Andrea Silver Champaloux, Silver Wish Travels

With Eric Bressler

Tell us about your business!

Silver Wish Travels is a boutique travel advisory focused on helping people explore Europe in a thoughtful, meaningful, and stress-free way. I specialize in European river cruises and custom land travel, with a particular emphasis on Jewish heritage journeys and autism-friendly travel that prioritizes comfort, flexibility, and individual needs. I also plan Disney vacations for families who want expert help without the overwhelm. My goal is to take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

Why are you advertising on BetShalom.org?

I advertise my business in our synagogue directory because my work is rooted in community and connection. Travel, especially Jewish heritage travel, can be a meaningful way to explore our history, support Jewish communities around the world, and create shared experiences with family and friends. Being part of this directory is simply a way to let fellow congregants know what I do and how I might be able to help if travel planning ever feels overwhelming or complicated. Supporting other’s small businesses is one of the strengths of our community, and I am grateful to be part of it.

How long have you been a member of Bet Shalom?

I have been part of the Bet Shalom family since I was born. My parents, Anita and Tom Silver, were early members of the congregation, and it truly feels like Bet Shalom and I grew up together!

Tell us about your family.

I live in Edina with my husband, Steve, and our two kids, Bobby and Harry. When I was growing up, my dad used to joke that he was the only man in the house with my mom and two daughters. These days, it feels like I am getting a bit of payback. We also have two dogs, Moti and Fievel, and yes, they are both boys. Steve has a PhD in Epidemiology and does work that is so complex I could never hope to describe it properly. Our boys are both in elementary school and keep me busier than I ever imagined.

What do you like to do outside of work and family?

Outside of work and family, I absolutely love to read. I go through about 100 books each year, and my reading tastes are all over the map. What I enjoy most is how much I learn along the way. I have a master’s degree in Museum Education and have always been a collector of information. Working in museums around the country and visiting some of the best and oddest museums around the world has allowed me to keep that curiosity alive, both professionally and personally.

What’s coming up next for you?

In a few weeks, I will be traveling to Europe to experience a river cruise on the Danube with AmaWaterways, sailing from Budapest to Vienna and back. It will be my first time sailing with Ama, and I cannot wait to share what I learn on board with my clients when I return.

Disney Wonder cruise with Anita and family

In March, my family will be sailing on the Disney Destiny, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. We have taken several multi-generational trips with Disney, and everyone, from the youngest travelers to the grandparents, loves the sense of magic Disney creates.

In April, I will be traveling throughout Italy on a FAM trip. These are working trips that allow me to experience destinations exactly the way my clients would. I tour hotels, try different transportation options, test activities and experiences, and get a feel for the neighborhoods I recommend. This allows me to plan trips based on firsthand experience, not marketing photos or online reviews.

I only recommend places and experiences that I have personally vetted because I know how valuable vacation time is. People want to make the most of it, and that is where I come in. I know because I go, and I take that responsibility to heart.