Hi, I'm
Melissa Strother
FAMILY VACATION SPECIALIST
Based in MARION, NC
Travel is more than just a vacation, it's an education beyond the classroom that helps build the next generation.
The best memories are made while away from home. How so? Because jumping off waterfalls on Christmas morning doesn't happen in the backyard, it happens in exotic places like Hawaii and the Dominican Republic. Zooming down Slinky Dog Dash at Walt Disney World while listening to my daughters' belly laugh and squeal with delight - those are the memories that last a lifetime.
Several years ago I decided that our holidays and summers were going to be about experiences, not material items. There isn't a day that goes by that I regret that choice. My daughters are genuinely excited for our next adventure because they know it far surpasses any trendy electronic gadget or designer shoes that they could receive.
Let's Get Started
Melissa's Travel Story
The best memories are made while away from home. How so? Because jumping off waterfalls on Christmas morning doesn't happen in the backyard, it happens in exotic places like Hawaii and the Dominican Republic. Zooming down Slinky Dog Dash at Walt Disney World while listening to my daughters' belly laugh and squeal with delight - those are the memories that last a lifetime.
Favorite Places
Itineraries I Love
Family Escape to Hawaii
This itinerary is the perfectly paced tour for families to see and do a little bit of everything Oahu has to offer.
11 Night Mediterranean Cruise with Rome and Barcelona Extension
This truly is the dream itinerary: Rome, Croatia, Greece, Malta, Pompeii, Pisa, Cannes, Barcelona, and more!
A Taste of Ireland
Eat, drink, dance, and be merry with a tour through the Emerald Isle.
Extended Family Walt Disney World
Grandparents, adult kids, spouses, cousins, and grand kids were so much fun to plan for. From finding the perfect resort to fit everyone's needs, to booking dining and Lightning Lanes, strollers, airfare, and ground transportation, I take care of all the details so that your vacation is seamless and stress-free.
8 NIGHT SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN & PERFECT DAY CRUISE
Combined family vacation onboard a Royal Caribbean ship with a loaded itinerary
12 NIGHT SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE
Anniversary cruise with a bucket list itinerary.
Certifications & Training
Certifications
- College of Disney Knowledge Graduate for Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, Adventures by Disney and Aulani Resort
- Master of Adventure for Royal Caribbean & Certified Royal Weddings Professional
- ALGV Pro Certificate of Graduation and Achievement in Fraud Protection
- Virgin Voyages Seacademy tier Gold
- Celebrity Cruises Learning Program
- Costa Rica Destination Specialist
- Certified Sandals & Beaches Specialist and Elite Advisor Online Training Course
- Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Tampa Specialist
- United Parks & Resorts Certified (SeaWorld, Sesame Place, Aquatica, and Water Country USA)
- Discovery Cove Specialist
- National Geographic Expeditions Certificate of Completion
- World of Hyatt Inclusive Collection Certificate of Achievement for Alua Hotels & Resorts, Sunscape Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts, and Zilara & Ziva All-Inclusive Resorts
- Norwegian Cruise Line Associate Degree
- Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts Certificate of Completion
- Playa Hotels & Resorts Certificate of Completion
- Carnival Learn & Earn Training Program
- RIU Certificate of Achievement
- Jewel Grande & Jewel Paradise Cove Certificates of Completion
- Dominican Republic Certified
- Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood Specialist
- Uplift Certificate of Course Completion
Working with Melissa
Share Your Vision
Tell Melissa who's traveling, when, and what makes a vacation feel magical for your family.
Get a Custom Plan
Receive personalized resort, cruise, or destination options curated to fit your style and budget.
Travel Worry-Free
From booking to boarding pass, you'll have an expert in your corner the entire journey.
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Your Dream Trip Starts Here
Tell Melissa about your vacation vision. Pick the path that feels easier — chat it out or fill the form.
Prefer to chat instead?
Have a quick conversation with Melissa's assistant. Same questions as the form, but easier — and you can ask anything along the way.
Prefer to reach out directly? melissa.strother@cupcakecastlestravel.com
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CCTC Travel Group, LLC is registered with the following state licenses: Florida Seller of Travel Registration No. ST42417, California Seller of Travel Registration No. 2143399-40, Washington Seller of Travel Unified Business ID (UBI) # 604 562 798. All Disney artwork, logos and properties © Disney. Ships Registry: The Bahamas.
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