800.544.1222 vacation@gdg.travel

About Us

Our Services, Our Approach and Our People

Your Personal

travel guide to the world

 Your journey with Express Travel begins with our dedicated team of travel experts. With a passion for exploration and a commitment to personalised service they are your guides to unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a leisure getaway, a family vacation or a trip to study abroad, trust our experts to craft the perfect travel adventure for you. Connect with us today and embark on a journey tailored just for you.

WHO WE ARE

In April 2023, Express Travel became part of the Gray Dawes Group, a family-owned travel business with a proud 100-year heritage. Gray Dawes was one of the first companies in the world to receive an IATAN appointment in 1927, reflecting a long-standing commitment to excellence.

This partnership brings together two organisations with shared values—family leadership, strong relationships, and a dedication to outstanding service. As part of a global network, Express Travel now offers enhanced resources and advanced technology, while continuing to be supported by the same trusted team our clients know and rely on.

Our Story

Express Travel was founded by Olga Ramudo, Cristina Jacomino, and Rosa Maria Delgado—three women whose journey began in Cuba before building new lives, families, and careers in the United States.

What started as a shared passion for travel grew into a thriving business built on trust, friendship, and dedication. Since opening in 1989, Express Travel has remained rooted in those same values.

Today, the company continues to be shaped by its founders’ vision. Olga and Cristina remain actively involved in the business, ensuring the same personal touch and commitment to excellence that has defined Express Travel from the start.

OUR HISTORY

Founded in Florida in 1989, Express Travel has grown into one of South Florida’s leading travel companies. Our success has always been driven by a personalised approach – taking the time to understand each client and delivering tailored travel experiences at the best possible value.

Our long-standing relationships with major airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and tour providers allow us to secure exclusive benefits and added value for our clients. Every account is supported by a dedicated travel specialist, ensuring continuity, attention to detail, and a truly personal service.

Over the years, we’ve been honoured with numerous awards and recognitions, but our greatest achievement remains the loyalty of our clients – many of whom have travelled with us for decades.

Community Involvement

We believe that being part of a community means giving back to it. Express Travel is proud to be actively involved in a range of professional and community organisations, supporting business development, diversity, and international collaboration.

Why Choose Us

our services

Cruises

Discover the world from a different perspective with river cruising – an immersive way to travel, docking in the heart of iconic cities. Enjoy guided tours tailored to your pace, from leisurely walks to active cycling adventures.

Our dedicated river cruise specialists handle every detail, including pre- and post-cruise arrangements, transfers, flights, and personalised recommendations—so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey.

Spa & Wellness

Wellness travel is more than a trend—it’s a way to restore balance and reconnect. From spa retreats to active wellness escapes, we curate experiences designed to support both body and mind.

Whether it’s yoga in a serene setting, nutritious cuisine, or restorative therapies, our specialists will help you find the perfect escape to recharge and feel your best.

Study Abroad Programs

Our study abroad division creates enriching travel experiences for students, combining education with cultural immersion.

We design customised programmes for schools and universities, including accommodation, activities, excursions, and academic support. Established partnerships, including programmes in Spain and France, allow students to learn, explore, and grow in inspiring international environments.

Luxury Travel

Luxury at Express Travel is about more than indulgence—it’s about value, access, and unforgettable experiences. Through our global partnerships, we offer exclusive benefits such as upgrades, daily breakfast, and unique, curated experiences.

From iconic hotels to once-in-a-lifetime journeys, our luxury specialists will help turn your travel dreams into reality.

Active Adventure

For those who love to explore, our active travel experiences bring destinations to life. From hiking in Tuscany to cycling through Provence, rafting in Costa Rica, or culinary journeys in Spain, we create adventures tailored to your interests and pace.

Perfect for individuals, families, or groups—these are the trips that create lasting memories.

Group Events

Group travel is where our journey began—and it remains one of our greatest strengths. From small gatherings to large-scale events, we design seamless group experiences tailored to your needs.

Whether you’re planning a corporate event, student trip, family reunion, or a getaway with friends, our team manages every detail with precision and care.

Air Travel

Experience a hassle-free flight booking process with Express Travel’s leisure services. From choosing the right airline, aircraft and seat, to finding the best deals, we manage your air travel needs with care, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey to your dream destination.

Car Rental

Explore your destination at your own pace with our flexible car rental options. We offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs, from luxury cars for a stylish ride to family-friendly options, all backed by reliable support and competitive rates.

Hotel accommodation

Find your perfect home away from home with our handpicked selection of hotels. Ranging from boutique charm to six-star luxury, we offer accommodation that aligns with your tastes, budget and travel needs, ensuring a comfortable and delightful stay.

Meet The Team

OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS

Olga Ramudo

Co-owner and founder of Express Travel, one of the largest Hispanic companies in the nation and women owned companies in the State of Florida. Sold to the Gray Dawes group in 2023 and continue to be engaged in a leadership position with the company. Involved in numerous community and industry boards including ASTA. Focused on getting the Gray Dawes name recognized in the U.S. as well as growing our leisure and wholesale divisions.

Laura Bazo

Laura Bazo is an accomplished travel and events professional with over 30 years of experience in sales, marketing, public relations, and customer service. Since rejoining Express Travel in 2015, she has specialized in Corporate Groups and Special Events, managing high-profile events, conferences, and customized travel programs. Known for her creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to exceptional service, Laura has built lasting relationships with clients, vendors, and industry partners.

Sonia Whalen

With 30 years of experience in the travel industry, Sonia specializes in personalized vacation travel, with particular expertise in all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico. She creates custom itineraries throughout Europe, Asia, North America, and Latin America. Her specialties also include European rail travel, from planning routes to arranging tickets. Fluent in English and Spanish, Sonia helps clients plan vacations tailored to their interests and preferences.

Ana Perera

With more than 35 years of experience in the airline and travel industry, Ana specializes in corporate and leisure travel. She creates personalized domestic and international itineraries, coordinating flights, hotels, and travel services tailored to each client’s needs. Her background in airline reservations, airport operations, and supervisory roles brings valuable perspective to every trip she plans. Experienced in complex itineraries, ticketing, and travel changes, Ana provides attentive support throughout the journey and builds lasting client relationships through reliable, personalized service.

Sofia Lawler

Sofia brings more than a decade of experience in corporate and leisure travel, with a strong focus on business travel. She studied tourism and began her career in Buenos Aires, Argentina, before joining Express Travel–Gray Dawes in 2021. Her background in travel coordination and experience with Sabre help her organize itineraries tailored to each client’s needs.

Valeria Davila

I have more than 30 years of experience working in various areas related to the tourism industry. I have extensive experience in managing and coordinating both corporate travel and travel for meetings and conventions.

Kristel Rubio

Kristel is a multidisciplinary professional with degrees in Communications and Graphic Design, as well as a master’s degree in Educational Technology. She combines creativity, strategic thinking, and attention to detail, with strengths in writing, design, digital marketing, and problem-solving. Curious and adaptable, Kristel is quick to learn new tools and explore different approaches. She enjoys working in the travel industry, where she can put her versatility into practice while continuing to learn and grow professionally.

Manuel Hernandez

Manuel Hernandez serves as Head of Finance – USA for Gray Dawes Group, overseeing the finance function across the Group’s U.S. operations. He has extensive experience in financial management, accounting, budgeting, cash flow management, financial reporting, and operational finance. Manuel works closely with both U.S. and global leadership to strengthen financial controls, improve processes, and support the continued growth and integration of the business. With a hands-on and collaborative approach, he focuses on ensuring strong financial oversight while supporting the wider commercial objectives of the organization.

Marcy Krotenberg

With 32 years of experience in the travel industry, I specialize in crafting unforgettable luxury cruise vacations for both individuals and groups. Having personally sailed on more than 50 cruises all over the world, I know exactly what it takes to turn a standard getaway into a lifetime of extraordinary memories. I don't just book trips—I immerse myself in the details to ensure your voyage is seamless, exclusive, and tailored perfectly to your tastes. Because exceptional service doesn't keep office hours, I am available seven days a week to help you plan your next dream escape. Let’s work together to make your next cruise vacation truly unforgettable!

Pilar Portuondo

Pilar is a Luxury Independent travel agent she has been working on this for 36 years first with American Airline and then with Travel Agency.

Why Choose Us

our partners

At Express Travel, partnerships are at the heart of our success.

We work closely with a select group of partners and suppliers who share our commitment to excellence, personalised service, sustainability and innovation in travel.

Together, we’ve expanded our horizons offering enriched services and support for both leisure and corporate clients. Our partnerships ensure that no matter where you’re headed, Express Travel has the resources and expertise to make your journey extraordinary.

Contact us today!

To find out more or make a booking, complete the form below or give us a call on 800.544.1222

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