Why Hire a Travel Advisor and How I Get Paid

Here is the insider's scoop! Planning a vacation should be fun, not stressful. If you’re like many travelers, you might be wondering, "Why should I book with a Travel Advisor instead of doing it myself?"

You may also be asking the practical question: "How do you even get paid for this?"

I’m here to pull back the curtain and explain exactly what I offer, how it benefits you, and the simple truth about my compensation structure, which includes a Professional Planning Fee.

My Inclusive Planning Services

When you book a vacation package with me, my comprehensive planning services are included. This provides you peace of mind and saves you countless hours of research. You are getting more than just a reservation; you are getting a dedicated partner.

Here is a list of all the things my planning services include:

My Invaluable Expertise - This is the most critical benefit you receive. You get my knowledge and firsthand experience from my 11+ years being a Travel Advisor. I attend conferences and online trainings to stay up to date and gain more insider knowledge.

Direct Relationships - I visit many locations, work directly with resort brands, and have extensive experience through my own travels. I get feedback from past clients who I have planned trips for and they give me their first hand knowledge.

Agency Insight - My team and I constantly share knowledge and experience. If I don't have personal experience or knowledge, more than likely someone on my team does or knows an industry partner with the expertise.

The Perfect Match - I use my expertise to match you with the resort that best fits your specific wants, needs, and budget. There are so many choices out there and what may have been the best choice for your bestie, may not be the best fit for you.

Full-Circle Assistance - I’m with you every step of the way, from the first quote to your arrival back home.

BOOKED WITH ME SERVICES

There is an option to take my planning services and then book the trip on your own. Unfortunately, my offers sometimes come with exclusive perks that can only be booked with a Travel Advisor. These additional services are at no extra charge if you book the trip with me.

Pre-Travel Prep - I prepare you with a comprehensive itinerary, insider tips, and general destination information. This information comes from my own personal experience or from my destination partners.

24/7 Support (When You Need It) - While on your vacation, I assist with any travel issues, questions, or overall problems that may occur. When problems arise, I’ve got your back!

Your Digital Itinerary - My clients love this and often tell me the price of the planning fee was worth it just for this! Now you no longer go searching through emails to find all your travel details. You’ll receive a detailed electronic itinerary with all your confirmations, reservations, and helpful information. It's accessible via a web browser or through a very convenient app where we can chat directly. It organizes your trip and keeps everything at your fingertips.

The Simple Truth: How I Get Paid

My compensation structure ensures my time and expertise are valued while keeping your best interests at heart. I am compensated in two important ways:

1) My Professional Planning Fee

This is the most critical component that guarantees dedicated, unbiased service. I charge a Professional Planning Fee that covers the dedicated time and expertise required to design, customize, and manage your trip after our initial complimentary discussion. This approach guarantees that my recommendations are based solely on your specific needs, travel style, and budget. It ensures you get exactly the vacation you want and I am not biased on what my agency is promoting or where I get the highest commisison.

2) Commission from Suppliers

So, yes. I earn a commission which costs nothing extra for you! I am paid a small commission by my suppliers (such as cruise lines, tour operators, and hotels) on any vacation packages or other components of a vacation that I book for you. That means, if I do the research and planning for you and then you book the trip on your own, I don't get paid the commission.

Also, the commission is only paid AFTER you successfully travel. If your vacation is canceled for any reason, I do not receive this commission. This means I am just as invested in your vacation as you are!

Did You know... The Price Is the Same, But the Service Isn’t!

Many people don't realize that almost EVERY cruise line, resort, and travel company includes a travel agent's commission in their pricing. So, many times you end up "paying for my commission" whether or not you book with me.

Booking direct means you paid the same price I could get for you, but you did not receive any of my valuable services, expertise, support, or my detailed digital itinerary. In fact, there are times that I can get a better price or offer a better value with included perks that come with my trusted relationships.

My Promise

I genuinely LOVE what I do, and there is no greater pleasure than making my clients' vacations perfect! I pour hours of research and effort into curating the perfect trip for you. All I ask is that you respect the work involved and allow me to manage your trip.

My Promise to You: I will back you up, fight for you, and make your vacation as special and exquisite as it can be.