A-List Valerie Wilson T+L TOP TRAVEL ADVISOR | LARGE, MEDIUM, AND SMALL SHIPS SPECIALIST By Travel + Leisure Editors Travel + Leisure Editors Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on January 31, 2023 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Courtesy of Respective Travel Advisor A longtime luxury cruise expert, Wilson has deep knowledge of the industry’s most exciting ships—including intimate Windstar vessels and Seabourn’s fleet—as well as the most compelling ports, whether they are European city stops or dreamy South Pacific islands. Multigenerational trips have become something of a subspecialty for her, and often involve complex, over-the-top itineraries. "Travelers are not putting off those once in a lifetime experiences," Wilson says. "They want to take those large trips right now." As more and more of her clients get back to traveling, they're spending more on meaningful upgrades, Wilson adds. "Some prefer to splurge on a suite, rather than a room, or a magnificent view. Others want special access to exhibits, private guides, exclusive and in-depth local experiences, where they immerse themselves." As far as on-shore excursions, Wilson is always able to recommend five-star properties. "I would have to say Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle is one of the most exciting openings within the past year. The location within the Palace of Versailles truly provides a special connection to the history of France, and you almost feel as though you were part of the aristocracy. "Another special property she loves is Domaine de Primard. "Formerly the private residence of Catherine Deneuve, it has been transformed into a stunning and special destination. The grounds are magnificent and you can lose yourself exploring the hundreds of varieties of roses," Wilson says. ADDITIONAL SPECIALTIES: Multigenerational travel, Europe Languages Spoken: English Average Daily Spend: From $1500 per person Trip Planning Fees: From $200 per person, with a family fee of $600. Contact Info valeriew@vwti.com | 212-532-3400 | New York www.valeriewilsontravel.com facebook.com/ValerieWilsonTravel twitter.com/VWT_Travel instagram.com/vwt_travel Testimonial "We spent quite a bit of time with Valerie planning our trip to Asia, and, as we are seasoned travelers, we had strong opinions as to what we wanted to do and where we wanted to stay. Valerie's suggestions regarding hotels were superb for all of the places we stayed. Moreover, she was able to get us terrific upgrades in nearly every hotel. We had fabulous experiences during six weeks of travel, and so much of that was due to Valerie's meticulous planning and extensive knowledge of the countries, cities, and hotels. I would recommend Valerie Wilson to anyone interested in luxury travel, and have already done so. In my experience and estimation, her knowledge of places, accommodations, and the desires of clients is truly exceptional." — Lisa K. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit