Rachel C Levy
Based in New York
Trip budgets start at $400/night
Rachel C Levy
Ask me about
My Story
Welcome to Sylvia Ray Travel! I'm Ray, a 10-year travel-industry professional who believes travel should be rooted in feeling alive.
My Travel Style
If you’re reading this, you’re probably eager to experience the world—and so am I. My name is Rachel - most people call me Ray, and I started Sylvia Ray Travel with a simple goal: to help you create unforgettable journeys, wherever they may take you. Sylvia was my Bubby (Grandma in Yiddish) and is the namesake and spirit behind Sylvia Ray Travel. Her name is at the helm of this agency because she’s the reason I fell in love with travel in the first place. Sylvia once ran her own travel agency, and this is my ode to her legacy: to her fearless curiosity, her eye for beauty, and her belief that life is an adventure.
I believe travel is rooted in feeling alive. That feeling might come from hiking Angel’s Landing in Zion, sipping a piña colada with endless blue water in your gaze, or waking up at 4 am to witness Tokyo’s legendary tuna auction. Ever since I was little, I’ve been inspired by my Bubby, who traveled the world as both a travel agent and an unapologetically independent woman. I wanted to be just like her. That love for travel naturally shaped my career. I started in the industry as a marketing intern for the Welsh Tourism Board, Visit Wales. Since then, I’ve represented and promoted Wales, Israel, London, and most recently, Ireland to the travel trade and meeting planners. I’ve visited over 25 countries (and states), and I’ve felt most alive soaking in a ryokan onsen in Japan, hiking through Zion, floating in the Dead Sea, and simply roaming the streets of London.
At Sylvia Ray Travel, I’m your dedicated partner in travel planning. I’m here to take the stress off your plate so you can look forward to your trip with golden-retriever-level excitement: cheerful, carefree, and ready to explore. Whether it’s a quick escape or the trip of a lifetime, I’ll help you build something thoughtful, seamless, and personal. Because no matter where you’re headed, your travels should make you feel alive.
Stay connected
My reviews (8)
Heather S.
21 days ago
Rachel made planning our babymoon super easy. She handled all the booking details and got us some really great perks — late checkout, a $100 spa credit, and even a cute little welcome setup in our room that made the trip feel extra special!
She checked in along the way and kept everything really clear and simple, which I appreciated since I didn’t have the energy to deal with travel logistics. Overall, she made the whole process smooth and stress-free, and we had an amazing trip because of it. I’d definitely recommend working with her!
Robert S.
a month ago
Rachel’s swift and professional response made booking this last minute business trip a breeze! She knew exactly what I needed and made the whole process stress free.
Rachel will certainly be my go to professional for all my business and personal travel needs!
Michelle S.
2 months ago
We had a very last minute request and Rachel did an amazing job finding the perfect place for us, with little to no notice. Rachel goes above and beyond for her clients and she was very thoughtful in her suggestions, making sure it was personal and convenient for our circumstances. We had the best experience working with her. Thank you Rachel!
Lili C.
2 months ago
Rachel did a great job finding us 3 of 3 perfect hotels for our traveling needs.
Jennifer O.
4 months ago
Rachel made planning my trip so easy and fun. She shared multiple options in a friendly way, with details and photos that really helped me get the vibe of each place. She stuck to my budget but still found amazing gems. She was always quick to answer questions and checked in with me before and during my trip, which made everything feel effortless. Thanks to her, we even arrived to an upgrade and extra goodies at the hotel. Rachel’s love for travel really shines through, and it shows in how professional and thoughtful she is. From now on, I’ll only be booking holidays with Rachel! Thank you!!
Heather S.
21 days ago
Rachel made planning our babymoon super easy. She handled all the booking details and got us some really great perks — late checkout, a $100 spa credit, and even a cute little welcome setup in our room that made the trip feel extra special!
She checked in along the way and kept everything really clear and simple, which I appreciated since I didn’t have the energy to deal with travel logistics. Overall, she made the whole process smooth and stress-free, and we had an amazing trip because of it. I’d definitely recommend working with her!
Robert S.
a month ago
Rachel’s swift and professional response made booking this last minute business trip a breeze! She knew exactly what I needed and made the whole process stress free.
Rachel will certainly be my go to professional for all my business and personal travel needs!
Michelle S.
2 months ago
We had a very last minute request and Rachel did an amazing job finding the perfect place for us, with little to no notice. Rachel goes above and beyond for her clients and she was very thoughtful in her suggestions, making sure it was personal and convenient for our circumstances. We had the best experience working with her. Thank you Rachel!
Lili C.
2 months ago
Rachel did a great job finding us 3 of 3 perfect hotels for our traveling needs.
My travel ideas (4)
A Town & Country Trip to Ireland From Someone Who Worked at Tourism Ireland
Ireland is a destination that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, and after two years representing Tourism Ireland, the official tourist board for the island, I can confidently say I know my way around its hidden gems and iconic sites. From the vibrant streets of Dublin and Belfast to the serene lakes and mountains of Killarney and the Mourne Mountains, every corner tells a story. What makes it truly special are the experiences that go beyond sightseeing—walking the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, hiking Killarney National Park, cooking soda bread with Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, visiting local family farms, and immersing myself in trad music and dance. These moments of connection, discovery, and joy are what make Ireland a place I return to in both heart and memory.
A Town & Country Trip to Ireland From Someone Who Worked at Tourism Ireland
Ireland is a destination that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, and after two years representing Tourism Ireland, the official tourist board for the island, I can confidently say I know my way around its hidden gems and iconic sites. From the vibrant streets of Dublin and Belfast to the serene lakes and mountains of Killarney and the Mourne Mountains, every corner tells a story. What makes it truly special are the experiences that go beyond sightseeing—walking the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, hiking Killarney National Park, cooking soda bread with Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, visiting local family farms, and immersing myself in trad music and dance. These moments of connection, discovery, and joy are what make Ireland a place I return to in both heart and memory.
London, the Local Way: Tips from Someone Who Called It Home
My love for London was born when my parents gave my brother and me the Spice Girls movie for Hanukkah in 1997. I was all of four years old. Later, at sleepaway camp, I became even more of an Anglophile as many of the counselors were British. Their accents, slang and stories were a window into a world that felt foreign, but somehow familiar. In 2011, I visited London for the first time and realized that my obsession had been justified. I truly felt like I belonged, almost as if I was a Londoner in a past life. Fast forward to a few years later, and I found myself working for the London Convention Bureau in New York City. Oh, did I mention I married an Englishman, too?
Ever since I became the sixth Spice Girl in the '90s, I dreamt of living in London. Finally, in the summer of 2024, that dream came true when my husband and I spent the entire summer living like locals. Over the years, and after many visits, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite things to do and see and where to eat, drink and play. I’ve sent it to friends, family and even friends of friends. So consider this guide my lovingly curated take on how to visit London like a local.
London is infused with culture, history, camaraderie, accessibility, shopping, day-life and nightlife and some of the most exciting culinary options. You are spoiled for choice — and in my humble opinion, it’s the best city on earth.
London, the Local Way: Tips from Someone Who Called It Home
My love for London was born when my parents gave my brother and me the Spice Girls movie for Hanukkah in 1997. I was all of four years old. Later, at sleepaway camp, I became even more of an Anglophile as many of the counselors were British. Their accents, slang and stories were a window into a world that felt foreign, but somehow familiar. In 2011, I visited London for the first time and realized that my obsession had been justified. I truly felt like I belonged, almost as if I was a Londoner in a past life. Fast forward to a few years later, and I found myself working for the London Convention Bureau in New York City. Oh, did I mention I married an Englishman, too?
Ever since I became the sixth Spice Girl in the '90s, I dreamt of living in London. Finally, in the summer of 2024, that dream came true when my husband and I spent the entire summer living like locals. Over the years, and after many visits, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite things to do and see and where to eat, drink and play. I’ve sent it to friends, family and even friends of friends. So consider this guide my lovingly curated take on how to visit London like a local.
London is infused with culture, history, camaraderie, accessibility, shopping, day-life and nightlife and some of the most exciting culinary options. You are spoiled for choice — and in my humble opinion, it’s the best city on earth.
From Tokyo to Kyoto: A Honeymoon Steeped in Flavor & Romance
Japan is steeped in history and culture, a place where ancient traditions seamlessly coexist with modern innovation. Japan feels like a destination that exists on a different frequency — one of quiet reverence, meticulous hospitality and a deep appreciation for old and the new. My recent honeymoon there was more than just a trip; it was an experience that felt expansive, personal and rich in flavor. Welcome to Japan!
From Tokyo to Kyoto: A Honeymoon Steeped in Flavor & Romance
Japan is steeped in history and culture, a place where ancient traditions seamlessly coexist with modern innovation. Japan feels like a destination that exists on a different frequency — one of quiet reverence, meticulous hospitality and a deep appreciation for old and the new. My recent honeymoon there was more than just a trip; it was an experience that felt expansive, personal and rich in flavor. Welcome to Japan!
A Nine-Day Journey Through Utah & Arizona's National Parks
From the jurassic playground of Zion National Park to the lunar landscapes of Lake Powell, and from the Mars-colored shapes of Bryce Canyon to the sheer size of the Grand Canyon, Utah and Arizona are the best combination to make you fall in love with what I like to call "America’s backyard." What I love most about traveling are the little experiences that make me feel alive. This trip made me feel the most alive. I didn’t know how brave I was until after I finished hiking Zion’s infamous Angel’s Landing. Visiting a handful of Utah and Arizona’s national parks is a gift you can give yourself whether you’re an adventure or luxury traveler, or somewhere in between! As a seasoned traveler, this was by far the best trip I've ever been on and I'm thrilled to share it with you.
A Nine-Day Journey Through Utah & Arizona's National Parks
From the jurassic playground of Zion National Park to the lunar landscapes of Lake Powell, and from the Mars-colored shapes of Bryce Canyon to the sheer size of the Grand Canyon, Utah and Arizona are the best combination to make you fall in love with what I like to call "America’s backyard." What I love most about traveling are the little experiences that make me feel alive. This trip made me feel the most alive. I didn’t know how brave I was until after I finished hiking Zion’s infamous Angel’s Landing. Visiting a handful of Utah and Arizona’s national parks is a gift you can give yourself whether you’re an adventure or luxury traveler, or somewhere in between! As a seasoned traveler, this was by far the best trip I've ever been on and I'm thrilled to share it with you.
A Town & Country Trip to Ireland From Someone Who Worked at Tourism Ireland
Ireland is a destination that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, and after two years representing Tourism Ireland, the official tourist board for the island, I can confidently say I know my way around its hidden gems and iconic sites. From the vibrant streets of Dublin and Belfast to the serene lakes and mountains of Killarney and the Mourne Mountains, every corner tells a story. What makes it truly special are the experiences that go beyond sightseeing—walking the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, hiking Killarney National Park, cooking soda bread with Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, visiting local family farms, and immersing myself in trad music and dance. These moments of connection, discovery, and joy are what make Ireland a place I return to in both heart and memory.
A Town & Country Trip to Ireland From Someone Who Worked at Tourism Ireland
Ireland is a destination that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, and after two years representing Tourism Ireland, the official tourist board for the island, I can confidently say I know my way around its hidden gems and iconic sites. From the vibrant streets of Dublin and Belfast to the serene lakes and mountains of Killarney and the Mourne Mountains, every corner tells a story. What makes it truly special are the experiences that go beyond sightseeing—walking the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, hiking Killarney National Park, cooking soda bread with Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, visiting local family farms, and immersing myself in trad music and dance. These moments of connection, discovery, and joy are what make Ireland a place I return to in both heart and memory.
London, the Local Way: Tips from Someone Who Called It Home
My love for London was born when my parents gave my brother and me the Spice Girls movie for Hanukkah in 1997. I was all of four years old. Later, at sleepaway camp, I became even more of an Anglophile as many of the counselors were British. Their accents, slang and stories were a window into a world that felt foreign, but somehow familiar. In 2011, I visited London for the first time and realized that my obsession had been justified. I truly felt like I belonged, almost as if I was a Londoner in a past life. Fast forward to a few years later, and I found myself working for the London Convention Bureau in New York City. Oh, did I mention I married an Englishman, too?
Ever since I became the sixth Spice Girl in the '90s, I dreamt of living in London. Finally, in the summer of 2024, that dream came true when my husband and I spent the entire summer living like locals. Over the years, and after many visits, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite things to do and see and where to eat, drink and play. I’ve sent it to friends, family and even friends of friends. So consider this guide my lovingly curated take on how to visit London like a local.
London is infused with culture, history, camaraderie, accessibility, shopping, day-life and nightlife and some of the most exciting culinary options. You are spoiled for choice — and in my humble opinion, it’s the best city on earth.
London, the Local Way: Tips from Someone Who Called It Home
My love for London was born when my parents gave my brother and me the Spice Girls movie for Hanukkah in 1997. I was all of four years old. Later, at sleepaway camp, I became even more of an Anglophile as many of the counselors were British. Their accents, slang and stories were a window into a world that felt foreign, but somehow familiar. In 2011, I visited London for the first time and realized that my obsession had been justified. I truly felt like I belonged, almost as if I was a Londoner in a past life. Fast forward to a few years later, and I found myself working for the London Convention Bureau in New York City. Oh, did I mention I married an Englishman, too?
Ever since I became the sixth Spice Girl in the '90s, I dreamt of living in London. Finally, in the summer of 2024, that dream came true when my husband and I spent the entire summer living like locals. Over the years, and after many visits, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite things to do and see and where to eat, drink and play. I’ve sent it to friends, family and even friends of friends. So consider this guide my lovingly curated take on how to visit London like a local.
London is infused with culture, history, camaraderie, accessibility, shopping, day-life and nightlife and some of the most exciting culinary options. You are spoiled for choice — and in my humble opinion, it’s the best city on earth.
From Tokyo to Kyoto: A Honeymoon Steeped in Flavor & Romance
Japan is steeped in history and culture, a place where ancient traditions seamlessly coexist with modern innovation. Japan feels like a destination that exists on a different frequency — one of quiet reverence, meticulous hospitality and a deep appreciation for old and the new. My recent honeymoon there was more than just a trip; it was an experience that felt expansive, personal and rich in flavor. Welcome to Japan!
From Tokyo to Kyoto: A Honeymoon Steeped in Flavor & Romance
Japan is steeped in history and culture, a place where ancient traditions seamlessly coexist with modern innovation. Japan feels like a destination that exists on a different frequency — one of quiet reverence, meticulous hospitality and a deep appreciation for old and the new. My recent honeymoon there was more than just a trip; it was an experience that felt expansive, personal and rich in flavor. Welcome to Japan!
My travel photos
