Our Story

Redefining the Art of Travel

We believe travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about feeling them.
Travel company with experienced travelers who enjoy creating boutique experiences and adventures for couples and families

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer."

More Than Just a Guidebook

Trip Playbook was born from a simple frustration: the internet is flooded with “top 10” lists, but lacks the depth and nuance that true travelers crave. We wanted to create a space for authentic storytelling, where the journey is just as important as the destination.

Our team of expert writers, photographers, and locals work together to bring you guides that go beyond the surface. We uncover the hidden gems, the local favorites, and the cultural nuances that make each place unique.

50+ Countries

200+ Guides

1M+ Readers

The Team

Meet Trip Playbook’s Global Travel Planners

Our team brings together a thoughtful mix of expertise, curiosity, and global perspective to help shape travel experiences that feel elevated, seamless, and deeply memorable. With strengths spanning planning, cultural connection, adventure, and on-the-ground logistics, each agent offers a distinct point of view. Together, they help travelers move beyond ordinary trips and into experiences that feel personal, purposeful, and unforgettable.

Travel agent specializing in logistics of travel so you do not have to worry. You can enjoy your experience.

Mark

Travel Logistics

is the true travel logistics specialist of the group. Having traveled to more than 30 countries, he has a knack for figuring out how a place works, from its streets and neighborhoods to its trains, buses, and local rhythms. He is the one most likely to walk the perimeter of a city, map out the transportation options, and confidently suggest boarding a bus into the unknown just to see where it leads. As a restaurant owner for more than 20 years, Mark also knows how to track down the markets, local restaurants, and must-try meals that give a destination its flavor. His practical instincts and curiosity help make trips smoother, richer, and more memorable.

Travel agent who has traveled to over 40 countries planning travel for families, teens, college students for unique travel experiences

Merissa

Family and Group Travel Advisor

is a travel strategist, educator, and founder with a passion for designing memorable, meaningful travel experiences. She has traveled to more than 40 countries and has led countless teens and young adults on study abroad trips designed to excite, inspire, and create lasting memories. As a college professor, she teaches courses in sustainable tourism, interpersonal communication, the Mediterranean diet, and other subjects that explore culture, connection, and the human experience. Her work blends a love of adventure, cultural immersion, and thoughtful planning to help travelers discover extraordinary destinations with purpose and confidence.

Travel agent specializing in once in a lifetime memorable trips and travel for groups. She is sitting in a colorful hammock, smiling in a lush green outdoor setting, reflecting the essence of travel and exploration.

Sydney Elisei

Teen and Family Travel Specialist

has never met a wave she did not want to surf, a homestay she did not want to make the most of, or a place she did not want to explore. She has a gift for finding the kinds of spots that make a trip feel unique, personal, and unforgettable. Drawn to music, culture, and authentic experiences, Sydney brings curiosity and a sense of fun to every itinerary. While Dante may lean toward refined, high-end travel, Sydney is often happiest choosing the less expensive option if it means staying longer, seeing more, and fully soaking in the experience.

Adventure and outdoor travel agency. We specialize in teen adventure travel.

Dante Elisei

Adventure Travel Specialist

is an adventure and adrenaline enthusiast with a taste for unforgettable experiences and great food. A certified scuba diver, he has driven go-karts over dunes, paraglided off mountains, ridden an ostrich in Asia, mountain biked through the Atlas Mountains, and cliff jumped in Portugal, always ready for the next story-worthy moment. Dante brings bold energy to travel, along with an appreciation for the more refined side of the experience, whether that means a beautiful stay, a memorable meal, or an activity that pushes the limits.

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