Stephanie Malakie Recognized as a Forbes Travel Guide “2026 Luxury Travel Star”
Forbes.com | February 27, 2026
“After recently unveiling its 2026 Star Awards, Forbes Travel Guide descended on Monaco for its Summit, a conference that draws the best hospitality companies, influential travel professionals and exceptional luxury brands. During the three-day event, FTG recognized the essential contributions of hotel staff and the innovators who continuously elevate the luxury hospitality sector […]”
Travel Professional of the Year: Stephanie Malakie of Empress Travel Club
“Stephanie Malakie, who has two decades of experience in the luxury travel sector, founded Empress Travel Club and disrupted the typical travel agency model in the process. The Hawaii-based, membership-centered agency functions as a global private concierge, fastidiously attending to every detail to curate tailored once-in-a-lifetime itineraries.“