(37 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Gabrielle Estel

Cedar Rapids, IA

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 you...
Learn more about me.

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 marked my life milestones. 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. 

ARTS & CULTURE

My husband is my main travel buddy. He’s a history guy; I’m a literature girl. Between the both of us, we have to see every museum, temple, cathedral, statue --- you name it!

Over my years of travel, I’ve learned art and culture is more than the highlight real. It’s also exploring a local Greek market, listening to a Korean grandmother describe her love of fan-painting, trying homemade Italian dishes at a rooftop dinner party, having a quiet moment in a café watching uniformed King’s College students rush through Canterbury to their morning classes, bargaining for a brick of tea in China.

These little moments of life are art and culture. 

FOOD & WINE

Food is the heart of a country. Food tours are journeys to the heart of a place---and the locals. Local food tour guides know every alley, and cooking instructors always welcome travelers into their family. They’re the best to ask for any last minute recommendations and to have a better understanding of culture through the kitchen. Sometimes the kitchen is the desert, like roasting chicken in Egyptian with a side of koshari. My personal favorite are moon cakes to celebrate Mid-Autumn festival and Scottish eggs in Bath.

Nothing is as engrained in a place as food. It an easy way to experience a place’s every day.

EXPLORATION & ADVENTURE

Let’s take the path less traveled.

That path might be a horse ride through the mountains, a dune buggy through the dunes, a hike up an along the spine of a mountain, a gondola ride above the jungle outside Hong Kong, or a peak at North Korea at the DMZ.

Whatever type of heart racing you’re looking for, I can find.

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Gabrielle Estel

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Ireland Travel Expert

Emerald Island

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 specializing in Irish adventures, I'm here to take the hassle out of planning your trip and make it a seamless, unforgettable experience. I will design a tailor-made itinerary that suits your interests, whether you're passionate about history, crave outdoor adventures, or are eager to savor the best of Irish cuisine. I take monthly seminars to keep up-to-date with the best of Ireland. I have access to extensive insider knowledge to ensure you experience Ireland's hidden gems beyond the tourist trail.

Ancestral Connection: My first visit to Ireland was more than just a vacation; it was a pilgrimage to trace the footsteps of my forebears and connect with the land that shaped their lives. I ventured to the picturesque villages of County Cork, where my ancestors once lived, and felt an indescribable sense of belonging as I wandered through the cobblestone streets and gazed upon the very landscapes they knew. If you are interested in traveling for family, I can connect you with a reputable archivist so you can learn more details of your family background.

Awe-Inspiring Nature: But Ireland offered me so much more than ancestral connections. It welcomed me with open arms into a world of unparalleled natural beauty. The landscapes of Ireland are nothing short of magical. From the rugged cliffs of Moher, where the Atlantic waves crash against ancient stone, to the tranquil beauty of the Lakes of Killarney, where emerald waters mirror lush forests, every corner of this country is a masterpiece of nature's artistry. It takes traveling the Emerald Isle to truly understand all its shades of luminescent green.

Resilient History: Ireland's history is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and heritage. I've delved deep into the annals of time, exploring historic sites like Blarney Castle, where I kissed the famous Blarney Stone and received the gift of eloquence; and I've marveled at the ancient monastic city of Clonmacnoise, where the whispers of the past still echo through the serene landscapes. My personal favorite is the Aran Islands, where time seems to stand still and more forward at the same time. I loved exploring these islands where traditional Irish culture thrives. From the rugged landscapes and ancient stone forts to the vibrant sweaters hand-knitted by locals, the Aran Islands offer a unique window into Ireland's past and present.

Food and Drink: The culinary journey in Ireland has been a delicious revelation. I've savored the hearty warmth of traditional Irish stews, indulged in fresh seafood plucked from the surrounding waters, and enjoyed a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, often accompanied by lively conversations in charming local pubs. The food in Ireland is a testament to the country's pride in its heritage and the innovation of its chefs. The Irish whiskey revival is in full swing with families returning to their history of triple distilling! My current favorite is Teeling Whiskey in Dublin.

Welcoming People and Pubs: Yet, what truly makes Ireland special is its people. The warmth of the Irish welcome is legendary, and I've been fortunate to forge connections with locals who have shared their stories, traditions, and laughter with me. I also made meaningful connections with other Irish Americans traveling to learn about their family’s past. It's through these encounters that I've come to understand the heart and soul of Ireland.

Logistics and Support: Navigating Ireland can be complex, especially for first-time travelers. There are rail stations, metro stations, ferries, and more! I offer comprehensive support, from arranging transportation and accommodations to providing practical travel tips (What should you wear for the rainy days?), ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey. Every detail is scrutinized by my eyes and expertise.

Together, we'll uncover the treasures of Ireland, forging memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a solo traveler excited to make new friends around Temple Bar, a couple seeking a romantic getaway to walk the prom in Galway, or a family on an adventure to experience the Wild Atlantic Way, I'm dedicated to ensuring your journey through Ireland is an enriching and unforgettable experience. Some of my favorite suppliers to work with for Ireland are CIE Tours, Avanti Destinations, and Kensington Tours. Sláinte!

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Ireland

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