Julie Shifrin
Julie.shifrin@embarkbeyond.com
1-847-533-3514
I was originally a stay-at-home mom when a good friend of mine needed an assistant to help with sales calls for Club Med. They did not have a budget to pay anyone for this type of work, so they bartered with Club Med Trips. I must admit, I was bit by the travel bug. When my friend retired from Club Med to start her family, I stepped into the role of District Sales Manager for the Midwest. At that moment, my love for travel really expanded.
Eventually, it was necessary for me to be closer to home, and I went to work for a Virtuoso Travel Agency near my home as a travel advisor. I have been in the industry for more than 25 years and it is never the same day twice.
Favorite Destination and Why: There are so many favorite destinations from Mexico for a long weekend, to Spain, South Africa, and off to Sicily this week for the first time. I love the energy of cities , and sometimes crave the serenity of a mountain setting.
Areas of Specialty: My specialty is listening and understanding clients’ needs. It is truly the most important element of having a long-term relationship with them. They often are referred to me with no idea where to go, or someone told them to go to a destination that does not fit their needs or budget. It is my expertise to assess their physical, emotional, financial expectations, and prepare options that best suit them.
My Travel Style Is: I travel the way I would plan for a luxury client. I love luxury hotels, I use the Destination Management Company that handles all the transfers, insider access, and activities to know that everything will go smoothly from arrival to departure. I am always observing, scouting, and photographing.
The only difference is I am not focused on too many restaurant reservations. I like a little bit of spontaneity. I never unplug while I travel. I if I am not with my husband, I will take my laptop to the hotel restaurant and work. I am a multitasker.
Fun Facts About Me:
I showed American Saddlebreds from the time I was 8 until I was 22 years old. I believe it gave me great confidence to be fearless.
I graduated college in 4 years transferring 3 times.
I am a good negotiator.
I work with my sister, Amy. People ask us all the time how we can work together; we know how to stay in our lane, and I cannot be successful without her. Lucky me!
Contact me!
Julie.shifrin@embarkbeyond.com
1-847-533-3514