you’re going, there's someone on our team who knows exactly how to make it happen.
We're a small, dedicated team of travel advisors, each with our own specialties, our own favorite destinations, and one shared belief: your vacation should feel like a gift, not a second job.
Meet the founder
Hi, I’m Chrissy!
I’ve loved travel my whole life. I chased that straight out of high school into travel school, then an internship at Alamo Rent A Car led to my first job at a travel agency, where I truly fell for this industry. I stepped away for a few years, but I never stopped missing it, so I dove back in, and 18 years later I still haven’t looked back.
Today I’m your personal concierge, from the first “what if we went to…” conversation to the moment you’re back home. My specialty is cruising, ocean and river both. I also plan guided land tours with trusted tour companies, all-inclusive getaways to Mexico and the Caribbean, and vacations to Alaska and Hawaii, where I’m a destination expert. I’ve led Escape Reality Travel, a boutique agency in the Pittsburgh area, since 2011.
With more than 30 years in the travel industry, I’m a CLIA Certified Cruise Counselor, a Verified Travel Advisor certified through the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), and a Croatia Specialist.
Meet the dream team
Janis Champion, All-Inclusive Specialist
Janis specializes in all-inclusive resort vacations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. She has walked the grounds on many site inspections, seeing the rooms, restaurants, pools, and beaches firsthand, so she can match you with a resort that fits your style. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a destination wedding, or a trip with friends, Janis would love to help. She has been with Escape Reality Travel LLC® since 2020.
You can reach Janis at janis@escaperealitytravel.net.
Lori Thomas, Cruise Specialist
Lori handles all things ocean and river cruising, and she has reached Diamond status with Royal Caribbean from years of sailing herself. She knows the itineraries, ships, and cabin options inside and out, and she loves finding her clients the best value. From a Caribbean getaway or an Alaska adventure to a European river cruise or a first time at sea, Lori makes planning easy and fun. She has been with Escape Reality Travel LLC® since 2021.
You can reach Lori at lori@escaperealitytravel.net.
Shernett Gardener, All Inclusive Travel Advisor
Shernett’s journey with Escape Reality Travel LLC® started as a client, and she loved having someone plan her vacations so much that she joined our team. She specializes in all-inclusive travel to Mexico and the Caribbean, with a special love for Jamaica. With a background in human resources, she is a natural listener who learns what matters most to you, whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a trip with friends.
You can reach Shernett at shernett@escaperealitytravel.net.
What to expect when you choose us
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Your trip is built around your life, your budget, your travel style, your people. We don't push packages. We ask questions.
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We stay current on resorts, cruise lines, and destinations, and we've built relationships with vendors that get you better access and better value.
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From booking to boarding and beyond, your advisor is a call or text away. If something goes sideways, you're not on hold with a 1-800 number. You're calling someone who already knows your trip.
Not Sure Who to Work With?
Tell us a little about your trip and we'll connect you with the right advisor on our team.