TRAVEL PLANNING

As enjoyable and fulfilling as travel can be, travel planning can also be time-consuming and exhausting. Whether it's staying in all-inclusive resorts on white sand beaches or hopping between hostels and camping in the forest, I craft personalized trips customized to each person or group's interests, goals, budget, and travel schedule. I also help people plan their own trips. Sample packages include:

Plan Your Own Trip - Mexico

Want to plan your own trip to Mexico but not sure where to go? Let me know your interests (Mayan ruins, art galleries, beaches, and whale watching) and I'll recommend certain cities and activities and give you the information you need to build your own dream vacation. When planning your own trip, remember to ALWAYS book travel insurance. I've had great experiences with and recommend World Nomad's.

Planned Yet Flexible Trip - Egypt

Have you done some research and want to keep your options open but need some help finalizing the itinerary and securing guides? I can help you plan your trip (pyramids, Nubian village, scuba diving in the Red Sea, etc. ), reserve trusted on-the-ground guides and hard-to-secure reservations (Nile River cruise and a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings!) and leave the rest to you so you can stay flexible on the ground.

Every Detail Covered Trip - Cuba

Heading for a week in paradise and want someone else to handle all the details? Based on your interests (scuba diving, rock climbing, cycling, live music) and travel style, I will recommend certain cities, arrange transportation (by tour bus or 50s Chevy), arrange lodging (hotels or private home stays) and book personalized activities such as private salsa dancing or Cuban percussion classes. Other popular activities include group bike rides, private city tours, and language classes. I can also set you up with a "Friend for a Day", a friendly local who will accompany you to the hottest clubs, art galleries, and cultural events.

TESTIMONIALS

"We had an amazing time in Egypt. It's not often that you look forward to a trip so much and it actually lives up to it's expectations like this did. It was the trip of a lifetime."

- Josh S., (New York City), July 2017

"Many people love to travel but few are actually good at it. Cassandra is one of these rare specimens that can pull it together wherever she's at. With a sense of adventure and also a keen idea of how to relax, she is capable of maneuvering in many situations. Cassandra is also completely bilingual in Spanish and English, which means she can help you achieve a truly unique experience - not just the touristy stuff. With her help, I was able to make the most of a week-long escapade to Cuba and I hope to be able to travel with her soon."

- Megan Frye, editor of Savoteur (Mexico City), May, 2016

"EscapingNY helped in planning my own solo trip to Cuba, providing great tips for staying within my budget, and narrowing down the worthwhile places to visit based on my interests. I felt a lot more confident traveling alone after speaking with her, and had a successful trip because of it. I recommend EscapingNY to anyone needing a trustworthy guide outside of a travel book."

Marissa Stern, Professional vagabond musician. (Detroit, Michigan), October, 2016

"It helped so much knowing exactly where we would be going in Cuba and that we were getting there with trusted people. All the casa owners were wonderful and our taxi driver gave us a fantastic experience, full of information about each area we visited. He was also very protective of us and made sure we were well fed, safe, and well taken care of. He really looked out for us like a dad, and we were so sad to say goodbye to him!"

- Kamber S., Washington D.C., June, 2017

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Jul 20, 2022

Where to go in Mexico for Day of the Dead

Mexico is a hugely diverse country with many options for celebrating Day of the Dead. Learn where to go in Mexico for Day of the Dead, including tips on what cities to visit, what to do there, and how to make the most of your Day of the Dead vacation

Feb 3, 2022

How to Visit Cuba During Covid - Required vaccinations, testing, and medical insurance

Covid entry requirements in Cuba are constantly changing. Learn how to visit Cuba during the pandemic, including required vaccinations, testing, and medical insurance. You’ll also learn what to do before your trip, what to expect in Cuba, and what to do if you get sick.

Sep 24, 2020

Day of the Dead Mexico City Group Tours in 2022

Learn about 2022 Day of the Dead group tours to Mexico City. Attend intimate memorial ceremonies in cemeteries around the city, celebrate the festival with families inside their homes, participate in altar building experiences, and explore food markets with a chef, visit ancient Aztec ruins and the 3rd largest pyramid in the world, and take an authentic Mexican cooking class to learn about traditional foods served during Day of the Dead.

Jun 11, 2020

White People: Even if We're Not Racist, We Can Do Better

Racism is baked into America so as white people, we sometimes don’t see it. Though nobody wants to be labeled a racist, racist acts happen every single day. Learn how to examine your own biases and how to help dismantle racism and oppression.

Apr 1, 2020

Free and Cheap Resources to Keep You Entertained, Productive, & Healthy While Social Distancing

While you’re social distancing and self-quarantined because of Coronavirus, check out these free and cheap online resources to keep you entertained, healthy, fit, and productive!

Mar 19, 2020

Day of the Dead Parades and Preparation Group Trip to Mexico City - October, 2022

Day of the Dead is the perfect time to visit Mexico City. In addition to visiting pyramids, ancient Aztec ruins, biking through the city and taking an authentic Mexican cooking class, the Day of the Dead also brings huge parades, street festivals, and intimate ceremonies in cemeteries around the city. Learn about 2020 Day of the Dead parade and preparation group tours to Mexico.

Feb 11, 2020

Vegan food in Puerto Rico: Old San Juan & Beyond

Puerto Rico has incredible vegan food, from classics like mofongo and pastelón, to pizza, donuts, & fine dining. Learn where to go and what to eat, including lists of vegan restaurants in San Juan, Puerto Rico and beyond.

Dec 24, 2019

Traveling on your PERIOD: Why to use a menstrual cup while traveling

Traveling on your period is inevitable. Learn why menstrual cups are perfect for female travelers, and how to have a bloody good time while swimming, hiking, and camping. Discover how to choose a menstrual cup, how to use it, and what to know before your next trip.