Gretchen Murry, Travel Agent in Phoenix, AZ

Gretchen Murry

Phoenix, AZ Travel Agent

Gretchen Murry

Phoenix, AZ · 5 Years of Experience

Blue Escape Travel LLC, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
About
Certificates & Awards
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Lake Tahoe, Disneyland, California, Dublin, Denali National Park

Interests:

Cruises, Disney Vacations, Beach Vacations, Theme Parks, National Parks

Suppliers:

Royal Caribbean, Hilton Hotels, Princess Cruises®, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages

About Me

WHERE EVERY CRUISE AND TRIP BEGINS..

I live by the motto: “Once a year, travel someplace you’ve never been.” With nearly all 50 states explored and a growing love for European travel, I bring both personal experience and professional insight to every trip I plan. I specialize in cruises (including group cruises), seasonal getaways, ski trips, Lake Tahoe escapes, and beer-focused travel—especially to destinations like Germany, Denver, Portland (ME), Austin, and San Diego. And yes, I absolutely love Oktoberfests!

TRAVEL EXPERTISE

Travel is my passion—it’s what I love to plan, talk about, and experience. Cruising is the best, form fairs and theme parks to uncovering the rich history, culture, and cuisine of each destination, I believe every trip should be fun, worry-free, and filled with meaningful memories. Whether you're exploring somewhere new or returning to a favorite place, I’m here to help make it unforgettable.

With 25 years in hospitality and travel—including Hilton, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Home2, Hilton Garden Inn, and Best Western—I’ve built a reputation for attention to detail, top-tier customer service, and personalized planning. I offer insider tips and exclusive specials to make your journey smooth and unforgettable.

I had a dream to start a travel agency and I did it!  I want to help you.

BLUE ESCAPE TRAVEL

As an Arizona native, my favorite escapes revolve around water—oceans, lakes, beaches, and cruises. That’s why I founded Blue Escape Travel. I’ve lived in Lake Tahoe and visit seasonally (six times this year alone!). If you haven’t been, I highly recommend it.

CRUISE TRAVEL

Cruising is one of my favorite ways to explore the world. I’ve sailed with Norwegian Cruise Line and taken four Royal Caribbean cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean—including the largest ship yet, Utopia of the Seas, in 2025! I especially love Royal Caribbean’s private island experience—it's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.  Next year I am taking my Mom to Alaska again to go to Glacier Bay!

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a group cruise, or a multi-generational vacation, I can help you choose the right ship, itinerary, and excursions to match your travel style. From ocean voyages to river cruises, I’ll make sure your cruise is smooth sailing from start to finish.

WHY WORK WITH ME?

  • Extensive personal travel experience across the U.S
  • Expert in group cruise planning 
  • Whether it’s ocean or land, I’ll plan your entire vacation, just tell me where you want to go or we can explore together!
  • In-depth knowledge of Lake Tahoe’s year-round activities Ski Groups, Weddings, Girls Trips.
  • Customized itineraries for Eastern Seaboard including Newport Mansions
  • Alaska travel including both land and sea trips
  • Passion for European travel, especially Ireland, Germany, Italy and Austria
  • Enthusiastic about history and beer-focused travel experiences.  Experience planning beer-centric trips to Germany, Denver, Portland (ME), Austin, and San Diego.  Lover of Oktoberfests and festive cultural events
  • Personalized service and attention to detail from start to finish!

GOOD FRIENDS...MAKING MEMORIES

I love helping clients—who often become good friends to create customized trips based on their interests. Whether it’s a cruise, a ski trip, or a European holiday, I’m here to help you plan a vacation that’s truly yours. Life is about making memories—let’s start planning yours.

 

 

 

My Favorite Vacation

Utopia of the Seas & Liberty of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas & Liberty of the Seas

I loved exploring the charming town of Dingle, Ireland with my family—its coastal beauty and warm hospitality left a lasting impression.  The history, food and beer in Ireland was fantastic.   Another unforgettable experience was cruising through Alaska’s Inside Passage, watching glaciers calve into the sea from the comfort of my balcony while travelling with my Mom and Dad, Son and Husband.  This summer I went to the Canadian Rockies.  So breathtaking.   This profile picture is at Moraine Lake.

I’m planning a magical Christmas Market Trip to Germany this year in December.  It's a bucket list item and so fun putting together! I can't wait! 

I’d love to help you plan your next adventure and cross off something on your bucket list!

 

Certifications & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world. Go with the pros.
CTA
Bachelor of Science Tourism Recreation Management

Client Testimonials

Family Cruise
Planning a vacation for a family of five can be chaotic, but Gretchen made it feel easy and exciting. She helped us book two rooms on a Carnival cruise that gave us the perfect mix of together time and personal space. She choose the right ship and itinerary to making sure we had everything we needed for smooth sailing, Gretchen handled every detail with care. She even gave us tips for onboard activities, dining, and excursions that worked for both adults and kids. We had an absolute blast and unforgettable memories. I can't wait to do it again!
Shannon A, Maricopa, AZ