Vessela Smith
Adventure & Luxury Travel Specialist
View of Petit Piton in St. Lucia
Hi, I'm Vessy. I was born and raised in Bulgaria, a small but beautiful Eastern European country. I came to the US when I was 18 years old for college and ended up staying. Currently, my family and I live in Sugar Land, Texas, which is a lovely suburb of Houston.
My original career path was in music, and I have both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in classical piano performance. After playing concerts and teaching for quite a few years, I went back to school, and became a registered nurse. Yes, this was quite a change ... But I absolutely love helping and working with people, so I thought it was my calling in life.
During all these endeavors, I realized there was always one constant, my great passion for travel. So, I got certified as a travel consultant with The Travel Institute, and I haven't looked back since. Nothing makes me happier than researching new destinations, designing dream itineraries for my clients, or exploring the world myself.
PERSONAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCE
My personal travels include trips to China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Colombia, Tahiti and French Polynesia, most of Europe, including numerous visits to Italy, France, Ireland, Switzerland, Turkey, and Greece. I've also explored quite a few of the Caribbean Islands and destinations in Mexico, Canada, and most of the United States. My husband, two daughters, and I are avid hikers and skiers. We have hiked in well over half of the US National Parks and skied in a number of resorts throughout the US and Canada.
I'm so excited to hear your travel wishes, and I can't wait to help you plan that trip of a lifetime!
My Areas of Expertise
Belize: In the Heart of the Maya Civilization
The Central American country of Belize is sometimes overlooked as tourists head to the sunny coasts of Mexico and lovely Costa Rica instead. But make no mistake! Belize definitely holds its own when it comes to unique travel experiences.
For those who enjoy sustainable eco-adventures and don't mind a bit of humidity and... Read more from my Belize: In the Heart of the Maya Civilization story.
Moorea, The Warm Heart of French Polynesia
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, French Polynesia is a dream destination for people all over the world. The famous over-water bungalows and pristine turquoise-blue lagoons of Bora Bora are the ultimate beach vacation experience for many sun and sea lovers. And without question, Bora Bora is Paradise on Earth that's hard... Read more from my Moorea, The Warm Heart of French Polynesia story.
Caribbean Bliss in Santa Marta, Colombia
Colombia is a colorful destination that offers incredible cultural experiences and natural beauty. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked by tourists, who are unfamiliar with the country and its people.
After spending some time in Colombia, I am here to tell you, that it is a fantastic choice for your next vacation, whether you like a... Read more from my Caribbean Bliss in Santa Marta, Colombia story.
The Most Amazing Ski Trip...Period!
This truly makes my day! Thank you so much! I had the best time planning your ski trip to Jackson Hole! What a beautiful destination to ski!
The Best Beach Getaway Ever!
Thank you for the kind words, Natalia. I had so much fun planning your dream Jamaican getaway, and I'm really looking forward to working with you again!
Best Caribbean Trip Ever!
I am so thrilled you enjoyed your experience, Matt. It was a pleasure working with you and obsessing over all the details of your Caribbean getaway! Looking forward to planning many more adventures and happy times for you and your family!
Vessy is so helpful for your travels!
Thank you so much! It was my pleasure to help plan your fun trip to Istanbul! Looking forward to working with you again soon! :-)
Best family vacation ever!
Working with Vessy has completely changed our concept of a family vacation. She always asked us the right questions and understood exactly what we needed. She went above and beyond to arrange every detail (like making sure we had a proper child seat in the shuttle from the airport). Unlike our previous vacations, everything went so smoothly this time around, and we are looking forward to getting Vessy’s help again for our next vacation!
Dear Omar, I'm so happy everything went as planned ... And I'm very excited to help you put together your next family vacation!
Italy
Thank you so much! So glad I was able to help you out! :)
Bari Italy
Thank you so much for these kind words! It was a pleasure working with you on this incredible trip to beautiful Italy!
A Travel Agent Who Listens and Cares
Dear Suzanne, Ida and Bob, It was truly a pleasure working with you. Thank you for trusting me with your travel plans! You are always welcome to call, text, and e-mail whenever you need me...Or just to say "hi."
Holiday Disney- From Overwhelming to AWESOME
Thank you so much, dear Andrea! I had the best time planning and putting together your fun family trip to Disney World. I am so looking forward to hearing all about it and seeing the special moments you have captured!
Best trip of our lives :)
I am beyond thrilled you all had a great spring break, Deni! Thank you for taking the time to write this amazing review. I can't wait to start working on your next vacation! :-)
Punta Cana - Majestic Colonial
Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing your experience! It will be my great pleasure to work with all of you again! Onto the next adventure! :-)
A Life Changing Trip
Thank you so much, dear Audrey! I had a lot of fun working with you on this amazing trip! I'm definitely looking forward to doing it again soon! :-)