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An Insider’s View of Europe
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Kathy Tolchinsky Scottsdale, AZ Luxury Travel Agent
(26 reviews)
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26 Reviews | 96.15% Recommended
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Agency
Protravel International Scottsdale
Destinations
Greece, Australia, Italy, Spain, Germany
SPECIALTIES
Couples & Romance, Festival Tours, Christmas Markets, European Culture, Multi-Generational Travel

Kathy Tolchinsky

Scottsdale, Arizona Travel Agent
An Insider’s View of Europe

During our more than six years based in Vienna, my husband and I took advantage of our time there to explore much of Austria, Italy, Spain, and Germany. In fact, we did so much that our local friends would often call us to see what was going on.  

American travelers tend to avoid Europe in winter because it is cold. However, the holiday markets are a wonderful opportunity and give you a chance to be a part of something truly local. The markets are really fun, with free concerts, traditional music, and dance and great crafts for sale. Even on the coldest nights, locals gather to enjoy hot cider, spiked punch, and other local drinks. Almost every major city and even small towns host Christmas markets and many offer rides and special entertainment for children.  Whenever you visit, there will probably be a festival or event where you can take part in the local culture. For example, Vienna has free concerts and movies in its main square year-round, with traditional food and crafts booths. 

The distances are much shorter in Europe, so it is easy to visit five or six countries in a single trip. If you prefer not to drive yourselves, trains are very convenient. I am currently planning a three-week trip for a family. I am planning activities where they will interact with people from different backgrounds and I am sure the children will return with a new perspective and appreciation of the U.S.  

When I plan your trip to Europe, I think through every detail. I will advise you on local customs, and let you know which countries require long pants and covered shoulders to enter their churches. I will also remember to tell you if the countries you are visiting require a special “vignette” or toll sticker. The penalty for not having it is quite high, and unless the rental company is aware that you will be crossing a border they may not remember to tell you.   

I bring personal experience acquired during my years of living and traveling Europe plus the expertise and clout that comes with working at Protravel to every European trip I plan. I’d love to use my insider’s vision to plan your next Europe adventure.

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Reviews

106 of 170 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Granite - Scottsdale | Traveled to France ~ Europe
We have yet to book a tour due to the pandemic
Kathy is patient and a good listener with an understanding of the basic needs of her clients and their wishes.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you, Mark. So sorry that your river cruise didn't work out for this summer. I'm looking forward to helping you and your wife plan that incredible vacation in the (hopefully) very near future. I appreciate your business! Thank you for entrusting me with your travel plans.
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86 of 145 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By MB629 - Cleveland, OH | Traveled to Greece ~ Europe
Trip to Greece
We had our honeymoon to Greece planned for this June 2020. Unfortunately due to pandemic we are not able to go. Leading up to and during our cancellation Kathy was extremely helpful and accommodating. She helped us to find many great hotels, tours, cooking classes, boat trips and transportation. We are sad to be putting this dream trip on hold, but cannot wait to rebook in the future. Thank you Kathy for all of your help!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you, Monica! I know how much you and your husband were looking forward to this fabulous honeymoon. And it was fun planning this trip for you. When the time is right, I'll be here to help you plan a different dream getaway. KDT
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46 of 70 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Bruce and Diane - Florence AZ | Traveled to Provence ~ France ~ Europe
A wonderful Adventure
Kathy listened to us and worked to meet our specific wishes. She did not hesitate to make alternative suggestions that made sense. She was flexible when plans had to change due to covid and set up a trip we will never forget.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you both! It was such a pleasure helping you plan this trip. Thanks for taking me along through your photos. It was the next best thing to being there. I look forward to helping you plan your next adventure. KT
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99 of 178 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Bob and Tammy - Solon, Ohio | Traveled to British Columbia ~ Canada
Upcoming Canadian Rockies vacation
Our experience with Kathy Tolchinsky has been excellent. We are so excited for everything she has booked for us!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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37 of 55 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Covid positive - Cincinnati Oh | Traveled to London ~ England ~ Europe
Kathy is a godsend!
It was wonderful to work with Kathy! So good in fact, we won’t travel in the future without her help!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thanks so much! It was a pleasure to help you plan this trip to visit your daughter. Glad everyone is healthy now and back safely. I'll look forward to helping you plan your next adventure-whereever that will take you!
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88 of 158 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Denise - Phoenix, AZ | Traveled to California ~ USA
The Most Relaxing Family Vacation!
Kathy is such a delight to work with, and she really does more than just help you book a trip. She provided us with magazines with plenty of activities and information of places to visit while on vacation. She made sure that the hotel gave us 2 rooms next to each. Kathy really goes out of her way to ensure even a little family beach vacation is wonderful!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you, Denise! It's my goal to help you have the most hassle-free vacation possible. I'm happy that you and your family were able to take advantage of your time away. Looking forto helping you again soon. I truly appreciate your business. KDT
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28 of 42 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Incredible European Adventure - Scottsdale, AZ | Traveled to Europe
Incredible European Adventure
Kathy is always professional, helpful, and available. Loved working with her!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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21 of 29 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Jenn P - Scottsdale | Traveled to Maui Island ~ Hawaii ~ USA
The Trip of a Lifetime!
Kathy gave our family the trip of a lifetime! She knew exactly which lodging and activities would best suit us in Maui, and we saved money on our lovely accommodations by booking with her. This trip was absolutely life changing, and my husband and our two teenage boys loved every minute, every detail of this fantastic trip. Kathy even knew that I had been ill, and made every effort to take the burden of travel off of us and secured us a room that would allow for less walking while I recovered. Kaanapali Ali was top notch, and all of our excursions with the Blue Hawaiian will be lifelong memories. I am ever so grateful for Kathy's personal touches and intuition in what would fit our family the best for the entirety of our trip. We could not have come anywhere near what Kathy did for us had we arranged it, and we would have paid significantly more! Thank you, THANK YOU, Kathy. We will recommend you to everyone, and we will be back! Mahalo!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you so much for the kind words. I strive to help my clients .create memories of a lifetime. It makes me so happy to know that you all enjoyed the Hawaiian adventure. And that you are feeling better. Mahalo
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31 of 49 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Susan V - Phoenix, AZ | Traveled to Kauai Island ~ Hawaii ~ USA
Dream luxe vacation…lifelong moments & memories
Starting from the belief that travel holds limitless possibilities, all journeys are unique, and so is Kathy’s service. Our dream Hawaii vacation was exquisitely tailored to our lifestyle preferences. Kathy listens, learns, and undoubtedly makes traveling less hectic. Moving forward I will be utilizing Kathy’s genius to plan future getaways!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you so much for the kind words, Susan. Helping you two plan this vacation was fun for me as well. I'm looking forward to working with you on future dream vacations. The possibilities are always endless! I appreciate your business as well as your having taken the time to leave a review of my services. K
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27 of 44 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Susan V. - Arizona | Traveled to Kauai Island ~ Hawaii ~ USA
More than a luxurylifelong moments and memories!
Starting from the belief that travel holds limitless possibilities, all journeys are unique, and so is Kathy’s service. Our dream Hawaii vacation was exquisitely tailored to our lifestyle preferences. Kathy listens, learns, and undoubtedly makes traveling less hectic. Moving forward I will be utilizing Kathy’s genius to plan future getaways!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Mahalo for the kind words. I loved your photos! I almost felt as though I was there too. You created wonderful memories and I'm glad that I was able to help you ease the stress.
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112 of 218 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Melissa - Palm Beach Gardens, Fl | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
The best trip we have ever taken!!!
Kathy was simply amazing!! We have been on cruises before and had done the planning ourselves which was always a disaster. Kathy made it easy and fun!! She helped with every aspect of our cruise from beginning to end!! We just had to show up!!!

Would never plan another trip without her help!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thanks so much, Melissa. It was fun to help you plan this special cruise for your husband’s milestone birthday. You’re a pleasure to work with and I’m looking forward to helping you and your family plan many more memorable vacations.
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11 of 19 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By JB - Scottsdale, AZ | Traveled to Oahu Island ~ Hawaii ~ USA
Family Vacation
Kathy helped us plan a fantastic family vacation to Hawaii. Her vast experience and expertise made the planning easy, and she was a pleasure to work with during the process. She was even available on Christmas Day to help us with an airline issue that was our error! Kathy, we are grateful for all your work and dedication to making our vacation happen.
Mahalo nui loa.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you JB, It was a pleasure helping you and your family. Well deserved time away from your hectic schedules! I'm so happy that you all enjoyed the sites and sand. I look forward to helping you plan your next getaway as well. No trip too small. Mahalo!
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86 of 170 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Yalewine - Glenview, IL | Traveled to Portugal ~ Europe
in the future
first class service and advice. Knows all the hidden treasures
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you so much. It’s a pleasure working with you and your friends on your trip. So sorry you were preempted this time. Hopefully we will get you somewhere wonderful in the very near future!
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0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Happy Cruiser - Phoenix | Traveled to Athens to Barcelona
Mediterranean Memories
Kathy Tolchinsky came highly recommended to me from close friends. She definite lived up to the recommendation. From start to finish she met all out needs and expectations. She listened to what we wanted and gave us fantastic recommendations and choices. Througout the process she went out of her say to maximize our ship board credits to further enjoy the cruise. Kathys experience and knowledge really helped me decide on the excursions we chose. This included the pre and post excursions that took care of everything. I will point out the private tours in Rome and Barcelona were outstanding. The companies used were quite professional and met all expectations. We had a tremendous experience and thank Kathy for all her help. Michael and I will recommend Kathys professional travel service.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Happy Cruiser - Phoenix | Traveled to Athens Barcelona ~ Spain ~ Europe
Mediterranean Memories
Kathy Tolchinsky came highly recommended to me from close friends. She definite lived up to the recommendation. From start to finish she met all out needs and expectations. She listened to what we wanted and gave us fantastic recommendations and choices. Througout the process she went out of her say to maximize our ship board credits to further enjoy the cruise. Kathys experience and knowledge really helped me decide on the excursions we chose. This included the pre and post excursions that took care of everything. I will point out the private tours in Rome and Barcelona were outstanding. The companies used were quite professional and met all expectations. We had a tremendous experience and thank Kathy for all her help. Michael and I will recommend Kathys professional travel service.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you so much. It was great fun to help you and Michael with your first (but not last) cruise experience. Planning a trip like this with you was a joy. I can't wait to help you with your next adventures!
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86 of 174 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Sarah - Detroit,Mi | Traveled to Hawaii ~ USA
HONEYMOON = AMAZING
She went above and beyond for me to plan myself and my husband the best honeymoon!!!! Thank you again kathy!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:My pleasure, Sarah. The beginning of your happily ever after will be spent in an idyllic place. Wishing you the best as you begin this new chapter in your lives.
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94 of 191 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By StevieB - Beachwood, OH | Traveled to Europe
Looking Forward to An Exceptional Trip
Very easy to work with. She's a seasoned traveler, who's experienced most of what we are inquiring about. Kathy is very detailed and doesn't let anything sit unattended. So far, everything we've requested has happened. Her follow-up has been tremendous.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you, Steve! You and your wife are a pleasure to work with.
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84 of 174 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By MAB - Dallas, TX | Traveled to Europe
Effortless
Kathy was able to arrange our most detailed requests. She was always available and wonderfully proactive.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you! You're both a pleasure to work with. I appreciate your business. Happy, healthy 2020!
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79 of 165 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Bert - Solon | Traveled to Belarus ~ Europe
The most memorable trip I will ever take!!
It was a pleasure working with Kathy. She handled all the arrangements and put us in a great hotel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you so much! I know how much this trip meant to you and my apologies again for the rocky start. I’m glad to know it all worked out and you enjoyed the trip.
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76 of 161 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Amy S. - San Mateo | Traveled to New York City ~ New York ~ USA
No complaints!!
Easy to work with Kathy. Always was available! Attention to details!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you, Amy! It was a pleasure to help you and your family plan your winter break getaway....
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59 of 137 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Jason - Cleveland, OH | Traveled to Puerto Rico ~ USA
Beautiful trip to a luxury hotel in Puerto Rico
Everything was great
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Hi Jason, Happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed your winter getaway. Glad that I could be of help and look forward to helping you plan other adventures in the future.
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69 of 161 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Gab - Scottsdale | Traveled to Isla Mujeres ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Great 60th birthday present
Very easy and was informed of travel plans/changes when necessary
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you for choosing to plan this milestone birthday with Protravel. I appreciate your flexibility when the airlines changed your schedule. I look forward to helping you both plan future memory making adventures in the future. Happy to know that you enjoyed your trip.
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76 of 179 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Lauren - Syracuse, NY | Traveled to Vienna ~ Austria ~ Europe
A dream trip come true!
Kathy was a significant help to me when planning our trip to Vienna. She is knowledgeable, extremely professional and thoroughly articulated information, suggesting the best of the best sights for us. Her personal advice was key to our having an active and exciting trip. She answered all questions and provided excellent advice. She will be my go-to advisor for all trips moving forward!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Dear Lauren, thank you for the kind words. I'm happy to hear that you and your husband had a wonderful trip. It was my pleasure to help you plan your time in Vienna. Happy to help anytime!
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85 of 198 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Bob and Tammu - Solon, OH | Traveled to British Columbia ~ Canada
Can't Wait to Explore the Canadian Rockies!
Our experience with Kathy has been fantastic. She provided great suggestions, was very responsive, found some great hotel perks and saved us money. We have never used a travel agent before but from now on we will use Kathy to help us plan our vacations!
I would not recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thanks so much for allowing me to help you plan your anniversary trip. Working with customers such as yourselves makes work fun! Enjoy your trip and send photos!
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66 of 162 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Mark - Sister Bay, Wisconsin | Traveled to Nazareth ~ Israel ~ Middle East
The exciting trip that will have to wait
Kathy is very friendly, and professional. She's always working to get the most advantageous pricing, while not sacrificing quality. She takes the time to get to know her client, so that she can better accommodate their travel needs and wants. Her contact and follow-up is spot on. We definitely enjoy working with Kathy, and appreciate her insight, and knowledge.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thanks so much for entrusting me with your travel. It is a pleasure working with you both. Looking forward to working with you to find more fabulous vacations.
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64 of 159 people found this review helpful
Reviewed By Keri - Scottsdale, AZ | Traveled to Europe
Family Summer Sabbatical
Kathy is a dream. She's made planning our family sabbatical such a joy.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Kathy Tolchinsky responded:Thank you, Keri. It's been fun helping you and your family plan this once in a lifetime experience!
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