Vanessa Skawski
Based in New York
Trips starting at $500/night
Vanessa Skawski
Ask me about
My Story
A family travel expert with a passion for helping big families make big memories. As a parent and experienced traveler, I know firsthand the joys—and challenges—of planning trips for families of five or more. My specialty lies in uncovering the rare gems: hotels with true family-friendly layouts, villas with enough space to breathe, and itineraries that actually work for toddlers, teens, and parents alike.
Travel Style
Families of five or more are often overlooked by traditional travel planning—rooms don't fit, options are limited, and logistics are stressful. I wanted to solve these challenges, creating seamless, luxury experiences where everyone fits comfortably and no one feels left out.
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Reviews (6)
Liz R.
20 days ago
So easy! Vanessa sent me three wonderful recommendations and explained each. She made it really fast and simple.
Christine K.
3 months ago
Working with Vanessa was an absolute dream. She completely understood the vibe of our girls’ trip and nailed every detail from start to finish. The Four Seasons Nashville was a perfect choice for our group, and it was clear she had firsthand insight into what would actually elevate the experience—not just what looks good on paper. Communication was seamless, recommendations were spot-on, and everything felt thoughtful and tailored to us. This trip wouldn’t have been nearly as special without her guidance. I wouldn’t plan another trip without her.
Mark S.
3 months ago
Working with Vanessa as our travel agent was an absolute dream. Every detail was thoughtful, seamless, and tailored perfectly to our style of travel. She has an incredible ability to anticipate what will elevate a trip—from hotel selection to timing, room placement, and those extra touches that make everything feel effortless and special. We felt completely taken care of from start to finish.
Her recommendation of Hôtel de Crillon was perfection. The hotel is timeless, elegant, and impeccably run, with a level of service that feels both polished and genuinely warm. Our room was stunning, the staff intuitive without ever being intrusive, and the location on Place de la Concorde made exploring Paris easy while still feeling wonderfully serene when we returned each day. It struck the rare balance of historic grandeur and modern comfort.
Together, Vanessa and Hôtel de Crillon delivered a Paris experience that felt elevated, relaxed, and unforgettable. This is exactly why we trust her with our most important trips—and why we can’t imagine planning travel any other way.
Mark S.
4 months ago
Vanessa was a fantastic travel agent. She got us a great rate with great perks. We were so happy working with her!
Mark S.
8 months ago
Vanessa was wonderful to work with!
Liz R.
20 days ago
So easy! Vanessa sent me three wonderful recommendations and explained each. She made it really fast and simple.
Christine K.
3 months ago
Working with Vanessa was an absolute dream. She completely understood the vibe of our girls’ trip and nailed every detail from start to finish. The Four Seasons Nashville was a perfect choice for our group, and it was clear she had firsthand insight into what would actually elevate the experience—not just what looks good on paper. Communication was seamless, recommendations were spot-on, and everything felt thoughtful and tailored to us. This trip wouldn’t have been nearly as special without her guidance. I wouldn’t plan another trip without her.
Mark S.
3 months ago
Working with Vanessa as our travel agent was an absolute dream. Every detail was thoughtful, seamless, and tailored perfectly to our style of travel. She has an incredible ability to anticipate what will elevate a trip—from hotel selection to timing, room placement, and those extra touches that make everything feel effortless and special. We felt completely taken care of from start to finish.
Her recommendation of Hôtel de Crillon was perfection. The hotel is timeless, elegant, and impeccably run, with a level of service that feels both polished and genuinely warm. Our room was stunning, the staff intuitive without ever being intrusive, and the location on Place de la Concorde made exploring Paris easy while still feeling wonderfully serene when we returned each day. It struck the rare balance of historic grandeur and modern comfort.
Together, Vanessa and Hôtel de Crillon delivered a Paris experience that felt elevated, relaxed, and unforgettable. This is exactly why we trust her with our most important trips—and why we can’t imagine planning travel any other way.
Mark S.
4 months ago
Vanessa was a fantastic travel agent. She got us a great rate with great perks. We were so happy working with her!
Travel ideas (3)
La Spezia to Pisa & Lucca: Family-Friendly Shore Excursion Itinerary
A day in Pisa and Lucca from La Spezia is more than just a shore excursion—it’s a chance to capture that iconic Leaning Tower photo, then slow down and savor Tuscany’s charm. From biking the medieval walls of Lucca to sharing pizza in the piazza, it’s a day designed for families to make memories together. With a private car and guide, the journey is smooth and stress-free, letting parents relax while kids enjoy every stop. The mix of history, fun, and flavor makes this one of the most family-friendly ways to experience Tuscany in a single day.
La Spezia to Pisa & Lucca: Family-Friendly Shore Excursion Itinerary
A day in Pisa and Lucca from La Spezia is more than just a shore excursion—it’s a chance to capture that iconic Leaning Tower photo, then slow down and savor Tuscany’s charm. From biking the medieval walls of Lucca to sharing pizza in the piazza, it’s a day designed for families to make memories together. With a private car and guide, the journey is smooth and stress-free, letting parents relax while kids enjoy every stop. The mix of history, fun, and flavor makes this one of the most family-friendly ways to experience Tuscany in a single day.
Portofino Cruise Stop: What to Do with Kids
Visiting Portofino on a cruise stop was special to me because it was a chance to slow down and share one of Italy’s most picturesque villages with my kids. Instead of rushing through, we could wander cobblestone streets, watch the boats in the harbor, and enjoy gelato together in the piazza. Traveling with little ones made me see Portofino through fresh eyes—every brightly painted house and every hidden path felt like a discovery. It’s these small family moments that turn a short cruise day into lasting memories.
Portofino Cruise Stop: What to Do with Kids
Visiting Portofino on a cruise stop was special to me because it was a chance to slow down and share one of Italy’s most picturesque villages with my kids. Instead of rushing through, we could wander cobblestone streets, watch the boats in the harbor, and enjoy gelato together in the piazza. Traveling with little ones made me see Portofino through fresh eyes—every brightly painted house and every hidden path felt like a discovery. It’s these small family moments that turn a short cruise day into lasting memories.
Barcelona with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide
Barcelona is one of those rare cities that makes traveling with kids feel easy and exciting. From colorful Gaudí architecture to beachside playgrounds and endless churros, there’s always something to spark their curiosity. I loved how walkable and laid-back it felt—perfect for exploring with kids of different ages. Whether you’re raising a future artist, a soccer fanatic, or just a kid who loves gelato, Barcelona has something for everyone (including parents).
Barcelona with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide
Barcelona is one of those rare cities that makes traveling with kids feel easy and exciting. From colorful Gaudí architecture to beachside playgrounds and endless churros, there’s always something to spark their curiosity. I loved how walkable and laid-back it felt—perfect for exploring with kids of different ages. Whether you’re raising a future artist, a soccer fanatic, or just a kid who loves gelato, Barcelona has something for everyone (including parents).
La Spezia to Pisa & Lucca: Family-Friendly Shore Excursion Itinerary
A day in Pisa and Lucca from La Spezia is more than just a shore excursion—it’s a chance to capture that iconic Leaning Tower photo, then slow down and savor Tuscany’s charm. From biking the medieval walls of Lucca to sharing pizza in the piazza, it’s a day designed for families to make memories together. With a private car and guide, the journey is smooth and stress-free, letting parents relax while kids enjoy every stop. The mix of history, fun, and flavor makes this one of the most family-friendly ways to experience Tuscany in a single day.
La Spezia to Pisa & Lucca: Family-Friendly Shore Excursion Itinerary
A day in Pisa and Lucca from La Spezia is more than just a shore excursion—it’s a chance to capture that iconic Leaning Tower photo, then slow down and savor Tuscany’s charm. From biking the medieval walls of Lucca to sharing pizza in the piazza, it’s a day designed for families to make memories together. With a private car and guide, the journey is smooth and stress-free, letting parents relax while kids enjoy every stop. The mix of history, fun, and flavor makes this one of the most family-friendly ways to experience Tuscany in a single day.
Portofino Cruise Stop: What to Do with Kids
Visiting Portofino on a cruise stop was special to me because it was a chance to slow down and share one of Italy’s most picturesque villages with my kids. Instead of rushing through, we could wander cobblestone streets, watch the boats in the harbor, and enjoy gelato together in the piazza. Traveling with little ones made me see Portofino through fresh eyes—every brightly painted house and every hidden path felt like a discovery. It’s these small family moments that turn a short cruise day into lasting memories.
Portofino Cruise Stop: What to Do with Kids
Visiting Portofino on a cruise stop was special to me because it was a chance to slow down and share one of Italy’s most picturesque villages with my kids. Instead of rushing through, we could wander cobblestone streets, watch the boats in the harbor, and enjoy gelato together in the piazza. Traveling with little ones made me see Portofino through fresh eyes—every brightly painted house and every hidden path felt like a discovery. It’s these small family moments that turn a short cruise day into lasting memories.
Barcelona with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide
Barcelona is one of those rare cities that makes traveling with kids feel easy and exciting. From colorful Gaudí architecture to beachside playgrounds and endless churros, there’s always something to spark their curiosity. I loved how walkable and laid-back it felt—perfect for exploring with kids of different ages. Whether you’re raising a future artist, a soccer fanatic, or just a kid who loves gelato, Barcelona has something for everyone (including parents).
Barcelona with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide
Barcelona is one of those rare cities that makes traveling with kids feel easy and exciting. From colorful Gaudí architecture to beachside playgrounds and endless churros, there’s always something to spark their curiosity. I loved how walkable and laid-back it felt—perfect for exploring with kids of different ages. Whether you’re raising a future artist, a soccer fanatic, or just a kid who loves gelato, Barcelona has something for everyone (including parents).
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