Travel by Shaiy, LLC

Travel by Shaiy, LLC is a Miami Gardens-based travel agency that has cultivated a strong reputation since its founding in 2006. Operating primarily through referrals—which reportedly account for 95% of its business—the agency has garnered an impressive near-perfect rating from its clients. This acclaim is built on a foundation of personalized service, meticulous planning, and a knack for securing value. Led by founder Shaiy Howard, who was recognized as a Condé Nast Top Travel Advisor in 2025, the agency has received numerous accolades, including being named a top agent by Vacation Express and recognized by American Airlines Vacations. The agency specializes in a wide range of travel, from corporate to leisure, and holds accreditations with IATAN and CLIA, signaling a high level of industry professionalism. However, for potential clients, understanding both the significant advantages and the inherent limitations of its business model is key to determining if this agency is the right fit.

The Strengths: A Client-Centric Approach

The overwhelming consensus from client feedback points to an exceptionally high level of satisfaction, rooted in several key areas. The agency’s greatest asset appears to be its deeply personalized and responsive service. Clients consistently report that the team, which includes several travel advisors alongside the CEO, goes above and beyond what is expected. This isn't just about booking flights and hotels; it involves a comprehensive service that includes follow-ups after the trip to ensure client satisfaction. Reviewers highlight the feeling of being a priority, noting that the agency is just a phone call away to handle any issues that might arise during their travels. This level of attentiveness is a significant differentiator from larger, more impersonal online booking platforms and is a cornerstone of the firm's approach to creating custom itineraries.

Another frequently praised aspect is the agency's ability to secure excellent value. One long-term client noted their initial skepticism led them to cross-reference prices, only to find they couldn't match, let alone beat, the deals provided. This ability to deliver high-quality experiences without inflated costs is a major draw. The agency’s website explicitly states it aims to find experiences that “exceed your every desire, but not your budget.” This focus on value is particularly evident in client anecdotes of discovering that fellow travelers at the same destination paid significantly more for similar arrangements. This proficiency is likely enhanced by its affiliation with Travel Edge, a network that provides access to exclusive partners and deals.

Specialized Services and Reliability

Travel by Shaiy, LLC showcases expertise across a broad spectrum of travel types. Their offerings include cruise bookings, where they hold specialist certifications, as well as complex arrangements like destination wedding planner services, honeymoon packages, and group travel for family reunions or corporate retreats. The website features curated cruise packages to destinations like the Caribbean, Alaska, and even Asia, indicating a robust and diverse portfolio. They are also adept at planning trips centered on all-inclusive resorts, a popular choice for hassle-free vacations.

Reliability, especially when plans go awry, is another critical strength. One client shared an experience of booking a trip just before the global pandemic caused widespread disruptions. The agency managed the situation seamlessly, securing a travel credit without issue and facilitating a new booking for a family trip months later. This highlights an ability to navigate the complexities of the travel industry and act as a true advocate for the client, a service that provides invaluable peace of mind. This is particularly important for those planning family travel planner services, where logistics can be more complicated.

Points for Consideration: The Potential Downsides

While the praise for Travel by Shaiy, LLC is substantial, potential clients should be aware of certain aspects of its operational structure. The most significant consideration is the lack of a physical, public-facing office. The business address is a P.O. Box in Miami Gardens, which means there is no option for in-person, walk-in consultations. For travelers who prefer face-to-face interaction when planning significant investments like a luxury vacation or a destination wedding, this virtual-only model could be a drawback. The business thrives on phone and digital communication, which, while efficient, may not suit everyone's personal style.

Furthermore, while the Google Business Profile lists "real_estate_agency" as a service type, there is no information on their official website or in other materials to substantiate this. This is likely a misclassification on the digital platform rather than a secondary business focus. For potential clients, this could create minor confusion, but all evidence points to the firm being exclusively a travel agency. The business is also not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which is not necessarily a negative indicator—many excellent businesses choose not to seek accreditation—but it is a data point some consumers look for when vetting services.

Scope and Scale

As a boutique agency, even one that is a "multi-million dollar producing agency," the client experience is intimately tied to the expertise of Shaiy Howard and her team. This is a tremendous advantage for personalized service. However, it could also mean that during peak booking seasons, the team's availability might be more limited than that of a much larger corporate travel agency with dozens of agents. While client reviews suggest high responsiveness, those planning extremely large-scale or logistically complex corporate events may want to inquire about the agency's capacity to handle such specific demands. The agency’s proven success and industry awards suggest they are highly capable, but the boutique nature is a factor to consider for certain types of travel arrangements.

In conclusion, Travel by Shaiy, LLC stands out as a premier luxury travel advisor in the Miami area, distinguished by its award-winning leadership, exceptional client-first service, and a proven track record of delivering outstanding value. The chorus of positive feedback from long-term, loyal customers speaks volumes about its ability to create seamless and memorable travel experiences. The ideal client for this agency is someone who values a close, professional relationship with their travel planner and trusts them to handle every detail. While the absence of a physical office might deter some, those comfortable with a digital-first communication style will find a highly competent and dedicated partner for planning everything from family vacation packages to intricate global journeys.