Hosted Group Cruises & First-Time Cruisers

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Ashley Villalpando, Travel Agent in Houston, TX

Ashley Villalpando

Houston, TX Travel Agent
Super Agent

Ashley Villalpando

Houston, TX · 2 Years of Experience

Sevn Journeys LLC, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(15)
100% Recommended
I was having trouble finding the right vacation within my budget, so I reached out to Ashley for help. She quickly presented several options that matched... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

At Sea, On the River, Caribbean, Europe, Alaska

Interests:

Cruises, River Cruises, Groups, LGBTQ+ Travel, Hosted Cruises

Suppliers:

Royal Caribbean

About Me

Dinner Group Cruise with First-Time Cruisers
Dinner Group Cruise with First-Time Cruisers

There is something special about watching first-time cruisers discover why so many travelers return to cruising year after year.

One of my most rewarding experiences as a travel advisor was hosting a recent group cruise with approximately 30 travelers, many of whom had never stepped foot on a cruise ship before. For several guests, this was their first experience working with a travel advisor, booking a cruise, navigating embarkation day, and planning a vacation where every detail was coordinated in advance.

My role began long before sailing day. I assisted with cabin selection, dining arrangements, onboard planning, excursions, payment schedules, travel documentation, and cruise preparation. Throughout the process, I remained available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help travelers feel confident before departure.

What made this group particularly memorable was watching guests go from feeling uncertain about cruising to fully embracing the experience. Travelers connected with new friends, explored beautiful destinations, enjoyed shore excursions, experienced specialty dining, and discovered the convenience and value that cruising can offer.

Many guests commented that having a travel advisor available throughout the planning process removed the stress of organizing a vacation and allowed them to focus on enjoying the experience. Several travelers have already begun discussing future cruises and vacations.

Whether you are a first-time cruiser, a couple planning a getaway, a family looking for an easy vacation option, or a group of friends ready to travel together, I help simplify the planning process while ensuring every detail is considered.

My cruise planning services include:

• Ocean cruises, river cruises and group cruises

• First-time cruiser guidance

• Family and multi-generational cruises

• Dining and excursion planning

• Group coordination and room blocks

• Celebration cruises

• Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and Europe itineraries

• Cruise line comparisons and recommendations

Cruising offers something for nearly every traveler, and I enjoy helping clients find the itinerary, ship, and experience that best fits their travel goals.

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
15 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 15 reviews

Vacation Options That Fit Us
Reviewed By Jeana H - Denison, IA | Traveled to Dominican Republic | Caribbean
I was having trouble finding the right vacation within my budget, so I reached out to Ashley for help. She quickly presented several options that matched what I was looking for and handled every booking detail once I made my choice. She stayed in contact before departure, provided helpful reminders, and made sure everything was in place. The entire experience was smooth, organized, and stress-free.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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The Perfect Honeymoon Escape
Reviewed By Stephanie K - Brenham, TX | Traveled to Saint Lucia | St. Kitts and Nevis | Caribbean
Ashley planned our honeymoon to Sandals La Toc in Saint Lucia, and everything exceeded our expectations. She managed every detail from booking through our return home and was always quick to respond whenever we had questions. When we ran into an issue applying a first responder discount, she handled the entire process and resolved it for us. Having an experienced advisor manage the details allowed us to relax and enjoy our honeymoon. We could not have chosen a better travel advisor.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Stress-Free Surprise Vacation
Reviewed By Dameon W - Katy, TX | Traveled to Mexico
Ashley helped me plan a surprise getaway for my wife, and the process could not have been easier. She eliminated the stress of researching and booking by providing options that fit exactly what I was looking for. Communication was timely, recommendations were helpful, and every detail was handled professionally. I've already recommended Ashley to friends and plan to work with her again for future trips.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Stress-Free Planning for 30 Guests
Reviewed By Viviana R - Katy, TX | Traveled to Caribbean
Planning a cruise for 30 people could have been overwhelming, but Ashley made the entire process easy and organized. From payment plans to coordinating resort logistics after we docked, every detail was handled. She kept everyone informed, answered questions quickly, and ensured our group had everything we needed before departure. Thanks to her planning and communication, we were able to focus on enjoying the trip instead of managing logistics. I would absolutely book with Ashley and Aspiring Vacations again.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Planning for a Family of 20
Reviewed By Dr. Sonal T - Cypress, TX | Traveled to Caribbean
Our family of 20, ranging in age from 5 to 70, traveled on a Christmas cruise that Ashley coordinated for us. She carefully selected staterooms close together and took the time to understand our family's needs before making recommendations. Managing travel for a large group can be complicated, but Ashley made the process simple and stress-free. We highly recommend her services for family vacations and group travel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Certifications & Awards

IATAN

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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