Barbara Neistat

I was drawn to the travel industry because I wanted to see the world. As my expertise and confidence grew, I discovered that I love planning vacations for my clients as much as I enjoy traveling myself. I find it thrilling to know I am creating treasured memories and making dreams come true.  

I am proud to be associated with Protravel International, one of the largest and most respected travel agencies in the country. As a Virtuoso travel agency, Protravel provides my clients with access to a wide array of value-added amenities and VIP treatment at top hotels and cruise lines around the world. These might include food and spa credits, free breakfasts and Wi-Fi and access to special experiences.  

Through Protravel’s network of suppliers and my own Rolodex of personal contacts, I am able to arrange everything from vetted private guides to privileged off-hour access to museums and historic sites. A great guide, especially one selected for your interests and travel style, will enhance your trip by helping you to make better use of your time and provide more context for what you are seeing.   

Plus, if you encounter the inevitable airline delays, flight cancelations, and other travel hiccoughs, I am there to get you on your way and thanks to the clout of Protravel, often can arrange priority waitlist clearance and other preferential treatment. Most importantly, when I plan your trip, I think through every detail so your itinerary is logical and seamless. At the same time, I am creative in finding ways to make sure that your trip achieves your goals.  

For example, one couple wanted to pack so much into their trip to Australia that it was hard to create an itinerary that would make sense logistically. They were thinking of driving 2.5 hours each way to see the Blue Mountains and did not want to spend the night. That would have been an exhausting day, so I suggested they tour it by helicopter. It was expensive but allowed them to see something they really wanted to see in a novel way and was one of their favorite experiences.

I recently helped a couple plan their wedding in Puerto Vallarta, including negotiating their contract with the hotel. I was able to get the couple a suite and free nights based on the rooms we had booked for their guests. The hotel also upgraded them to their premium wedding venue for the price of their smaller one. It was a memorable wedding and the hotel did everything they could to ensure that the wedding was a success.  

Mexico is a favorite vacation destination for families and all-inclusive resorts can be a great option. I send a lot of clients to Grand Velas Los Cabos and many go there again and again. The resort has spacious rooms, great food and lots of dining choices. Plus, the service is amazing. Because of that, I have become close to the general manager and staff and often can arrange things that enhance the experience for my clients.  

I am very hands-on as a travel agent and pride myself on finding the best value for my clients and creating special memories. What is next on your travel wish list? I would love to help make it a reality.