
"You can’t stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes." ― A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
One of the first business decisions I made after founding Nine Muses Travel was to join the Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP) because I knew that's where "my people" would be - the artists, arts lovers, and the culturally curious. I basically have two kinds of clients: non-profit arts organizations creating customized trip for their donors and individuals seeking tailormade itineraries that celebrate authentic local culture, history, and cuisine for joyful discoveries all over the world. It's a dream job to help you, your friends, family, colleagues, and affinity groups create what will become some of the happiest and most memorable moments of your life.
I've exhibited at the annual APAP conference since 2019, when I became the first (and still only) travel agency member, and I may have had the most fun of any conference this year. First, my booth neighbors were "80s Kids," so we immediately bonded over our shared passion for synthpop (New Order, Depeche Mode, etc.). We became fast friends and plan to get the same booths next year. Click here to hear Shannon interpret 80s songs you're used to hearing sung by men - very cool.
Our conference takes place at the New York Hilton Midtown, and throughout the hotel's ballrooms and meeting spaces, artists of all kinds also perform showcases for presenters and booking agents in the hopes of securing new tour dates around the country and around the world. It's such a treat for me to wander through the rooms and check out these acts. My favorite find this year was Sounds of A&R, (aka S.O.A.R.) led by the sweet-voiced April May Webb, winner of the 2024 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. Her original songwriting and storytelling were poignant, poetic, and refreshingly positive, and her voice is dreamy. They're performing at Jazz at Lincoln Center on February 21st at 7pm and 9pm, and I may just have to go. Who's interested in joining me?
Lots of showcases and events during APAP take place off site too, and on Friday after the expo hall closed, I headed to BRIC to catch the Protype Festival presentation of composer David T. Little's dark and wonderful Black Lodge performed (along with its film) live by Timur, The Dime Museum, and Isaura String Quartet. It closes on the 15th, so you still have time to catch it!
Next week's Muse News will be coming to you from Edinburgh, Scotland as I accompany a small group of Theatre for a New Audience donors on a fabulous trip designed around the occasion of their production of The Merchant of Venice opening at The Royal Lyceum Edinburgh. Be sure to like and follow Nine Muses Travel on Instagram and Facebook to see out our VIP Scottish adventures!
Start planning inspired travel and read more about me and what I can do for you!

Nine Muses Travel designs journeys to inspire artists, arts lovers and the culturally curious.
Danielle Dybiec
Founder & President
WHY USE A TRAVEL ADVISOR?
Nine Muses Travel offers a premium experience with flights, guides, drivers, rental vehicles, and the best accommodations to maximize your time, with expert advice on how to get the most out of any destination. We INCLUDE amenities for you at the world's finest hotels, the BEST OF THE BEST!
Complimentary room upgrades at check-in, subject to availability
Complimentary daily breakfast
Early check-in / late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
And more!
Nine Muses Travel works with exceptional suppliers who add unparalleled value:
Expert guides: artists, historians, naturalists, unique locals with insider tips & insights
Flexibility with your touring - See and do as much, or as little, as you prefer!
Custom-designed routings
Exclusive experiences
24/7 real-time support
Comprehensive travel protection plans
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