About

Our Mission

What We Do and Why

Luxury Pilgrim was founded in 1999 and has evolved since its inception. Our mission is to deliver a seamless end product free from the conventional stresses associated with traveling.

 Well-designed trips leave an opening and space for the things you are seeking, which is where the concept “ Let the world find you” comes from. 

In our daily lives, staying in a relaxed state can be a challenge to maintain. This is why vacations are so sought after. Many seek to travel as a respite; to receive peace; and establish/re-establish a connection to self, others, and our world at large. If this is your goal, one key component to achieving this is proper trip planning.

 Travel can, and should, be a graceful experience. We strongly believe that travel can be a healing modality. When planned with intention and expertise, the results can be life-changing and far-reaching.

I didn’t travel much internationally as a child. In fact, I didn’t take a foreign trip until I was 18 years old. Our family went to India and the trip changed me profoundly. I was out of my own cultural bubble for the first time, and I have never looked back. I remember seeing an Indian lunch delivery man carrying 50 lunchboxes in a chaotic Mumbai traffic jam and wondered, “How can this possibly work?” Somehow it did. In Italy, I recall eating lunch with some Italians and after the meal, they handed me an orange for dessert. In went, the American’s thumb, barbarically peeling the rind. Laughter erupted. Italians peel oranges elegantly and magically like Houdini. Apparently, I had a lot to learn, and that journey of discovery is ongoing. 

Inspired to continue learning, travel became my profession and I became a “Luxury Pilgrim.” Over the years traveling has taught me two great lessons. First, it allows one to witness and savor the elevated experiences so that it can inform your “regular life” as much as possible. I have always been interested in how to harness these states when I return home. Secondly, I have learned the importance of discernment and have applied this to my profession. It takes experience to hear what a person really wants in a sea of choices. I’ve been told by clients that I often know what they’re seeking before they do. Drawing on my 25-plus  years of experience, I am listening carefully for what will make you happy versus just doing what you think you should do or have been told by others to do.

I am a New Yorker, which means: You will know where I stand. I won't be shy about telling you like I see it. You’ll always get the real deal from me and—in turn— I welcome and value honest feedback. I currently reside in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village with two adorable gray cats, the quirky Sasha, and the regal Isabel. I have been a vegetarian for over 20 years, love wine, and take Spin classes every chance I get (currently from my living room).

My Story

Rebellious curiosity became a life calling.

During college, I needed a summer job to prove to my parents that I wasn't just gallivanting around with no plan.
 
I was, in fact, gallivanting around with no plan. To remedy the situation, I found a summer job at a travel agency. I assumed I would do this job for a little while, head off to graduate school, and move on to other things. Thankfully, that did not happen. I cannot imagine myself in another industry. The reason I never left is because of the passion I have for creating personalized journeys that resonate for my clients each and every time.

WORK WITH ME

Meet the founder, Rabia Shahenshah

My Story

My Story

Favorite Hotels

01.

 My two absolute favorites are Como Shambhala Estate in Bali and Zighy Bay in Oman. Why? Because these two hotels in particular allow you to drop into a relaxation zone immediately—and stay there. 

NEXT

It is almost impossible to pick, but among my top contenders: The Bulgari in Dubai, The Four Seasons in Athens, La Sultana in Morocco, The Hoxton in Amsterdam, and The Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles.

02.

NEXT

It's highly likely that your travel destination will have most of what you need, except if you're venturing into the remote jungles of Borneo. You don't have to pack everything from Rite Aid. Instead, opt for travel-sized items and visit Sephora for all those minis you have been dying to try! Hotels also have laundry so you do not need to pack for every possible scenario. You will have a much better trip if you pack smartly like a ninja. Be nimble, and don't check your bags unless you have to.

Best travel advice 

Miniaturize, miniaturize, miniaturize.

03.

NEXT

Bali, Sonoma, Italy, Mallorca, the Dolomites, and Amsterdam. 

My tried and true destinations

Why: They all spark joy 

04.

NEXT

I love the wide open spaces, the diverse terrain and low population density. It is also an excellent destination for adventure travelers with activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, and hot air balloon rides. And of course, the expected safari experiences are incredible.

I also want to return to Israel and Japan.

Where I want to go next ?

Namibia

05.

NEXT

Many travelers choose France or Spain to discover small, charming European villages. However, England is often overlooked. From the regal city of London to the picturesque Cotswolds and university towns of Oxford and Cambridge, England has much to offer. Don’t dismiss it because it may not seem exotic enough or because of preconceived notions about the food. In fact, London boasts some of the world’s best restaurants. Kutir in Kensington is one of my all-time favorites.

Most overlooked 

England

06.

NEXT

Cruises can be a hit-or-miss experience. Many people are understandably reticent about considering a cruise vacation, but with the right guidance and choosing the right company, your perception can change completely. Rest assured, this is not the Love Boat.

Misunderstood category

Cruising

07.

NEXT

Although it may not be advisable to visit at present, I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to explore the country before it became unstable. Visiting the temples and interacting with the monks was an unforgettable experience. Bagan, in particular, is a unique and stunning city that left a lasting impression on me. One of my favorite moments was taking a balloon ride over Bagan at sunrise—anyone that knows me well, knows I am not a morning person, but it was the best reason to get up. 

Biggest surprise destination

Myanmar

Where Your Intention Meets Our Expertise

We are a team of elite travel professionals with access to tools that ensure your trip is of the highest quality. Our agency’s buying power means that our requests are often prioritized by our suppliers. We are also a member of the top travel consortiums, with hotel brands you know and love such as The Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton. Our clients receive attention not granted to the general public. We also use vetted suppliers that go through stringent quality control processes. Behind the scenes, we spend a lot of time laying out the architecture of your trip to avoid logistical booby traps. If you want to make your journey as graceful as possible, let us handle the logistics and we will guide you through the travel process with ease.

Let Us Be Your Guide

explore our services

Ready to connect?

schedule a discovery call

We are looking forward to connecting with you to turn your travel dreams into reality. To get started, kindly fill out my trip request form, which allows us to learn more about you and your travel wishes.

Luxury Pilgrim

HOME

ABOUT

JOURNEYS

pricing guide

CONTACT

© LUXURY PILGRIM 2023

SITE DESIGN BY GIRLBOSS DESIGNER

Book A Consult Call

Begin your journey with Luxury Pilgrim.

GET IN TOUCH

FIND ME ONLINE AT:

SERVICES