Testimonials

Our vacation with Usha was truly unforgettable, and much of that was thanks to the thoughtful planning that went into every detail. From carefully curated experiences to seamless logistics, the trip allowed us to enjoy each destination without worrying about the complexities of travel. Some of the highlights included discovering unique local experiences, enjoying incredible regional cuisine, and visiting stunning locations that we likely would not have found on our own. Each day felt well balanced — immersive yet relaxed — which made the journey feel both special and effortless.

What I valued most about the custom planning was the deep personalization. The itinerary clearly reflected our interests and travel style, allowing us to experience destinations in a meaningful way rather than rushing through typical tourist stops. The attention to detail, insider recommendations, and smooth coordination made the entire trip feel elevated and stress-free. It was clear that a lot of care and expertise went into designing the experience, and it made all the difference.

— Raghu P. (Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Rajasthan, Zanzibar, 2025-2026

Each day, I think about where I was just a month ago on that magical and, to me, exotic trip to India — so masterfully organized by you.

When I approached you, I knew only that I wanted to go to Indore for the wedding and to see the Taj Mahal; the rest of the itinerary, a blank slate. You sussed out my interests and Rob’s to craft an excellent itinerary. We were both thoroughly impressed with the knowledgeable, efficient on-the-ground team from Trans India. They were also great problem-solvers — often aided by you.

For example, when I arrived and discovered that my credit card had been compromised and we couldn’t find an ATM that would take my debit card, our guide found a bank where we could get cash. And when the Russians bumped us out of the prepaid dinner, which we had been looking forward to, I had resigned myself to having dinner in a hotel restaurant that we had already eaten in. But you dismissed that thought and secured us reservations in a restaurant that proved to be our dining highlight!

It was so reassuring to know that you were just a text message away with an answer to any question I had.

— Helen O. (India, 2025)

If you need a haircut, you go to a barber. If you need your appendix cut, you go to your surgeon. The point is, you go to the right expert to get the right service. I followed my own advice and sought the services of Usha from Rao Travel. Usha is very compassionate, thorough, and meets us where we are. She always takes time to chat to ensure what we would like out of the trip and makes it all possible at a budget you set! Go to Usha for a relaxing, experiential travel service, you will only spend time making memories — not stressing!

— Hari R. (Italy, 2019)

All the pickups, drop offs and flights were on time.  The hotel selections were perfect from both the style of the hotel as well as the location.  Everything was within walking distance and even if we chose to spend time in the room the views were better than we could have imagined.  We thoroughly enjoyed all the tours.  The guides and tour selections were well worth it. Thank you again for giving us such a memorable vacation.

— Sunita M. (Greece, 2019)

What would we do without Usha? My family would not have experienced an exciting whale watching trip in Victoria, BC, nor climbed to the top of the Eiffel Tower at twilight, nor gazed at the verdant Scottish Highlands. Without her help, we may have only viewed such sights on our computers and sadly dreamed of being there.

The tag line for Rao Travel is: Your vacation. Personalized. Usha works very hard to make these words true and succeeds. Each accommodation in which we stay, every tour on which she books us is wonderful! She meets with us, looks at our budget, and takes into account our desires to make certain that these vacations fit our family perfectly. There are no schedule slips, missed connections, or services which we find wanting. Her research is thorough.

— Gita B. (Europe, 2017)

Planning a vacation should be exciting, but searching for the best deal can be exhausting and frustrating. Once I met Usha and talked to her about our love to travel, she has been organizing all our family trips for years now, from Turkey to Peru.

— Pragati G. (Peru, 2015)

Usha, had a great time! Ronda is really a lovely city. The travel arrangements worked out really well! I really appreciate all of your assistance in putting the plans together, finding the hotels, etc. We’ll certainly get in touch when we have future travel plans.

— Darin D. (Spain, 2009)

The trip planned for us by Usha was just about perfect. She got to know us and our likes and dislikes and then went ahead and planned a wonderful trip to India. We covered as much of India as we could possibly cover in three short weeks. Our itinerary was exciting, educational, fun and full.

— Dianne & Joe B. (India, 2006)