I’m Cynika Drake, President and Founder of Lavish Lifestyles Concierge, Established in 2007, founded on the belief that true luxury lies in authentic, immersive experiences.

As a woman-owned boutique Event & Travel Planning company, we specialize in bespoke experiences that balance flawless execution with cultural depth - whether a brand activation or a once-in-a-lifetime journey. With 17+ years of expertise, I handle every detail so you can focus on the moments that matter.

Global Expertise

We curate unforgettable safaris and immersive itineraries across 15 African countries, as well as distinctive journeys throughout Europe, Mexico, the UAE, and the Caribbean.

Recognized Authority

My insights have been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Travel Weekly, and Travel + Leisure. I have been an invited speaker and panelist at major industry events, including The South African Consulate General in NYC, and World Travel Market (WTM) Africa, Cape Town Convention Center. I was also featured on SiriusXM Radio,

Creative Leadership

Most recently, I produced the "The C-Suite Villa," activation at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity 2025, the global benchmark for creative excellence.

Event Production

We’ve had the pleasure of working with, among others:  

  • Google

  • Time Warner Inc.

  • Wieden + Kennedy/ McDonald’s

  • FreshDirect

  • Brooklyn NAACP

  • Metropolitan Black Bar Association

Travel

What Our Clients Are Saying

“Cynika, you are “The Best” at what you do! Thank you for years of planning unforgettable experiences for my family and I”. - Judge Terry McRae

“Cynika helped plan my father’s 70th birthday in Ghana. She gave us options for the best hotels in Accra, Ghana; planned the most unforgettable tours and adventures...and even went above and beyond to provide us with a list of restaurant recommendations and the option for a private chef. We are grateful to Cynika for always being reachable and making sure my father's birthday was special. He truly felt loved and appreciated”. - Monica Michel

“Thank you, Lavish Lifestyles Concierge, for curating an unforgettable trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar for our family of five! From the moment we landed in Kilimanjaro and were greeted by our guide, everything was seamless. The safari experience was breathtaking, and the accommodations were top-tier-luxurious, comfortable, and well-situated. Every detail of the trip was thoughtfully planned, allowing us to simply relax and enjoy the adventure.

A special thanks to Cynika for being incredibly helpful and responsive throughout the planning process. Her attention to detail made the entire journey stress-free and enjoyable. Truly a trip of a lifetime!” Dr. Tiffany Gavin-Walker, DDS

Beyond the testimonials, Cynika Drake is a recognized expert on African travel and tourism. Her insights and passion for the Continent’s tourism and culture have made her an invited speaker at prestigious NYC and international events.

Speaking at South African Consulate NYC

Speaking at World Travel Market Africa Cape Town Convention Center