Meet Dana Zeliff

Founder & Travel Designer

Let’s be honest, the internet has made travel planning exhausting. You start out inspired, and three hours later you’re drowning in ninety-seven open browser tabs, conflicting TripAdvisor reviews, and zero clarity.

That’s where I come in.

I’m Dana Zeliff, and I help busy couples, retirees, and families plan vacations without the overwhelm. Whether you’re dreaming of a European itinerary, a cruise vacation, an all-inclusive resort, or a multi-generational getaway, I’ll help you sort through the options and handle the details.

My Story: From Global Expat to Travel Designer

My path to becoming a travel advisor wasn’t built in an office; it was built on the ground visiting as many new destinations as my kids school breaks allowed. I’ve explored 48 countries across 4 continents, 43 of those alongside my kids. For over a decade, I’ve been running The Talking Suitcase, transforming it from a personal travel diary into a resource that millions of readers have used to navigate the world.

The biggest turning point came when my husband and I packed up our lives, and our two young kids, and moved to Nice, France.

Living as expats changed everything. We didn’t just visit Europe; we lived it. We spent years discovering small towns and local favorites, navigating confusing foreign logistics (like the time we kept jumping on the wrong trains in Cinque Terre), finding the best hotels, and learning exactly what separates a stressful trip from a flawless one.

Fast forward to today and those two young kids are now 19 and 22. 

As my own children grew into adulthood, my travel experiences evolved right along with them. I’ve lived through the transition. I know what it’s like to move past the chaotic days of strollers and juice boxes, shifting into the absolute joy of adult family trips, romantic couples’ getaways, and bucket-list vacations. I understand what your family needs right now, because my family is right there, too.

Today I’m based in Virginia Beach, where you’ll often find me walking my dogs on the beach, watching the sunset, or planning my next adventure.

What it Actually Means to “Design” Travel

Planning a trip today isn’t usually about finding information, it’s about sorting through too much information.

My role is to help you narrow the options, avoid common mistakes, and create a trip that fits your travel style, interests, and budget.

Whether you’re planning a European vacation, a cruise, or a special family trip, I’ll help coordinate the details and provide recommendations based on firsthand experience and trusted travel partners.

• Custom Land Tours: Hand-selected hotels, trusted local guides, rail travel, transfers, and personalized recommendations.
• Ocean & River Cruises: Guidance on cruise lines, ships, itineraries, and stateroom categories to help you find the right fit.
• Logistics Wrapped Up: Transportation, excursions, dining recommendations, travel documents, and the details that bring everything together.

You’ve done the research. You know where you want to go. Now, let’s make it effortless!

Let’s Start Planning

Questions?  Email me: [email protected]