(37 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Gabrielle Estel

Cedar Rapids, IA

Tailor-Made Europe and Asia Travel Specialist

I live to travel. I’ve invested over 4 years of my life living abroad. From living with a host family in Spain as young teenager to honeymooning in Italy, travel has always marked my life milestones. I moved abroad to Taiwan and explored Asia. Then, I moved to Egypt and explored the Mediterranean and the Sahara. Now I’m back in my Iowan home state to help others plan their own dream experiences across the globe. Travel is my life. Let me share my life with you. Check out my International Travel Leisure Expert specialty article to learn more!

My Travel Specialties

International Travel Leisure Specialist

I live to travel. I’ve invested over 4 years of my life living abroad.

I lived in Taiwan and explored Asia. Then, I moved to Egypt and explore the Mediterranean and the Sahara. From living with a host family in Spain as young teenager to honeymooning in Italy, travel has always...
Read more from my International Travel Leisure Specialist bio.

Forbidden City in Beijing

United Kingdom Travel Expert

There’s nothing like escaping the drizzle in a homey UK pub. It seems they’re made for those little moments of pause, chat, and sip. I love a Pimms and lemonade, and my husband always chooses a random local brew. I've been lucky enough to visit the United Kingdom multiple times. Every time I have...
Read more from my United Kingdom Travel Expert bio.

Canterbury Cathedral

Egypt Travel Expert

I drove by the Giza Pyramids on my way to work every morning for two years. Yet, everyday they always made me pause to appreciate their majesty. 

Egypt is a place where everyone “has a guy” or “knows a guy.” Having connections with the right people makes a huge difference.

I have those...
Read more from my Egypt Travel Expert bio.

I'm not even as tall as their feet!

Japan Travel Expert

This spring I was invited to tour Japan with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). I was one of eight advisors chosen from hundreds of applicants.

On our trip, I was accompanied by a JNTO leader, logistics head, and professional guide to see the absolute best of Japan and learn all...
Read more from my Japan Travel Expert bio.

Follow the Torii Gates!

Italy Travel Expert

Italy holds a special place in my heart. My journey began on my honeymoon, and it marked the beginning of an enduring love affair with this captivating country (and my husband). Over time, I've developed a profound appreciation for Italy's rich history, culinary delights, fine wines, and natural beauty.

As...
Read more from my Italy Travel Expert bio.

Exploring the Forum

Ireland Travel Expert

I’m an avid traveler with an insatiable passion for exploring the captivating land of Ireland. My journey through this enchanting country has been a profound odyssey, driven by a deep connection to my ancestors and a thirst for discovery.

Tailored Itineraries: As a travel agent...
Read more from my Ireland Travel Expert bio.

Emerald Island

Greece Travel Expert

Embarking on a journey to Greece was a dream come true for me, fueled by a lifelong love for "The Odyssey" and a burning desire for the classic Mediterranean summer vacation. As a travel agent, I specialize in curating unforgettable travel experiences, and my own trip to Greece was no exception. Delve...
Read more from my Greece Travel Expert bio.

Beautiful stonework

Germany Travel Expert

This holiday season I had the wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in the twinkling lights, festive melodies, and warm gluhwein (mulled wine) of Germany’s Christmas markets.

Regensburg: A Medieval Gem Aglow with Christmas Magic

My journey began in the medieval city...
Read more from my Germany Travel Expert bio.

The Romantic Christmas Market

Spain Travel Expert

Spain was my first European country to explore as a young teenager. It’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and art captivated my and solidified travel as one of my main passions in life. I love helping others discover the magic of Spain through my role as a travel agent.

Barcelona...
Read more from my Spain Travel Expert bio.

15 year old me in La Sagrada Familia

Taiwan Travel Expert

I will always miss calling Taiwan home. When people ask where of all the places I've traveled I'd return, Taiwan is always my answer.

Taiwan is an island of gorgeous mountains that drop into ocean waves. It makes you stop, buy a bubble tea, and smell the Yellow Plumeria flowers. Plus, the clean...
Read more from my Taiwan Travel Expert bio.

Embarking on the Road Up Taroko Gorge

Vietnam Travel Expert

I’m thrilled to announce I was invited by Kensington Tours to be a Brand Ambassador and explore Vietnam with them this spring. On our trip, I was accompanied by Kensington’s Midwest Business Development Manager, Asia Destination Lead, and a variety of professional guides to taste the best of all Vietnam...
Read more from my Vietnam Travel Expert bio.

Hanoi Beauty

My Travel Albums

Japan
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a must-see
Germany
an amazing Old Town
Ireland
Clonmacnoise
Greece
India (including the Jaipur Literature Festival!)
Taj Mahal
Italy
Forum
Thailand
The Grand Palace
Hong Kong
HK Nights
South Korea
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Taiwan
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
Egypt
United Kingdom
Canterbury Cathedral

My Reviews

4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The best experience and best planned trip ever!!
Working with Gabrielle Estel on our first trip to another continent was an absolute pleasure. She is responsible for making this trip to Egypt the best trip my family has ever taken. She was super patient, knowledgeable and kind throughout the planning process. Gabrielle was always there to take my calls before our departure on this elaborate trip. We were a little nervous that everything would work out as planned. The trip was flawless, and Gabrielle made that possible. I called her often during planning and she was always there to answer her phone and she did so cheerfully. My wife and two children had a wonderful time. The resort in Cairo and Luxor were beautiful. The private tour guides were prompt, very accommodating and knowledgeable. The private tour was the best decision we made. Next time we plan a trip, we will be calling Gabrielle for sure!
By  William  from  1376 Hanover Street Yorktown Heights NY 10598
Traveled to  Cairo ~ Egypt ~ Africa
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Gabrielle Estel responded:
Thank you so much for taking time to write this review, William! I had a great time getting to know your family as we planned your perfect trip to Egypt. I look forward to helping your family create many amazing memories during your future travels!

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3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Food and Family Fun in Italy and Greece!
Gabrielle-

We had a great trip. All hotels were perfect. The tours were great and the transportation worked great. I was impressed that even with flight delays they were waiting for us. Greece had an added benefit that both in Athens and Mykonos we were met by a travel representative and driver. The rep gave us a personal number if we needed anything and they were fast to respond. The cooking classes were prefect. It was hot the whole time we were there, but we completed almost everything.

Thanks so much for your hard work!
By  Melinda  from  Iowa City, Iowa
Traveled to  Italy ~ Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Gabrielle Estel responded:
Thank you for your review, Melinda! I loved getting to know your family as we planned your amazing Italy and Greece trip to Rome, Athens, and Mykonos. I hope your daughter has a great experience studying in Greece later this year.

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3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Business travel plus R&R!
Gabrielle is focused on meeting your needs, including budget! What sets her apart are her attention to detail and engaging personality.
By  Iowa Mark  from  Iowa City, IA
Traveled to  Vietnam ~ East and Southeast Asia
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Gabrielle Estel responded:
Thank you for your review, Mark. I had a wonderful time finding the best relaxing spot in Vietnam for you to unwind and explore after your work trip. I look forward to adding personal value to more of your future work trips.

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3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great trip
We were very happy with the service and planning that Gabrielle provided. Th e trip went smoothly and the one small problem was resolved promptly I would use her services again
By  Mike  from  Washington Iowa
Traveled to  Nuremberg ~ Germany ~ Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Gabrielle Estel responded:
Mike, Thank you for your review! I had a great time hearing about what you learned from the excellent guides in Nuremberg, Prague, and Vienna. I look forward to helping you explore another part of the world soon! Best, Gabrielle

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3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Perfect Options!
Thank you so much for helping with my winter vacation. I was at a real loss on where to go and stay. I really appreciate you finding a wonderful location and given me some options for personal preferences. Your help with lodging, flights, transportation and excursions were on point and made this vacation the best. I will be contacting you again for my next vacation.
By  Curtis  from  Palo, Iowa
Traveled to  Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Gabrielle Estel responded:
I appreciate your time for this review! I had a wonderful time getting to know your family and what makes a vacation perfect for you. I look forward to booking many amazing trips with you in the future!

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Destination Expert:

  • Egypt
  • Japan
  • Taiwan
  • Vietnam
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • United Kingdom
  • Europe
  • Cairo
  • Tokyo
  • Taipei
  • Hoi An
  • Canterbury
  • Heidelberg
  • Athens
  • Dublin
  • Rome
  • Barcelona
  • England
  • Luxor
  • Kyoto
  • Taichung
  • Hanoi
  • Munich
  • Santorini
  • Galway
  • Florence
  • Madrid
  • Scotland
  • Nile River
  • Kanazawa
  • Kaohsiung
  • Ho Chi Minh City
  • Black Forest
  • Mykonos
  • Dingle
  • Amalfi
  • Seville
  • Aswan
  • Osaka
  • Tainan
  • Ha Long Bay
  • Leeds
  • Regensburg
  • Paros
  • Killarney
  • Taormina
  • Toledo

Travel Specialist:

  • Adventure
  • Arts & Culture
  • Castles & Cathedrals
  • Culinary & Foodie
  • Historical Sites
  • Independent Travel
  • Food & Wine
  • Literature
  • Museums
  • Christmas Markets
  • Scuba

Top Travel Partners:

  • Avanti Destinations
  • CIE Tours
  • Kensington
  • AmaWaterways
  • Europe Express
  • Globus
  • Viking
  • Windstar Cruises
  • National Geographic Expeditions
  • Project Expedition
  • Tauck
  • Abercrombie & Kent
  • Backroads
  • G Adventures

Certifications/Awards:

  • Certified Sandals Specialist
  • CIE Tours' Shamrock (Ireland) Certification
  • Avanti Certified Specialist
  • Aussie Specialist

Industry Affiliations:

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