How do you make money if booking hotels is a free service?

Travel advisors are hotels’ most efficient marketing channel, so hotels pay us a small commission (that is already built into the total cost that you see online/would book independently!) as a thanks for sending clients their way. If our clients enjoy their stay, we’ll keep sending future clients to the property. It’s a win-win-WIN: for you, for us, and for the hotel!

Why do you charge a planning fee?

Like several other service-based companies, we charge fees because creating truly personalized travel experiences requires significant expertise and time. While we do receive small commissions from partners when booking your trip, these alone don't cover the extensive hours we invest in crafting your perfect journey (one trip can take anywhere from 5-20+ hours to plan!). We charge the planning fee for working with aspects of your trip that don't make us commission (for example, suggested activities that we aren’t booking).

This balanced approach allows us to focus entirely on your unique needs rather than rushing through bookings or recommending options based on commission rates or cookie cutter itineraries. Our clients consistently find that the personalized service, industry connections, and peace of mind we provide deliver exceptional value that far outweighs the planning fee, often resulting in better experiences.

What does your affiliation with SmartFlyer as your host agency mean and why should it matter to me?

Similar to how real estate agents belong to a real estate brokerage (like Sothebys or Compass) that provides them with training, connections, and credibility, we work as an independent advisor under SmartFlyer, one of the industry's most respected travel host agencies that has been around for over 35 years! 

Our affiliation with SmartFlyer gives you access to exceptional benefits that enhance your travel experience. As part of this prestigious luxury travel collective, we can offer you exclusive amenities at hundreds of hotels worldwide—including complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, spa credits, and early check-in/late check-out when available.

Additionally, our connection to SmartFlyer's network of experienced advisors around the globe provides insider knowledge and on-the-ground support for even the most complex itineraries. This partnership ensures you receive both personalized service from me and the collective strength and resources of one of the travel industry's most respected organizations.

Why use a travel advisor instead of booking myself or through my credit card portal? 

We save you time, provide insider expertise, often secure better rates or perks through our partnerships, offer personalized recommendations beyond generic online reviews, and provide support before, during, and after your trip. While technology has made it easier for travelers to book certain aspects of their trips online, travel advisors bring first-hand knowledge, a high-touch experience, unmatched connections around the world, and in-destination support for those unforeseen circumstances. 

When issues arise, you're left navigating impersonal call centers alone. As your advisor, we’re your dedicated advocate throughout your journey, often resolving problems before they affect your trip. Through our professional connections, we can secure incremental perks like room upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, and special experiences at no extra cost. Most importantly, we offer what credit card call centers and algorithms cannot: genuine human expertise tailored specifically to your travel style and needs.

Do you get better rates than if I booked myself? 

While we often have access to special negotiated rates, our true value lies in saving you time, eliminating stress, and preventing frustration both during planning and while you're enjoying your destination. For travelers seeking a seamless, customized experience, we’d be delighted to demonstrate the meaningful difference a dedicated travel advisor can make!

How far in advance should I book?

For optimal availability and pricing, we recommend:

• Peak season travel: 6-12 months in advance

• Holiday periods: 9-12 months in advance

• Off-season travel: 3-6 months in advance

• Last-minute trips: We welcome challenges but can't guarantee specific availability

• Some destinations, like Japan, are best to be planned 12 months in advance!

What if I need to cancel or change my trip?

We clearly communicate all cancellation policies before you make any payments. If changes become necessary, we'll advocate on your behalf with our partners to minimize penalties whenever possible.

How do you select accommodations and experiences?

We match options to your personal preferences, budget, and travel style. Many of our recommendations come from firsthand experience and / or trusted partners. We only suggest options we would personally recommend to friends and family.

Do you work with specific budgets?

We're transparent about costs and work with various budgets. We'll be honest about what's realistic for your destination and preferences.

Do you book flights?

Yes! If you’d like assistance with booking flights through the SmartFlyer Air Team, there is a $100/pp fee for international flights and a $65/pp fee for domestic flights. Included in this service is expert guidance on the best flights to take, as well as 24/7 access to our Air Team client support line in case of any changes or cancellations

If you prefer to avoid these fees, you can book flights separately or use points!

How do payments work?

• Planning fee: Due upon engagement of our services

• Deposits: Typically required to confirm bookings, but this varies my hotel, tour operator, transportation company, etc.

• Final payments: Usually due 30-90 days before departure, but this varies too.