Home
Find a travel Agent
Illinois
Steven Callas

Steven Callas

NorthBrook, IL Travel Agent

Steven Callas

NorthBrook, IL Travel Agent
Gilded Travels LLC, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
6 reviews
100% Recommended
Additional Languages
Greek

Global leisure, expedition, and family specialist

I have always been passionate about travel. As a kid I would be in the car with an oversized map navigating my parents across destinations unknown. Over the years I have been to all corners of the earth and now I want to bring my experiences and expertise to you. I have made it my mission to create bespoke adventures, family vacations, premium and luxury experiences, and expedition cruises. Prior to this I worked in Hollywood, where I would create dynamic travel itineraries with countless moving pieces that would function seamlessly within the rigorous demands of a film production. I have traveled to over 50+ countries and I have previously lived in Los Angeles, London, and Athens. My specialties include vacations and adventures in Greece, Antarctica, Patagonia, Japan, Easter Island, Tahiti, Italy, Bali, New Zealand, Jordan, Kenya, Machu Picchu, and all of Europe. With my extensive experience and expertise, I am able to create custom itineraries for any destination in the world.
My Travel Specialties

Certificates & Awards

Travel Stories & Media

Itineraries

Client Reviews

My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations
Japan
Greece
Jordan
Peru
French Polynesia
Nile River
See All Destinations >
Interests
Adventure
Beach Vacations
Bespoke Travel
Cruises
European Culture
Expedition Cruises
See All Interests >
Supplier Partners
AmaWaterways
Kensington Tours
Abercrombie & Kent
Avalon Waterways
Tauck
Virgin Voyages
See All Supplier Partners >

My Travel Specialties

Greece vacation, honeymoon, and luxury expert
Greece vacation, honeymoon, and luxury expert
Looking to explore the stunning beauty of Greece in luxury and comfort? As an experienced travel advisor specializing in Greece, I can help you create the ultimate itinerary that takes you through the best destinations in Greece. Begin your journey in Athens, the cradle of Western civiliza...
Read more
Japan and cherry blossom travel expert
Japan and cherry blossom travel expert
As a travel advisor with expertise in Japan, I am passionate about helping travelers experience the country's unique culture, history, and natural beauty. One of the most popular times to visit Japan is during cherry blossom season, when the country's famous sakura trees burst into bloom, creatin...
Read more
Argentina and Chile Patagonia travel expert
Argentina and Chile Patagonia travel expert
If you're looking for a breathtaking wilderness adventure, look no further than Patagonia, a stunning region that stretches across southern Argentina and Chile. As an experienced travel advisor specializing in Patagonia, I can help you create the ultimate itinerary that takes you through the best...
Read more
Antarctica expedition cruise travel expert
Antarctica expedition cruise travel expert
Are you dreaming of exploring one of the most remote and pristine wilderness areas on earth? Look no further than Antarctica, and let me, an experienced travel advisor specializing in Antarctic expedition cruises, help you make your dream a reality. I can create the ultimate itinerary for you, co...
Read more
Jordan, Petra, Wadi Rum, & Dead Sea travel expert
Jordan, Petra, Wadi Rum, & Dead Sea travel expert
As a travel advisor with extensive knowledge and expertise on Jordan, I can help you plan an unforgettable trip to this fascinating country that is filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Jordan is home to some of the world's most iconic ancient sites, including the ancient city of Petr...
Read more
Bali and Komodo Island travel specialist
Bali and Komodo Island travel specialist
As a travel advisor who has spent over a month on Bali and Komodo Island, I highly recommend planning your trip to coincide with the Ogoh-Ogoh festival and Nyepi, which are two of the most fascinating cultural events in Bali. The Ogoh-Ogoh festival takes place on the eve of Nyepi, the Day of Sile...
Read more
Global Leisure, Expedition, and Family Specialist
Global Leisure, Expedition, and Family Specialist
I have always been passionate about creating travel itineraries. From a young kid I would be in the front seat of the car with an oversized map navigating my parents across destinations unknown. Over the years I have traveled to all corners of the earth and now I want to bring my experien...
Read more
European vacation travel expert
European vacation travel expert
As a travel advisor with extensive knowledge and expertise on Europe, I can help you plan an unforgettable trip that is tailor-made to your interests and preferences. Europe offers a wealth of unique experiences that you won't find anywhere else - from the majestic castles and landscapes of Scotl...
Read more
Easter Island and Tapati Festival travel expert
Easter Island and Tapati Festival travel expert
As a travel advisor with expertise in Easter Island, I am thrilled to offer travelers the opportunity to experience the island's unique and vibrant Tapati festival. Held annually in February, this two-week-long celebration showcases the island's culture, history, and traditions through a series o...
Read more
Peru, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu travel expert
Peru, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu travel expert
If you're looking for an adventure in Peru, look no further than my expert travel advisor services. With my extensive knowledge of the region, I can help you plan the perfect itinerary for exploring the breathtaking landscapes and ancient culture of this incredible country. From the iconic Inca T...
Read more
French Polynesia/Tahiti honeymoon & travel expert
French Polynesia/Tahiti honeymoon & travel expert
As a travel advisor with expertise in French Polynesia, I am passionate about creating the ultimate romantic getaway for couples seeking a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experience. The islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea offer a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural her...
Read more
Ocean cruise vacation travel specialist
Ocean cruise vacation travel specialist
As a travel advisor specializing in cruises, I can provide you with a wealth of knowledge and insider tips to help you plan the perfect cruise vacation. From the stunning beauty of Alaska to the pristine beaches of the Caribbean, I can guide you to the most popular destinations and help you disco...
Read more
River cruise travel specialist
River cruise travel specialist
As a travel advisor specializing in river cruises, I can offer you unparalleled expertise and insider knowledge on the best river cruises for your unique needs and preferences. With years of experience in the industry, I have cultivated relationships with top river cruise lines and can provide yo...
Read more

Certificates & Awards

Certified Leisure Travel Specialist: During this certification program Travel Agents study several key components including: Sales and Service, Cruise Sales, Destination and Lifestyle Knowledge,  Programs and Preferred Supplier Knowledge. This is a two year study program.
Celebrity Learning Certification
Celebrity Learning Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Seabourn Academy Graduate
Seabourn Academy Graduate
Avanti Certified Expert
Avanti Certified Expert

My Travel Stories

Machu Picchu, Peru
Hiking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru
My journey on the Salkantay Trek started with a two and a half-hour drive from Cusco, Peru to Mollepata, a small town situated at the base of the trail. Our guide suggested we buy any last-minute supplies such as trail snacks, water, nuts, granola bars, and fruits. I packed everything I needed to dress appropriately for the changing weather cond...
Read more

Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Cusco and Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Despite being after the end of high season, Cusco was still bustling with people. November marks the start of Peru’s wet season, which means fewer people on the treks to Machu Picchu, but it’s not so wet that it makes for an unpleasant experience. I was prepared with waterproof hiking boots, a raincoat, and clothing for all four seasons. Layerin...
Read more

My Photo Albums and Videos
My highlights of Peru
VIEW ALBUM
Gilded Travels Intro Video

CLIENT REVIEWS

Rating: 5
6 reviews
100.00% Recommended
A perfect Mallorca experience
Reviewed By Makis S. - Deerfield, IL | Traveled to Balearic Islands ~ Spain ~ Europe
I never would have picked Mallorca as a vacation destination. My wife likes the beach, I like adventure. Gilded Travels created the perfect one-week itinerary that had us exploring the beautiful beaches, hiking through rustic mountain villages, and dining at incredible restaurants on the island. No day felt too full or too empty. It was the perfect balance. Neither of us felt like we needed a "vacation from our vacation." I definitely recommend Steven and Gilded Travels and will be using them again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
5 of 6 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
10/10 recommend- WORTH IT!
Reviewed By Tina K - Chicago, IL | Traveled to Patagonia ~ Argentina ~ South America
Steven was amazing to work with. I’m an anxious traveler and he made the process so easy! I’ve always wanted to go to Patagonia but didn’t even know where to start. Steven took control and created an itinerary for me that I could’ve never done myself. We worked together to tweak it a bit and next thing you know I’m climbing a glacier in Argentina! 10/10 recommend his services- WORTH IT!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Dream Trip
Reviewed By LBACE - Mishawaka. IN | Traveled to Greece ~ Europe
My wife and I worked with Steven for a trip of a lifetime in Greece. Steven went out of his way to provide service in recommending destinations, things to do and activities at each island we visited. We enjoyed incredible accommodations while exploring Greek culture, food and beverage. This was a memorable journey, which wouldn't have been so easy without his assistance. we highly recommend Steven for help in planning your getaways!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Trip of a lifetime!
Reviewed By Nancy P. - Arlington Heights, IL | Traveled to Europe
My husband and I planned an ambitious European trip and Steven made it happen. He was able to take our wishes and plan an itinerary which we thoroughly enjoyed. He worked with us as we fine tuned our plans, gave us options to choose from, and answered all of our questions. We were grateful that prior to our trip he checked in to be sure we had taken care of the items we needed to handle. During our trip we experienced a train delay which caused us to miss a connecting train and Steven was able to give us guidance so we could reach our destination. It was a pleasure to work with Steven, he showed real interest in our plans, and checked in once we returned. Thanks Steven!
Steven Callas responded
"It was such a pleasure to help craft this trip for you! Thank you for your kind words. I look forward to planning another trip for you in the future!"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Steven is your man for Japan!!
Reviewed By 3M Houston - Chicago, IL | Traveled to Japan ~ East and Southeast Asia
Steven was very professional with a great attention to detail. He carefully listened to what we wanted from our first trip to Japan, and he delivered! There were 3 of us traveling and he was able to plan an itinerary that met all our expectations.
Steven Callas responded
"Thank you for your kind words! It was an absolute pleasure planning this trip for you and your family. I am elated that you had a wonderful time!"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
How does this work?
Why use a travel agent?
Why use Travel Leaders?

Travel Leaders Network is the largest network of professional travel agents in North America. Wherever you want to go, however you want to get there — we have a travel agent for you.

Magnifying Loupe
Explore
Our database of travel experts & specialists
Phone
Connect
With an agent via text, email or phone
Airplane
Enjoy
A stress-free vacation with a professional by your side