(16 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Brian Harder

Chicago, IL

Your Go-To Guy For Travel That Inspires

Greetings! I'm your go-to "Travel MacGyver," the person everyone relies on to figure out anything and everything. Just like the resourceful problem-solver armed with a Swiss Army knife, duct tape, paperclips, chewing gum, and a flashlight, I bring a toolkit of travel industry expertise to fulfill your unique needs. With my determination to find solutions and an array of travel industry tools at my disposal, I'm here to turn your travel dreams into reality. Whether it's securing the best stays, organizing thrilling adventures, curating memorable experiences, or ensuring you get the best value, I'm ready to amaze you with your next inspirational adventure. Take a chance and let me be your guide on this exciting journey!

My Travel Specialties

Joshua Tree National Park Travel Agent Specialist

Welcome to the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park and its surrounding areas! Nestled in Southern California, this unique desert destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, stargazers, and those seeking a connection with nature. Here's a guide to the must-do activities in Joshua...
Read more from my Joshua Tree National Park Travel Agent Specialist bio.

A pair of Joshua trees.

Peru and Machu Picchu Travel Agent Specialist

Welcome to Peru, a land of ancient civilizations, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Whether you're exploring the bustling city of Lima, navigating the historical streets of Cusco, or standing in awe before the majestic wonder of Machu Picchu, your journey through Peru promises to be an...
Read more from my Peru and Machu Picchu Travel Agent Specialist bio.

View of Machu Picchu's terraces and mountain

Hawaiian Travel Agent Specialist

Aloha and welcome to the stunning paradise of Hawaii! This tropical archipelago is known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you're drawn to the lush greenery, pristine beaches, or unique Polynesian heritage, Hawaii has something for every...
Read more from my Hawaiian Travel Agent Specialist bio.

Sunset over a Hawaiian beach.

Wisconsin Travel Agent Specialist

Wisconsin Offers Midwest Charm and Beauty

This is where I grew up. Welcome to the wonderful state of Wisconsin, where you'll find a perfect blend of natural beauty, charming small towns, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or a history...
Read more from my Wisconsin Travel Agent Specialist bio.

A beautiful fall day at a Wisconsin lake.

New Orleans Travel Agent Specialist

Welcome to the vibrant and culturally rich city of New Orleans! Known for its lively atmosphere, historical charm, and incredible music scene, there's no shortage of things to do and explore here. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, a music lover, or simply seeking unique experiences, New Orleans...
Read more from my New Orleans Travel Agent Specialist bio.

A Bourbon Street Balcolny

Chicago Travel Agent Expert

Explore Chicago: A Perfect Blend of Leisure and Business

Chicago is my hometown, and I can't wait for you to visit! Chicago is a vibrant metropolis that offers a seamless fusion of business opportunities and leisure activities. Whether you're a business traveler seeking professional...
Read more from my Chicago Travel Agent Expert bio.

Chicago From Lake Michigan

Costa Rica Travel Agent Specialist

Escape to Paradise: Your Ultimate Costa Rica Vacation

Dreaming of a tropical getaway that combines lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture? Look no further than Costa Rica, a hidden gem in Central America. This enchanting destination offers a diverse range of...
Read more from my Costa Rica Travel Agent Specialist bio.

Volcano in Costa Rica

Dubai Travel Agent Specialist

Dubai, a city of opulence and innovation, beckons travelers with its iconic skyline, luxurious resorts, and unmatched attractions. A vacation to Dubai promises a blend of modern marvels and rich cultural experiences, creating memories that last a lifetime. Discover the allure of this cosmopolitan...
Read more from my Dubai Travel Agent Specialist bio.

Brazil Travel Agent Specialist

Samba to the Rhythm: Your Ultimate Rio de Janeiro Vacation Guide

Rio de Janeiro, a city that pulsates with vibrant energy and celebrates life in every corner, is a dream destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and captivating...
Read more from my Brazil Travel Agent Specialist bio.

Christ The Redeemer in Rio.

My Travel Albums

Machu Picchu, Peru and Its Doorways
Joshua Tree
Joshua Trees
Dubai

Customer Testimonials

Costa Rica Client Trip was a Success

I work for a large telecommunications advertising business. Brian was instrumental in helping me to plan our annual client trip. This one was to Costa Rica. I was pregnant and about to have my child and go on maternity leave. Brian took over and handled all the details so very well. He took care of booking all of our guests travel arrangements, including extended stays for some. They stayed at the Four Seasons Peninsula, Papagayo. He arranged transportation from the airport and for excursions, dinner destinations, a beach party, golf days and spa days, a zipline adventure, hired a photographer, and so much more. He booked meeting rooms for our employees. He arranged for nightly gifts to be left in our client’s suites. He attended the trip so that no detail would be forgotten. He was an invaluable resource for me while I was out and I would recommend him to anyone worried about details. Brian knows how to cover it all.
Fanny, Chicago, IL

My Reviews

Fantastic first trip to South America!
My month long trip to Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls, and Buenos Aires was an amazing trip of a lifetime. From the start Brian helped with airlines and provided multiple choices for places to stay. All the hotels I selected from Brian’s suggestions were in great locations and worked out perfectly. Brian also provided a list of things to do at each location and recommended tours. Before I left on the trip Brian provided a summary of my itinerary with all the airlines, hotels, suggested tours and things to do. I used this throughout the trip and easily booked tours I wanted to take by just clicking on the links provided. This made my day to day planning easy and I could just enjoy each day. Thank you Brian for all the help in planning this great trip!
By  Mike  from  Kenosha WI
Traveled to  Rio de Janeiro | Brazil | South America
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Brian Harder responded:
Thank you, Mike, for the kind words. It was my pleasure to help you plan your trip. I'm so glad the itinerary made things easy for you and you were able to enjoy your month-long getaway. Mission accomplished I would say! I look forward to working with you again. Brian---

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
San Diego Trip
We went to San Diego and it was great weather. Brian picked a nice hotel for us. He gave us ideas of things to do like Coronado Island and Seal Beach. We hiked and/or drove up Mt. Helix and Mt. Soledad where we could get great views of the area. We saw an old Spanish mission which was cool. And he gave us awesome food recommendations. Thanks for all of the suggestions. It was a great trip. I'd highly recommend Brian's service and expertise to anyone!
By  Mark M.  from  Schaumburg, IL
Traveled to  San Diego | California | USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Brian Harder responded:
I'm glad you enjoyed San Diego, Mark. Let me know where you want to go next. I'd be happy to help! Brian---

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Great short trip!
I wanted to visit Central America for a short 4 or 5 day trip just to get out a little during the winter. Brian suggested Antigua, Guatemala. He booked a nonstop from Chicago to Guatemala City and I had a hotel shuttle pick me up and take me to Antigua. Great city, great culture and history. I hiked a volcano, hiked the mountain that overlooks Antigua, and enjoyed the food and bars. It was the perfect getaway for the winter blues I was feeling.
By  Go Cubs Go  from  Chicago
Traveled to  Antigua | Guatemala | Central America
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Brian Harder responded:
It was a pleasure planning this trip for you, John. Let me know next time you want to get away! Brian---

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Fun in the Desert Sun!
I have never been to Palm Springs, but I know Brian has been and I asked him to help me plan a trip there for me and my partner. We stayed at a lovely hotel with a unique vibe. Brian was able to give us restaurant recommendations and suggested many places to visit off the beaten path. He told me he likes to explore places of interest by car and that is what we had in mind. So he helped us rent a car and went to 1000 Palms, Whitewater Preserve, Joshua Tree (of course), Pioneertown, The Living Desert Zoo, and took a drive around the San Jacinto mountains to Idyllwild. We are looking forward to going back and exploring more unique places. Thanks, Brian!
By  Jimmy  from  Chicago, IL
Traveled to  Palm Springs | California | USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Brian Harder responded:
I'm so glad you enjoyed your trip, Jimmy, and thank yoou for the review. You know I will always be available to give you more great ideas for another trip to Palm Springs! Brian---

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Amazing trip to Latin America
I was in search of finding a travel agent that could help me book a multi-destination solo trip to Latin America. While I initially considered planning it myself, someone encouraged me to work with a travel agent and I stumbled upon Brian's profile and ended up working with him. He helped me diligently plan the trip to three different countries. I wouldn't have been able to effectively do it without his services nor was I aware of where to go. Overall, I was very satisfied with the services Brian provided and will use him again for future travel!
By  Jonathan  from  Chicago, IL
Traveled to  Costa Rica ~ Central America
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Brian Harder responded:
I am so glad you enjoyed your trip to Central America. It was a pleasure working with you, Jonathan. I'm looking forward to working with you again. Brian---

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO

Destination Expert:

  • United Arab Emirates
  • Brazil
  • Peru
  • Peninsula Papagayo
  • Palm Springs
  • Honolulu, Oahu
  • Chicago
  • New Orleans
  • Green Bay
  • Louisiana
  • San Jose
  • Dubai
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Machu Picchu
  • Palm Desert
  • Hilo, Hawaii
  • Naperville
  • Milwaukee
  • Puntarenas
  • Abu Dhabi
  • Copacabana Beach
  • Lima
  • Rancho Mirage
  • Maui Island
  • Schaumburg
  • Baton Rouge
  • Madison
  • Costa Rica
  • Wisconsin
  • Al Ain
  • Sugar Loaf Mountain
  • Sacred Valley
  • La Quinta
  • Hawaii Island
  • Oakbrook
  • Lafayette
  • California
  • Arenal
  • Sir Bani Yas Island
  • Brasilia
  • Cuzco
  • Waikiki, Oahu
  • Arlington Heights
  • Kenner
  • Muskegon

Travel Specialist:

  • Architecture
  • Arts & Culture
  • Bachelor Parties
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Festival Tours
  • National Parks
  • Outdoor Activities & Sports
  • Scuba
  • Shopping
  • Beach Vacations
  • Culinary & Foodie
  • Hiking & Backpacking
  • Nature
  • Nightlife
  • Small Ship Cruises
  • Theatre & Music
  • Adventure
  • Climbing
  • Couples & Romance
  • Historical Sites
  • Skiing & Winter Sports
  • Sporting Events
  • Bird Watching
  • Canoeing & Rafting
  • Photography
  • Honeymoons
  • Luxury
  • Sailing & Boating

Industry Affiliations:

© 2025 Travel Leaders Group