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The voice behind Brian's Travel Guides
meet Brian
Hey there, I’m Brian, travel planner, logistics junkie, and the guy you turn to when you want your dream trip to actually work. I’ve been traveling the world for over 25 years, and if you’ve ever wished you had a friend who knows exactly how to book the right flight, snag the best hotel perks, and maximize every moment of your time away, well, you just found him.
From Courtrooms to Cobblestone Streets
I’ve been a lawyer since 1997, the oldest of seven kids, and the guy who’s always had a suitcase halfway packed. My love of travel really took root in my early 20s when I lived in Southern Spain for two years, soaking up the culture, mastering Spanish, and learning what it feels like to really live abroad. That experience set the tone for a lifetime of meaningful, well-planned travel. Since then, I’ve visited 47 countries across six continents and 37 U.S. states, and counting.
In 2015, I married Teresa, my best friend and favorite travel partner. Together, we’ve raised a blended family of nine kids and now proudly cheer on 20+ grandkids from around the globe. Let’s just say: logistics are my love language.
Travel isn’t just a hobby for me. It’s part of my DNA. I plan it, live it, and love it.
The DIY Travel Pro
I book every trip myself, yes, every flight, hotel, transfer, and day tour. Why? Because I love the challenge. Great travel is more than destinations, it's about smart planning. I’ve flown on over 25 airlines, taken 10+ cruises, and stayed more than 768 nights in Marriott hotels (shout out to my Lifetime Platinum Elite status!). I know what it takes to score a suite upgrade, sip champagne in an airport lounge, or get that late checkout you didn’t think was possible. I make points and miles work hard; booking flights and hotels using partner transfers, optimizing credit card benefits, and always stretching a dollar without sacrificing comfort.
Yes, I’ve booked luxury stays and first-class flights on points alone. And I can teach you how to do the same.
where i've been
With over 47 countries, 6 continents, and 37 U.S. states under my belt, I’ve learned how to travel well—and make it look easy.
My tools of the trade
When I plan a trip it's a fine-tuned machine. I rely on:
Google Maps (to master any city)
Viator & TripAdvisor (to find the gems)
Global Entry & TSA PreCheck (to breeze through security)
Uber/Lyft/Turo (for on-the-ground flexibility)
VPN & WhatsApp (to stay secure and connected)
Local subway/train apps (because blending in beats standing out)
And let's not forget the travel credit cards. I carry a small arsenal:
Amex Platinum
Delta SkyMiles Amex
Hilton Amex
Capital One Venture
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless
Chase Sapphire Preferred
Why I Started Brian’s Travel Guides
I love planning trips. Like, really love it.
I dive into the logistics, the routes, the timing, the tools, everything that makes a trip feel effortless when you’re actually on it. People kept asking, “How did you plan that trip?” or “Which card should I use for this?” or “Is it really worth booking with points?” So I decided to create a space where I could share everything I’ve learned. The tips, tricks, and firsthand experiences that help take the stress out of travel planning.
Brian’s Travel Guides isn’t just a blog. It’s a guidebook for real people who want elevated, efficient, well-planned travel, without the guesswork.
Whether you're planning a luxury escape, a multigenerational family trip, or your first adventure abroad, you're in the right place. I’m here to help you make the most of every mile.
Follow along for destination tips, planning guides, packing lists, and all the insider tricks I’ve picked up along the way. Ask questions. Get inspired. You bring the dream, I'll help with the plan.
You’ll never travel the same again.