FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
We typically work on commission - based travel. We have connections around the world to deliver you the perfect vacation you are wanting. Keep in mind that planning a vacation itinerary can take hours - if not days of making arrangements, custom tailored to our clients desires, time and budget. We do not ordinarily book "just airline tickets" without a booking fee, as airlines do not offer commissions to pay for our time making these bookings. We are happy to help with airline reservations to coordinate your travel when you are also booking other travel (hotels, tours, cruises, trains, etc.) - as a complimentary service. If you want us to do the planning and then plan to book yourself - we charge a $250/per week of travel planning of your custom itinerary. These are usual and customary charges in the travel advisory industry.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We need to know: 1) How many people are traveling, and their ages (plus birth dates) 2) Where do you want to go? 3) When do you want to go - and how long? 4) What is your budget? Please be honest with what you are thinking - as it's a waste of time for us to show you options you can not afford. 5) If it's a cruise - tell us if you have cruised before - what cruise line? Where did you go? What did you like? What did you dislike? Do you have a past passenger loyalty number? Are you current or past military, police, fire, or EMT? 6) If this is a GROUP - is everyone ready to make plans and book? 7) And lastly, we need a means to contact you - and send you quotes/information. So, best phone number and email address is necessary! ONCE we have this information we can get to work - seeing what is available that fits your needs, time and budget. We strive to come up with multiple options for you to consider. We share these options with you via email and phone. Based on your feedback we will revise options and plans until you are happy with the travel we have designed. Next, we need a credit card for deposits or booking fees to lock down these arrangements. In some cases where there is a long-lead time before you travel we may be able to offer a payment plan. If you are traveling in less than 60 days - be prepared to pay most of the costs upfront...but it varies, depending on the property and vendor. Just let us know what type of financial plan you are considering!
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an MBA business background as well as a track record in managing small entrepreneurial ventures. This training comes into place in how I manage our customer service and approach to working with clients. I have a strong academic background (yes, a Ph.D.)- having taught at the college level for over 20 years - helping students learn about new things, culture, and places around the world. - which continues as I work with clients helping them learn about where they are going and why I selected certain experiences for them to enjoy. I've also had many international students who have graciously shared their culture and world views with me and my students - which I've found fascinating! So, the unique combination of my education, travel, and management experience has enabled me to enjoy working with clients and helping them enjoy exploring the world!