Heather Cross
Maplewood, New Jersey Travel Agent
Vacations By Heather, an independent agent with KHM Travel Group, OH, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
Email Me
New York City and Family Vacation Consultant
I am a passionate traveler and researcher who understands how important your vacation time is to you. My role is to help make sure that we find the best vacation for your needs, dreams and budget.
Since 2002 I’ve been the expert behind New York City Travel on About.com, and I have spent the last twelve years exploring New York City and sharing my discoveries with millions of readers. I will share my first-hand experiences, secrets and even my mistakes with you to help you experience all that New York City has to offer.
I’ll help you figure out what kind of vacation best suits your family’s interests and budget and make sure that you have everything you need to enjoy exploring the world together.
Multi-generational trips are a wonderful way to spend time together and I can help you find great options that will please every member of the family. And I always ensure a great trip for everyone from babies to grandparents. I’ve organized many trips for families, including vacations to:
- Vieques
- Belize
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- Italy
- Barbados
- St. Lucia
- Puerto Rico
When I travel, I want to make sure that I enjoy the unique sounds, sights and tastes of my destination. I want to feel like I’m getting a good value for my money. I want to be comfortable and make sure that I’m prepared, yet still want to have the freedom to explore and make choices on the spur of the moment. And if you book your vacation with me, I’ll apply this same sense of detail and purpose to your vacation plans that I do to my own.
My Areas of Expertise
DESTINATIONS
SUPPLIER PARTNERS
Highly Recommend!
Reviewed By JDaunt - New York, NY | Traveled to Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
Our experience with Heather was wonderful! She recently helped us book our honeymoon. She took the stress out of the whole process from start to finish. She gave us several options that worked with our budget and timeline. Everything was totally seamless with our trip and the flights and hotel were perfect! If you are looking for help planning the perfect getaway, I definitely recommend that you work with Heather!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Heather Cross responded:
Thank you for your kind words. I love helping clients with special trips!
Thank you for your kind words. I love helping clients with special trips!
26 of 42 people found this review helpful
Wonderful service and recommendations!
Reviewed By Brooklyn Mommy - United States | Traveled to
Heather helped our family plan a spring trip to Florida. We had specific requirements since we had two small children, and Heather was so resourceful in providing a range of options within our budget. She was available to talk through considerations and did not hesitate to reach back out to the properties to get answers to our questions. Heather handled arrangements for all logistics of the trip (car, flight, hotel) and personally delivered the vouchers to my apt before the trip. I'd definitely recommend Heather to anyone looking to plan a get-away!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
41 of 73 people found this review helpful
Awesome Trip!
Reviewed By JordsDaunt - New York, NY | Traveled to Iceland ~ Europe
Working with Heather is convenient, stress free and enjoyable! This was our second time working with Heather and we continue to have a wonderful experience. She planned activities that were fun and fit our interests and budget. Heather was a pleasure to work with. We would not have been able to plan this trip without her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
17 of 28 people found this review helpful
Petra, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Red Sea, ... wow!
Reviewed By Ralf - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Jordan ~ Middle East
Heather did a fantastic job organizing our recent family trip to Jordan. Thank you and looking forward to working with you, again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
23 of 40 people found this review helpful
The best honeymoon EVER!
Reviewed By Lauren McNamara - Hoboken, NJ | Traveled to Thailand ~ East and Southeast Asia
Incredible! She was extremely responsive and really listened to our feedback. Heather planned an incredible honeymoon for us! We were traveling in December and wanted a warm location. She presented us with three incredible trips (it was so hard to choose!), but we ultimately decided on Thailand. Heather took so much time to hear exactly what we wanted and listened to our feedback about the itinerary she planned. Our trip was PERFECT. From the excursions she planned to the hotels, we had an amazing time and the logistics were absolutely seamless. Additionally, Heather mailed us a super helpful packet before we traveled with all the information we needed. I cannot recommend Heather enough, we will definitely use her again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
25 of 44 people found this review helpful
Perfectly planned trip with young kids
Reviewed By Todd - NYC | Traveled to Mexico
Our vacation with a 3 year old and 7 month old was perfectly planned and very much needed. I plan to use Heather again next year.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
14 of 24 people found this review helpful
Nice PR trip
Reviewed By BKMeis - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to San Juan ~ Puerto Rico ~ Caribbean
Heather was extremely helpful in helping us book a last min trip. It made the process so much less stressful & overwhelming . We will work w/ her moving forward!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
18 of 33 people found this review helpful
Great family trip
Reviewed By XR - South Orange, NJ | Traveled to Paris ~ France ~ Europe
Heather helped us plan a fantastic trip to Paris. She did a great job listening to what we were looking for, and provided recommendations that were well-aligned with our input. She found us amazing accommodations in an ideal location, and a great set of tours and activities. She was responsive to what we needed and provided excellent advice.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Heather Cross responded:
Thanks Xan! It was a pleasure working together on your trip and I look forward to helping you in the future. Best, Heather
Thanks Xan! It was a pleasure working together on your trip and I look forward to helping you in the future. Best, Heather
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Great trip to Iceland
Reviewed By Alex - South Orange, NJ | Traveled to Iceland ~ Europe
Heather made our trip to Iceland really easy. She spoke to us to figure out exactly what we wanted and then created itineraries to match that vision. No hidden fees or unpleasant surprises. We’ll definitely use her again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Heather Cross responded:
Thanks Alex! So glad you had a great time in Iceland!
Thanks Alex! So glad you had a great time in Iceland!
15 of 28 people found this review helpful
A Dream Trip Come True!
Reviewed By Mindy F. - West Orange, NJ | Traveled to Istanbul ~ Turkey ~ Middle East
I really enjoyed working with Heather. She was attentive to my needs, and raised lots of questions so ensure we planned the trip I wanted. The trip was extraordinary -- I couldn't believe what a great time I had. Heather is a terrific travel agent!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Heather Cross responded:
Thank you! It was a pleasure to help you with your vacation!
Thank you! It was a pleasure to help you with your vacation!
16 of 30 people found this review helpful
So helpful, even when I had changes
Reviewed By Media Medusa - Pennsylvania | Traveled to
Heather helped me book flights and hotels to append a tour I was taking to Scotland. She was so accommodating, even when I had changes. If I had a last minute change that couldn't be accommodated (because I waited too long!), she had alternatives for me. She was just so helpful and easy to work with!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
37 of 72 people found this review helpful
Birthday trip turned second honeymoon
Reviewed By Melissa - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
Heather listened to my plans and budget and devised a wonderful itinerary that met all of our wishes. She is detail oriented and created a seamless plan that we will remember forever.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Superb Vacation Planner
Reviewed By Gretchen M. - Jackson Heights, NY | Traveled to Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
Heather was equally good at planning our multi-leg cultural pilgrimage to Ireland and our super-silly Universal Orlando getaway. She is helpful and clear and always seems just as excited about our vacation as we are. Best of all, she found us truly affordable options that felt luxurious.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
15 of 29 people found this review helpful
Perfect trip to Turks & Caicos
Reviewed By Sandy - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Turks and Caicos Islands ~ Caribbean
Heather did such a wonderful job planning our family trip to Turks & Caicos. She did everything from hotels, airport transfers, dinner reservations and more. We had some very specific, unique criteria and made multiple changes throughout the process. She was an attentive communicator and never skipped a beat. We will use her services again and can highly recommend them to anyone who is terrified at the idea of planning their own trip! Thank you, Heather!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
19 of 37 people found this review helpful
Research Rock Star for our Disney Trip
Reviewed By MCS - United States | Traveled to
Heather Cross provided enormous help in planning our Disney Trip. Getting us desired fast passes, restaurant reservations and general advice on keeping three different age groups happy was no easy feat but Heather managed it. We had no idea that a successful Disney trip required strategic planning but I can't emphasize enough - it does! We were lucky to have Heather on the case!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
36 of 71 people found this review helpful
Stress free, hassle free travel!
Reviewed By Ivan - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Cancun ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Great listener and reponsive to questions. Knowledgeable!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
The perfect vacation
Reviewed By Sullivan’s - New Jersey | Traveled to Amalfi ~ Italy ~ Europe
Heather put together the perfect 25th year anniversary vacation for us!
She was also immediately responsive and helpful from Italy when we needed help with an issue. Would 100% use her for our next vacation and highly unreservedly recommend her!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Help When You Need It!!
Reviewed By Paula - Brooklyn, New York | Traveled to Europe
I was suck in the labyrinth of online choices for a multi-city trip to Europe and Heather came to my rescue. She handled all the details, gave great advice and was a pleasure to work with.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 52 people found this review helpful
Wonderful Christmas Holiday in St. Lucia
Reviewed By Lisa - Natick MA | Traveled to St. Lucia Island ~ St. Lucia ~ Caribbean
I worked with Holly Keith in Heather's office and the experience was fantastic! Holly was very on top of everything and keyed right into our type of travel. She had great suggestions and we had a wonderful trip! I would absolutely use Holly again to plan a trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
13 of 27 people found this review helpful
Go with Heather!
Reviewed By Go with Heather - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Copenhagen ~ Denmark ~ Europe
Heather has arranged for air travel and hotels in multi city trip both in the U.S. and in Europe for me over the past several years. She answers questions and deals with costs concerns quickly and provides options for travel that are easy to get! I highly recommend her for any trip but especially if you are traveling at holidays. Planning for those trips can be stressful and Heather can do it for you easily and inexpensively!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
16 of 33 people found this review helpful
The best honeymoon anyone could ask for!
Reviewed By Alex B - NY,NY | Traveled to Greece ~ Europe
Heather was an absolute pleasure to work with. We used her services to plan our honeymoon vacation to Greece and we had an amazing and unforgettable experience thanks to her. Heather took the time to speak with us and to understand the type of vibe and experience we were looking for and created an itinerary that perfectly captured it. She truly takes the time to make sure you have the best possible experience. From airfare, local transportation, hotels, activities and tours, Heather did an incredible job. We will definitely use her services again in the future and highly recommend her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
19 of 39 people found this review helpful
Made fantastic recommendations and was there when we needed her.
Reviewed By jesse - brooklyn, ny | Traveled to
Heather helped me find the perfect location for my first vacation with a toddler. She also was at the ready to help when our flight got canceled last minute. can't recommend her enough!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
29 of 59 people found this review helpful
Anniversary trip
Reviewed By Lauren D - Maplewood, NJ | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
Heather just planned a fantastic trip to Italy for my husband and me. She was incredibly helpful from start to finish. She helped us narrow down how our trip should go, and then helped us extend our stay at the last minute. She was so on top of everything! I would highly recommend her travel services.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
25 of 53 people found this review helpful
Stress free vacation planning
Reviewed By Repeat Customer - Toronto | Traveled to
After a short chat with Heather where we discussed our preferences and wish list for the trip, Heather took care of all the arrangements. We got on a flight with just the itinerary that she prepared. The hotels were top notch and we saw every single animal that we wanted to see.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
37 of 77 people found this review helpful
Really excellent experience!
Reviewed By Dan - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
Heather was terrific in helping us plan our honeymoon! She planned us great hotels, convenient train connections, and awesome activities and tours. We really didn't do much - it felt like just showing up for a trip and then letting everything happen : )
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
11 of 26 people found this review helpful
Great trip by Vacations by Heather!
Reviewed By Mer - Maplewood, NJ | Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean
Heather was so great to work with. She took such time going over all the things we were looking for in our vacation. We didn’t even know what island we wanted to go to but she helped nail it based on what we were looking for and our budget. She found our flights and everything quickly and was super easy getting us our itinerary and noting everything we needed for our trip. When we had a small issue at the airport when landing she was quick to answer her cell to be there to help. I’d def reco her of planning any trip
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
14 of 32 people found this review helpful
Great assistance planning our trip!
Reviewed By Fabianni - New York, NY | Traveled to
Thank you Heather for helping us plan our last minute trip to Punta Cana, DR. The kids had a great time at Memories Splash and we can't say enough nice things about the resort and the staff.... can't wait to book our next family vacation with you!
Your service was very accommodating to our needs, you were always available to answer all of our questions. Thanks again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
28 of 60 people found this review helpful
Attentive, Upbeat and Knowledgeable
Reviewed By Sara - New York, New York | Traveled to
Heather did a terrific job of booking and planning our trip. The place was perfect for all of us - 3 generations - and everyone had a fabulous time. The flights she booked were well-timed, the pick-ups and drop-offs were also on time and helpful.
Heather responded to my questions and concerns before the trip, quickly and with assurance. The information she gave was accurate and reassuring.
Next March I'm hoping to celebrate my husband's 70th birthday party at the same hotel, which will include many reservations and plans. I look forward to having Heather help us with all the details and am confident she'll make it a memorable occasion.
I highly recommend Heather for any trips you're planning.
I highly recommend Heather!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
34 of 74 people found this review helpful
Made vacation planning a breeze
Reviewed By Kate - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to
Heather made planning our vacation seamless. She took the time to understand what were looking for and worked within our budget and needs to find some great options. We will definitely reach out for our future vacations.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
29 of 64 people found this review helpful
Heather was great to work with - gave us lots of options
Reviewed By Jillian - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to
Heather was really easy to work with, including accommodating our evolving ideas as to what we wanted. She understood our needs with multiple kids, etc, and gave us lots of options (but not too many to overwhelm me). She checked in at appropriate times and updated us as needed. She made the process smooth and seamless.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
25 of 58 people found this review helpful
Beautiful Amalfi Coast
Reviewed By Elena - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
Heather was very easy to work with. I told her what kind of trip we wanted: traveling with my older mother, discussed our budget, nothing too strenuous but we wanted to see as much as we could. Heather got back to us with a sample itinerary that we were able to tweak together. It ended up being exactly the trip we envisioned.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
16 of 41 people found this review helpful
Could not have had as good a trip without her help
Reviewed By Jim/ Pam - Atlanta Ga | Traveled to
Heather was very easy to work with and had a great insight into what a family of 6 adults and
2 children would want to do in NYC during Christmas week.
Her newsletter provided great suggestions for attractions and her knowledge of NYC took us
to wonderful restaurants.
Have recommended her to a friend, has already helped plan a trip
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 61 people found this review helpful
Great Service and Care
Reviewed By HugCro - North Wales Pa, | Traveled to
Heather was very helpful in arranging my trip to Chicago. She found me a great hotel within my price range and was very helpful in helping me navigate the airlines and airports as a handicapped person. I had great comfortable seats and the airline was vey helpful. Thanks Heather for your great help!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
26 of 62 people found this review helpful
Heather planned our perfect honeymoon!
Reviewed By Dave - Breckenridge, CO | Traveled to
Heather was instrumental in planning our perfect honeymoon. My wife and I were overwhelmed with wedding planning and could not decide where to go. We had a few ideas like a budget and that we wanted to go to a beach, go surfing, maybe do some yoga and be somewhere unique and/or adventurous; someplace nice but also off the beaten path.
Heather started with recommendations in Panama, Portugal and Costa Rica. We chose Panama and then Heather helped us choose our resort from there, giving us multiple options along the way. She saved us so much time by not having to review Tripadvisor reviews for countless hotels and resorts in a foreign country we'd never been to.
Heather was amazingly helpful when our first flight got cancelled due to a mechanical issue. We were concerned about our driver in Panama not knowing our flight time changed. I called Heather immediately, and she assured me she'd get it taken care of, and she did. The best!
I really don't think we could have come up with such a unique and fun trip for our honeymoon. Now we have the most amazing memories and photos from our first international trip as a married couple. Knowing Heather was always available through our trip gave us so much peace of mind while travelling in another country.
I could not recommend Heather enough, and don't know if I'll ever plan another trip without her. She's knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. Thanks Heather!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
23 of 57 people found this review helpful
A gem of a Travel Agent!
Reviewed By Jen - Brooklyn, NY | Traveled to
Heather is a fantastic travel agent. She planned our trips to Puerto Rico and Florida. She listens to your needs and patiently works with you until she comes up with a well-matched itinerary. She is well-traveled herself and offers a lot of tips and suggestions on what makes sense for your travel needs. I highly recommend her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
24 of 65 people found this review helpful
Made our anniversary trip a breeze!
Reviewed By Carolyn - New York, NY | Traveled to
We worked with Heather to book a trip to Mexico for our 10 year anniversary. We had been talking about doing something fun but with two kids and busy lives, neither of us had a moment to plan everything. Heather helped us zero in on Mexico and presented us three options. They were all well researched and were great options. We ended up choosing the all-inclusive Secrets and had a really special trip. We had a wonderful, memorable vacation and we really owe that to Heather and her expertise and hard work on our behalf.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
34 of 86 people found this review helpful