Cruise and Travel Advisor

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KELLY GILBERT, Travel Agent in Bella Vista, AR

KELLY GILBERT

Bella Vista, AR Travel Agent

KELLY GILBERT

Bella Vista, AR · 3 Years of Experience

Happy Traveler Dream Vacations, LLC, an independent agent with Alternative Travel Services, LLC., a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(8)
100% Recommended
We’d not cruised before nor traveled through another country. Needless to say I was nervous about the entire adventure. However, from first contact Kelly was there... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
Travel Stories & Media
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Eastern Europe, Caribbean, South Africa, Antarctica, USA

Interests:

Bespoke Travel, Cruises, Family Vacations, All Inclusive, River Cruises

Suppliers:

Funjet Vacations, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Amtrak Vacations

About Me

How I got my husband on a cruise...
How I got my husband on a cruise...

I’m a travel enthusiast just like you! I’m passionate about helping you find the perfect vacation to fit your needs and budget. Whether you're planning a weekend get-away or a world cruise expedition, I've got you covered!

I've always been an adventurer at heart and have a deep love for travel. I thought education was the key to success until I started exploring the world! My journey began in my 20s, and I haven't looked back since. I take great joy in planning trips. Cruising is my favorite way to travel, offering incredible value for money while allowing you to explore multiple destinations and enjoy a variety of experiences all in one trip. My husband never traveled when we met. I had to bribe him to get him on his first cruise. He has never looked back since!! Now he always wants to know when our next cruise is going to be!

My mission is to provide affordable and fun adventures through expert advice, empowering people to explore the world with confidence and excitement! Vacations are only as good as the planning that goes into them. That's why I’ve made it my mission to coordinate with the most reliable suppliers so I can get the best promotions and pass off all the perks to you, which saves you time and money! My careful planning also ensures a safe and memorable experience.

I cater to all ages and interests. From multi-generational to family-friendly, to adults only. I craft amazing experiences with personalized itineraries for stress-free logistics that reflects your budget and schedule.

I am the owner of Happy Traveler Dream Vacations LLC, located in Bella Vista, Arkansas. My motto is "Anything You Can Imagine," and I truly believe it. By opening your heart and mind to travel, you can see and do anything you desire. I specialize in cruises and everything that goes with them. This includes pre- and post-hotel stays, activities, sightseeing, excursions, chauffeur and transfer services, airfare, and travel insurance. With me, you receive expert knowledge and unparalleled customer service, and I get the joy of making your travel dreams come true!

BE A HAPPY TRAVELER!!

Why I Love Travel

Traveling the world is the most amazing experience. I have been to numerous countries and been on so many cruises. The joy I get from seeing a new land, a different culture and seeing how the rest of the world lives just can't be beat. I believe everyone should be exploring the world around them. Education is a life-long journey and I want to spend every day of my life learning new things, meeting new people and seeing the wonders of the world!

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
8 reviews
100% 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 8 reviews

Incredible trip
Reviewed By GGMA2 - Oskaloosa Kansas | Traveled to Alaska | USA
We’d not cruised before nor traveled through another country. Needless to say I was nervous about the entire adventure. However, from first contact Kelly was there to inform, make all the arrangements and calm my nerves. We just got home to Kansas last night and I couldn’t wait to let everyone know what a wonderful time we had on our Alaskan cruise. Serenade of the Sea was the perfect ship for us. Smaller, less people, awesome staff, entertainment and food . No obnoxious drunks and only just a few obnoxious kids. The room was perfect, although David would have loved a balcony. We were both so happy with the accommodations. The cabin had so much more space than I anticipated. And being gently rocked to sleep every night on a bed fit for a queen, can’t be beat. Does this ship cruise other locations? We would seriously consider another cruise. We have the cruising bug.
KELLY GILBERT responded
"Thank you so much, Deb! I am so glad I was able to find the perfect trip and the perfect ship for your family to vacation. I'm happy I was able to assuage your fears about traveling out of the country. I can see you now have the travel bug. Just remember, that passport can take you anywhere you want to go! Where to next?!! Thank you again for your heart-felt review."
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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11 Day Panama canal
Reviewed By craftsfit - Farmington AR | Traveled to Caribbean
This was the first time we used a travel agent to help us book a cruise. All of our others have been charters that we booked through the charter company. Kelly was able find us a good deal and the right itinerary for us on a partial transit of the Panama Canal. She not only found the right itinerary for us, but reasonable fair. She was also able to lower the fair when it went down. She also helped us with travel insurance which is a must have. When we found out our cabin would have a blocked view during transit of the canal, she was able to move us to another. Over all we have been very happy and have used her again for an European River Cruise.
KELLY GILBERT responded
"Thank you so much for the wonderful review Diane! I am glad you put your trust in me to help you book this fantastic cruise! Part of the service I offer is tracking your vacation to see if anything goes down in price. Then I can arrange for you to get it at the cheaper rate. I'm so pleased that you enjoyed your first cruise enough to allow me to help you book a European River cruise for your next experience. I look forward to working with you again in the future. "
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Best trip to Italy so far.
Reviewed By Pat - Bastrop, Texas | Traveled to Florence | Italy | Europe
I wanted a vacation that was not all tourist spots. Kelly booked me some great tours off the beaten paths. She understood what I was wanting and totally delivered. I had lots of free time to explore on my own and had several guided tours outside of Florence and Rome. It was the perfect balance.
KELLY GILBERT responded
"Thank you so much Pat for the 5 star review! I'm glad I was able to deliver what you were looking for in your vacation. Staying away from touristy areas is a great way to explore and have intimate experiences on your journey. I look forward to booking your next trip to Greenland and beyond! Be a Happy Traveler!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Very helpful
Reviewed By BNIreferral - Arkansas | Traveled to Riviera Maya | Quintana Roo | Mexico
Had some flight alterations due to whole knows what! Plane delays, weather, whatever it was. Kelly was on top of it and everything was smooth.
KELLY GILBERT responded
"Thank you for the 5 star review Michael! One of the benefits of using a travel advisor is having them available to handle any problems that can arise throughout your trip. I'm glad I was able to ensure that you had an amazing vacation! I look forward to working with you again next year! Be a Happy Traveler!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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A Very special well deserved vacation
Reviewed By S&A - Farmington and poplar grove AR | Traveled to New Orleans | Louisiana | USA
She was so informative and very helpful Found us discounts when available Made us realize that with both of us living on social security travel and fun are acheivable
KELLY GILBERT responded
"Thank you Sandy! Traveling is an important part of our lives. Being able to get out into the world and learn something new is not reserved just for people with "extra" money. I was very glad to find exactly what you needed for your vacation. I am always available to help with big and small parts of any travel that you are interested in doing. I look forward to working with you again in the future!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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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.
NCL University - Associate Degree
NCL University - Associate Degree
NCL University - Bachelor's Degree
NCL University - Bachelor's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
NCL University - Master's Degree
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Carnival Cruise Line Master's Certificate
Cayman Islands Specialist
Africa and Safari Specialist
Hawaii & South Pacific Specialist
Traveling Europe By Land Specialist

My Travel Stories

It's all about the family in Spain

Spain

One of my cruises took me to Spain. What am awesome country! I fell in love with the spanish culture, art and hospitality. It is a beautiful country with tons of history. The food is amazing and so flavorful! There is art and history everywhere you turn. My favorite stop was the Sagarada de Familia cathedral in Barcelona, Spain. This cathedral h...
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Cruising

I have been on too many cruises to count. Cruising is the best way to travel because you get the most bang for your buck! Where else could you unpack once, eat, drink & sleep as much as you want, plus have constant onboard activities and every day you wake up in a new country! It's amazing! Your vacation can be as busy or relaxing as you want. T...
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Waterfall in Hawaii

Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands are a place that everyone should go to once in their lives. The weather, the beach, the mountains, the wildlife and the people are so beautiful, amazing, and welcoming. They LOVE their culture and are happy to share it with you. Poi is quite the experience and going to a Luau where they bury the pig to cook it for 8+ hours b...
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China Tours

China Group Tour

China is an amazing country with 1.4 BILLION people. One of the most interesting things I learned in China was they waste nothing in terms of food. Every part of an animal is utilized in the meal. Hooves, bladders and ears are used, chicken and fish are cooked whole and most animals are kept alive until they are needed for food. I went during th...
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Italy - Sicliy- Astronomical Clock

Italy

Italy, wow!!! So much to see and do. History at every turn and amazing artworks galore! The people are lovely and very into their history. They love to share little tid bits that aren't in the history books. Vatican City is the smallest country in the world being only 0.17 square miles! Do NOT leave Italy without having some authentic pizza. You...
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Client Testimonials

Mediterranean Cruise
Kelly Gilbert has planned several trips for me. The most recent trip was a Mediterranean cruise. The cruise went from Athens, Greece to Barcelona, Spain with stops at Malta, Turkey, Italy, and France. Kelly arranged my airfare as round trip from New York to Barcelona, with a local flight within 2 hours to Athens. She found a 4-star hotel facing the Acropolis and arranged for a local, vetted tour guide to take me to see several sights. Kelly arranged for a wheelchair for me and express entry at the cruise port. Kelly asked in advance, what my preferences were for points of interest that I wanted to explore. She found, vetted, and hired a local, bi-lingual guides to chauffeur me around. I had the best pizza I ever ate, saw St Peters Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, burial sites of the popes and the tomb of St. Peter in the catacombs and so much more. Kelly handled every detail of this amazing trip with efficiency and a smile. I heartily recommend her.
Sarah Jean Fisher, Levittown, PA