Melanni Leary

Melanni Leary

Travel Specialist

Biography

To me, travel is the ultimate classroom, opening doors to history, art, culture, and the beauty of connection. I was raised with a love for exploration—my mother’s motto was “carpe diem,” and together we embraced it wholeheartedly. From crossing Europe by train on the Orient Express, cycling through Bavaria’s storybook castles, and sailing vintage America’s Cup boats off Martha’s Vineyard, to cruising the majestic rivers of Asia and witnessing the Big Five on safari, travel has been my most transformative teacher.

These early journeys ignited a passion that only grew as I traveled with my husband to far-flung destinations like Bali and Hong Kong. Now we explore the world with our two children. Together, we’ve cherished the iconic capitals of Europe, like London, Paris, and Rome, and found hidden gems in places like Florence, Amalfi, and Corsica. Closer to home, our two decades in Napa and Sonoma wine country have opened a world of California’s rugged coastline, serene redwoods, and idyllic lakes, where we continue to discover new corners of the familiar.

As a travel advisor, my mission is to craft itineraries that bring my clients moments of awe and connection—whether they seek discovery, relaxation, wellness, or a bit of each. I take pride in understanding their travel dreams, which allows me to create thoughtfully designed journeys that combine structure and spontaneity. I focus on insightful research, meticulous planning, and personal touches that elevate every moment of their experience.

Where will your curiosity lead? The world awaits with opportunities for adventure, serenity, culture, and connection. With each trip, I aim to deliver an experience where wonder and joy unfold naturally, revealing the richness of life through travel.

Areas of Expertise

  • Family Travel
  • Multi-Generational
  • Wellness
  • California
  • Mexico
  • Bucket List Travel
  • Morocco
  • Western Europe
  • Turkey
  • Southeast Asia

Favorite Stays

The Splendido, Four Seasons Ubud, Hamansai Belize, The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok.

Most Memorable Meal While Traveling

Peking Duck with noodles made table-side in Hong Kong.

Favorite Architectural Sites

The Alhambra in Spain, Angor Wat in Cambodia, Blue Mosque in Istanbul.

Dream Trips I Can’t Wait to Take

India, New Zealand, Sicily.

The Place I Expected to Love and Loved Even More

Tahiti aboard a Paul Gauguin Cruise.

Countries Visited

43 and counting