'I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list.'- Susan Sontag

Would you benefit from stepping out of your daily routine? Could you or someone you know stand to give the inner control-freak a little break? How about making your friends envious? Need to recharge a romantic spark? Or perhaps steer clear of decision paralysis? Treat yourself to a SkipTown getaway! I curate incredible vacations, personalized to you. Relieve yourself of the stress that comes with travel planning so that all you have to do is SkipTown!

My name is Riley Ellis-Beach, and I am the founder of SkipTown. Similar to myself, SkipTown is spontaneous, courageous and has a go-for-it attitude. It is thoughtful and loves to have fun and make memories. SkipTown encompasses the feeling of having butterflies in your stomach, not quite sure what the future holds but knowing that no matter what it will be an exciting and fulfilling ride. 

The why behind SkipTown

Growing up my family always took at least one road trip together all around the USA.  My dad would play all of his classic music, like Tom Petty. At the time I couldn't stand his voice! As I grew older, I found a deep appreciation for his music, though, especially Among the Wildflowers. It truly speaks to my heart. I think I can attribute my travel bug, in part, to my family, especially my dad. 

After moving on to college I knew that I wanted to continue traveling. When I graduated, I joined the Peace Corps as a volunteer in Costa Rica. I have a deep love for this country and traveled extensively during my time there. Since then I have traveled to a wide range of countries, from Cuba for my Master's research, to Morocco and even Peru with a group of high school students (I am also a Spanish teacher). If you want to have a good laugh, ask me about my experience in Morocco.

One thing that I truly value when I travel is getting to know a place beyond the surface. I seek out opportunities that are off-the-beaten path and push myself to try new things (this is especially true when it comes to local cuisine!! Is is possible to be a self proclaimed foodie?), and I strive to sprinkle these experiences into my client's travels. 

Here are a few fun facts about me!

All-time favorite travel destination: Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

My favorite regional food: Rice & Beans (regional to the Caribbean, rice & beans made with coconut milk and usually served with jerk chicken)

Item I can’t travel without: Eye cover and AirPods!

Favorite travel books: Eat Pray Love, The Alchemist

Areas of Specialty: USA, Caribbean, Central America, South America, and 100% open to researching new destinations! Even though I specialize in domestic getaways, however I will gladly help you plan a personalized trip to any domestic or international locations of your choice including all-inclusive destinations!

Travel Planner Specializing in Surprise

Majestic Machu Picchu, 2019

Sometimes the best things are found in unexpected places! Have you ever considered taking a surprise vacation? We'll do the travel planning and you SkipTown!

"We found ourselves in a completely unexpected city that we discovered to be a true gem! SkipTown was very organized, available and helpful with relevant information during our travel. The recommendations were on point! It’s a great way to discover some gems in an unexpected way." -Christa