie, along with a carefully curated list of local dining recommendations and activities tailored to my interests. She had even arranged for an upgrade to a stunning suite with an incredible view of the Acropolis. This level of personalization was just the beginning.

During the cruise itself, Leslie anticipated every possible need. I was never left wondering where to go, what to do, or how to make the most of my time in each port. Even the excursions were thoughtfully chosen, from private wine tastings on the island of Naxos to guided walks through the ancient ruins of Delos. Leslie’s ability to cater to every preference made each destination feel like it was designed just for me.

3. Spectacular Travel & Logistical Coordination The logistics of a Ponant cruise are intricate, with multiple transfers, schedules, and shore excursions to coordinate, but Leslie handled everything effortlessly. From coordinating my flight upgrades to securing a smooth transfer from Athens to the embarkation port, everything was seamlessly arranged. Every aspect of the trip flowed with perfect timing, and there were no hiccups—no last-minute scrambling or missed connections. She had everything perfectly mapped out, and even when a slight change to the schedule arose, Leslie took care of it swiftly, without me needing to lift a finger.

4. Surprise and Delight Moments That Elevated the Experience What truly made this trip stand out were the unexpected moments of surprise and delight that Leslie effortlessly wove into the itinerary. On day two of the cruise, I was surprised with an upgrade to a luxurious suite with a private balcony. The views were jaw-dropping, and I had no idea it was coming! Leslie had arranged this surprise upgrade to ensure I had the most memorable experience possible, and I was truly touched by her thoughtfulness.

Before my post-cruise stay in Athens, Leslie surprised me with a reservation at one of the city’s most exclusive restaurants, where I was treated to a private tour of the chef’s kitchen before enjoying a spectacular multi-course meal. The restaurant had a private dining room set aside for me, and the entire experience felt personal and extravagant. I couldn’t have been more impressed by how she was able to elevate even the simplest moments into something extraordinary.

5. Pre and Post-Cruise Accommodations Beyond Compare Leslie went above and beyond to ensure that my pre-and post-cruise accommodations were nothing short of luxurious. In addition to the suite in Athens, she arranged for a private tour of the city’s cultural landmarks before I boarded the ship, giving me a deeper understanding of Greece’s rich history. The post-cruise accommodations were just as spectacular—a serene resort on the coast, where I was able to relax and unwind before heading home. The resort was perfectly located, offering spectacular views of the Aegean Sea, and the attention to detail in the service was exceptional.

6. Personalized Experiences at Every Turn Leslie’s ability to connect me with exclusive, personalized experiences set this trip apart from any other. From arranging a private boat ride to a secluded beach on Mykonos, to organizing a behind-the-scenes tour of the ancient ruins of Delphi, Leslie provided access to experiences that felt truly bespoke. There were moments where I felt like I was the only traveler in the world, and it was all thanks to her impeccable planning and connections.

Leslie Billingsley is a travel advisor like no other. Her expertise, her dedication to perfection, and her innate ability to curate a journey that is both luxurious and personal are unparalleled. The Ponant Greek Islands cruise was a dream, and Leslie made it a reality in ways I never could have imagined. The level of service, the unforgettable surprises, and the seamless coordination made this trip feel truly once-in-a-lifetime. I will never travel without Leslie by my side again, and I recommend her without reservation to anyone looking for a travel advisor who goes above and beyond to create magical, unforgettable experiences.

A Flawless Family Reunion in Boston, Thanks to Leslie Billingsley of Fora Travel

Planning a family reunion for 45 people, spanning multiple generations, is no small feat. But with Leslie Billingsley from Fora Travel at the helm, the entire experience was nothing short of spectacular. From start to finish, Leslie’s expert planning, flawless coordination, and outstanding attention to detail ensured that every moment of our 4-night reunion in Boston exceeded our expectations. She transformed what could have been a logistical nightmare into an unforgettable experience for everyone, no matter their age or needs.

The first thing that struck me about Leslie was her ability to understand and address every single family member’s unique needs and preferences. Planning for such a large, multi-generational group, including people with disabilities, requires careful thought and meticulous attention to detail—and Leslie excelled at this. She personally ensured that accommodations were perfectly suited for families, including those who needed ADA-accessible rooms, and made sure that the entire group had easy access to everything Boston had to offer. Whether it was securing rooms on the same floor or ensuring easy access to elevators and amenities for family members with mobility challenges, Leslie's thoughtfulness made everyone feel comfortable and well-cared for.

Thanks to Leslie’s superb negotiation skills, she was able to secure a generous block of rooms at the Boston Marriott Long Wharf, and not just any rooms—upgrades all around! Every family member had a room with a beautiful view of the harbor, and the added bonus of complimentary access to the Club Lounge was the cherry on top. Having this space available for morning gatherings, evening cocktails, and quiet conversations was a special touch that really helped the group feel even more connected. Plus, Leslie’s careful attention to multi-generational accommodations ensured that everyone, from toddlers to seniors, had exactly what they needed in terms of accessibility, comfort, and convenience.

Leslie’s itinerary for our family reunion was perfectly balanced, offering daily activities that appealed to all ages and interests. For the younger ones, Leslie arranged private, family-friendly tours of the New England Aquarium, where we were able to enjoy a special behind-the-scenes look at the marine life. For the adults, Leslie organized a charming walking tour of Boston’s historic Freedom Trail, complete with a private guide who shared fascinating stories of the city’s rich history. She also ensured that all activities were accessible to those with mobility issues, arranging for wheelchairs or easy transport when necessary.

Every day brought something new: a private harbor cruise with stunning views of the Boston skyline, a fun scavenger hunt around the North End, and a gourmet chocolate-making class in the heart of the city. The daily activities allowed us to bond as a family, but they were also perfectly paced so no one felt rushed or overwhelmed. Leslie anticipated every need and made sure everyone had a great time—whether they were actively participating or simply soaking in the experience from the sidelines.

When it came to dining, Leslie truly outdid herself. She arranged for our nightly group dinners to be held at some of the best restaurants in Boston, and each meal was a gastronomic experience that felt more like a celebration than just a dinner. The venues she selected—places like No. 9 Park, Mamma Maria, and The Capital Grille—were not only top-notch in terms of food and atmosphere but also perfectly equipped to accommodate our large group.

But Leslie didn’t stop at just securing amazing dinner reservations—she ensured each night was a memorable, immersive experience. The first evening, we were treated to a surprise musical performance from a local jazz band that played as we dined, creating an intimate, yet lively ambiance. On the second night, a local dance troupe performed traditional Irish folk dances, inviting guests to join in. The final night was capped off with an unforgettable surprise performance by a local blues singer who had the whole family dancing, singing along, and creating lasting memories. It was these thoughtful, personal touches that turned every dinner into a celebration, and Leslie’s ability to incorporate them into our itinerary made the trip feel even more special.

Leslie’s negotiating skills were absolutely crucial in making our reunion as seamless as possible. She worked tirelessly with the Boston Marriott Long Wharf to secure not only free breakfast for the entire group but also free access to the Club Lounge, which was a huge perk for everyone. Her ability to negotiate these extras, along with securing room upgrades for every family member, was a testament to her professionalism and expertise.

Ground transportation was another area where Leslie truly shined. She ensured that we had comfortable, reliable transportation throughout the entire trip, arranging for private shuttles and buses to transport us from the hotel to all our events and activities. No matter the time of day or night, Leslie’s logistical coordination ensured that the group was always in the right place at the right time, without a single hiccup.

In the end, our family reunion was an absolute triumph, and it was all thanks to Leslie Billingsley. Her tireless efforts, impeccable organization, and intuitive understanding of our needs created an experience that we’ll treasure forever. From personalized daily activities and exceptional accommodations to unforgettable dinners with surprise entertainment, every aspect of our trip was handled with care and precision.

Leslie’s expertise, patience, and dedication to excellence made this family reunion in Boston a spectacular success. If you’re looking for a travel advisor who can take the stress out of planning and create a seamless, unforgettable experience for a large group, look no further than Leslie. She truly went above and beyond in every sense, and I couldn’t recommend her more highly.