Italy Travel Agent Specialist

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Mercedes King, Travel Agent in The Dalles, OR

Mercedes King

The Dalles, OR Travel Agent
Super Agent

Mercedes King

The Dalles, OR · 8 Years of Experience

Soul Atlas Travel, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Davis, CA
5.0
(36)
100% Recommended
I was visiting a friend in Washington and we made a day trip to Canada, Victoria. Took a ferry over and visited a few shops near... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Italy, Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan

Interests:

Historical Sites, Shopping, Food & Wine, Museums, Couples & Romance

About Me

Flying into Milan creates the perfect starting point for an unforgettable journey through some of Italy’s most enchanting destinations. The city’s central location and excellent transportation options make it an ideal gateway for exploring northern and central Italy. Our adventure began with a breathtaking day trip to Lake Como, one of the most iconic and luxurious destinations in the country. As we approached the lake, the dramatic alpine backdrop immediately captured our attention. Snow-kissed peaks, shimmering blue water, and elegant villas created a postcard-perfect scene that felt almost unreal. We spent the day leisurely traveling along the lake’s winding shores, stopping in charming towns such as Bellagio and Varenna. Each village offered cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and panoramic views that invited us to slow down and savor the moment. A peaceful boat ride across the lake allowed us to admire historic villas perched above the water while enjoying local wines that highlighted the region’s rich flavors.

From there, we continued our Italian adventure in Florence, the heart and soul of the Renaissance. The city’s artistic energy is palpable the moment you arrive. We visited iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi, and the Ponte Vecchio, famous for its jewelry shops and medieval charm. The Uffizi Gallery offered a deep dive into Italy’s artistic legacy, showcasing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Wandering through Florence’s vibrant streets, we sampled authentic gelato, admired local artisans at work, and enjoyed a delicious Tuscan meal that celebrated the region’s love for fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and warm hospitality. Florence felt like stepping into a living museum, where every corner revealed another layer of history and beauty.

Our journey then led us to the breathtaking coastline of Cinque Terre, one of Italy’s most beloved UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This region is famous for its five colorful villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—each perched dramatically along rugged cliffs overlooking the sparkling Ligurian Sea. We hiked the scenic trails that connect the villages, taking in sweeping views of terraced vineyards, pastel homes, and the deep blue horizon. Every village had its own personality and charm, from quiet harbors to lively piazzas filled with locals and travelers alike. Fresh seafood, crisp white wines, and the scent of lemon groves added to the sensory magic of Cinque Terre. It was the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Next, we made our way to Venice, a city unlike any other in the world. Built on a network of canals, Venice feels like a dreamscape of bridges, narrow alleyways, and centuries-old architecture. We explored both the iconic sights and the quieter corners that many visitors overlook. Wandering through hidden passageways, we discovered peaceful squares, artisan workshops, and charming cafés tucked away from the crowds. A gondola ride through the bustling waterways became one of the most memorable moments of our trip. Gliding beneath historic bridges while listening to a serenade created a sense of timeless romance that only Venice can offer. We ended our visit with a delicious seafood dinner at a local trattoria, savoring regional dishes that highlighted the city’s deep connection to the sea.

To complete our journey, we took a quick trip to Zurich, Switzerland, adding a refreshing contrast to our Italian adventure. Zurich’s picturesque old town, with its medieval architecture and winding streets, offered a peaceful and elegant atmosphere. We enjoyed stunning views of Lake Zurich, where the calm water reflected the surrounding mountains and cityscape. The blend of Swiss precision, natural beauty, and cultural richness made Zurich a delightful final stop before heading home.

Each destination on this journey offered its own unique blend of culture, scenery, cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. From the alpine elegance of Lake Como to the artistic treasures of Florence, the coastal charm of Cinque Terre, the romantic canals of Venice, and the serene beauty of Zurich, every moment felt like a celebration of travel, discovery, and connection. This adventure through Italy and Switzerland created memories that will stay with us forever and reminded us why exploring the world is one of life’s greatest joys.

Additional Languages
Spanish

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
36 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 36 reviews

Day Trip a la Canada
Reviewed By Canada Lover - WA | Traveled to Victoria | British Columbia | Canada
I was visiting a friend in Washington and we made a day trip to Canada, Victoria. Took a ferry over and visited a few shops near the mall, it was an awesome day trip thanks to Mercedes's reccomendations!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Europe Trip
Reviewed By London Calling - CA | Traveled to United Kingdom | Europe
Mercedes was very helpful in giving me and my gf ideas of where to go when we planned for a short trip in the UK. Camden Market is a fun romp when you have a chance!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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A Trip To Canada
Reviewed By Marym&m - California | Traveled to Vancouver | British Columbia | Canada
I’ve never booked a trip outside of the country before and Mercedes was wonderful. She helped me with every detail and brought my awareness to “must knows” when traveling solo. I felt heard by Mercedes and I had an amazing trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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London Calling
Reviewed By Liz30 - San Sebastián, Spain | Traveled to London | England | Europe
I needed to book a quick, last minute trip to London (visa reasons). Mercedes worked her magic on every last detail. In less than 1 hour, she had booked my airfare, a place to stay, and accommodated for the spare time I had while I was there to sight see. Incredible experience. I hands down recommend Mercedes.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Viva México!
Reviewed By JuliaT - Oregon | Traveled to Mexico | Mexico
I’ve been to Mexico a handful of times. Mercedes is my go to agent. She is knowledgeable and organized. Book her now!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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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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