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Maria A Ortega

Phone:(626) 449-2281  ext: 82408
Fax: (626) 796-6245
E-mail: maria.a.ortega@aexp.com

Visit me in person:

American Express Travel Service
599 East Colorado Blvd
Pasadena, CA 91101

Accreditations

Specialties & Accreditations

Austria

There's something for everyone in Austria. Your trip will be full of the cultural richness it has to offer, and I'll help make sure the details are taken care of. Vienna has a wonderful tourist infrastructure, and excellent hotels and music venues - a dream for art and music enthusiasts. Or perhaps Salzburg? You'll find beautiful landscapes, music, and the scenery is a dream for culture buffs. If you're into the outdoors, bike tours and River Cruises are big in this region, and I'll help you pick the right one. Contact me today and start exploring Eastern Europe in Austria.

Czech Republic

There's so much to see in the Czech Republic! First, there's Prague with its incredible architecture, palaces and museums. The city is so rich in history, heritage and music venues that it would be difficult to cover everything in a short stay. Take it from me, music lovers should not miss the experience of attending one of the many concerts taking place in the city. And for Beer lovers, this is paradise come true. A trip to the Pilsner Brewery should not be missed. Spa lover? I'd point you to Karlovy Vary and its great spas, or Czesky Krumlov in the Bohemian Region. Both cities can be visited on day trips. There's so many ways to see the country, why not take a River Cruise? I'll help you craft an itinerary that matches both the season and your needs. Call me today and let's get started!

Mexico

I got a taste for travel working in the airline industry for two decades, but my love for Mexico runs deep in my roots. I was born in a small town there, and spent many years in Jalisco. I speak the language fluently and have a deep appreciation of the country's art, history, and archeological sites - not to mention Mexico's stunning beaches and natural resources. In my six years booking trips there, I have visited all but a few of the states first-hand. From hiking in the Copper Canyon to whale-watching in Baja California and wine-tasting in Northern Baja, I can direct you to fun-loving diversions both on- and off-the-beaten path. How about a few locals-only side trips filled with mouthwatering food and folklore? I stay current by reading publications such as Mexico Desconocido (Unknown Mexico), and keep close contact with a wealth of relatives and friends throughout the country. I also have great contacts within the Mexico Tourist Office. Email me today and let me take you inside my native country.

Portugal

Discover Portugal! It's not only Lisbon or the Algarve. Cities, such as Evora - an UNESCO Heritage city is a must for history enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike. I like to arrange trips during the vintage season, when visitors can experience the process and production of new wine. The Alentejo Region offers some of the best wineries in Portugal. For Port wine advocates, the Port region and the wineries along the Douro are a dream come true. Why not take a river cruise along the Douro and experience its unique landscape, complete with wine tastings along the way. I'll help you find the Portugal that you're looking for. For the adventurous, Pousadas is a must see with the incredible old castles or monasteries. I'm here to arrange the perfect routes throughout Portugal, so contact me today!

Spain

As a Spain Specialist, I'm the one you've been looking for to plan your perfect trip. My personal knowledge and professional expertise assure that you're in good hands. I design trips based on your preferences, cultural interests and individual situation (family travel, honeymoon, adventure, leisure or sports related interests). I'll tell you about the festivals and special events that will take place during your visit, recommend the best places to eat and the best places to stay. Let me open up a Spain you haven't thought of - drive around the country, take a cruise, or hide away in the city or small town that's right for you. By staying on top of current events and trends, I'm an excellent source of information so you don't miss out. Call me today and let's plan your unique vacation.

Tahiti

On the look out for beauty, nature, and relaxation? You'll find it in Tahiti. Whether you take a cruise to the Society Islands, indulge in famous Tahitian spa treatments or enjoy a unique dinner in Bora Bora let me help plan your ideal itinerary. I'll show you the best places to take in a romantic sunset catamaran cruise or even where to visit a black pearl farm. I can set up private dinners in your bungalow and recommend Polynesian shows to see. From a special trip to a destination wedding, call me today and let's plan a trip you'll remember forever.

Cruise - Mediterranean

Details, details, details - that's what makes a good cruise a great one. When you dial me up, you'll find a dedicated, detail-oriented professional on your team who is deeply passionate about the Mediterranean. After we find out what exactly you're looking for, we'll go over possible routes, destination options, pre- and post-arrangement ideas and airline options. This last detail is a specialty of mine - I worked for the airlines for 20 years before following my dream to become a travel counselor, and know all the ins and outs of the industry. My personal interests include adventure travel, food, wine, music, art and history. Call today and let's get the ball rolling on your next Mediterranean cruise.

Language - Spanish

This agent speaks Spanish.

American Express Travel Specialists

Combining in-depth experience with one-on-one booking consultation, a Travel Specialist can make your vacation even more memorable.

  • Who Are Travel Specialists and How Can They Help?
  • Travel Specialists have received extra training and accreditation in their specialty area, in addition to years of personal experience and relevant travel.

    A Travel Specialist can help you plan your trip, from booking your travel and recommending the best travel dates to finding unexpected delights and unique side trips off the beaten path.

    Please Note: A $150 planning deposit or service fee may apply on complex vacation itineraries. This deposit will be credited back to you upon final booking. Additional service fees may apply to individual airline, car, or hotel reservations. Your American Express Travel Specialist will advise you of all fees during your initial vacation consultation.

    For travel services other than booking, the Platinum Card® Concierge is available to Platinum Card members for trip planning and travel assistance without a fee.

    Apply for the Platinum Card now.

  • When Should I Talk to a Travel Specialist?
  • We recommend that you contact our Travel Specialists when you are ready to book your trip. They will assist you with making travel arrangements that best fit your specific needs, such as booking flights, hotels, cars, cruises, tours, and much more. You may also want to engage a Travel Specialist in the early planning stages of your trip to receive the most current information about a destination or chosen activity.

    Please Note: A $150 planning deposit or service fee may apply on complex vacation itineraries. This deposit will be credited back to you upon final booking. Additional service fees may apply to individual airline, car, or hotel reservations. Your American Express Travel Specialist will advise you of all fees during your initial vacation consultation.

    For travel services other than booking, the Platinum Card® Concierge is available to Platinum Card members for trip planning and travel assistance without a fee.

    Apply for the Platinum Card now.

  • Can I Meet a Travel Specialist in Person?
  • American Express Travel Specialists work out of our U.S. Travel Offices. They are always available to help you by phone or e-mail. Of course, if you live nearby, it is easy to set up an appointment in person with the Travel Specialist you want to meet.

    If you need assistance while you are traveling, visit any of our hundreds of Travel Offices worldwide.*

    For travel services other than booking, the Platinum Card® Concierge is available to Platinum Card members for trip planning and travel assistance without a fee.

    Apply for the Platinum Card now

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