Last updated: 9:00 AM ET, Tue October 28, 2025
Julia Jakkaraju, Classic Vacations (Photo Credit: Julia Jakkaraju)
Bio
“Born and raised in Germany, Julia Jakkaraju studied hospitality management and worked in the UK, Namibia, and San Francisco. Each experience has shaped her passion and dedication for service excellence and luxury travel. In 2013, she found her home with Classic Vacations, where she’s grown both personally and professionally.
Today, as Director of Sales, she carries that journey forward by supporting advisors and creating meaningful connections that celebrate the true essence of hospitality. Since joining Classic Vacations, she’s had the privilege of supporting many travel advisors across the country. Classic allows her to support them not just with sales tools, but also with encouragement, training, and shared experiences that build confidence and community. From hosting FAMs to creating events where advisors can truly connect, her goal has always been to make them feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Julia is 39 years old.
"Being selected as a 40 Under 40 is such an honor and a reminder of the amazing community that makes our industry so special. I’m proud to stand alongside peers who are working tirelessly to shape luxury travel through commitment, connection, and dedication that truly make a difference."
Industry References
“Julia embodies what makes Classic Vacations exceptional—passion for our industry, deep expertise, and a relentless commitment to excellence,” said Melissa Krueger, CEO, Classic Vacations. “Her career journey through reservations, product, and sales gives her a rare, 360-degree understanding of how our business works and how success is built—from our suppliers to our advisors to our travelers. Julia is a true example of supplier success and customer success achieved through employee success. She represents the future of our industry and the kind of leadership that continues to elevate Classic Vacations and the partners we serve.
“I am delighted to recommend my colleague, Julia Jakkaraju, for the 40 Under 40 recognition,” said Mie Morgan, Senior Product Development Manager, Classic Vacations. “Having worked closely with Julia at Classic Vacations, I’ve seen firsthand the impact she has not only on our business, but on the travel advisor community she supports so passionately.
“Julia has a gift for building genuine connections. She doesn’t just drive sales, she inspires trust, creates community, and empowers advisors to grow their businesses with confidence. Her energy, creativity, and willingness to always go the extra mile set her apart in our industry. On a personal level, Julia is an incredible teammate—collaborative, thoughtful, and someone who makes everyone around her better. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor,” said Morgan.
“As a travel advisor, I’ve had the privilege of working with Julia for several years, and she has been an incredible partner to me and my business,” said Jonathan Phillips, Travel Advisor. “Julia makes advisors feel like we have someone truly on our side. She has exceptional knowledge of the industry. She cares deeply about relationships, and it shows in the way she celebrates our successes and helps us strategize through challenges. She is a true partner to travel advisors. I wholeheartedly support Julia’s nomination for the 40 Under 40 list. She exemplifies leadership, integrity, and passion, and she has made a lasting impact on both my business and the broader travel advisor community.”
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