Whether it's savouring tapas in Portugal, indulging in homemade pasta in Italy, or relishing a freshly made granita in the Greek Islands, Melissa has a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems in the hottest travel spots. One of her most cherished memories was wandering through the streets of Florence in the early morning, before the crowds arrived.

“Sharing espresso and cornetti with the locals, despite the language barrier, created a genuine sense of connection. It's these small, authentic moments that make each journey memorable,” says Melissa.

Another unforgettable experience was an escape to Villa Bramasole, best-known as the setting for the movie Under the Tuscan Sun. While her stay involved a daily hike to the hilltop town of Cortona to order local produce in broken Italian, the reward was heavenly chocolate gelato, relished while soaking up the stunning views.

Hawaii’s Big Island is another favourite destination, with so much to offer it lured Melissa back a second time.

“A visit to Mauna Kea, the dormant volcano on a moonless night turned into the brightest Night Sky TV, a surreal experience that left me in awe of nature's wonders. Night snorkelling with Manta Rays did the same,” she says.

While Melissa's own travel adventures are awe-inspiring, it's her ability to craft unique and exceptional journeys to suit her clients that sets her apart.

Recently, she had the pleasure of working with a nervous solo traveller who hadn't embarked on a trip in three decades. Taking the lead, Melissa curated an itinerary that encompassed the client’s ancestral towns in England, Wales and Ireland. A lovely relationship was formed, and her client’s initial nerves were soon replaced by excitement and curiosity as she eagerly added West End shows, day tours, and even a shopping stopover in Hong Kong to her trip of a lifetime.

Melissa effortlessly makes travel planning easy and stress-free through open and transparent communication. Her travel skills and imaginative approach ensure she exceeds expectations with personalised, thoughtfully designed itineraries.

Whether you're after the best coffee spot in Florence, an off-the-beaten-path culinary interlude or a one-of-a-kind adventure, Melissa is waiting to make it happen at Travel Associates Williamstown.