Rediscover. Reconnect. Rekindle.

Luxury Trips, Tours, and Cruises for Empty Nesters

Travel That Brings You Closer

Channel your inner Jane Austen as you explore the thatched-roof cottages of the Cotswolds in England on a replenishing solo journey …

Hike beneath tumbling waterfalls and zipline through the treetops in Costa Rica with your family, as you all reunite during your kids’ college spring break … 

Roll past rows of vines hanging heavy with ripe fruit on a long-overdue romantic river cruise through France with your spouse … 

At Cultivating Connections Travel Planners, we work with empty nesters and retirees to design travel experiences that fill your life with meaning, joy, and discovery. Experience incredible landscapes, cultivate your deepest passions, and connect with the loved ones you want to share it all with—now that you finally have the time to do it all. 

About Erin

Founder of Cultivating Connections Travel Planners

Your Trusted Travel Agency

As an empty nester myself, I understand the challenges that come with this new chapter. My mission is to help you rediscover your passions and reconnect with your loved ones through custom-crafted journeys that will fill your heart with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Whether your children “flew the coop” yesterday or years ago, this transition can be a lot. But I’m here to help turn it into your next great adventure.

Let’s create a trip that’s filled with awe-inspiring discoveries, moments that bring you closer, and stories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Cultivating Connections

Our Process

Connect

We begin by understanding your travel vision through a personal consultation. We listen to your needs, preferences, and dreams to ensure we create an experience that’s uniquely yours.

Curate

Our team designs a fully customized itinerary, handpicking the best destinations, accommodations, and experiences tailored to your specific desires.

Create

From seamless bookings to on-the-ground support, we ensure your journey unfolds without a hitch, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Testimonials

Cultivating Connections Through

Effortless Travel Experience!

Hi, I’m Erin Smith, founder of Cultivating Connections Travel Planners. I help empty nesters re-discover their passions—and re-connect with their loved ones—on custom-crafted journeys. I’ll design a trip that’s full of stories that bring on the laughter, discoveries that awe you, and shared memories that carry you through

Because whether your kids “flew the coop” yesterday or years ago, this transition time can be tricky—but I’m here to help you turn it into your next great adventure. A lifetime.

Top Destinations

One of a kind journeys

At Cultivating Connections Travel Planners, we believe every journey should be as unique as the travelers venturing on it. Our bespoke travel planning is designed to elevate your experiences, taking you to some of the world’s most enchanting destinations. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or a family adventure, we craft itineraries that offer authenticity, luxury, and unforgettable moments.

Cultivating Connections Travel Planners

Whether you’re reconnecting as a couple, embarking on a final family getaway, or seeking a destination that resonates with your passions, we offer tailored itineraries that go beyond the ordinary to ensure that your journey is one of ease, elegance, and joy.

Travel Inspiration for the Next Chapter

Reconnecting getaways to enrichment-filled journeys, find inspiration for what comes next

family travel

Travel Inspiration for
the Next Chapter

A curated collection of destinations designed for couples ready to reconnect, relax, and rediscover the joy of traveling on their own terms.

family travel

Top 10 Trips to Supercharge
Your High Schoolers’ Essays & Life Skills

Meaningful, growth-focused travel ideas that spark curiosity, build confidence, and help teens stand out—while creating memories that last beyond graduation.

For Travelers Who Love Culture, History & River Cruising

Explore the destinations that unfold beautifully by river, paired with expert tips to plan your perfect voyage.

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Discover the Danube:
A River Cruise Starter Guide

An elegant, insider-focused look at Europe’s most storied river, helping you understand routes, seasons, and what makes a Danube sailing such a timeless experience.

family travel

From Empty Nest to Egypt: Ready to Explore the Land of Pharaohs?

Your beautifully detailed introduction to Egypt’s most iconic sites—from Cairo to Luxor—including tips for making your first journey unforgettable.

Our Blog

Get Inspired

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Travel Tips & Resources

Get the latest travel news, essential tips, and inspiration for your next family vacation by subscribing to my travel blog.

New Itineraries

Inspiring Itineraries

Need Inspiration?

These sample itineraries will give you a clear vision of what an amazing trip looks like.

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Let us design your trip!

Contact us today for a free travel consultation, and let’s turn your dream into reality.

Ready to escape and explore?

Book Your Next Trip