Alaine Michka
Benicia, California Travel Agent
A Full-Service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
Email Me
Cultural and Destination Travel Agent Expert
"Traveling…it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller" were the wise words of Ibn Battuta, Maghrebi scholar, explorer, and writer of the most famous travelogues of history, The Rihla, or A Masterpiece to Those Who Contemplate the Wonders of Cities and the Marvels of Traveling. I began traveling internationally 12 years ago and lived abroad for three. Travel unveiled truths about myself and I felt my connection to the world, like I had never known. I became a storyteller. When you book a trip with me, it is my hope to build a map with you, a guide to treasures that I know you will find. I hope to open up worlds so that you may come to know yourself a little better, understand others through their stories, and fully integrate the reality that we all inhabit one planet and are, in essence, not much different from one another. I look forward to getting to know you to design a tailored and perfect map for your launch to your next adventure.
My Travel Specialties
My Areas of Expertise
DESTINATIONS
INTERESTS
CERTIFICATES & AWARDS
Multigenerational Family of Six Vacation
Reviewed By Family "T" - Escondido, California | Traveled to Turkey ~ Middle East
There is no way this would have been such a completely incredible vacation had we not had your (Alaine's) assistance and guidance.The use of personal guides was extremely rewarding and made the experience that much more enjoyable. The personal touch provided, learning about their lives, the flexibility they provided, and their knowledge not just of the area but also of local conditions all added to our experience. Having free time at the end of each day was also a plus for us as it allowed us to do a little exploring. The grandkids sure liked climbing around the Cappadocia fairy chimneys and caves.
We will have so many memories that will last the rest of our lives.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Memorable and Unforgettable Trip to Turkey
Reviewed By Masoumeh and Hossein - Thousand Oaks, California | Traveled to Turkey ~ Middle East
This was our third time to Turkey, yet everywhere we went it brought us old and new memories. If I could change anything, I would stay in Izmir for at least three days and from there go to Alacati, Cesme and Sirinci. I wish we could stay 1-2 days longer in Istanbul, but we had a deadline. All the hotels were great choices. Ms. Alaine and Mr. Yusuf, the administrator of our local tours and private transportation were on top of the itinerary and very informative and they were great at following up. All the drivers and tour leaders were very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Turk Fatih Tutak restaurant in Istanbul is highly recommended. Thank you again. We look forward to working with you again in the near future for our other trips that we are dreaming about.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
A perfectly executed last minute business trip
Reviewed By Eitan - California | Traveled to California ~ USA
Alaine was referred to me by a colleague after an urgent search with a deadline for my domestic travel requirements. I had a hard time finding a professional that could deliver, but Alaine demonstrated commitment to the task, communicated effectively, and was able to provide quick feedback. She quickly grasped what I sought and offered seamless options with my specific criteria. Alaine remained professional, kind, positive, and encouraging despite my stress.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Trustworthy, Knowledgeable and Personal Planning
Reviewed By Cruz Family - Boise, Idaho | Traveled to Hawaii ~ USA
Alaine Michka is a rare find and can help you navigate your trip because she's traveled the world and embraced different cultures. Alaine has an enriched awareness of the nuances of traveling abroad and has the ability to tailor your trip to meet your desires while exceeding your expectations. Alaine is someone you can entrust to make your trip a reality, she will ensure your desires come to fruition with precision and care!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Prompt and Detail Oriented Service
Reviewed By Richard - San Diego, CA | Traveled to Spain ~ Europe
Our experience working with Alaine was very pleasant and stress free. She was prompt and very detailed oriented making sure things were accurate. During our trip from beginning to end everything went as planned and we had a blast!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Memorable and Welcoming Mezze Tour of Turkey
Reviewed By Sanjay and Elizabeth - Sacramento, California | Traveled to Turkey ~ Middle East
What an incredible journey to Türkiye! Beaches, mountains, city, villages and country. We saw epic ruins, jaw-dropping natural wonders and bustling cities. Cappadocia, truly special. The magical countryside of Cappadocia reminded us of Sedona and Bryce Canyon. We were served amazing Turkish cuisine in clay pottery, stayed in the perfect cave hotel and were able to take the balloon ride; the views and scenery absolutely breathtaking! The Shangri-La in Istanbul is truly a luxurious hotel on the Bosphorus Straight; service impeccable and every detail attended with prompt efficiency. Istanbul is mesmerizing with the blend of old, new, European and Asian culture. Topapaki Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cistern were incredible! Dolmahbache Palace, spectacular and plenty of baklava, bazaars and bargaining. Two weeks is a good time to vacation...a mezze of Türkiye. It was a truly amazing trip our group will cherish always. Thanks again, Alaine, for all your hel
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Seamless execution
Reviewed By A - Boulder, Colorado | Traveled to Spain ~ Europe
I reached out to Alaine for recommendations for travel and I found her super helpful and very knowledgeable about numerous places around the world. She was able to tailor a trip specific to my goals and the execution of my journey met my expectations. Alaine was a responsive and clear communicator. I highly recommend her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Memorable Family Journey to Egypt and Turkey
Reviewed By Larry T - San Diego, California | Traveled to Turkey ~ Middle East
We had an incredible vacation that Alaine organized pretty much entirely for us. The use of personal tour guides in countries that generally do not speak English was a real plus which helped create many memorable moments that will last a lifetime. Getting to know the guides and their lifestyles made the experience much more valuable and was a significant bonus for us.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Patience, flexibility = Successful tour for 14
Reviewed By Rohin - Not disclosed | Traveled to Turkey ~ Middle East
I reached out to Alaine needing a one off tour to Ephesus as part of a larger trip that I had pre-planned. I know most travel agents don't like taking this kind of work on since it's still a good chunk of work but not as big of a package without the air travel and hotels. Alaine was patient in me trying to figure out how many people were coming on the tour and accommodated last minute changes. The tour guide showed up on time and our tour went great!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 5 people found this review helpful