Melinda Bachand

Middlebury, VT

Luxury Global Travel Agent Specialist

Travel is more than a getaway; it's about immersing in local cultures and creating unforgettable memories. Having traveled extensively and having lived in Europe, I understand the unique experiences each destination offers. While pre-packaged vacations exist, I offer something different. My passion for travel began with planning trips for friends and family, later transitioning into the live music industry, where I organized festival and corporate travels. As a travel specialist, I aim to design personalized trips that reflect your personality, interests, and desires. Whether you’re sipping espresso in a hidden Parisian café, touring Italy’s cathedrals, or hiking New England's foliage trails, I ensure every detail is crafted for you. My global network of travel insiders helps create authentic, memorable journeys. I don’t just plan vacations; I craft memories that connect you to the heart of your destination. Let’s turn your travel dreams into reality.

My Travel Specialties

Pacific Coast Wine Exploration Travel Agent Expert

The Pacific Coast Wine Trail is a journey of discovery through the West’s premier wine regions, where each stop reveals unique terroirs, traditions, and a shared spirit of innovation.

Start your adventure in Napa Valley, home to world-renowned Cabernets, opulent estates, and exclusive tasting...
Read more from my Pacific Coast Wine Exploration Travel Agent Expert bio.

Napa Valley Wine Vinyard w/Mustered Spring 2024

France: Grand Cru Travel Agent Specialist

In France, wine is more than a drink—it’s a centuries-old story of heritage, artistry, and passion, where every vineyard tells a tale and every glass offers an experience.

From the grand Champagne houses of Épernay to the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence, France’s wine regions embody...
Read more from my France: Grand Cru Travel Agent Specialist bio.

Summer 2022, Château Pichon Baron, Bordeaux

Peru Travel Agent Expert

Peru is a land of legends, ancient wonders, and breathtaking natural beauty—a destination that promises awe and adventure.

Begin in Lima, a city alive with vibrant neighborhoods, world-renowned cuisine, and rich colonial history. From the cosmopolitan pulse of Lima, journey to Cuzco, the...
Read more from my Peru Travel Agent Expert bio.

Peru - Rainbow Mountains, September 2024

New England Travel Agent Expert

New England is best described by its seasons, each one offering a fresh perspective on this beautiful, historic landscape.

In the spring, daffodils bloom at Blithewold Mansion, while cherry blossoms dust Boston’s parks. Humpback whales, delightfully playful and abundant, run alongside the...
Read more from my New England Travel Agent Expert bio.

Bike Trail, Middlebury, Vermont Fall 2024

Southern Italy Travel Agent Expert

The essence of Italy—vibrant, enduring, and timeless.

I want to take you on a journey through time, to a place where history whispers from every ancient ruin and echoes through the decadent, marbled halls of some of the world’s oldest architectural wonders.

Walk through the...
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Rome - St. Peter's Basilica

Northern Italy Travel Expert

Passion, beauty, and one-of-a-kind experiences await in Northern Italy, where romance flows as freely as the Arno River under the Ponte Vecchio.

Venetian gondolier, Venice, Italy

Canadian Travel Agent Expert

As an expert in Canadian travel, I specialize in creating bespoke adventures that showcase Canada’s vibrant cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the artistic charm of Montréal and Toronto to the nostalgic beauty of Prince Edward Island and the rugged wilderness...
Read more from my Canadian Travel Agent Expert bio.

England Travel Agent Expert

As a seasoned England travel expert, I specialize in crafting bespoke journeys that immerse travelers in the richness of England’s literary history, vibrant cities, and picturesque countryside. From the bustling streets of London to the storied charm of Oxford, the timeless beauty of Bath, and the...
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Bellever Tor in Dartmoor National Park - Devon

Sicily Travel Agent Expert

As a dedicated Sicilian travel expert, I specialize in curating unforgettable journeys for those seeking romance, adventure, and authentic Sicilian experiences. Sicily’s vibrant mix of culture, history, and sun-kissed beaches makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in...
Read more from my Sicily Travel Agent Expert bio.

Ancient Harbor in Cefalu, Sicily

Scotland Travel Agent Specialist

As an experienced Scotland travel expert, I specialize in creating journeys that connect travelers with Scotland’s iconic landscapes, rich history, and warm spirit. Scotland’s stunning Highlands, ancient castles, and awe-inspiring cathedrals are a history lover’s paradise, while its legendary golf...
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Customer Testimonials

Stress-Free & Amazing!

Melinda made planning our trip to the Quebec Winter Carnival an absolute breeze! She booked our hotel, created a day-by-day itinerary, and was very knowledgeable about the city, giving us tips on what to pack and where to find the best local food. Everything was perfect and Quebec during the Winter Carnival is a must! We had such an incredible time that we just booked with her again for this year! If you’re looking for someone who’s professional, detail-oriented, and genuinely passionate about creating amazing travel experiences, Melinda is the one to call. We can’t wait for our next adventure!
Dawn M., Columbus, OH

England Vacation

A lovely way to see England! The countryside villages were charming, and exploring London with a guide helped us uncover hidden spots. If only we’d had just a bit more time for shopping in Bath, but overall, a great experience! Camden was fantastic for anyone who loves music and art.
Elin J, Cambridge, MA

New England Foliage Tour

This was truly the best way to experience New England's charm and history. We were told by everyone that the leaves were especially vibrate, but the hospitality, food, and cozy mountain inns were exactly what you think of when you picture New England. The music scene was a surprising bonus. We took a couple of curated craft beer and cider tours and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys that kind of thing. The history was cool too. We spent two days in Boston and, as a photographer, the juxtaposition between the historic, sixteenth and seventeenth-century buildings against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers was wild. Do yourself a favor and TRY the clam chowder.
Chris C., Longs, SC

New England Foliage Tour

This was truly the best way to experience New England's charm and history. We were told by everyone that the leaves were especially vibrate, but the hospitality, food, and cozy mountain inns were exactly what you think of when you picture New England. The music scene was a surprising bonus. We took a couple of curated craft beer and cider tours and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys that kind of thing. The history was cool too. We spent two days in Boston and, as a photographer, the juxtaposition between the historic, sixteenth and seventeenth-century buildings against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers was wild. Do yourself a favor and TRY the clam chowder.
Chris C., Longs, SC

Incredible!

The trip was a perfect mix of history, art, and relaxation. Exploring Florence’s hidden alleyways and vineyards near Verona felt like stepping into a storybook. Everything flowed seamlessly, and we felt like royalty the whole time. Worth every penny!
Danny B. Manchester, NH

Romantic Italian Anniversary Experience

Ten years ago when my husband and I got married we couldn't afford a honeymoon, so we made a private vow: on our 10th anniversary we would do something amazing. I didn't even know where to start! Melinda at took the time to get to know us and brought us a few options in our budget and went to and we decided on the Amalfi coast and it was spectacular. We started in Naples, then Mount Vesuvius, and we went on a boat to Capri, and somewhere in there, my husband and I fell in love all over again. We chose Melinda at Carlisle Travel because she came referred, and we're very glad we listened.
Michelle L., Tulsa, OK

Destination Expert:

  • France
  • Scotland
  • Peru
  • New Hampshire
  • Vermont
  • London
  • Rome
  • Sicily
  • Venice
  • Napa Valley
  • Canada
  • Quebec City
  • Oxford
  • Paris
  • Taormina
  • Vatican City
  • Verona
  • Edinburgh
  • Cuzco
  • Sonoma
  • Stowe
  • Massachusetts
  • Montreal
  • Stratford upon Avon
  • Bordeaux
  • Milan
  • Naples
  • Palermo, Sicily
  • Saint Andrews
  • Lima
  • Yountville
  • Burlington
  • Prince Edward Island
  • Italy
  • Maine
  • Bath
  • Burgundy
  • Comiso, Sicily
  • Taranto
  • Aberdeen
  • Machu Picchu
  • Healdsburg
  • Killington
  • England
  • Rhode Island
  • Toronto
  • Loire Valley
  • Amalfi
  • Genoa
  • Stromboli, Sicily
  • Inverness
  • Sacred Valley
  • Calistoga
  • Montpelier/Barre

Travel Specialist:

  • Bucket List
  • Adventure
  • Arts & Culture
  • Castles & Cathedrals
  • Couples & Romance
  • Food & Wine
  • Hiking & Backpacking
  • Literature
  • Skiing & Winter Sports
  • Wine Country Vacations
  • Bespoke Travel
  • Culinary & Foodie
  • Cycling
  • Golf
  • Historical Sites
  • Outdoor Activities & Sports
  • Escorted Tours
  • European Culture
  • Heritage
  • Museums
  • Adult Only
  • Climbing
  • Bachelorette Parties & Girlfriend Getaways
  • Beach Vacations
  • LGBTQ+ Travel
  • Nature

Languages I Speak:

  • English
  • Italian

Industry Affiliations:

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