.

Welcome to OIALV, your trusted tour operator and travel assistant!

Experience the world, one trip at a time

“Welcome to Once In A Lifetime Vacations (OIALV), your dedicated partner in crafting unique and unforgettable travel experiences. We’re more than just an online travel agency; we’re a specialized hub connecting you with experienced travel planners, knowledgeable local guides, and insightful expedition journalists who bring a world of expertise to your fingertips. Founded by passionate travel professionals with years of experience curating exceptional journeys, our mission is to go beyond the ordinary and help you plan the perfect vacation tailored to your dreams.

Whether you’re dreaming of exotic tropical island getaways in the Caribbean or Southeast Asia, indulging in luxury cruises through the Mediterranean or Alaska, planning romantic honeymoons in breathtaking destinations like Italy or Bali, embarking on thrilling safaris in Africa, or exploring the wonders of cultural tours in South America and beyond, OIALV is here to make it a reality. We specialize in creating bespoke itineraries for discerning travelers seeking authentic and enriching adventures. Let our expertise unlock the world for you. Your unforgettable journey starts here with Once In A Lifetime Vacations!“

Pablo Robledo, CEO and Cruise Specialist

I was trained in fine arts and music, but at the same time I inherited a passion for business and travel from my family. I started working in the hospitality and tourism industry around 20 years ago. My first business was a music venue in Atitlan, Guatemala. Later I worked as a substitute manager at a restaurant that got to be considered the best restaurant in Central America by Lonely Planet travel guides back in those days. I also own an event planning and production company in Guatemala with projects under the belt that range from small corporate events to coordination of a nationwide, ten-day arts festival. A few years ago, I decided to set a new direction for my ship with the idea of putting to good use all my previous experience in planning, logistics, customer service and my love for travel. During these years I have worked for Royal Caribbean sales and customer service and afterwards, as production manager for a reputed tour operator in the Maya Riviera. Today I am happy to offer you all that gathered experience with OIALV.

It will be a pleasure to assist you with your travel plans!

Certifications

I am fluent in English and Spanish, learning German!

I am certified with the following cruise lines: 
Princess, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruises, MSC Cruises and Carnival.

Certification as a specialized Amtrak Vacations agent.

I am also an expert in Mexico and Central America destinations and tours.

I am affiliated with CLIA, Cruise Lines International Association.

My Travel Adventures

While I am certified and have plenty of experience of the ins and outs of cruise lines, my passion is adventure and cultural travel; I love to “immerse” myself into the experience!

 I have lived and traveled extensively in Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Switzerland.

I have traveled many U.S. cities like New York, San Francisco, Charlotte NC, and Chicago.

I have also visited and lived for a short period of time, in Paris and Lyon in France.

Sandra Rosales, VP of Sales and Group Specialist

I obtained a degree in Business Administration and Tourism at Rafael Landivar University, one of the most prestigious universities in Guatemala.  Since then I have worked for some of the most important names in the hospitality industry in Guatemala and internationally like Ritz Continental, Dorado Americana and San Buenaventura Atitlán.

I am a firm believer that traveling is a cultural enriching experience, so not only I have worked in the hospitality industry but I also have several years of experience arranging excursions and tours for groups. My main objective has always been to provide exceptional and personalized service.

As cultural advocate, I have also been part of non-profit cultural organizations in Chicago – where I currently reside- promoting the richness of Guatemala’s culture and traditions, involving the participation of schools, universities and consulates. I proudly negotiated the participation of my country of origin for the renowned McDonald’s International Parade for Thanksgiving.

Certifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Tourism

I am fluent in English and Spanish

My Travel Adventures

I have arranged and participated in several excursions and tours, as tour leader to Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Yellowstone in Montana, New York, Washington, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Rhode Island, Boston, Niagara Falls and all-around Illinois.

I have also traveled extensively Mexico and Guatemala

 My last and most recent adventure was a group cruise to several Islands in the Caribbean. Visited Buenos Aires, Iguazú and Rio de Janeiro.

Juan Carlos Gomez, Regional Director N. Europe

Juan Carlos Gómez is a Guatemalan-born composer and writer who has been living in Norway since 2001. In his native land he studied Architecture, History and Psychology, and he has obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Culture and Sociology at the University of Oslo (Blindern).

He has a long experience in guiding tourists at the very core of Norwegian beauty, and has done so in Spanish, English and Norwegian.

He enjoys using an emphatic approach to every group, as we are all different, and learns new things at the same time that he guides his groups through experiences they will forever remember.

Certifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Culture and Sociology. Master’s Degree in European Languages

Norway Oficial Tourist Guide Certification