Lissa Caltrider
Based in Baltimore, MD
Lissa Caltrider
Ask me about
My Story
I am a travel research junkie, beekeeper and reiki master. If you mention to me that you want to go somewhere, I will fill every moment with food and fun.
My Travel Style
I like to sleep in luxury but spend my days off-the-beaten-path. I like to meet people — locals and other travelers. I love to research restaurants and local music as well.
Stay connected
My reviews (13)
Gail C.
5 months ago
Could not have been smoother!
Lissa did a fabulous job of recommending this cruise line and touching base with us on every decision/ choice. From booking the cruise to arranging transportation from Baltimore to Dulles airport in Virginia. She had our luggage organized, kept an eye on pricing and watched for well priced upgrades on our flight seats to ensure the most comfortable flights within budgets. Lissa provided us with the full itinerary in bound booklets ahead of travel so we could be prepared and get even more excited. She also gifted us with tote bags for our excursions that were thoughtful and useful! On the last evenings in the city, having disembarked from our cruise, Lissa researched and found two excellent dining experiences for both nights.
Overall I will be highly recommending Lissa to fellow travelers!
Nicole C.
8 months ago
I had an excellent experience with Lissa planning my trip to Greece. From start to finish, she was very organized and responsive. Each hotel was beautiful and we were treated very well. Our transfers and connections between cities and islands were perfectly arranged and ran smoothly. Her attention to detail and timeliness took a lot of the stress out of planning and allowed me to simply enjoy the trip. A few days before I left, we spoke via phone and she ensured that I had all of the correct documents and information for flights, ferries, and hotels and gave me practical and fun traveling tips...a very nice touch. I truly appreciated her kind demeanor and professionalism and would definitely work with her again and recommend her to others!
Norman L.
8 months ago
One night, while belaboring the hassle of flying, particularly on long-distance transoceanic flights, it occurred to us that we might avoid all the stress and boredom if, instead of flying, we cruised. We called Lissa Caltrider, our travel advisor, to see whether there was any merit to this half-baked idea. Within a day, she was back to us with a couple of options. We elected a repositioning cruise on Celebrity’s Eclipse from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Southampton, UK. Normally, we would have flown to Ft. Lauderdale the day before scheduled departure, stayed overnight and boarded the following morning. However, Lissa suggested that we plan to spend 2 nights in Ft. Lauderdale, giving us a day to explore the city before leaving and, more importantly, an extra 24 hours if flight delays prevented us from arriving the day before. It turned out that we did not need the extra day, but we had a fun day in Ft. Lauderdale. And, we could not have been happier with the cruise Lissa recommended. For a price equivalent to the cost of an airline business class ticket, we enjoyed 12 nights aboard a luxury liner, unlimited exquisite food and drinks included, a day in Bermuda and another in the Azores.
That is just one example of the many advantages of using Lissa as our travel advisor. Although we had some initial reluctance to pay a fee for travel advice, having access to Lissa while traveling makes her fee a loss leader – like your local supermarket slashing the price of beef to get you into the store. She is much more than a booking agent and wants to make each trip she plans one that will stand out, starting with the planning, followed by the enjoyment of the travel, and ending with a lifetime of memories. Her suggestions can make that happen. On one occasion, I lost my passport while in transit and needed it for travel less than 24 hours later. I called Lissa and, within 15 minutes, she had me in contact with a firm that enabled me to obtain a new passport in time to depart as planned.
Amit P.
a year ago
Lissa is great. Super responsive, takes time to get to know her clients. I've done two very big trips with her so far (Italy and India/Dubai) and will continue to use her for my travel needs. She makes herself available and listens to what it is I'm looking for. She also advocates on our behalf with the travel partners to make sure our needs are met as well. Love working with her and glad I was connected to her through Fora!
Paul R.
a year ago
This is the second vacation that Lissa has helped plan for my family and both have been great. She is knowledgeable and researches different locations with due diligence. Lissa responds swiftly to phone calls, texts, and emails. She quickly resolved a couple of small snags we experienced during our travels.
Gail C.
5 months ago
Could not have been smoother!
Lissa did a fabulous job of recommending this cruise line and touching base with us on every decision/ choice. From booking the cruise to arranging transportation from Baltimore to Dulles airport in Virginia. She had our luggage organized, kept an eye on pricing and watched for well priced upgrades on our flight seats to ensure the most comfortable flights within budgets. Lissa provided us with the full itinerary in bound booklets ahead of travel so we could be prepared and get even more excited. She also gifted us with tote bags for our excursions that were thoughtful and useful! On the last evenings in the city, having disembarked from our cruise, Lissa researched and found two excellent dining experiences for both nights.
Overall I will be highly recommending Lissa to fellow travelers!
Nicole C.
8 months ago
I had an excellent experience with Lissa planning my trip to Greece. From start to finish, she was very organized and responsive. Each hotel was beautiful and we were treated very well. Our transfers and connections between cities and islands were perfectly arranged and ran smoothly. Her attention to detail and timeliness took a lot of the stress out of planning and allowed me to simply enjoy the trip. A few days before I left, we spoke via phone and she ensured that I had all of the correct documents and information for flights, ferries, and hotels and gave me practical and fun traveling tips...a very nice touch. I truly appreciated her kind demeanor and professionalism and would definitely work with her again and recommend her to others!
Norman L.
8 months ago
One night, while belaboring the hassle of flying, particularly on long-distance transoceanic flights, it occurred to us that we might avoid all the stress and boredom if, instead of flying, we cruised. We called Lissa Caltrider, our travel advisor, to see whether there was any merit to this half-baked idea. Within a day, she was back to us with a couple of options. We elected a repositioning cruise on Celebrity’s Eclipse from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Southampton, UK. Normally, we would have flown to Ft. Lauderdale the day before scheduled departure, stayed overnight and boarded the following morning. However, Lissa suggested that we plan to spend 2 nights in Ft. Lauderdale, giving us a day to explore the city before leaving and, more importantly, an extra 24 hours if flight delays prevented us from arriving the day before. It turned out that we did not need the extra day, but we had a fun day in Ft. Lauderdale. And, we could not have been happier with the cruise Lissa recommended. For a price equivalent to the cost of an airline business class ticket, we enjoyed 12 nights aboard a luxury liner, unlimited exquisite food and drinks included, a day in Bermuda and another in the Azores.
That is just one example of the many advantages of using Lissa as our travel advisor. Although we had some initial reluctance to pay a fee for travel advice, having access to Lissa while traveling makes her fee a loss leader – like your local supermarket slashing the price of beef to get you into the store. She is much more than a booking agent and wants to make each trip she plans one that will stand out, starting with the planning, followed by the enjoyment of the travel, and ending with a lifetime of memories. Her suggestions can make that happen. On one occasion, I lost my passport while in transit and needed it for travel less than 24 hours later. I called Lissa and, within 15 minutes, she had me in contact with a firm that enabled me to obtain a new passport in time to depart as planned.
Amit P.
a year ago
Lissa is great. Super responsive, takes time to get to know her clients. I've done two very big trips with her so far (Italy and India/Dubai) and will continue to use her for my travel needs. She makes herself available and listens to what it is I'm looking for. She also advocates on our behalf with the travel partners to make sure our needs are met as well. Love working with her and glad I was connected to her through Fora!
My travel ideas (15)
Vineyards, Villages and Vintages: Domaine de Cromey in Burgundy
In November 2024, my husband and I joined an exclusive group of discerning wine collectors for a week of unparalleled Burgundy immersion at Domaine de Cromey. This curated experience combined luxury accommodations, exceptional wine education and privileged access to the heart of this prestigious terroir.
Vineyards, Villages and Vintages: Domaine de Cromey in Burgundy
In November 2024, my husband and I joined an exclusive group of discerning wine collectors for a week of unparalleled Burgundy immersion at Domaine de Cromey. This curated experience combined luxury accommodations, exceptional wine education and privileged access to the heart of this prestigious terroir.
The Foodie's Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark, is a contemporary city with a refreshing atmosphere and an incredible culinary scene. In fact, it is also home to the best restaurant in the world: Noma. But, aside from the food, the architecture, the city’s famed canals with their floating hot tubs and design are true reasons to visit this Northern European city. With an array of art museums, design-forward spaces and sensory experiences, it is an example of a truly modern city with a pioneering spirit. And don’t forget to eat, because that’s why you came here, after all!
The Foodie's Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark, is a contemporary city with a refreshing atmosphere and an incredible culinary scene. In fact, it is also home to the best restaurant in the world: Noma. But, aside from the food, the architecture, the city’s famed canals with their floating hot tubs and design are true reasons to visit this Northern European city. With an array of art museums, design-forward spaces and sensory experiences, it is an example of a truly modern city with a pioneering spirit. And don’t forget to eat, because that’s why you came here, after all!
The Best of Valencia, Spain
Though often overlooked by other cities like Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is a must-visit in Spain. Located on Spain’s east coast, the 2,000-year-old city boasts wide sandy beaches, striking architecture, a buzzing food scene and culture without the crowds found in other large Spanish cities. From the golden sands of Playa Las Arenas and the flamboyant Rococo architecture of the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas to the cobbled, maze-like Old Town, Valencia, Spain, has a lot to offer.
The Best of Valencia, Spain
Though often overlooked by other cities like Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is a must-visit in Spain. Located on Spain’s east coast, the 2,000-year-old city boasts wide sandy beaches, striking architecture, a buzzing food scene and culture without the crowds found in other large Spanish cities. From the golden sands of Playa Las Arenas and the flamboyant Rococo architecture of the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas to the cobbled, maze-like Old Town, Valencia, Spain, has a lot to offer.
Girls Getaway Weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana
I must have lived in New Orleans in a past life because I genuinely feel like I belong here. New Orleans, Louisiana is a vibrant and lively city with something to offer for just about everyone. It is also the perfect destination for a girls trip, and can easily accommodate a bachelorette. So enjoy the delicious bites, the loud bars, the incredible street life and all the dancing that New Orleans has to offer.
Girls Getaway Weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana
I must have lived in New Orleans in a past life because I genuinely feel like I belong here. New Orleans, Louisiana is a vibrant and lively city with something to offer for just about everyone. It is also the perfect destination for a girls trip, and can easily accommodate a bachelorette. So enjoy the delicious bites, the loud bars, the incredible street life and all the dancing that New Orleans has to offer.
South Africa: A Memorable Multi-generational Family Vacation
With its variety of landscapes, vibrant culture and unforgettable wildlife encounters, South Africa is an exciting destination for a family vacation. Your trip will combine thrilling adventures with breathtaking scenery and opportunities to connect with nature. It helps, too, that our winter is their summer, so it’s a perfect winter break family vacation.
This guide will be your roadmap to crafting an unforgettable South African adventure for you and your loved ones. Whether your crew craves heart-pounding safaris, relaxing beach days or exploring bustling cities, South Africa is the answer.
We'll navigate you through the best destinations for families, from the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town to the pristine beaches of the Garden Route. We'll recommend exciting activities that cater to all ages, from spotting playful penguins to exploring hidden waterfalls.
But, South Africa is more than just stunning sights. Here, you'll experience the warmth of South African hospitality and immerse yourselves in its rich cultural history.
South Africa: A Memorable Multi-generational Family Vacation
With its variety of landscapes, vibrant culture and unforgettable wildlife encounters, South Africa is an exciting destination for a family vacation. Your trip will combine thrilling adventures with breathtaking scenery and opportunities to connect with nature. It helps, too, that our winter is their summer, so it’s a perfect winter break family vacation.
This guide will be your roadmap to crafting an unforgettable South African adventure for you and your loved ones. Whether your crew craves heart-pounding safaris, relaxing beach days or exploring bustling cities, South Africa is the answer.
We'll navigate you through the best destinations for families, from the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town to the pristine beaches of the Garden Route. We'll recommend exciting activities that cater to all ages, from spotting playful penguins to exploring hidden waterfalls.
But, South Africa is more than just stunning sights. Here, you'll experience the warmth of South African hospitality and immerse yourselves in its rich cultural history.
10-Day Foodie Trip to Spain and France, Part 1
Food and wine are deeply ingrained in the culture of both France and Spain. Imagine lingering outside your French villa in the summer with Coq au Vin and a Beaujolais, or a fireside cassoulet and a Bandol in the winter. In the city, you can enjoy a glass a chablis and a quiche lorraine in a streetside bistro. And let's not forget the fromage! In Spain, we drink cava and rioja and eat tapas (including navajas, tortilla de patatas, gazpacho, fabada asturiana) and a huge pan of paella. On vacation, meals are best enjoyed over time, with good friends with laughter!
10-Day Foodie Trip to Spain and France, Part 1
Food and wine are deeply ingrained in the culture of both France and Spain. Imagine lingering outside your French villa in the summer with Coq au Vin and a Beaujolais, or a fireside cassoulet and a Bandol in the winter. In the city, you can enjoy a glass a chablis and a quiche lorraine in a streetside bistro. And let's not forget the fromage! In Spain, we drink cava and rioja and eat tapas (including navajas, tortilla de patatas, gazpacho, fabada asturiana) and a huge pan of paella. On vacation, meals are best enjoyed over time, with good friends with laughter!
10-Day Foodie Trip to Spain and France, Part 2
Food and wine are deeply ingrained in the culture of both France and Spain. Imagine lingering outside your French villa in the summer with Coq au Vin and a Beaujolais, or a fireside cassoulet and a Bandol in the winter. In the city, you can enjoy a glass a chablis and a quiche lorraine in a streetside bistro. And let's not forget the fromage! In Spain, we drink cava and rioja and eat tapas (including navajas, tortilla de patatas, gazpacho and fabada asturiana) and a huge pan of paella. On vacation, meals are best enjoyed over time, with good friends with laughter!
10-Day Foodie Trip to Spain and France, Part 2
Food and wine are deeply ingrained in the culture of both France and Spain. Imagine lingering outside your French villa in the summer with Coq au Vin and a Beaujolais, or a fireside cassoulet and a Bandol in the winter. In the city, you can enjoy a glass a chablis and a quiche lorraine in a streetside bistro. And let's not forget the fromage! In Spain, we drink cava and rioja and eat tapas (including navajas, tortilla de patatas, gazpacho and fabada asturiana) and a huge pan of paella. On vacation, meals are best enjoyed over time, with good friends with laughter!
Best Restaurants, Hotels & Attractions in Baltimore
Baltimore, aka Charm City, is rich with historical sites, museums, restaurants and our beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Whether you are vacationing as a family or entertaining clients, Baltimore is sure to charm you!
Best Restaurants, Hotels & Attractions in Baltimore
Baltimore, aka Charm City, is rich with historical sites, museums, restaurants and our beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Whether you are vacationing as a family or entertaining clients, Baltimore is sure to charm you!
Italian Sampler
Enjoy this Italian food and wine curated trip spanning two weeks of delightful discoveries. This Italian journey will have you relaxing in style, while sampling the most sumptuous cuisine Italy has to offer. Take in the visuals of artisan crafts and transport yourself to ancient civilizations.
Italian Sampler
Enjoy this Italian food and wine curated trip spanning two weeks of delightful discoveries. This Italian journey will have you relaxing in style, while sampling the most sumptuous cuisine Italy has to offer. Take in the visuals of artisan crafts and transport yourself to ancient civilizations.
Wildly Delicious Alaska
Enjoy wild and majestic Alaska in this trip, located near Anchorage. Discover the rugged and breathtaking beauty this last frontier has to offer. This can be enjoyed both passive and as active as your heart desires. Incredible local-focused culinary delights, luxurious accommodations and wellness treatments will restore you after your wild days of Alaskan adventure.
Wildly Delicious Alaska
Enjoy wild and majestic Alaska in this trip, located near Anchorage. Discover the rugged and breathtaking beauty this last frontier has to offer. This can be enjoyed both passive and as active as your heart desires. Incredible local-focused culinary delights, luxurious accommodations and wellness treatments will restore you after your wild days of Alaskan adventure.
Moroccan Group Adventure
Magical and mysterious Morocco is a sensory exploration mean to be shared! Come together and move through this ancient land in this group trip created to entice and permeate the senses, lingering long after you return home.
Moroccan Group Adventure
Magical and mysterious Morocco is a sensory exploration mean to be shared! Come together and move through this ancient land in this group trip created to entice and permeate the senses, lingering long after you return home.
Patagonia Trekking Adventure
Patagonia is a marvelous destination to simultaneously stretch the body and imagination. Discover off-the-beaten-path destinations on foot, which have been curated with great intention and guidance. Here you will marvel at not only the grandeur, but at the simplicity. Spend the day trekking while observing stunning views — followed by a sumptuous meal and spa treatment to restore the body. Patagonia is a perfect choice for those seeking a truly luxurious off-beat destination, while also investing in environmental conservation.
Patagonia Trekking Adventure
Patagonia is a marvelous destination to simultaneously stretch the body and imagination. Discover off-the-beaten-path destinations on foot, which have been curated with great intention and guidance. Here you will marvel at not only the grandeur, but at the simplicity. Spend the day trekking while observing stunning views — followed by a sumptuous meal and spa treatment to restore the body. Patagonia is a perfect choice for those seeking a truly luxurious off-beat destination, while also investing in environmental conservation.
A Guide to Italy's Langhe Wine Region
This magnificent region of Italy is perfect for the discerning wine lover's palate, as well as those who want an authentic experience connecting with local food and the people's hands which prepare it. Multiple private vineyard tours have been curated for an intimate opportunity to learn about local varietals, and the families who have cultivated the soil, heart, and soul of these vineyards. Explore stunning lakes dotted with mountainous background via private boat, hunt for truffles and traverse the multiple UNESCO heritage sites to soak in the history of the region.
A Guide to Italy's Langhe Wine Region
This magnificent region of Italy is perfect for the discerning wine lover's palate, as well as those who want an authentic experience connecting with local food and the people's hands which prepare it. Multiple private vineyard tours have been curated for an intimate opportunity to learn about local varietals, and the families who have cultivated the soil, heart, and soul of these vineyards. Explore stunning lakes dotted with mountainous background via private boat, hunt for truffles and traverse the multiple UNESCO heritage sites to soak in the history of the region.
Art in Mexico City & Oaxaca
Mexico City and Oaxaca City are two rich, vibrant cities that are both accessible and full of warmth. The culture, food, sights and incredible art are compared to none when considering a destination to be a feast for all the senses. Exploration invites you at every turn in these two fantastic cities. Mexico City is an important, historical marvel that all should experience at least once. Oaxaca is a artisan treasure chest that North America is lucky to behold. Discover for yourself!
Art in Mexico City & Oaxaca
Mexico City and Oaxaca City are two rich, vibrant cities that are both accessible and full of warmth. The culture, food, sights and incredible art are compared to none when considering a destination to be a feast for all the senses. Exploration invites you at every turn in these two fantastic cities. Mexico City is an important, historical marvel that all should experience at least once. Oaxaca is a artisan treasure chest that North America is lucky to behold. Discover for yourself!
A Local's Guide to London and Ireland
Chic London bridged with enchanting Ireland captures this curated trip for couples and groups alike. I love this mix for the history, charm, ability to stroll the narrow city lanes of famed neighborhoods, mix with the locals and take in the magnificent vistas the sea provides. Golfers will appreciate the complex layouts of famous courses, while non-golfing companions can enjoy a hike along the rugged Irish Sea coastline. And everyone can enjoy a few rounds at the local pub at the end of the day! A brilliant, enchanting and chic journey beholds.
A Local's Guide to London and Ireland
Chic London bridged with enchanting Ireland captures this curated trip for couples and groups alike. I love this mix for the history, charm, ability to stroll the narrow city lanes of famed neighborhoods, mix with the locals and take in the magnificent vistas the sea provides. Golfers will appreciate the complex layouts of famous courses, while non-golfing companions can enjoy a hike along the rugged Irish Sea coastline. And everyone can enjoy a few rounds at the local pub at the end of the day! A brilliant, enchanting and chic journey beholds.
Vineyards, Villages and Vintages: Domaine de Cromey in Burgundy
In November 2024, my husband and I joined an exclusive group of discerning wine collectors for a week of unparalleled Burgundy immersion at Domaine de Cromey. This curated experience combined luxury accommodations, exceptional wine education and privileged access to the heart of this prestigious terroir.
Vineyards, Villages and Vintages: Domaine de Cromey in Burgundy
In November 2024, my husband and I joined an exclusive group of discerning wine collectors for a week of unparalleled Burgundy immersion at Domaine de Cromey. This curated experience combined luxury accommodations, exceptional wine education and privileged access to the heart of this prestigious terroir.
The Foodie's Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark, is a contemporary city with a refreshing atmosphere and an incredible culinary scene. In fact, it is also home to the best restaurant in the world: Noma. But, aside from the food, the architecture, the city’s famed canals with their floating hot tubs and design are true reasons to visit this Northern European city. With an array of art museums, design-forward spaces and sensory experiences, it is an example of a truly modern city with a pioneering spirit. And don’t forget to eat, because that’s why you came here, after all!
The Foodie's Guide to Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark, is a contemporary city with a refreshing atmosphere and an incredible culinary scene. In fact, it is also home to the best restaurant in the world: Noma. But, aside from the food, the architecture, the city’s famed canals with their floating hot tubs and design are true reasons to visit this Northern European city. With an array of art museums, design-forward spaces and sensory experiences, it is an example of a truly modern city with a pioneering spirit. And don’t forget to eat, because that’s why you came here, after all!
The Best of Valencia, Spain
Though often overlooked by other cities like Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is a must-visit in Spain. Located on Spain’s east coast, the 2,000-year-old city boasts wide sandy beaches, striking architecture, a buzzing food scene and culture without the crowds found in other large Spanish cities. From the golden sands of Playa Las Arenas and the flamboyant Rococo architecture of the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas to the cobbled, maze-like Old Town, Valencia, Spain, has a lot to offer.
The Best of Valencia, Spain
Though often overlooked by other cities like Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is a must-visit in Spain. Located on Spain’s east coast, the 2,000-year-old city boasts wide sandy beaches, striking architecture, a buzzing food scene and culture without the crowds found in other large Spanish cities. From the golden sands of Playa Las Arenas and the flamboyant Rococo architecture of the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas to the cobbled, maze-like Old Town, Valencia, Spain, has a lot to offer.