Over three decades of innovation, leadership, and excellence in luxury travel — trusted by music artists, athletes, and elite business leaders worldwide
With over three decades of experience in the luxury travel industry, Bahar Schmidt founded EXV Travel (formerly operating under names including Eluxit) with a bold vision: to make high-end, previously non-refundable travel experiences accessible, affordable, and transferable.
Her journey began modestly — from an internship at a travel agency during school in Germany, to handling VIP travel and cruises, to managing corporate & entertainment-industry travel agencies in Los Angeles.
Throughout her distinguished career, Bahar has served an elite roster of clients including highly regarded music artists, professional athletes, and prominent business executives — all seeking the highest level of discretion, luxury, and personalized service.
When many travel packages would go unused because of cancellations or non-refundable policies, Bahar recognized the inefficiency and financial loss it caused — and conceived a solution: a resale marketplace for luxury travel. That idea became Eluxit / EXV Travel.
That same entrepreneurial spirit continues today at EXV Travel, led by someone who knows the industry inside and out — from the booking systems to the white-glove concierge service for the world's most discerning clientele.
EXV Travel and Bahar Schmidt have been featured in leading publications and recognized for innovation in the luxury travel industry
Featured in Authority Magazine as part of their "Inspirational Women Leaders of Tech" series — spotlighting Bahar Schmidt's journey, vision and leadership in building a unique travel-resale platform.
Mentioned in broader travel-market articles discussing the rising trend of resale/non-refundable vacation packages — recognizing Eluxit (EXV Travel) as a pioneering platform in this emerging market.
Pioneering new approaches to luxury travel accessibility and marketplace innovation
Pioneered one of the first marketplaces to allow resale or transfer of non-refundable travel packages — giving both sellers and buyers flexibility, and helping to reduce wasted travel inventory.
Positioned EXV Travel as a bridge between luxury travel and affordability: offering access to desirable, high-end destinations at a fraction of typical cost — expanding the reach of luxury travel beyond traditional clientele.
Built the company from the ground up — from working as a receptionist and travel agent to becoming a store manager, then launching her own agency, and finally conceptualizing and launching the resale-travel platform.
Demonstrated resilience and vision: launched the marketplace before a global travel industry downturn, pivoted through challenging times, and committed to making luxury travel accessible — embodying strength, innovation, and customer-centric thinking.
Milestones and unique value that define our approach to luxury travel
Decades in VIP travel give Bahar (and the EXV team) a nuanced understanding of high-end clients — what they expect and value. This depth of knowledge ensures that curated packages maintain the "luxury feel," even as they become more affordable.
By enabling resale or transfer of non-refundable packages, EXV Travel reduces wasted inventory and offers high-end travel at lower price points — helping more travelers experience premium vacations they otherwise might not afford.
The resale-travel model attracts buyers and sellers from around the world — a testament to the trust, security, and reputation EXV Travel has built under Bahar's leadership.
With the founder's personal history in travel — from receptionist to VIP agent — EXV Travel emphasizes personalized service, understanding, and attention to detail over a purely transactional model.
A story of vision, perseverance, and passion for luxury travel
Growing up in Germany, Bahar's first exposure to travel agencies came via a school internship — a small job filing brochures that ignited a lifelong love for travel and service.
After years working in different travel agencies — including corporate and entertainment-industry travel — Bahar decided to strike out on her own, launching her first agency as an independent contractor, later leading to EXV Travel's founding.
Frustrated by the waste of non-refundable, unused travel packages, she envisioned a secure resale system — giving hope and value to buyers and sellers alike. The idea laid the groundwork for what became her signature business.
Self-funded and personally invested, Bahar navigated the difficulties of launching a new concept — especially when global travel came to a halt — yet remained committed, using the downtime to focus on building and promoting the brand.
Experience the EXV Travel difference in every journey
Access to luxury-level expertise backed by decades of industry experience
Unique resale offerings that make previously unreachable vacations more affordable
A company rooted in integrity and vision, led by a founder who deeply understands travelers
High flexibility, transparency, and client satisfaction — curated experiences, not just bookings
Join the growing community of travelers who trust EXV Travel for their luxury journey needs.