Vanessa Skawski
Based in New York
Trip budgets start 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.
My 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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My reviews (2)
Mark S.
4 months ago
Vanessa was wonderful to work with!
Mark S.
4 months ago
Our travel advisor planned a fantastic trip to Barcelona for us, and our stay at Alma Barcelona could not have been more perfect. From the moment we walked in, the hotel felt serene, stylish, and incredibly welcoming. The service was warm without being overbearing, and every staff member we interacted with genuinely elevated our stay.
Our room was spacious, beautifully designed, and amazingly quiet for being right in the heart of the city. We loved waking up to views of the garden and starting each morning with breakfast on the terrace—it was such a peaceful way to begin busy days of exploring.
The location was ideal. We could walk to Passeig de Gràcia, Gaudí sites, great restaurants, and shops within minutes. After long days out, coming back to the hotel felt like returning to our own little sanctuary. The rooftop, the courtyard garden, and the spa were all highlights, and every recommendation arranged for us—from restaurants to tours—was spot on.
We felt completely taken care of from start to finish. Alma Barcelona is stylish, intimate, and truly special, and we wouldn’t have experienced Barcelona the same way without our advisor’s guidance. We’re already recommending it to friends!
Mark S.
4 months ago
Vanessa was wonderful to work with!
Mark S.
4 months ago
Our travel advisor planned a fantastic trip to Barcelona for us, and our stay at Alma Barcelona could not have been more perfect. From the moment we walked in, the hotel felt serene, stylish, and incredibly welcoming. The service was warm without being overbearing, and every staff member we interacted with genuinely elevated our stay.
Our room was spacious, beautifully designed, and amazingly quiet for being right in the heart of the city. We loved waking up to views of the garden and starting each morning with breakfast on the terrace—it was such a peaceful way to begin busy days of exploring.
The location was ideal. We could walk to Passeig de Gràcia, Gaudí sites, great restaurants, and shops within minutes. After long days out, coming back to the hotel felt like returning to our own little sanctuary. The rooftop, the courtyard garden, and the spa were all highlights, and every recommendation arranged for us—from restaurants to tours—was spot on.
We felt completely taken care of from start to finish. Alma Barcelona is stylish, intimate, and truly special, and we wouldn’t have experienced Barcelona the same way without our advisor’s guidance. We’re already recommending it to friends!
My 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).
My travel photos
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