Judy Nussbaum

The world is filled with amazing experiences. With my years as a traveler and a travel agent, I have developed a knack for matching my clients with the right hotels, itineraries, and experiences.

My fascination with travel grew out of my close relationship with my uncle, who was a phenomenal history teacher. The way he taught history made it impossible not to be drawn in. I studied to be a history and geography teacher, specializing in European history. My goal was to help people to expand their horizons. However, my first job was working as a travel agent. I loved and realized that this was my way of inspiring people, and one of my proudest and most joyful times was taking my uncle a trip to Europe! 

Planning travel is an art. Understanding geography and how transportation systems work, I usually know the most logical way to plan an itinerary without pulling out a map or going online. Often, I see people agonize over the best way to combine Vienna, Prague, and Budapest; I can answer that in a matter of moments. I know where you are better off traveling by train, and where frequent delays and slow speeds make taking a plane a better option.

I also know which hotels and restaurants will best fit your needs for a particular trip. For example, if you want the height of luxury in Rome, I can suggest a hotel overlooking the Spanish Steps with a Michelin rooftop restaurant, spectacular views, and just far enough from the crush of the crowds that you won’t have to hold onto your purse as you walk out your front door. I also can book less expensive yet wonderful hotels and direct you to restaurants where locals go that are convenient to your hotel and the attractions you’ll be visiting.

Many people are afraid to take their children to Europe but done right, traveling can be a wonderful experience for kids of almost any age. I know many guides who are great storytellers and can make your trip both fun and educational. Sometimes, on a city tour or at a museum, the guide may also set up a scavenger hunt.

Kid- and family-friendly activities abound everywhere. For example, in Rome, a program at the Coliseum lets children live the life of a gladiator for a few hours, and pasta and pizza-making classes are fun for all ages. In St. Petersburg, Russia, I might arrange for a family to attend a traditional puppet show and see the city from a hydrofoil ride.

Pacing, which can make or break a trip--especially when children are involved—is something I learned from experience. Sometimes the best memories happen when you are not racing to see every attraction on your list. As a break from sightseeing, you could spend a relaxing day in the Trastevere section of Rome popping in and out of small shops and stopping into charming restaurants.

Thanks to my personal contacts and my Protravel and Virtuoso affiliation, I can provide exclusive access to experiences not available to the general public as well as a vetted network of hotels, tour operators, guides and other travel suppliers. Also, Protravel’s buying power means my clients get VIP treatment and special value-added amenities such as free breakfasts and Wi-Fi, and sometimes, upgraded accommodations and spa and meal credits at many of the world’s top hotels.  

I pride myself on creating delight-filled itineraries tailored to the unique dreams of each traveler. Whether you are considering taking a luxury cruise or want to discover some special places in Europe, I am here to curate every aspect of your trip to your specific interests and tastes. Where would you like to go next?