Vanessa Schmitzer
Schmitzer & James Travel Associates
Manuka, ACT
Business Leader
Specialties
Business Travel
Culture & Heritage
Expedition Cruise
Family Holiday
Food & Wine
16 more+
16 more+
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After two decades in the travel industry, what sets Vanessa Schmitzer apart is her blend of professional expertise and extensive personal travel experience.
Having journeyed from the Arctic to Australia and explored both popular and off-the-beaten-path locations from Greece to Greenland, Vanessa brings invaluable insights that enhance her clients' experiences. “My firsthand knowledge allows me to recommend hidden gems and anticipate potential challenges,” she says.
Her love for travel is deeply rooted in personal experience, such as a transformative trip to South Africa. “I remember waking up before dawn, buzzing with anticipation as I headed out on safari. When the sun started to rise, the landscape unfolded in soft golds and greens, and I was left in awe when I spotted a pride of lions lounging in the shade as elephants meandered nearby. Later, when day turned to dusk, I could hear the bush coming alive—the distant call of a hyena and the rustle of leaves as the animals prepared for the night,” says Vanessa.
But for Vanessa, it was the lively chats with local vendors in markets and heartfelt stories shared around a campfire with people she met along the way that added rich layers to her experience. “Honestly, that’s what travel is all about for me—connecting with places and people in a way that stays with you forever,” she says.
Vanessa has a knack for designing extraordinary holidays, as evidenced by a special month-long trip through America and Mexico she organised for a young couple. She meticulously navigated their itinerary, ensuring every detail was perfectly orchestrated, leaving nothing to chance as it built up to a special moment – a surprise proposal atop The Edge in New York, with the sun setting and the skyline aglow. “Of course, she said yes!”
“I cherish creating experiences like this, where love and adventure intertwine,” Vanessa says. “Witnessing their joy through a heartfelt video message they sent after reminds me why I love curating unforgettable journeys for my clients.”
Vanessa’s clients appreciate her meticulous attention to detail and stress-free planning. “I handle every detail, from flights to hotels to dinner reservations, with care and expertise,” she explains. Her proactive approach is especially valuable when unexpected issues arise, like cancelled flights, ensuring her clients feel supported and worry-free.
“Whether it’s for a first-time traveller venturing to Europe or a seasoned explorer seeking something exceptional, I love creating journeys that leave lasting memories,” she says.
Vanessa is waiting to help you embark on your next one-of-a-kind adventure.
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EXPERIENCE
19 Years
COUNTRIES VISITED
28 Countries
Get to know me
What is the most amazing experience you have created for a client?
A month long holiday in the US and Mexico for a young couple with a surprise Marriage proposal on top of the 'The Edge' in New York.
What is your number one travel tip?
My number one travel tip is to prioritize experiences over destinations, book well in advance for destinations that have high seasons.
Where is still on your travel bucket list?
There are so many places yet to visit but high on my bucket list is Antarctica, India, Sri Lanka and South America.
Vanessa's Speciality Destinations
A World of Experience
Vanessa's client testimonial
Vanessa has been delivering the most incredible holidays, work trips and experiences for myself, my family, and friends for years. Every detail, from flights, accommodation, transfers, and everything in between, is always covered. Vanessa is truly the only agent I would ever book through. Thank you Vanessa for your dedication to your clients and the amazing memories you help to create.
– Jenni Tarrant

OUR OFFICE
Schmitzer & James Travel Associates
Schmitzer & James Travel Associates is set on the gorgeously green Bougainville Street in Manuka, ACT. With bespoke luxury travel planning ingrained in our way of life, we ensure that every hand-picked journey is equally special and seamless. With over ten decades of industry expertise across our team of six advisors, we're truly as passionate about your travel plans as you are.
MEET THE TEAM
Schmitzer & James Travel Associates
Catrin Taylor
Schmitzer & James Travel Associates
Manuka, ACT
Specialties
Adventure
All-Inclusive Holiday
+7
+7
Justin Petrass
Schmitzer & James Travel Associates
Manuka, ACT
Specialties
Adventure
Business Travel
+10
+10