Erica Gragg
Founder & Trailblazer of Wellness and Wanderlust
Biography
Wanderlust isn’t just a word — it’s the lens through which I’ve built my life and my career.
With over two decades of experience and firsthand knowledge of more than 96 countries, I specialize in crafting travel experiences that go far beyond the expected. My clients come to me for the kind of access, instinct, and personal touch that no algorithm can replicate — whether that’s a seamlessly orchestrated family adventure, a romantic escape to a secluded beach, a private villa getaway with friends, or a deeply immersive journey to somewhere they’ve never dared to dream of yet.
What sets me apart is the relationship. I take the time to truly know my clients — their rhythms, their tastes, the things that make their soul sing — so I can introduce them to destinations, designers, artisans, chefs, and hidden cultural gems they wouldn’t have discovered on their own. My greatest satisfaction is exceeding expectations they didn’t even know they had.
I am widely recognized as a pioneer in wellness & tourism — a distinction earned, not claimed. I’ve been featured in Fast Company and The New York Times, named a “Wellness Expert to Watch” by Condé Nast Traveler, and have proudly held a spot on the Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialists list since 2021.
When I’m not designing transformative journeys for my clients, I’m living one myself. As the founder of Escape to Shape: Adventures in Wellness, I lead intimate, experience-based small group retreats that weave together travel, exploration, nutrition, fitness, and local flavor into something truly extraordinary. Between trips, you’ll find me hunting for treasures in exotic markets and vintage shops, hiking, practicing yoga and Pilates or hosting friends around the table at my home in Hudson, New York.
I am passionate about meaningful human connection — and giving back to every community I’m fortunate enough to visit.
The world is endlessly beautiful. Let me help you experience it that way.
When Traveling I Never Leave Home Without
A suitcase brimming with essentials 😉, along with my go-tos: 8Greens, Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen, and a silk eye mask.
Staycation Ideas
The Hudson Valley is a natural haven rich in charm. Hiking in the Berkshires or Catskills, exploring the picturesque town of Hudson, or enjoying a riverside picnic with farm-fresh foods in Athens are just a few ways to escape and recharge close to home.
Favorite Travel Quote
“We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next to find ourselves. We travel to open our hearts and eyes and learn more about the world than our newspapers will accommodate. We travel to bring what little we can, in our ignorance and knowledge, to those parts of the globe whose riches are differently dispersed. And we travel, in essence, to become young fools again- to slow time down and get taken in, and fall in love once more.” ~ Pico Iyer
Areas of Expertise
- Southeast Asia, India, Bhutan, Safari anywhere in Africa
- Bucket-List Holidays: Antarctica, Egypt, and Machu Picchu
- Light Adventure
- Wellness Travel
- Solo Travel
- Honeymoons
- Group/Corporate Travel
Favorite Destinations
Choosing a favorite is a journey in itself, but if I must, I’d say India, Bhutan, Botswana, Guatemala, and Marrakech—each a place where beauty and spirit blend into unforgettable experiences:
India: A land of vibrant contrasts, where ancient temples and bustling bazaars intertwine with tranquil rivers and serene palaces. From the golden sands of Rajasthan’s deserts to the lush landscapes of Kerala, India is a tapestry of color, culture, and warmth, offering something new to discover with every visit.
Bhutan: Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan feels like stepping into a dream. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, it radiates a serene energy, with monasteries perched high on misty cliffs and festivals alive with joyous celebration. Bhutan is a place where happiness is woven into the very fabric of life, inviting you to slow down and connect deeply with nature and spirituality.
Botswana: Botswana’s untouched landscapes offer a wilderness that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. From the vast, shimmering salt pans to the waterways of the Okavango Delta, this is a land where nature reigns supreme. Here, the rhythm of life is dictated by wildlife—majestic elephants, graceful lions, and countless others roam freely, creating moments of wonder and reverence.
Marrakech: Marrakech is a city of enchantment and sensory delight, where every corner reveals a new story. The bustling souks, fragrant with spices and adorned with vibrant textiles, pulse with life. Sunlit courtyards and lavish riads provide moments of tranquility amid the lively energy, while the Atlas Mountains offer a breathtaking backdrop. To me, Marrakech has become a second home, a place I feel both comfortable and inspired by.
Guatemala: A truly transportive experience. Close to the USA but you immediately feel worlds away. The vibrant markets, stunning landscapes, and rich culture of Guatemala weave a magical spell that invites deeper connection and reflection.
Each of these destinations has left an indelible mark on my heart, offering treasures and insights that linger long after the journey ends.
Dream Trip I Can’t Wait To Take
The world holds countless hidden corners and mesmerizing landscapes, and a few destinations call to me like whispers of adventure. Ethiopia, further explorations in India, and New Zealand are at the top of my list, each promising a journey of discovery that I’m eager to embark upon:
Ethiopia: With its dramatic landscapes, from the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the lush highlands and the surreal Danakil Depression, Ethiopia holds a mystique all its own. I am captivated by its deep cultural heritage, fascinating tribes, and the beauty of the Rift Valley—each promising a journey through time and tradition in the heart of Africa.
Further Explorations in India: India is a place I could explore endlessly and still discover something new. The desire to delve deeper into its hidden regions—perhaps the untouched beauty of the Northeast, the mystical landscapes of Ladakh, or the art and textile traditions of Gujarat—fuels my curiosity. Each part of India offers a unique rhythm, inviting deeper connection and appreciation for its layers of beauty and heritage.
New Zealand: Known for its breathtaking landscapes, from the fjords of Milford Sound to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, New Zealand is a paradise of natural beauty and adventure. I dream of hiking its epic trails, sailing through turquoise waters, exploring Maori culture, and immersing myself in the pristine wilderness that this island nation so passionately protects.
These dream destinations hold the promise of discovery, connection, and inspiration—adventures I can’t wait to bring to life.
Most Memorable Meal While Traveling
From octopus carpaccio in Rio to truffle pasta unearthed during a truffle hunt in Tuscany, each meal has a story. And, of course, my mother’s tacos remain a perennial favorite—they are simply the best.