Cruise Queen and Europe Specialist

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Sydney Schellinger, Travel Agent in Hanford, CA

Sydney Schellinger

Hanford, CA Travel Agent

Sydney Schellinger

Hanford, CA · 7 Years of Experience

The Poodle Booked It, an independent agent with Cruises & Tours, Unlimited, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(6)
100% Recommended
We had an amazing experience working with Sydney after listening to some of her podcasts about river cruises —everything was thoughtfully planned and exceeded our expectations.... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Europe, Antarctica, Australia & New Zealand

Interests:

River Cruises, Luxury Cruises, Expedition Cruises, European Culture, Safari

Suppliers:

Tauck, AmaWaterways, Oceania Cruises, Micato Safaris, Atlas Ocean Voyages

About Me

In the Tulip Fields of Amsterdam
In the Tulip Fields of Amsterdam

I'm Sydney Schellinger. If there's one thing you need to know about me, it's that I absolutely adore two things: traveling and my dog, Winston Theodore. Since Winston runs everything else in my house, it only made sense to name my travel agency after him – and so, "The Poodle Booked It" was born!

Did you know?!?! Im on the radio! check me out once a month as I give tips, tricks, and help on top destinations with The Travel Guys.

Who Am I? Your go-to travel guru! I’m on a mission to create travel experiences that are as unique and wonderful as you are. Whether you're a busy professional needing a luxurious escape or a retiree looking to tick off bucket-list items, I’m here to help. 

Why Choose Me?- Personalized Service: Your wish is my command; I’m dedicated to meeting your travel needs with a personal touch.

- Luxury Accommodations: Only the most lavish hotels, resorts, and cruises will do for you.

- Curated Experiences: Exclusive adventures designed just for you.

- Trust and Reliability: My primary goal is to provide you with a seamless, enjoyable travel experience.

My Goal:To support you at every step of your journey, ensuring that each moment is a delightful memory in the making.

River Cruise Expert

The River Cruising Masterclass is my podcast and content series designed to help travelers better understand the world of river cruising. I break down the differences between cruise lines, itineraries, ships, and destinations so clients can choose the experience that truly fits their travel style. River cruising isn’t one-size-fits-all, and part of my role as an advisor is helping clients navigate those options with clarity. Through the podcast, social media, and client conversations, I share insights, comparisons, and practical tips based on industry knowledge and real travel experiences. It’s become a valuable resource for both my clients and travelers who want to feel more confident before booking their river cruise.

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
6 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 6 reviews

Great suggestions, great trip!
Reviewed By PoodleFan - Pittsburgh PA | Traveled to Rhine River | On the River | At Sea
We had an amazing experience working with Sydney after listening to some of her podcasts about river cruises —everything was thoughtfully planned and exceeded our expectations. The itinerary struck a perfect balance of structure and flexibility, and we especially appreciated being introduced to destinations and experiences we wouldn’t have chosen on our own, like adding a pre-cruise stay in Lucerne, which ended up being our favorite part of the trip. Every detail was handled seamlessly, from great hotel locations to well-organized excursions. Highlights included an outstanding guided trip to Mt. Rigi, a fantastic river cruise experience, and unforgettable time in Amsterdam, including help securing hard-to-get Anne Frank House tickets. The recommendations for tours, guides, and restaurants were spot-on. We also appreciated the responsiveness and extra effort when a few small issues arose during the planning—they were handled professionally and without stress on our end. Overall, the value, quality, and personalization of this trip far exceeded what we could have planned ourselves. We highly recommend Sydney and will absolutely use her services again.
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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So excited for my trip
Reviewed By Cece - California | Traveled to Alaska | USA
Our trip is not till June, but Sydney has taken care of everything from the flight to the cruise. Even our hotel accommodations she’s given us choices. Told us what to expect. I would absolutely refer her to anybody.
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Egypt
Reviewed By The very best! - San Clemente, CA | Traveled to Egypt | Africa
We toured ancient Egypt with Sydney! She thinks of and manages every detail of our travel.
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Danube River cruise
Reviewed By Kathie - Interlochen, Michigan | Traveled to Danube | On the River | At Sea
Best. Trip. Ever. Sydney did all of the work after recommending a marvelous cruise down the Danube. Couldn’t have asked for more.
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Egypt Touer
Reviewed By Agent Fan - San Clemente, CA | Traveled to Egypt | Africa
Sydney is such a comprehensive travel agent. She reliably thinks of every possibility and communicates quickly. It is such a pleasure to have someone to rely on to handle all travel issues/questions. Honestly, Sydney is the best!!
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Certifications & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world. Go with the pros.
Trusted Travel Advisor: A Trusted Travel Advisor credentials, resources and global connections translates to today’s consumer in respectful interactions, confidentiality, knowledge, and client advocacy of travel services provided in parallel with building long lasting client relationships that builds with each interaction. A Trusted Travel Advisor knows their client better than the client may know themselves and puts those polishing touches on each travel collaboration.
AMA Academy
AMA Academy
Oceania Certified Specialist
Oceania Certified Specialist
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
Europe
Booked It 40 Times
Been There 6 Times
Best. Trip. Ever. Sydney did all of the work after...
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Must Do:
Every country tells its own story; embrace the history, culture, and cuisines that define the continent
Hungary, Europe
Booked It 16 Times
Been There 3 Times
Sydney is such a comprehensive travel agent. She ...
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Must Do:
Relax in the thermal baths and indulge in hearty Hungarian goulash
Budapest, Hungary, Europe
Booked It 16 Times
Been There 3 Times
We had an amazing experience working with Sydney a...
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Must Do:
Cruise the Danube by night to admire the stunning Parliament and Chain Bridge illuminated.
Amsterdam, Netherlands, Europe
Booked It 10 Times
Been There
Sydney is such a comprehensive travel agent. She ...
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Must Do:
Take a canal cruise and explore the Anne Frank House for a poignant historical journey.
Kinderdijk, Netherlands, Europe
Booked It 10 Times
Been There
We toured ancient Egypt with Sydney! She thinks o...
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Must Do:
Walk or bike along historic windmills and learn about the Dutch water management legacy.
The Hague, Netherlands, Europe
Booked It 10 Times
Been There
We toured ancient Egypt with Sydney! She thinks o...
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Must Do:
Visit the Peace Palace and enjoy art masterpieces at the Mauritshuis Museum.
Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
We toured ancient Egypt with Sydney! She thinks o...
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Must Do:
Discover medieval villages and castles steeped in folklore and rich traditions.
Brasov, Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
I recently had the pleasure of booking a trip with...
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Must Do:
Hike up Tampa Mountain for panoramic views and explore the Black Church.
Bucharest, Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
Our trip is not till June, but Sydney has taken ca...
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Must Do:
Marvel at the grandeur of the Palace of the Parliament, the world's heaviest building.
Giurgiu, Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
I recently had the pleasure of booking a trip with...
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Must Do:
Enjoy the serene views along the Danube River and its cultural charm.
Sibiu, Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
Our trip is not till June, but Sydney has taken ca...
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Must Do:
Stroll through the Great Square and cross the iconic Bridge of Lies.
Sighisoara, Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
Best. Trip. Ever. Sydney did all of the work after...
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Must Do:
limb the Clock Tower and wander cobblestone streets in Vlad Dracula's birthplace.
Transylvania, Romania, Europe
Booked It
Been There
We had an amazing experience working with Sydney a...
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Must Do:
Explore Bran Castle, the "Dracula Castle," and revel in its eerie history.

Client Testimonials

Australia and New Zealand
I have used the Poodle Booked it for a nearly 3-week trip and each day was filled with an itinerary tailored to my interests. She found the best deals, stayed on top of every minute detail, and made this a stress-free and wonderful experience. I will use The Poodle Booked it for all of my excursions going forward! Thank you Sydney!!!
Jeanelle G, Sacramento, CA
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