FAQ

FAQs

Here we will do our best to answer all your questions, but of course, we can't read minds! If you have another question you would like answered feel free to ask it on the contact form at the bottom of this page!

Money Matters

  • Do you charge a planning fee?

    Yes, we charge a non-refundable planning fee to cover the time and expertise we invest in crafting your perfect trip. These fees vary based on the complexity of your itinerary.


    Here's a quick overview:

    • Simple Bookings (cruises, hotels): Starting at $50
    • Trips with excursions or multiple locations: $100
    • Trips longer than 7 days or involving multiple countries: $150

    Don't worry, we'll always discuss the exact planning fee during your free discovery call, so you're fully informed before we start planning your adventure!

  • Does using a travel advisor make my trip more expensive?

    ​No, using a travel advisor does not make your trip more expensive. The only fee you pay to us as your travel advisors is the planning fee. This fee is offset by the perks, discounts, and time saved while planning your trip. The overall cost of booking your trip on your own versus booking with a travel advisor is nearly equivalent. However, the perks, upgrades, and benefits that come from booking with a travel agent provide greater value for your money.

  • My budget is pretty limited, can I still use you as a travel advisor?

    Absolutely! We believe unforgettable travel experiences are for everyone, regardless of budget. We're passionate about crafting authentic adventures that fit your unique travel style and financial comfort level. Whether you're seeking cozy guesthouses, boutique hotels, or even adventurous camping trips, we'll do all we can to design a trip that perfectly matches your vision and budget.


    During your consultation, we'll discuss your financial considerations. We're committed to creating a trip that sparks joy and fits comfortably within your budget.  After all, the most memorable adventures aren't always about luxury – they're about authentic experiences and creating lasting memories.

  • What are some ways I may be able to save money on my trip?

    Absolutely! We believe unforgettable travel experiences are possible at any budget level. We're experts at finding the best deals and maximizing your travel dollars, whether you're seeking a luxurious getaway or an adventurous backpacking trip.


    Here are a few ways we can help you save money:


    • Package Deals: We often secure better rates by bundling flights, accommodations, and activities.
    • Travel Timing: We can recommend less popular travel times or shoulder seasons to help you avoid peak pricing.
    • Deal Alerts: We stay informed about upcoming sales and promotions to help you snag the best deals.
    • Alternative Accommodations: We can explore options like charming guesthouses or staying slightly outside city centers to reduce accommodation costs.
    • Transportation Strategies: We can help you utilize public transportation or other cost-effective options to get around your destination.

    During your consultation, we'll discuss your budget and preferences in detail to ensure we create a trip that aligns perfectly with your financial comfort level.

  • Can I accumulate travel points if I book with you?

    Absolutely! With the cost of things these days, life is all about the points. Trust us, we 100% understand the importance of accumulating travel points in today's economy. If you have loyalty numbers for certain hotel chains or airlines, send them to us when we request your passport and other information for booking, and we will make sure to use them so you can get your points!!

  • What if I want to use my travel points to book hotels or flights?

    If you want to use your points to book things, we totally understand! If you have a specific hotel that you would like to book with your points, talk to us about it during your consultation, and we will discuss the options! Please be aware that while it is totally fine to book things with points, you may lose out on any potential travel perks if you do.

General Travel

  • What happens if plans change before or during the trip?

    We understand that plans can change, and we're here to assist you to the best of our abilities when unexpected situations arise. During the booking process, we'll ensure that you're fully informed about any cancellation policies before any payments are made. Please note that our planning fees are non-refundable, and there may be additional non-refundable fees associated with your bookings.



    To safeguard your travel plans, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance can provide valuable protection in case your plans need to change unexpectedly. If you'd like to discuss trip protection and explore options for travel insurance, we're more than happy to do so during our consultation call. Your peace of mind is our priority, and we're here to help you navigate through every aspect of your travel planning journey.

  • Do I really need travel insurance?

    While we cannot mandate your decision to purchase travel insurance, we will always highly recommend it. In today's world, travel can be unpredictable, with airline cancellations and delays occurring frequently. Protecting the cost of your trip is crucial in case such situations cause you to miss reservations or expeditions. Additionally, we highly advocate for travel insurance coverage in case of medical emergencies.



    It's easy to assume that nothing will happen, especially considering that healthcare is more affordable in many countries around the world. However, the costs associated with medical issues abroad can still be substantial. Being prepared for anything unexpected that may arise is always a prudent approach to travel planning.



    Many travel insurance policies are very affordable and need not break the bank. They serve as an excellent way to ensure a stress-free vacation, providing peace of mind knowing that you're protected against unforeseen circumstances. While we cannot advocate for certain travel insurance policies or book them for you here to guide you through your options, send you quotes, and help you make informed decisions that best suit your travel needs and preferences.

  • I have lots of questions about the language, cultural customs, and money of my travel location. Can you help me with those questions?

    We understand that traveling to a new destination can bring up lots of questions, big and small.  We're here to help you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.


    We provide detailed travel guides with information on local customs, basic phrases, and currency tips. But beyond that, we're always happy to answer any questions you have, no matter how silly they may seem.  Whether you're curious about tipping etiquette, local transportation, or even what to pack, we're here to provide the guidance you need.


    Our goal is to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip, so don't hesitate to ask anything. We're your trusted travel partners, and we're committed to making your experience unforgettable!

  • Are there any current travel advisories or warnings for my destination?

    This is such an important question. Keeping abreast of travel advisories is crucial for safe travel. Rest assured, we prioritize your safety and well-being throughout the planning and booking process.



    We will promptly inform you of any changes in travel advisories or warnings that arise during our collaboration. However, if you prefer to check current travel advisories independently, you can find comprehensive information in our travel resources section on our Explore & Prepare page. Our aim is to empower you with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about your travels and ensure your peace of mind throughout your journey.

  • Does my destination require any vaccinations or health information?

    It's important to be aware that some countries, particularly in Asia, recommend certain vaccinations before visiting. While many of these vaccinations are recommended and not required, it's always prudent to consider them for your travel destinations.

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    To help you stay informed, we encourage you to explore our travel resources section on our Explore & Prepare page where you can find detailed information about the recommended vaccinations for specific destinations. By staying informed about vaccination recommendations, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your health and well-being while traveling. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

  • How do I know what travel documents I need for my trip?

    We're here to make sure you have all the necessary documents for a smooth and worry-free trip!  We'll guide you through the process, whether you need help determining visa requirements, obtaining necessary health forms, or gathering any other essential travel documents.


    During your consultation, we can discuss your destination and any specific requirements based on your nationality and travel dates. We will do our best to help, so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!

The Process

  • I would like to use your travel planning services, but would also like to be more involved in the planning and booking, is this possible?

    Of course! Your level of involvement in the planning and booking process is up to you. Our main priority is open communication so that we can make your trip the best possible experience for you. Let us know in the initial consultation how you are feeling and the level of involvement you want to have, and we will be sure that the whole process from the planning stages to the journey home is a wonderful experience!

  • What do I need to have ready for our initial call?

    The purpose of the initial call is to gather the information necessary to create a proposed itinerary for your trip. To make the most of our time together, we kindly request that you fill out the planning form before the meeting. The form will be sent directly to your e-mail.


    The form will prompt you to consider:

    • Your travel style
    • Desired destinations
    • Length of your trip
    • Travel companions
    • Preferred activities
    • Budget considerations
    • And more details to help us understand your interests and needs in travel.

    If you already have answers to these questions or ideas about what you'd like to discuss, the initial meeting will be incredibly productive! If you don't know, however, don't stress! While we talk we can help you consider the possibilies to figure out what will work best for you and your travel companions on your trip!

  • I want to go on a trip, but don't know when to start planning. When should I start planning my trip?

    The ideal time to start booking your vacation really depends on the type of vacation you are planning. As a general rule, the following booking timeline is usually recommended for optimal booking:


    • Holiday Trips: For special holiday trips like Christmas market river cruises or other December/January trips, 12 to 15 months in advance is ideal as spaces fill up fast.
    • Bucket List Expeditions: Aim to book 12 to 18 months in advance for bucket list adventures and locations like African safaris and expeditions in New Zealand, as they tend to fill up quickly. Booking earlier provides more options, especially for popular destinations.
    • Cruises, River Cruises, and Expeditions: While there is usually good availability 6-9 months before cruise dates, booking 12 months in advance offers more cabin availability and access to early booking deals offered by many cruise lines.
    • Tour Groups and Excursions: Start booking tours between 6-12 months before your trip to ensure availability in the tour you want.
    • FIT Travel: For those planning to visit multiple locations independently, booking 6-9 months in advance is recommended. However, if you prefer to plan earlier, feel free to reach out! We're happy to assist you at any time.
    • Short Getaways: Planning a short trip less than a week long? If you're traveling to a less popular location or during a non-peak tourist season, 3-6 months in advance is the perfect booking time.

    Booking times vary based on various factors, but we'll do our best to help no matter how much time you have between planning and your trip. If you're a last-minute planner, that's fine! We'll do all we can to accommodate your needs. At the end of the day, as soon as you're ready to book or plan your trip, reach out—even if you think it's too early or too late. We'll communicate with you and see what we can do to help you plan the perfect trip!

  • How long does the planning process take?

    After the initial consultation where we discuss your preferences, it may take up to 7 business days for us to craft an itinerary proposal. Please note that this timeline is subject to change based on the complexity of the trip. Simple trips may require much less than 7 days, but we guarantee that even for very complex FIT trips, we will do all we can to get that initial itinerary proposal to you within 7 days.



    Following the itinerary proposal meeting and discussion, booking times may vary depending on several factors such as the number of service providers we are communicating with, destinations, activities, and any changes to the initial itinerary. We kindly request prompt and thorough responses as we send potential changes to ensure timely booking of excursions, hotels, and activities without risking availability or pricing changes.



    Throughout the planning and booking process, we are committed to providing quick communication of updates, timeframes, and changes to keep you informed and ensure a stress-free vacation planning experience!

  • Before booking we will ask for a picture of your passport, why do we ask for this? Is it okay to spread pictures of my passport around?

    I will never forget the first time I traveled abroad to South Korea and was asked for my passport so that the front desk agent could make a copy of my passport info page. Initially, I felt nervous because I have always been told not to share personal information. However, I quickly learned that this is a common occurrence in international travel. If you have not traveled internationally, it may feel strange at first, but rest assured, this is a normal practice. (BUT ALWAYS MAKE SURE you get your passport back as soon as the copy is made)



    We personally ask for a picture of your passport for two reasons:


    • Reason #1: We need to ensure that all of your bookings are completed with uniform information that matches the details in your passport. When traveling internationally, even minor discrepancies (such as your middle name being on your passport but only your middle initial showing up on your boarding pass) could potentially create issues. Therefore, we want to ensure that the name, passport number, and dates on all of your bookings match exactly.
    • Reason #2: Some tour groups or service providers may require a passport picture for similar reasons. Having a picture on hand saves time and ensures a seamless process.

    How do we handle your passport pictures?

    When you provide us with your passport pictures, rest assured that they are entered into a state-of-the-art software system designed explicitly to safeguard your Personally Identifiable Information (PII). This software employs robust security measures to keep your data safe and secure throughout the booking process.


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    Your privacy matters to us! We understand that sharing personal information can be intimidating and know the importance of privacy in today's digital age. That's why we go above and beyond to protect your sensitive information at every step of your journey with us. By entrusting us with your passport pictures, you can travel with confidence, knowing that your privacy is our top priority. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out!

Destinations

  • Your specialized destinations look great, but I want to go somewhere else. Can I still use your services?

    ​Absolutely! Your vacation should be all about you! While we do specialize in certain locations where we have extensive knowledge, we also collaborate with service providers worldwide to tailor-make the trip you desire. We're committed to researching, learning, and leveraging our network of expert contacts globally to ensure we craft the best possible experience for you. Whether you dream of exploring familiar destinations or venturing into new territories, we're here to assist you every step of the way. Reach out to us, and we'll gladly make it happen!

  • I would like to go to multiple cities and countries in one trip. Is this possible?

    We can assist you in booking a trip involving as many destinations as you desire. From river cruises to guided tours to FIT travel where you book everything separately, there are numerous ways to explore multiple countries and cities in one trip. We're thrilled to help you plan the perfect itinerary.


    While planning fees may vary for trips involving a large number of destinations, we're always eager to assist you in booking the trip of your dreams.


    Personally, we adore maximizing our trips by exploring multiple countries at once! After all, why wouldn't you when the other countries are so close! During your initial call, simply let us know where you want to go, and we'll do our utmost to help you get there!

  • Can I use a travel advisor if I am travelling within the US?

     A travel advisor isn't just here to plan trips around the world; we're delighted to assist you in planning your domestic trips as well. With EXTENSIVE experience traveling and living all around the United States, we're eager to share our travel knowledge to help you plan an incredible trip! The US offers a plethora of locations and activities, and we're excited to help you take advantage of these experiences. Whether you're dreaming of exploring national parks, vibrant cities, or scenic coastlines, we're here to make your travel aspirations a reality!

  • I know that I want to go on a trip, but I am not 100% sure about a certain destination or destinations. Can you help?

    Choosing destinations can indeed be the most challenging aspect of travel planning! We understand that sometimes you may feel the urge to explore numerous places, making it difficult to narrow down your options. If you find yourself in this situation—eager to embark on a journey but uncertain about where to go—that's perfectly okay!


    Simply fill out our trip planning form to provide us with insight into your interests and travel style. Based on your preferences, we'll brainstorm some ideas to inspire your travel aspirations. During your consultation call, we'll discuss potential destinations that we believe will resonate with you and ignite your excitement for spectacular adventures!


    We're here to assist you in finding the perfect vacation tailored to your preferences and interests. Your satisfaction and enjoyment are high priorities, and we're committed to helping you create unforgettable travel experiences!

Still Have A Question?

If our FAQs section didn't help feel free to send us any questions you have here!

Contact Us

Ready to Go?

Whether you already know what you want or are just starting the travel planning process we are here to help! Fill out our basic trip request form now and let's get started on your next adventure!

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