About UpNY
UpNY aims to showcase the beauty and excitement that New York State has to offer. Launched in 2021 by travel expert Jon "J.MAK" Makhmaltchi (JMAK.com) UpNY will allow travelers from all over the world to enjoy the many experiences of Up New York. From the hustle and bustle of New York City to the serene tranquility of Upstate New York, UpNY partners with hotels, villas, and restaurants from all over the state. No matter what travel experience you dream of, UpNY can make it a reality.
Throughout my career, I have explored the many facets of the business from front desk, to hotel openings, to positions of increasing responsibility before opening my own travel company. I reside in Rhinebeck, NY with my husband, 7-year-old son, baby daughter, and two cats. I have become known for fast (and I’d say funny) responses to email. My mother still maintains that my first two words were 'room service!'
- Jon JMAK Makhmaltchi
Michelle Zelena has been a travel advisor with Fora for over a year now, but has been an avid travel planner for 5+ years. Her expertise include Miami, the south of France and most extensively NYC and the Hudson valley area. After residing on the upper west side for the last decade she and her family took the plunge and moved to their upstate home full time in 2022. Michelle has been coming to the Hudson Valley for over 7 years and is an expert in the Kingston, Woodstock, Rhinebeck, and Hudson areas. From new hotel openings to restaurant openings and vintage shops - reach out to Michelle for the latest and greatest for your next trip upstate.
- Michelle Zelena
