“Make memories that last a lifetime.” This is the message that greets viewers on Erin Zempel’s webpage. Erin Zempel is a local mom and entrepreneur who owns her own travel agency. Fueled by a passion for planning vacations, Zempel specializes in inclusive travel.
As a certified autism travel professional (CATP) through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Zempel has the knowledge and experience to support families and individuals with autism spectrum disorder and/or sensory sensitivities. She is also affiliated with The Magic for Less Travel. Zempel assures clients that they won’t pay extra to work with her, as commissions are built into the costs of cruise lines, hotels and travel companies. Zempel can provide families with personalized assistance. We connected with Zempel to learn more about her background, experiences and expertise as a certified autism travel professional.
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Get to Know Erin Zempel
Tell us about yourself & your family: I have been married to my husband, Erik for 19 years. We have two awesome children, Felix age 13 and Violet age 10. We live in Chelsea with our Bernedoodle, Bowie.
What is your educational and professional background? I’ve worked in a variety of office settings and spent several years as an office manager in Ypsilanti. When I had kids, I opted to stay home with them full time. Having become a travel agent, I have trained with many trusted travel partners and have achieved the highest level of certifications with companies like National Geographic, Amtrak, Disney locations in the US and Paris, Delta Vacations, and many cruise lines. I am constantly learning and seeking out new partners to work with for my guests.
What is a Certified Autism Travel Professional? How do you become one? A Certified Autism Travel Professional, or CATP, is someone who’s completed specialized training through IBCCES—the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. This certification gives agents the tools and knowledge to better support families and guests with autism or sensory sensitivities.
IBCCES also certifies certain destinations, programs and hotels that have gone through their training. That means as a CATP, I can recommend places that are more prepared and understanding—helping families feel more comfortable and confident while traveling.
How do you customize travel packages for families with a child with Autism? The first thing I like to do is learn a little more about the family—where they’d like to go and what kind of vacation experience they’re hoping for. Every family is different, so understanding their dreams helps me make the best recommendations.
If they’re interested in a theme park vacation, I can share helpful resources like quiet areas, stroller rentals, medical accommodations and tips for navigating busy or overwhelming spaces.
For families who prefer a beach getaway, I often recommend destinations or resorts that are IBCCES certified. One of my favorites is Beaches Resorts — they’re family-friendly, all-inclusive, and located in both Jamaica and Turks & Caicos. They are the only resort in the world to hold an Advanced Certified Autism Center designation!
There are also destinations that are being certified with IBCEES. For example, Traverse City recently became the first Certified Autism Destination in the Midwest. I love that families now have more options to travel confidently.
How did you get into your current role? It really started with friends asking how we planned our Disney vacations — I loved sharing tips and resources, and it made me realize I could turn my knowledge and organizational skills into a career. I’ve always loved to travel and was lucky to experience both domestic and international vacations growing up.
I’ve seen through family and friends how unique every special needs journey is. Travel can feel overwhelming for many families, especially when they’re unsure what kind of support is available. That’s why I made the decision to become certified in accessible travel.
What inspires you to do what you do? I feel very fortunate to do something I love. I get to help families, couples and even solo travelers explore the world and make memories! When I get thank you notes and photos from my guests when they return, it’s the absolute best part of my job and so rewarding.
How do you balance being a mother and a business owner? One of the biggest perks of what I do is the flexibility. I’m able to work from home and set my own schedule, which means I can be present for my children while also running my business. There are definitely moments that require some early mornings or late nights, like making 6 a.m. dining reservations for my Disney guests — but being able to have that balance is wonderful and something I don’t take for granted!
What role do your kids and family play in your life? My family is always at the root of everything I do. My children are incredibly fortunate that they have the benefit of their mom being a travel agent. They’ve experienced many places that not every child gets to—and they get involved in my work, too. My daughter loves to record my hotel room walk-through videos, which I absolutely love! Traveling as a family helps me see what works (and what doesn’t) from a child’s perspective, which I keep in mind when planning for my guests.
What piece of advice would you give a parent trying to maintain work-life balance? Embrace flexibility and accept that some (or most) days won’t go perfectly. Staying organized and setting priorities helps me manage both work and family commitments.
Dream Vacation? Japan! I am hoping to plan a trip to Japan when my son graduates high school. He is currently learning Japanese and I’m hoping he can be our translator and tour guide.
Favorite local café/bar/restaurant? This is so tough because I love so many places! The Grateful Crow is a great spot for sushi or burgers, La Marsa in Dexter will treat you like royalty the moment you step inside, Main Street Provisions will make you the best charcuterie board (no special occasion required!), Common Grill is the best for a date night, and I also love Base Camp!
Favorite quote? “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney.
How can families reach out to you? Email erin.zempel@themagicforless.com or check out my website.
