Group Travel & Custom Holiday Expert

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Laurence Pinckney, Travel Agent in New York, NY

Laurence Pinckney

New York, NY Travel Agent

Laurence Pinckney

New York, NY · 17 Years of Experience

Zenbiz Travel, LLC, an independent agent with KHM Travel Group, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(169)
99% Recommended
Working with Laurence for our Dubai trip was pure excellence! During our stay in Dubai, my mobile phone wasn't working correctly, I reached out to... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

South Africa, Dominican Republic, St. Martin, Brazil, Paris

Interests:

Groups, Cruises, All Inclusive, Villas, Couples & Romance

Suppliers:

Funjet Vacations, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line

About Me

Balance Life With Leisure
Balance Life With Leisure

Some journeys change you forever. Mine began at age six, when I boarded a steam engine from Philadelphia to New York City and checked into the grand Hotel Astor. That feeling — the magic of stepping into a world bigger than anything I'd imagined — has never left me. It became my life's work. Today, I channel that same sense of wonder into every trip I plan, because I believe travel isn't just something you do. It's something that stays with you.

Over the course of my career, I've earned recognition that I'm genuinely proud of. I am one of only six inductees in the KHM Travel Hall of Fame — an honor that reflects not just longevity, but a consistent standard of excellence. I also hold the distinction of being a KHM Pinnacle Agent, serve on the KHM Travel Advisory Board, and was selected to serve on the Northstar Black Travel Advisory Board. These aren't titles I take lightly. They represent decades of dedication to this industry and to the clients who trust me with their most meaningful experiences.

I've had the privilege of exploring the world and bringing clients along for the ride. I've sailed with Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean, and I've stayed at some of the finest hotels and all-inclusive resorts across the globe. My travels have taken me through the Caribbean's turquoise waters, the sweeping landscapes of South Africa, the romance of Paris, the timeless energy of London, the canal-laced streets of Amsterdam, the warmth of Mexico and Costa Rica, and the breathtaking contrasts of Japan — and that's just the beginning.

But knowing a destination is only part of what I bring to the table. The real difference is the people I know once we get there. Over the years, I've cultivated a deep network of local contacts and insiders around the world — the kind of connections that don't show up in any guidebook. Whether it's a private tour of a landmark before the crowds arrive, a table at a restaurant that doesn't take reservations, or a behind-the-scenes experience that most travelers never know exists, my network opens doors that stay closed for everyone else.

I specialize in group travel, and I've built a reputation for making the complex look effortless. I've escorted groups of more than 100 people, managing every detail from flights and accommodations to private excursions and special events. This isn't group travel in the conventional sense — it's full-service, fully immersive experience design. The kind of trip where everyone comes home with stories they'll still be telling twenty years from now.

Of course, even the best-laid plans can meet unexpected turbulence. When Hurricane Sandy struck New York in 2012, a group of my clients was mid-journey from the Eastern Caribbean, headed straight into the chaos. For travelers who had booked through online discount sites or handled things on their own, that storm meant stranded flights and ruined vacations. For my clients, it meant a pivot to Bermuda — complete with new flights, private tours, and accommodations arranged before they even landed. That's what it means to have a true travel professional in your corner: not just someone who books trips, but someone who protects them.

I'm reachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in every itinerary I touch. When something goes sideways — and occasionally it does — I'm already working on the solution.

Whether you're dreaming of a European river cruise, an African safari, a Caribbean getaway, or a group adventure that becomes the trip of a lifetime, I'd love to help make it happen. Travel has a way of expanding who we are. Let me help expand your world.

Travel Advisor Success Stories: Laurence Pinckney,

How did you get your start as a travel advisor? My journey began through event production in New York City, which evolved into organizing group cruises with a business associate on various cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International.  After several successful years, I expanded into promoting destination events in the Dominican Republic and Brazil, which laid the foundation for what would become Zenbiz Travel.  This is an exerpt from Travel Pulse Magazine.  Read more https://www.travelpulse.com/news/agents/travel-advisor-success-stories-laurence-pinckney-zenbiz-travel

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
169 reviews
99% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 169 reviews

The Best Trip and Peace of Mind!
Reviewed By ROBBIN - Atlanta | Traveled to Dubai ~ United Arab Emirates ~ Middle East
Working with Laurence for our Dubai trip was pure excellence! During our stay in Dubai, my mobile phone wasn't working correctly, I reached out to Laurence to confirm our flight and excursions - he took care of EVERYTHING from the other side while we were able to continue to enjoy our first experience in Dubai.

I have experienced other travel agents, but none that went above and beyond to make sure we arrived safely, to check if we needed anything else, and to confirm our safe arrival back home. He is MY travel agent and would refer him to ANYONE for ANY trip/travel.
Laurence Pinckney responded
"Wow. Thank you so much. As usual you are a pleasure to work with. Always on point. Such sweet words are appreciated. You know I have to look out for you all. Glad you a great trip. Until next time - All the Best. LP"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
28 of 39 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
No other way to Travel
Reviewed By Maurio - Jersey city, NJ | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
This is my 3rd time traveling with Laurence and he as never failed me and my groups. He is so organized and definitely knows what he is doing. His experience shines in every aspect of his work. It is very clear when your dealing with Laurence, that he is not new to this. His experience, and eye for details when it comes to traveling is worth more than you can imagine. Laurence always seems to be one step a head of you and that's priceless.
Laurence Pinckney responded
"Thanks for your continued support Maurio. You bring me the best groups. The same can be sad of you as any event planner. We are so happy you choose to work with Zenbiz Travel. Your active participation make things so much easier. Bravo to you for another stellar event. All the best. LP"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
24 of 35 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
From nuts to bolts in travel.... just the best!
Reviewed By Dawnie - Freeport, New York | Traveled to Dubai ~ United Arab Emirates ~ Middle East
The most experienced, helpful agent ever! He thinks of everything to enhance the travel experience
Laurence Pinckney responded
"Thank you so much D. You were an absolute pleasure to deal with from start to finish. Look forward to a long business relationship as well as friendship. All the best. LP"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
18 of 26 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Outstanding! So pleased with staff and tours.
Reviewed By TC - Los Angeles, ca | Traveled to Cape Town ~ South Africa ~ Africa
Laurence and Annie,
Just a quick note of appreciation to let you know how much I enjoyed Spring Fling!I know it took a lot of planning and hard work to make it happen. My favorite was Capetown. It was not what I expected, so clean and beautiful. I liked the hotel and their friendly staff. Excellent driver and guide. Their tips should be doubled. Robbens Island was a dream come true Dinner at GOLD is worth a return trip. Thank you!
The wineries were absolutely outstanding. As I was researching, I realized just how much South Africa is known for it’s wine. So glad a tour was offered.
Even though the tour of the township was heart wrenching we needed to see it. Table mountain, the safari and all the sightseeing was fascinating.
Please tell the next group about Willoughby & Co. restaurant in the wharf mall. Excellent food and the hotel shuttle drops you off at the entrance.. Friendly people. They even have Black African sushi chefs.
Thanks again, for a wonderful experience.

Laurence Pinckney responded
"You amazed me. You planned additional activities for you and your guest. You made it easy. So glad you had a wonderful time. Looking forward to the next adventure. So glad to have you as a client. All the best. LP"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
21 of 32 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Reconnect with friends
Reviewed By Winikie - Los Angeles, CA | Traveled to Nassau ~ Bahamas ~ Caribbean
Laurence offers top tier vacation packages where you receive value for your dollar. Laurence communicates what needs to get done prior and during the vacation. Laurence never pressures you into purchasing any vacation package, he lets you go with your flow.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
27 of 46 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

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.
KHM Norwegian Cruise Line Agent of the Year
AM RESORTS MASTER
Norwegian Cruise Line Specialist
Disney Genius Program

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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