“Wow, that’s beautiful!”
“That’s great, what does beautiful look like?”
Welcome to The Travel Nook,® a custom tour & travel company with family values. Born to Greek immigrant parents and a mom who is blind, my entire life revolved around utilizing all possible resources to show, to teach and to share. When I was five, I learned how to read. The very next day I had a crash course for my first job. I instantly became a bilingual, travel companion for someone with special needs. -- Although I had immense responsibility growing up, I relished the opportunity to learn and explore. I had quickly mastered the New York City bus & subway routes, short cuts and became a sponge for knowledge. Every outing was an intimidating, yet empowering adventure.
Our family was very active. For each road trip, my mission was to research, find the hidden gems, help get us navigate, translate & paint the perfect picture so everyone could partake. When I was a 11, our family took our first escorted tour ever, through California. I was completely smitten by the sights, experience & world of hospitality and thought, "Wow, this bus driver gets to go to so many places!" I was the only child on the trip so naturally, I made friends with everyone including establishing a fun rapport with the driver as we drove through the golden hills. One day in Monterey, I noticed we were missing people. I alerted the bus driver. At first he thought I was just chatting him up, and he didn't take me -- an 11 year old seriously until I said... "The honeymooners from South Africa - They are not on the bus!" Realizing that he indeed left people behind, we made the 30 minute trek back to get them. My innate sense of responsibility was a clear sign of my calling. My parents got a nod of gratitude from the driver & I got an ice cream cone at our next stop!
The journey only got better after I learned to drive. Mom & I packed up dad's Chevy & headed to Disney World. I had the reins & without any internet, or guide I went into autopilot. I navigated strategically through all the stimulating sights, smells & sounds... Each day was spent describing each attraction, parade, character & vibrant experience with precision and detail. I don't know what was more exciting... Getting to enjoy this magical place, or witnessing the joy it brought to my Mom. It was a such a rewarding trip for us. With each trip, I expanded my awareness, skills and global repertoire. We traveled further; by plane & ship, making it all the more enriching for us. Providing this confidence, peace of mind and standard of care for our family, (and anyone else who joined us on the journey,) made each experience truly remarkable. And even better than the last.
The diligence to provide memorable travel experiences and passion to explore, took me to the professional travel world where I worked for various tour companies. During this time my husband Steve & I took vacations. Lots of them! In lieu of birthday, holiday & anniversary gifts, we saved for travel. The thrill for life experiences, adventure & the contacts we made along the way gave us the confidence and motivation to pursue this passion professionally. After over 17 years of planning trips, packing & unpacking, touring & working with students, seniors, families and suppliers across the globe for others, it was only natural that we would take our experience and passion to build a company with our values and ideals. So together in 2014... The Travel Nook ® was born. And we have been making memories ever since!
There's so much out there to see & everyone should get a chance to see it. No matter your travel style, we're sure to match up your wishlist & help you find some hidden gems while we're at it. We'll prepare you for your journey & leave all the discovery and seizing of opportunities up to you! And although we put in a call for good weather, you might get some rain... How else will you get to witness that beautiful mist, or that glorious rainbow??
We'll do all the hard work for you. All you have to do is pack & enjoy! We're accessible and you'll never be a number. And that is something that NO online agency could ever deliver. The Travel Nook looks forward to having you join our family.
Ria & Steve Maratheftis
The Travel Nook
WE MAKE MEMORIES
OUR TRAVEL BOOKING BLUEPRINT
Hello: The Travel Nook® is a full service Tour & Travel Concierge for individuals & groups. Since travel is different & forever changed, it's important to work with a qualified & professional advisor that is receptive to your needs & makes you feel comfortable. We provide seamless travel planning, unique experiences, unparalleled accessibility & peace of mind. If all you care about is price -- And quality, service & support are not important factors -- Then we are not the right Advisors for you.
Craft: We make an an investment in you! Contact us for a complimentary consultation to discuss your travel wish-list! It's that easy! Did you know? Travel Advisors only get paid if & after you travel. So once we agree to work together, you’ll receive our Trip Planning Form & Fee request so we may begin custom tailoring your trip! (Fees vary based on the complexity of your trip.)
Collaborate: We work with our preferred team of global air, land, sea, touring & insurance suppliers to craft your itinerary. We keep you in the loop during the entire process, offer options & refinement as needed. Once the quote is ready, we'll present your itinerary as well as details on how to secure your anticipated trip with ease & flexibility!
Deliver: We'll send you exciting destination information, including how to prepare so you may travel confidently and seamlessly! While away, you'll be in the capable hands of our in-country partners, travel concierges & have access to our office for any add-ons, or hiccups. Want to see some memories? Visit The Travel Nook's memory gallery!
The Travel Nook® looks forward to hosting you!!!
The Travel Nook
213-37 39th Ave, #365, Bayside, NY 11361, US
The Travel Nook® Inc is a registered trademark -- Copyright 2021
All photos & media courtesy of The Travel Nook, Creative Commons License or are otherwise noted.
The Travel Nook recognizes the uncertainty of this time. Whether affected directly by COVID or other family concerns, our hearts & thoughts go out to everyone.
We realize the importance of flexibility & peace of mind as we plan your next journey. We're committed to providing the service & care you have come to depend on. While our global partners prepare for safe return to travel, our Travel Nook desk is accepting inquiries for trips departing after June 1, 2021.
Contact us for a complimentary consultation & join our travel family for destination insight! Be safe & well. Thanks.
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