A lot has changed in the travel industry in the past forty years…but much has also stayed the same. Travelers still enjoy the history, culture, views and the incredible food of countries across the globe.
Today, we talk with Stephany Capocelli Pishko. Stephany has been a Travel Advisor for forty years with the Tour Plan International family of travel companies. Italy is a specialty of Tour Plan International, but she has traveled, and led tours, to many places over the decades. (Keep reading to learn of a favorite island in the Caribbean)
From solo travel to small group tours and family vacations, Stephany provides a lot of tips and insights in this interview.
Meet Stephany…
TPI: Italy is one of your favorite travel and tour destinations, but is there another European destination that is a favorite to host a tour?
Stephany: “Spain! I’ve been fortunate to visit the country several times, focusing on Madrid, Barcelona and the Costa del Sol. I haven’t made it to the northern regions yet. The country oozes art, history, culture, incredible food & wine/cava and gorgeous scenery. For me though, it’s the Spanish people that bring it all to life. They are happy, friendly, open and eager to share all they can of their beautiful county.”
On Adding Excursions to your Vacation…
TPI: Recently, we have talked a lot about adding optional excursions to a vacation or tour. Excursions provide the traveler a bonus opportunity to experience local culture, history, food and sites. What’s your favorite type of excursion?
Stephany: “My personal favorite would be photo worthy and food!!! I try to create itineraries that incorporate all of the above. Something for everyone.”
What about solo travel?
TPI: Solo travel, especially for women, is now popular. What’s your advice for women that would like to find adventure through solo travel?
Stephany: “For some, traveling alone can be intimidating and create anxiety from the planning stages and throughout the trip. That’s no fun! A planned small group journey for like-minded women traveling solo, not alone, can be an enriching and empowering experience. Why go it alone?”
Which Caribbean Island?
TPI: I know that the Caribbean is also one of your favorite places. In the past 40 years, the region has seen many changes with the increase in visitation and vast changes in the cruise industry. If I wanted a land vacation to a Caribbean Island that included beautiful beaches and days of relaxation, which island would you recommend?
Stephany: “Beautiful beaches and relaxation can be experienced on most Caribbean islands. One of my personal favorites is Curacao. The island has retained its intimate feel throughout the years. Yes, there are tourists, but not like the frenzy I’ve experienced on other islands. The beaches are stunning and there are plenty of awesome resorts, both large and small. Some offer all-inclusive packages, but I’d think twice on that … there are many excellent restaurants and a few nights on the town are a must! Which brings me to the historic town of Willemstad, with its quaint Dutch Caribbean character and pretty architecture. It’s definitely worth taking some time for both daytime and evening strolls for shopping, dining, photo ops and just to get a feel for the islands’ diverse culture and heritage. Although it’s not for me, Scuba divers will be delighted with the islands’ pristine scuba spots.”
What’s Next?
TPI: What’s next in the travel industry and what’s next for you as a travel advisor? Can you give us an early preview to small group tours, small ship cruises or excursions that you may offer in the next year?
Stephany: “I am already thinking about travel in 2024 and 2025! Stay tuned for some announcements and ‘save the dates’ on the Tour Plan International social media pages. Here are just a few of the tours and adventures that you may see:
Just some thoughts for small group trips …
- Small group tour for Solo Women Travelers –
- Curacao mid to late April 2024 … perhaps with a foodie focus!
- Small ship Dalmatian Coast Cruise (June 2024)
- Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps AMA River Cruise (July 2024)
- Exploring Puglia (Fall 2024)
- Small ship Northern Lights cruise (Winter 2025)
Thank you, Stephany! Now, we are dreaming of Spain, Curacao and all of the upcoming destinations in 2024 and beyond.
If you are interested in one of Stephany’s small group tours, follow Tour Plan International on social media or our website. And you will be one of the first to know about upcoming tours and adventures!
