Working with a Travel Advisor
How is working with a Virtuoso Travel Advisor different?
As a Virtuoso advisor, I have exclusive access to VIP perks, upgrades, and special amenities that you won’t find through regular booking channels. This includes benefits like room upgrades, resort credits, private tours, and bespoke experiences.
Being a Virtuoso advisor means I work with the highest-quality partners, from luxury hotels and cruise lines to unique tour operators, ensuring you receive exceptional service and value. With a Virtuoso advisor, you get the added benefit of insider knowledge, personalized attention, and access to premium services that make your trip not just special, but truly unforgettable.
Is there a fee associated with your services?
Yes, I require a non-refundable, non-transferable booking retainer to begin the planning and booking process. This retainer covers my time, expertise, and personalized service in crafting your custom trip. The amount varies depending on:
When you partner with me, you can expect:
Please note that the booking retainer is required to initiate your quote and is not applied toward the cost of your vacation. For larger groups or more complex itineraries, the retainer may vary, and I will always discuss this with you upfront before proceeding.
This ensures your experience is as seamless and tailored to your vision as possible.
Do you offer any booking services without charging a planning fee?
Yes, I do. If you already know the exact property you’d like to book including the hotel name, travel dates, and preferred room category and you do not require recommendations, research, or planning support, I’m happy to handle the booking and manage it for you at no additional cost.
My planning fee is reserved for custom designed itineraries and more involved travel arrangements. Think of it as a concierge fee it covers the time, expertise, and care that go into creating a seamless, personalized vacation experience from start to finish. But if you simply need someone to secure your reservation and oversee the details, I’m glad to provide that service complimentary.
Do you assist with last-minute bookings?
I can assist with last-minute bookings, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
1️⃣ How last-minute is the request? The closer we get to your desired travel dates, the more challenging it becomes to secure availability that meets your expectations. While availability may be found, it does not guarantee access to the best rooms, tours, or exclusive experiences.
2️⃣ What is the destination? Some destinations are more flexible when planned on short notice, but factors like availability of flights, accommodations, visa requirements, and limited tour options may hinder your ideal itinerary.
3️⃣ Are you an existing client? If you’ve traveled with me before, I’m already familiar with your preferences and needs, which makes last-minute planning more manageable.
To ensure you secure the best accommodations, experiences, and value, I recommend the following booking timelines:
These timelines allow for a smooth planning process, giving you time to make necessary payments, secure your booking with a deposit, and take advantage of the best available rates. Early booking also ensures access to the most desirable rooms, tours, and exclusive experiences as many suppliers release availability well in advance.
Please note: If booking within 60 days of your departure, there will be an additional fee applied to cover the increased workload of last-minute arrangements. Booking close to your departure date often limits options for the highest-rated rooms and most sought-after tours, which may impact your overall experience.
To ensure you’re able to fully enjoy your trip without the stress of last-minute rush, I recommend reaching out as early as possible to secure the best deals and customized itinerary.
How involved do I need to be in the planning process?
That’s entirely up to you! If you love being hands-on, I’ll work closely with you to plan every detail. If you’d rather leave it to the expert, I’ll handle everything for you. My goal is to partner with you in a way that feels comfortable and ensures your time and money are well spent.
Why should I work with a travel advisor instead of booking online myself?
Working with a travel advisor offers a level of personalized service, expertise, and convenience that online booking engines or discount sites simply can’t match. Here’s why:
1️⃣ Personalized Service: I take the time to understand your preferences, needs, and travel style. I help craft an itinerary that’s tailored just for you, whether that’s securing unique experiences, finding exclusive accommodations, or offering insider recommendations.
2️⃣ Expert Guidance: As a seasoned travel advisor, I have in-depth knowledge of destinations, suppliers, and the latest travel trends. I can offer advice and insights that save you time, money, and stress—especially when navigating complex travel plans or luxury experiences.
3️⃣ Exclusive Perks & Access: My partnerships with top hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators give you access to VIP perks like room upgrades, resort credits, and complimentary amenities that you won’t get when booking online. These added benefits enhance your trip and provide exceptional value.
4️⃣ Stress-Free Travel: I handle all the details, from securing reservations to arranging special requests. If something goes wrong during your trip, I’m your advocate to solve issues quickly, making your experience truly worry-free.
However, if you’re looking for the cheapest deal or simply booking a standard hotel room with no special requirements, then an online booking engine might be a better fit. Keep in mind, though, that these platforms often don’t offer personalized service, and the “lowest price” may not always be the best value once you factor in added fees, hidden costs, or limited availability.
I always encourage my clients to read the fine print when booking online to ensure they fully understand what they’re purchasing—whether it’s the cancellation policy, any additional charges, or the level of service they can expect. Ultimately, if you’re seeking a quick deal with minimal involvement, booking on your own may work for you. But if you want to enhance your travel experience with personalized, curated service and exclusive perks, I’m here to help you create something truly exceptional.
Can I work with you to plan a group trip, such as a wellness retreat, girlfriends getaway, or couples retreat?
Absolutely! I specialize in crafting memorable group experiences, whether it's a relaxing wellness retreat, a fun-filled girlfriends getaway, or a romantic couples retreat. From personalized itineraries to exclusive experiences, I’ll handle all the details to ensure your group enjoys a seamless and unforgettable journey. If you're interested in organizing a group trip, please reach out, and we can start planning the perfect getaway tailored to your group’s needs and preferences!
I’ve already made some or all of my travel arrangements. Can I still hire you to assist with certain aspects like itinerary building, purchasing travel insurance, or booking tours and excursions?
I appreciate you thinking of me! However, in order to provide the level of service and support my clients expect, I only assist with partial trip components—such as travel insurance, tours, excursions, and itinerary building—when I’ve handled the hotel or primary travel arrangements myself.
This ensures I can oversee your trip in full alignment with my standards of service and maintain strong relationships with the suppliers I trust. If you’d like help with your hotel booking or you're open to letting me handle all aspects of your trip from start to finish, I’d be thrilled to create a seamless, customized experience for you.
What’s your favorite part about being a travel advisor?
I love creating unforgettable memories for my clients. Seeing them enjoy a trip that’s tailored to their dreams and preferences—and knowing I helped make it happen—is the most rewarding part of my job!
How do I get started?
The first step is booking a consultation call with me. This call is essential—it’s how I get to know you, your travel preferences, and your vacation goals. During our chat, I’ll explain my services, how I work, and what you can expect when we partner together. This initial conversation ensures we’re a good fit and sets the foundation for crafting your dream trip.
Ready to plan your next adventure?
Let’s design the perfect journey together! Reach out today to get started.