Katie Leavy and Karen Cantwell bring complementary expertise and a shared passion for travel and extraordinary experiences.
Katie offers 25 years of design and architecture experience, paired with a discerning eye for luxury hotels. Her taste and thoughtful attention to detail ensures a seamless, first‑class experience for every client.
Karen’s global perspective began at age ten, when her Air Force family moved to Europe. Her curiosity and love of cultural discovery shape every client conversation. With a background in consulting, she brings resourcefulness and a client‑focused approach to crafting multi‑layered itineraries filled with meaningful, memorable moments.
As an affiliate of McCabe World Travel—a trusted, 40‑year agency with 60+ expert advisors—Ascend Luxury Travel enjoys strong relationships with top luxury hotels, touring companies, and global partners, ensuring exceptional care and access for our clients.
We are also proud members of Virtuoso, the invitation‑only network that defines excellence in luxury travel. Through this partnership, clients receive exclusive amenities, added value, and insider access worldwide.
Our guidance is shaped by ongoing industry education, deep professional relationships, and firsthand experience exploring 30+ countries—allowing us to design journeys that are seamless, personalized, and truly memorable.
To maximize experiences in a limited time, consider a cruise! Our global partners in this segment will usher you in style through every imaginable sector of the world. Whatever you fancy, whatever your speed, there is a cruise that will delight you, and have you coming back for more.
There is no equivalent to exploring a UNESCO World Heritage site in person! Ancient architecture tells us stories of human ingenuity, values and daily life. Religious shrines offer glimpses into faith, ritual and our shared quest for meaning. Monuments and museums anchor events into our memory. Get ready to learn and grow!
Love for the beauty of the earth feeds our passion for active travel! Let us show you the world from a new point of view - from the sea or the air, or the top of a mountain! We will help you do it in a safe and supported way, and you will be forever changed.
Quality time spent together is what life is all about, so let us help you make some spectacular new memories! From intimate group jaunts, to once-in-a-generation family celebrations, we will help you visualize these important moments and bring them into reality!
👉 Discovery Phase
We start with a warm, conversational chat about your travel goals—the who, when, why, and where. We listen closely, answer your questions, walk through timelines, fees, and deliverables, and decide together if we’re the right fit.
👉 Design Phase
Next, we dive into your preferences and travel style. With that insight, we tap into our trusted partners to craft tailored itineraries. We share options, gather your feedback, and refine everything until your plan feels perfect.
👉 Execution Phase
Once approved, we handle every detail—securing ideal rooms, planning daily pacing, and coordinating logistics. About a week before departure, you’ll receive a digital or printed itinerary with all tickets, contacts, and helpful information in one place.
👉 Travel Phase
Your adventure begins! Pack your bags and enjoy—our team and on‑site partners will be following along, ready to support you throughout your journey.
👉 Share Phase
When you return, we reconnect to hear your highlights and learn what could make your next trip even better. It’s also the perfect moment to start dreaming about what comes next!
✅ We help you discover what brings you joy—and turn it into curated experiences and lasting memories.
✅ Our global network of vetted travel partners provides exclusive opportunities and ensures exceptional quality wherever you go.
✅ Our personalized itineraries draw on deep expertise, trusted connections, and thorough research, elevating your experience while saving you valuable time.
✅ With Ascend, you’re always a VIP. Your journey is anticipated and supported at every step, giving you confidence, comfort, and peace of mind
With client preferences, pace and interests in mind, we design custom itineraries to global destinations.
Imagine yourself immersed in the sights, sounds and flavor of these luxury experiences!
Adventure awaits in the Amazon Rainforest and Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Journey to lush jungle rivers and volcanic islands teeming with rare species - all seamlessly integrated by Ascend Luxury Travel!
Onboard the world-class S.S. Victoria, sail the legendary Rhine and explore medieval castles, art museums, Gothic cathedrals and charming villages. Savor stunning views and fine cuisine as history comes alive in every port.
Experience Italy’s most glamorous coasts in one unforgettable journey. Unwind at Sardinia’s chic Costa Smeralda to Capri’s glamour and Ischia’s thermal spas. Explore tucked away villages and la dolce vita along the Amalfi Coast.
Click the button below to set up your complimentary Discovery Consultation!