The travel and hospitality industry is a dynamic sector, driven by innovation and a diverse range of companies. From global giants to boutique experiences, these leading players shape the way we travel and experience the world. One such key player is Evyssa Vacations, founded by Csilla Dali.
Kindly give us a brief overview of your background and your journey since the beginning of your career.
I grew up in Transylvania, Romania, under a communist regime where exploring the world felt like a distant dream. After the regime fell, I became fascinated by the idea of travel, particularly to America. During college, I visited the U.S., which became the first step in my journey of exploration and self-discovery.
While working as a waitress in North Carolina to support my studies, I met Lufthansa’s North American Sales Representative, who offered me a job at a Miami travel agency. This fortunate encounter marked the beginning of my career in travel. Over time, I gained expertise in airfare, ticketing, and group travel, eventually relocating to Chicago to open a new branch for the same agency.
In 2009, amid the economic downturn, I founded my own travel agency, initially serving European expats. Over the next decade, I expanded to offer vacation packages and custom itineraries, building my business, Global Voyages Inc., through word-of-mouth. I also traveled extensively, visiting over 30 countries and forging relationships with local suppliers to enhance client experiences.
By 2019, my business thrived, but the lack of work-life balance led me to reevaluate my goals. The pandemic in 2020 brought a chance to reset. With a young baby and time to reflect, I rebranded my company as Evyssa Vacations, focusing on luxury, personalized travel. Today, I create transformative journeys for clients, driven by a passion for connecting people to the world and enriching their lives through travel.
Brief us about Evyssa Vacation, what inspired you to establish it, and what was the vision behind its inception?
Evyssa Vacations is a boutique luxury travel agency specializing in creating custom international travel experiences. We work with couples, families, and groups to design journeys that go beyond the ordinary, offering seamless planning and exclusive access to some of the world’s most incredible destinations. Our mission is to curate travel that inspires, transforms, and connects people to the world in meaningful ways.
The inspiration behind Evyssa Vacations stemmed from my lifelong passion for travel and the impact it has had on my life. Growing up in Transylvania, Romania, I always dreamed of exploring the world, and when I finally got the chance, it changed my perspective on life. Travel became my escape, my joy, and my way of connecting with others but also of finding myself. I wanted to bring that same transformative experience to my clients.
Prior to Evyssa Vacations, I spent over a decade building Global Voyages Inc., a successful travel business focused on airfare and ticketing. However, I felt the need to evolve the business to offer more personalized, creative, and extraordinary vacations. By 2019, it was clear that a transformation was needed to align with my vision.
The challenges of 2020, though difficult, gave me the chance to reflect and reimagine my business, and thus, Evyssa Vacations was born—focusing on luxury, customization, and creating meaningful moments.
Our approach is simple: provide highly personalized travel planning that focuses on each client’s unique preferences. We craft itineraries that balance relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, from pickleball vacations in Greece to luxury group trips and romantic getaways. Every journey is tailored to the client’s dreams, supported by our deep knowledge of destinations and strong relationships with local suppliers.
At Evyssa Vacations, we don’t just plan trips; we create memories and moments that stay with our clients forever. Our ultimate goal is to make travel as effortless and enjoyable as possible, so our clients can focus on what truly matters—living in the moment and experiencing the world with wonder.
What sets Evyssa Vacations apart in the highly competitive travel and hospitality market? Can you describe the kind of experiences it offers that make it unique?
At Evyssa Vacations, we’re a boutique agency dedicated to crafting personalized, one-of-a-kind journeys. Every trip we plan is a reflection of our deep commitment to ensuring our clients feel cared for, inspired, and stress-free. We focus on creating unforgettable experiences, fostering strong relationships with local guides and small businesses, and making a positive impact on the communities we work with. By limiting the number of clients we serve, we treat each trip as a personal project, carefully curating itineraries that bring joy and lasting memories.
We are passionate about making the planning process seamless, responding quickly and creatively to any challenges. Our travel expertise and personal connections with local operators ensure every trip is both meaningful and memorable. One example of our work is a mystery trip we planned for adventurous clients, where we took full creative control, designing a surprise winter adventure that included a historic castle stay, helicopter ride, dog-sledding, and a custom scavenger hunt. This trip not only delighted our clients but also strengthened our network and inspired future ideas.
This is the kind of experience that defines Evyssa Vacations. It’s not just about where our clients go—it’s about how they feel, what they discover, and the memories they create along the way. Every trip is an opportunity to craft something extraordinary, blending adventure, culture, and a personal touch that stays with them long after they return home.
What strategies do you use to ensure exceptional customer service and memorable experiences for your clients? How do you address feedback and continually improve your services.
We prioritize seamless communication, proactive problem-solving, and meticulous planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. We actively seek client feedback and use it to refine our processes and enhance our offerings. By fostering strong relationships with local suppliers and prioritizing client satisfaction, we strive to create journeys that exceed expectations.
What were the primal challenges and roadblocks you faced during the initial phase? And What is your source of motivation?
Rebranding to Evyssa Vacations post-pandemic felt like starting from scratch, especially in finding a new customer base aligned with our luxury travel focus. Transitioning from Global Voyages, which emphasized affordability, to offering high-value, curated experiences was a challenge. Rebuilding the business required investments in technology, a new website, and effective marketing, despite limited cash flow after three years of disruption.
The shift in mindset from affordability to luxury travel also demanded extensive learning and firsthand experience with the destinations we offer. Visiting hotels, building relationships with suppliers, and gaining knowledge were crucial for the transition. What drives me is the positive feedback from clients, partners, and the trust they place in us, motivating me to deliver the best experiences. Additionally, empowering my team of travel advisors keeps me focused on making a lasting impact.
Can you share a milestone or achievement that holds special significance for you?
The success achieved in 2024, exceeding expectations and demonstrating the effectiveness of our new approach, holds particular significance. This validates our vision and fuels our determination to continue growing and expanding our offerings.
What trends or changes in the travel industry do you find most exciting or impactful? How does Evyssa Vacations adapt to these trends to stay ahead?
The growing demand for personalized, experience-driven travel and the rise of sustainable tourism are exciting trends. Evyssa Vacations embraces these by focusing on creating unique itineraries that align with individual interests and prioritizing partnerships with eco-conscious suppliers. We also leverage technology to enhance the planning process and provide seamless travel experiences for our clients.
The travel industry has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years. How did Evyssa Vacations navigate the impact of the pandemic, and what lessons did you learn?
The pandemic forced us to adapt and innovate. We prioritized client support, navigated logistical challenges, and used the downtime to rebrand and refine our focus. This experience emphasized the importance of resilience, adaptability, and building strong client relationships.
What are your aspirations for Evyssa Vacations over the next decade? How do you see yourself in the near future? Tell us about your future goals.
Over the next decade, my vision for Evyssa Vacations is to become a leader in boutique luxury and custom travel, seamlessly blending leisure and corporate travel to offer exceptional experiences for both individuals and businesses. Whether it’s a dream family vacation, a personalized incentive trip, or a team-building retreat, our focus is on creating tailored itineraries that inspire, connect, and deliver lasting impact. Custom travel fits perfectly into both worlds—why settle for a generic trip when the experience can align with personal aspirations or a company’s mission to reward, motivate, and build loyalty. My aspiration is to create a legacy with Evyssa Vacations—a brand that not only sets the standard for luxury travel but also inspires people to explore the world in ways that are meaningful, transformative, and deeply fulfilling
Provide one-line quote that best describes your business approach and vision.
“We elevate travel, connecting people to places and unforgettable stories through expertly crafted, hassle-free journeys that are distinctly yours.”
What are the key qualities and skills you believe are necessary for a successful entrepreneur?
Successful entrepreneurs possess adaptability, resilience, strong communication skills, creativity, problem-solving abilities, a clear sense of purpose, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.
What advice would you have for someone thinking of entering this space right now? What would you advise to the budding entrepreneurs in general?
Start by identifying your strengths and passions within the travel industry. Consider partnering with an established company to gain valuable experience and mentorship. Embrace adaptability, build strong relationships, and focus on providing exceptional service. Remember that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint, so cultivate patience, resilience, and a strong support network.