For April Smith, owner of Promenade Travel, travel has always been more than a career. It is a calling shaped by experience, curiosity, and a passion for creating meaningful journeys. April grew up on her family’s golf course, Royal Crest, in Columbia Station, and has called Avon Lake home for the past 24 years. Together with her husband, Matt, Regional Sales Manager for That 1 Painter, she has raised two sons in this welcoming community. Their oldest, Connor, is pursuing a degree in Real Estate and Property Management at Cleveland State, while their youngest, Trent, recently began his studies at Ohio University’s College of Business. 

April’s career began with Continental Airlines, where she gained firsthand insight into the complexities of air travel and the joy it brings to travelers. Her early years in the airline industry provided a foundation in problem-solving, attention to detail, and the importance of personal service. As her passion for travel grew, April earned both her CTA and CTC certifications, expanding her expertise beyond flights to encompass full travel design, helping clients select accommodations, craft itineraries, and discover unique cultural experiences around the world.

Her drive to deliver exceptional service led to the founding of Promenade Travel. Originally established over 25 years ago in The Promenade at Westlake, the business was invited in 2010 to relocate onto Hyland Software’s campus, where it became the designated personal travel agency for Hyland employees, a partnership that continues today. In 2024, Promenade Travel moved to its current home in The Lofts at Beach Park Station on Lake Road, where April and her team continue to serve clients with the same commitment to excellence.

Promenade Travel offers a wide range of services designed to create one-of-a-kind experiences. From custom itineraries, honeymoons, and family vacations to luxury cruising, destination weddings, and group travel, every journey is crafted with care and detail. The agency also specializes in milestone celebrations, multigenerational trips, corporate retreats, and even golf and pickleball groups.

What sets Promenade Travel apart is its expertise and inclusivity. With nearly 30 years in the industry and extensive global connections, April brings both authenticity and insider knowledge to her work. The agency’s team includes Disney and hospitality expert Ashley Clough, a graduate of the Rosen College of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Central Florida, whose professional background at Walt Disney World ensures clients receive seamless, magical Disney vacations. Ashley also holds certification as an Autism Travel Professional (CATP), allowing her to design sensory-considerate trips for neurodiverse families.

Promenade Travel proudly serves the LGBTQ+ community with welcoming, luxury travel experiences, clients benefit from concierge-level service and 24/7 travel support, ensuring no one ever travels alone.

April emphasizes the importance of choosing the right professional in today’s crowded travel landscape:
 "Many so-called agents are tied to impersonal MLMs or massive host agencies. At Promenade Travel, this is not a hobby—it is our full-time passion and lifelong career. Every itinerary we design is built on genuine relationships, attention to detail, and a deep love for helping people explore the world."

Clients consistently praise the agency’s dedication and execution:
 "April did a masterful job of planning our dream come true with our kids & grandkids to The Emerald Isle. It was the trip of a lifetime, and everything went off without a hitch, thanks to you." — Bob & Kathy V.

"We want to thank you for arranging a spectacular vacation for us! Everything was outstanding, from the drivers and tour guides, to the hotels and orchestration of our complex trip. We had a magnificent time overall, and decided to return next year." — Mike & Marianne E.

"April was absolutely phenomenal in our perfect honeymoon. She answered all our questions, and every time we needed anything, she took care of it seamlessly. Highly recommend to anyone needing a travel agent!!!" — Shannon A.

At Promenade Travel, the focus is on crafting personalized travel experiences designed around each client’s unique needs and dreams. The agency offers a wide range of services, including:

Custom Itineraries – Curated plans tailored to your interests, whether it’s a relaxing escape, cultural immersion, or off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Honeymoon & Romance Travel – Bespoke getaways designed to reflect each couple’s love story, from Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows to Mediterranean island-hopping.

Family Travel, Redefined – Stress-free vacations crafted for every age group, from magical Disney trips to cultural explorations in Europe and relaxing Caribbean escapes.

Boutique & Luxury Cruising – Elevated options such as European river cruises and private yacht charters for travelers seeking something exclusive.

Destination Weddings & Vow Renewals – Seamless celebrations planned in breathtaking global destinations.

Group Travel, Perfected – Expertly organized milestone celebrations, multigenerational family trips, destination weddings, golf and pickleball groups, as well as corporate retreats and incentive travel.

With a foundation of expertise, a commitment to inclusivity, and a dedication to crafting journeys that reflect each client’s dreams, Promenade Travel continues to be a trusted guide for those seeking not just a trip, but an unforgettable experience.

 promenadetvl.com
 33489 Lake Rd. (Loft 28), Avon Lake