Luxury Travel Magazine

Why You Should Invest in a Luxury Travel Advisor

  • January 11, 2024

Why You Should Invest in a Luxury Travel Advisor

It might seem simple to plan your vacation, like booking a flight using Google or an airline site. So, why not handle everything yourself, even a fancy cruise or special family trip?

However, working with a luxury travel agency is wise when aiming for a luxury vacation. Just as you'd hire a tax expert, a financial advisor for your retirement funds, a licensed contractor for kitchen renovations, or a realtor to sell your home, commission a travel pro for their expert guidance and wisdom.

The travel scene has transformed in unforeseen ways. With rising travel expenses, the expertise of a  luxury travel advisor becomes increasingly essential to ensure that your finances harmonize seamlessly with your travel plans.

Here are the top reasons why a luxury travel advisor is your ticket to maximizing every single part of your journey.

Tailored Financial Plans for Luxury Travel Experiences

Luxury travel advisors understand that extravagant vacations are a significant financial investment. That's why they act as dedicated financial guides for all their clients, customizing every travel plan to suit each individual's unique budget and desires.

Rather than presenting cookie-cutter packages or itineraries, these advisors take the time to learn their clients' preferences, priorities, and price points. They then use that insight to craft bespoke proposals for getaways that deliver the opulent experiences and high-end accommodations you seek. They can offer these luxuries that fit within your travel budget.

Whether you have your heart set on a particular five-star resort, a luxury cruise to exotic ports of call, or a private villa with butler service, these advisors will find creative ways to make those luxuries affordable and attainable.

They consider all aspects of your trip, from airfare and hotels to dining and activities, so they can recommend the highest quality options while staying on budget.

You can trust that your luxury travel advisor has meticulously planned every detail of your bespoke itinerary and priced it to exceed your expectations without going out of budget.

They can even guide you in opening an online checking account to make paying for things and having money while traveling easier. It makes your trip stress-free and more enjoyable. The right combination of a travel advisor and an online bank account will ensure your trip is fantastic.

Optimize Your Investment

Sophisticated travelers recognize the importance of utilizing experienced advisors to optimize investment returns and take advantage of exclusive opportunities.

Luxury travel advisors have extensive networks and relationships within the travel industry that allow them access to deals, promotions, and strategies not readily available to ordinary advisors.

By leveraging their specialized knowledge and industry contacts, these advisors can guide clients toward the most profitable investment avenues and ensure each dollar is spent efficiently.

An advisor's role is to serve as a valuable resource for their clients, navigating the complexities of high-end investments and the luxury market. They stay informed of the latest developments, trends, and openings that could provide substantial value.

This includes limited-time deals or early access to new properties, assets, and ventures. Advisors also draw upon their comprehensive understanding of financial instruments, regulations, and markets to design sophisticated strategies tailored to each client's objectives and risk tolerance.

Save Time and Money

As travel costs continue steadily rising, savvy travelers seek advisors who can leverage their expertise to minimize expenses and streamline logistics.

A skilled advisor applies deep knowledge of pricing trends, supply and demand patterns, and alternative transportation and lodging options to curate itineraries, delivering outstanding value. Their long-established relationships within the industry also open doors to special rates, package deals, and last-minute upgrades otherwise impossible to secure.

Rather than haphazardly piecing together fragmented travel arrangements, working with an advisor ensures cohesive journeys thoughtfully designed from inception to execution.

Precious leisure hours are preserved through turnkey handling of complex reservations, transportation connections, and unexpected changes. The advisor's diligent foresight eliminates wasted time navigating an ever-changing travel landscape alone.

Whether navigating an ambitious international excursion or a multi-city domestic tour, discerning clients appreciate an advisor's savvy spending and planning insight. Strategic guidance produces smooth, seamless experiences, allowing travelers to relish every moment of their hard-earned adventures.

Find Value in Luxury Travel

Luxury travel advisors understand that while luxury experiences indulge the senses, the high costs can feel prohibitive for many travelers.

These professionals work diligently to identify opportunities where clients can enjoy extravagant amenities and services without breaking the bank. They seek lesser-known luxury brands that provide top-tier comfort and service at more affordable prices.

Advisors consider their clients' desired destinations and dates of travel to find the best value at any given time. Once options are presented, advisors can provide a detailed cost-benefit analysis, allowing clients to select arrangements ensuring the highest possible return on their vacation investment.

Whether crafting a multi-country European getaway or private island escape, luxury travel advisors take the legwork out of luxury planning. Their expertise delivers lavish experiences within reasonable budgets so clients can relax and fully immerse themselves in memorable luxury without worrying about going over budget.

Access to Lucrative Travel Offers

Luxury travel firms pride themselves on the extensive global network they have cultivated over decades of serving clients. They can access exclusive opportunities through their contacts and partnerships worldwide.

Whether seeking competitive rates for international transfers, early access to new investment products, or customized financial solutions tailored to your unique circumstances,  these advisors’ worldwide connections empower them to deliver exceptional value.

From discounted services to privileged insights, these firms’ international financial network is ready to uncover benefits specifically for you. Wherever your interests or needs may take you, you’re assured that the strength of their worldwide alliances forms a supportive foundation.

Offers Personalized Financial Guidance

While digital technologies have transformed many industries, the human element remains vital to financial planning, particularly in luxury travel.

Luxury travel advisors offer more than assistance with trip itineraries and reservations. Close consultation provides indispensable guidance in the client's financial objectives.

Luxury vacations command higher costs now than in the past. However, travel done right can also be a meaningful investment in one's well-being, relationships, and personal and professional development.

An experienced luxury travel advisor acts as a travel consultant and financial steward for clients. Through open dialogue and a deep understanding of clients' aspirations, values, and budget realities, they craft customized travel recommendations that align with clients' long-term financial pictures and life goals without undue strain on finances.

In this way, luxury travel advisors play a vital role in helping clients transform their passions into plans and memories in a prudent, sustainable manner.

Enjoy Exclusive Destinations With a Luxury Travel Advisor  

Planning a trip can get tricky, especially for far-off places needing lots of permits and connections. Sometimes, you're after a unique experience that's hard to come by.

That's where travel advisors come in. They're experts in different kinds of travel and have friends worldwide in the travel biz.

Imagine having tea with a duchess, a private tour of a famous museum after it's closed, or watching an artist restore ancient art. Or you're into photography and want to cruise the Arctic with a National Geographic pro. Have you ever thought about your kids helping with marine research in the Galapagos?

Determining where to find these things and how long it'll take can take a lot of work. But a luxury travel advisor? They'll sort it all out for you!

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Is a travel agent worth it the pros and cons.

Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner.

The Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

Married couple with baby son in modern travel agency talking to a travel agent.

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A travel agent can save you money and time.

Need to pivot your trip plans but don't want to deal with the extra time, money and hassle of rebooking flights and accommodations on your own? That's just one area where a knowledgeable travel agent (also commonly known as a travel advisor) can help. Read on to discover the other benefits – as well as the downsides – of using a travel agent, so you can confidently decide whether or not a travel agent is worth it for your next trip.

The Pros of Using a Travel Agent

Travel agents can save you money – and get you other perks.

"In some cases, you'll actually get a better  deal by working with a travel agent," says Jackie Steele, travel expert at MagicGuides . "This could be in the form of a cruise onboard credit (free spending money to use on the ship), access to special agency/group rates, or even just learning about a discount you qualify for but weren't aware of." The best agents will even keep an eye on new discounts as they're announced and apply them to your trip even after you've booked, he notes.

Travel agents handle all the details

Hotel room? Booked. Dinner reservations? Made. Tour tickets? Ready to go. A travel agent handles every detail of your vacation itinerary. "The traveler still gets to be involved in the fun part of dreaming up ideas and providing their travel wishes, while we take and perfect them," says Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer .

Molly McShea, owner and travel advisor at McShea Travel , points out that travel agents can also help with timing logistics. "Travel agents know how many days should be spent in each destination, which tours go together, and how many things you should do in a day," she says, adding that crafting an itinerary can be challenging if it's not something you regularly do. Additionally, travel agents can help you choose the best time to visit your preferred destination(s) based on seasonality and your budget, and sift through travel insurance policies to find the best option for your needs.

Travel agents can provide local expertise

"A travel advisor's industry connections and relationships provide added value to their clients," says Valerie Edman, a luxury travel advisor and agency owner at Cultured Travel LLC. She says when working with a travel agent, travelers gain access to a global network of connections including:

  • In-destination specialists who work exclusively with travel advisors and can connect travelers with unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences they wouldn't otherwise know about
  • Exclusive experiences not available to the general public

You'll avoid surprise fees

When deciding if a travel agent is worth it for you, remember this: A reputable agent can guarantee you won't encounter any surprise fees on accommodations and activities once your trip is booked.

You'll have someone to troubleshoot unexpected travel issues

A travel advisor is essentially your personal vacation concierge. "Because they've been around for so long, agents really know what to look for," says Christopher Elliott , a consumer advocate and journalist. "Travel agents are among the first to know about flight cancellations and delays , making it easy for them to rebook itineraries right away." 

The Cons of Using a Travel Agent

It might not be your cheapest option.

There are some instances when it makes more sense to plan your own trip. "If you're planning a quick flight from New York City to Los Angeles, it's easy enough to book it yourself online directly or through a third-party booking site," says Elliott. "If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or bucket list honeymoon , that's when you call the experts."

You'll have less flexibility in your itinerary

The upside of working with a travel agent is having someone plan an epic vacation for you based on industry knowledge and local expertise. But this can also be a downside in the event you discover an activity you'd like to do or a restaurant you'd like to try that isn't on your pre-planned itinerary. If you alter your plans, you risk losing money; plus, the time it takes for you and your travel agent to coordinate your change of plans may not be worth the hassle.

You still have to do some research

It's important to find an agent you can trust, which means you still have to do some of the vacation planning. For this part, Parker recommends picking up the phone. "Lots of people avoid or don't pick up the phone as much anymore," she says. "That's where you get the high-touch service, tone of voice, excitement or concerns to manage." She advises to look for the following red flags:

  • No fees: " Travel advisors are charging planning fees more now or increasing them, so the client knows more confidently than ever, we work for them, not the suppliers with the best commissions," Parker explains. "There are a lot of things that are non-commissionable and the advisor's time and expertise shouldn't be given away for free, either. That's the best way to show an advisor takes their business seriously."
  • Limited options: If you work with someone who is inexperienced or has an incentive to book you with a certain supplier, they may not be prioritizing your best interests. "It's important to check if they are with a larger consortia, accreditations and network, typically listed on their website and signatures," says Parker. "That level of mindshare doesn't come with a lone advisor unless they have many, many years of experience."
  • Slow response times: If communication is delayed, that's a sign they may be too busy to plan your trip – but again, this is something you can avoid by having the right conversations early on.

Edman suggestes starting your search with the American Society of Travel Advisors . "ASTA-verified travel advisors are committed to the highest industry standards and have verifiable industry knowledge so consumers can feel confident in working with them," she says.

You might also be interested in:

  • Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
  • First-Time Cruise Tips
  • Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
  • What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
  • The Best Luggage Brands

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Boutique Travel Advisors

5 Reasons to Use a Luxury Travel Advisor & How To Find The Best Travel Agency

It may be tempting to go the do-it-yourself route when planning your vacation. After all, it seems easy enough to book a flight reservation using google or your favorite airline website. So why shouldn’t you also book your cruise, family vacation, or honeymoon on your own? When planning a luxury vacation, you should hire a luxury travel agency for the same reasons, you hire an expert to do your taxes, a financial advisor to manage your retirement portfolio, a licensed contractor to renovate your kitchen, and a realtor to sell your home. Anytime we make significant investments, it is prudent to rely on the advice and wisdom of an expert. 

Here are five reasons you should contact a professional travel agency or hire a luxury travel advisor for your next big trip.

1. Expertise – “You don’t know what you don’t know”

Luxury Travel Advisor

Of course, anyone can simply book a hotel online, but how do you know you’re choosing the best hotel for your needs, travel style, budget, and personality? Advances in technology have allowed us to access infinite amounts of information with the click of a button. Still, it has also enabled companies to collect our data, analyze our search history and classify us into specific buyer personas, thereby allowing them to send us highly targeted ads. Therefore, when you search for products, reviews, or general information, the results you are seeing and the ads you are shown are not the same as those offered to your neighbor or even your partner in the next room.  

Have you ever found yourself searching for a  “cute romantic hotel in Paris” and suddenly you are inundated with ads for hotels in the Left Bank? They may look lovely in the photos (most things do), but how can you ensure the images are accurate? In fact, how can you even know if the hotel is in the right location if it’s in a city you have never been to? Furthermore, how do you know if you are getting a good price or completely overpaying?

Watch Out For Dynamic Pricing

Airlines , hotels, and car rental agencies count on you to make your own reservations and may charge higher rates based on your search history. This is because they use dynamic pricing algorithms, showing different customers different prices based on various factors, such as the device they are using, their location, or spending history. To be fair, these companies are not doing anything illegal. No laws stop them from showing you prices that algorithms predict you’re most likely to accept, and they are for-profit businesses, after all. Plus, it’s not just the travel industry doing this. Did you know Amazon changes product prices  2.5 million times a day? An average product changes prices  every 10 minutes ! 

When you buy paper towels or toothpaste, it may not seem like a big deal to pay an extra few dollars here and there. But when you invest precious vacation time, months of research, and thousands of dollars on a dream trip, don’t you want to ensure you get the best product and value? So how can you confirm that you are booking exceptional accommodations, cruises, or tours? 

Reputable and experienced luxury travel advisors have a keen understanding of the products they recommend to their clients, basing your itinerary on your personality, interests, and budget. No algorithm can replace the power of human connection and a good old-fashioned face-to-face. Luxury travel advisors also have access to contracted rates, value-added amenities (sometimes adding up to hundreds of dollars), and personal relationships that allow them to VIP their clients. After all, they spend years cultivating relationships with hotel owners, general managers, concierges, cruise lines, tour operators, and guides. 

Ultimately, everyone understands that the better a hotel or cruise line treats a travel agency client, the more clients the agency will send them. So while you may visit a particular hotel once or twice in your life, a luxury travel agency may send them hundreds of clients per year. That is, as long as they continue to provide exceptional service.

2. Comprehensive Travel Road-Map

Why use travel agency

A full-service luxury travel agency, and experienced travel advisors will design comprehensive and customized itineraries. They may suggest destinations, tours, activities, and hotel properties you may otherwise have never known existed. For example, perhaps you’re a golfer and have always wanted to experience playing in Scottland. Maybe you want to retrace your roots and spend time tracking down your ancestral home in a tiny village in Europe. Or perhaps you are looking to take a once-in-a-lifetime cruise around the world to celebrate your retirement, but there are just so many options. A reputable travel advisor has the connections and expertise to craft itineraries that work best for you and your family. They will also consider all the necessary logistics and nuances that make a trip successful. 

3. Great Service and VIP Status

luxury travel advisor reddit

When you go the do-it-yourself route, it’s often difficult to coordinate all aspects of your travel. Ensuring you have optimal flight times and connections (long-enough but not too long), orderly hotel reservations, and the necessary documentation to board that dream cruise can be a hassle. A luxury travel advisor can do all the legwork, allowing you to concentrate on preparing for your trip. And because it’s nearly impossible to VIP yourself, leave it up to your advisor to contact hotel management and tell them all about the special occasion you are celebrating and how much they would appreciate you feeling pampered. 

Perhaps most importantly, the services of a good travel advisor become apparent when things go awry. If you miss your connection, get ill while traveling, or need to make last-minute changes, your travel advisor can become your greatest advocate and ally. 

4. Group Travel

Destination Wedding Travel Agency

Are you planning a destination wedding , girl’s trip , corporate retreat , or family reunion? A full-service travel agency can make the process of organizing and streamlining group travel seamless and stress-free. Additionally, they can negotiate contracted rates and value-added amenities on your behalf. Having a group travel coordinator gives everyone peace of mind and ensures that the group’s needs are met.

Additionally, a luxury travel advisor can act as an intermediary and unbiased third party, allowing smoother decision-making, particularly when there are differences of opinion. They can also customize specific components of the trip, allowing each traveler to feel like the itinerary was designed exclusively for them. For example, a multi-generational family traveling together may want to incorporate one or two days where the group separates into smaller segments to accommodate varying interests. 

5. Remote Destinations & Exclusive Experiences 

Exclusive travel experiences

Sometimes you may want to plan a trip to a remote destination that requires significant planning, permits, and connections. Other times you may be looking for an exclusive and hard-to-get experience. Many travel advisors specialize in particular types of travel and have established relationships with industry colleagues worldwide.

Perhaps you dream of having a mother-daughter high-tea with a duchess, getting a behind-the-scenes, after-hours tour of the Louvre museum, or watching an artist restore priceless Renaissance art in Florence. Maybe you want to take a photography expedition cruise to the Arctic with a National Geographic photographer, or you have always wanted to have your children participate in marine research while sailing through the Galapagos. Where would you even begin searching for this, and how much time would it take you? These are the types of experiences a luxury travel advisor will be happy to arrange. 

How To Find a Local Travel Agency and Luxury Travel Advisor

Best Travel Agents

One of the best ways to find a reputable professional is to ask your friends and colleagues. If you see photos of someone taking a fantastic vacation, ask them who they used to book it. If their travel agency is not accepting new clients or is not the right fit for your needs, they may be able to refer you to a colleague. 

Google Local Businesses

A great way to find local businesses is on google, and travel agencies are no exception. Enter keywords in the search bar such as “travel agency near me,” “best travel advisors in Scottsdale Arizona,” or “luxury travel agents near me.” Read reviews carefully and decide whether they sound legitimate. Then check out their website and make sure that it is up-to-date and professional. Reputable local businesses will usually work hard to maintain their standing in the community and respond to both positive and negative online reviews. You should also pay attention to the style of travel the reviewers describe to determine if the type of clients serviced by the agency aligns with your ideal vacation.

While reviewing their website, you should also get a sense of the specialties and style of travel the agency caters to. For example, an agency that promotes highly tailored experiences, high-end tour operators, and luxury cruise lines such as A&K, Seabourn, and Silversea is likely not the right fit for a budget-conscious traveler. On the flip side, an agency that promotes “travel deals,” mass-market cruises, and large group packaged tours may not be a good fit for an ultra-luxury traveler.

ASTA is the American Society of Travel Advisors and “the leading global advocate for travel advisors, the travel industry and the traveling public.” Travel advisors who take the time to join ASTA and pay annual dues take their professional responsibilities seriously and maintain a commitment to servicing their clients with integrity. 

Luxury Travel Consortiums

Many travel agencies belong to a travel consortium such as Virtuoso. These organizations help travel advisors by providing them with essential training, marketing material, and access to vetted suppliers. Joining a consortium requires a travel agency to submit extensive documentation, undergo a stringent interview process, and maintain high professional standards.

Local Chamber of Commerce 

Most cities have a local chamber of commerce that promotes small businesses in their area. As there are strict criteria for admission and annual membership dues, luxury travel agencies who take the time to join a local chamber demonstrate their commitment to their community and professionalism. 

While it’s possible to book travel on your own, why would you want to? After all, the advantages of using a full-service luxury travel agency are limitless.

9 Important Questions To Ask Your Travel Agency or Luxury Travel Advisor Before Hiring Them 

1. Do you carry E&O insurance?  Errors and omissions i.e. E&O insurance is a professional liability policy that covers travel agencies in a variety of situations including coverage for personal injury, negligence, defense costs, and claims against services rendered in the past.

2. Are you part of a consortium and if so which one? Although it is not necessary for a travel agency to belong to a consortium, many memberships offer travel agencies special benefits and amenities that they can pass along to their clients.

3. Are you a member of ASTA? Professional organization membership is an important indicator that the agency is committed to serving its clients in an ethical and professional manner.

4. Which professional certifications do you hold? Just like any other professional industry, travel advisors should hold certifications that demonstrate their expertise. Examples include the ASTA  Verified Travel  Advisor ®  (VTA)  certification program, Signature Travel Expert, and destination or supplier-specific certifications.

5. How many years have you been in business?   Industry experience is invaluable in any field.

6. Are you a full-time travel advisor? Although there are many exceptional travel advisors who may be working on a part-time basis, you want to avoid hiring “hobbyists” who may not prioritize your travel needs or hold themselves to the same professional standards.

7. Do you charge professional fees/service fees? Luxury travel advisors often charge professional fees for their time and expertise. These fees cover the time required to research and propose a comprehensive itinerary and make recommendations based on industry knowledge and experience.

8. What type of clientele do you typically service? If you are looking to plan a corporate event for your executive team in Europe you will want to work with an agency that specializes in European travel for sophisticated clients and has experience working with corporate groups. On the other hand, if you are looking at planning a family-friendly cruise to Alaska you will want to work with an advisor who specializes in family travel and has experience booking cruises. Make sure your travel goals align with the type of services the agency provides.

9. Do you have a team or are you a solo practitioner? If you are working with a solo practitioner ask what happens if your travel dates coincide with theirs? Who takes care of their clients in the event that they fall ill, have a family emergency, or are otherwise unavailable? You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you are traveling and need emergency assistance only to learn your travel advisor is away on a cruise in a remote destination and can’t be reached.

Boutique Travel Advisors is a full-service, luxury travel agency . We specialize in creating  bespoke itineraries  for discerning clients around the world. Please visit our   website   or call 480-787-1477 to speak with a dedicated travel expert. 

Are you planning an international or domestic trip? Check out our other articles to help you come prepared!

We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance to protect your financial investment and health while traveling internationally. To purchase a policy with our preferred travel insurance company Chubb   click here .

At this time, anyone that resides in CA, CO, KS, MN, MO, MT, NH, NY, PA, TX or WA is unable to purchase an insurance policy online. If you would like assistance purchasing a travel insurance policy, please get in touch with a BTA advisor .

About the Author: ANGELA RICE & JANET SEMENOVA

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Hi, It’s been really a nice and interesting piece of content to read and hats off to your collection related to the Boutique Travel Agency . Thanks! for sharing such stuff with us. We are also provide services and blogs related to Unique Travel Experiences, Authentic Travel, Travel Adventure in Miami, FL USA.

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Reading this information will help you find a better travel agency. Thank you for sharing this amazing article. Al Ajr Travels “

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I’ve always wanted to observe safari life up close, so I’m thinking of going on a trip to Kenya this summer. I’m glad you told us that a travel advisor can help provide us with a customized itinerary filled with suggestions for destinations, tours, activities, and hotels we might not have known to exist. I’ll take note of this and consider speaking to a vacation planner before I leave for Kenya this summer.

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We would be happy to help you. Please fill out an inquiry form https://travelbta.com/contact-us/

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I’ve always wanted to get a close-up look at how parks live, so I’m considering visiting Yellowstone this summer. I’m delighted you mentioned that a travel agent may assist in creating a personalized plan for us that includes recommendations for locations, trips, activities, and accommodations we would not have known existed. I’ll remember this and think about consulting a travel and tour company before I fly to the location this summer.

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I now know that although joining a consortium is not required, many memberships provide travel firms with exclusive perks and facilities that they may pass on to their customers. To make our forthcoming trip stress-free and fun, I want to consider obtaining a family vacation planner. With their experience, they can take care of every aspect, from selecting the ideal location and lodgings to organizing activities and crafting a schedule that meets the interests and needs of our entire family, allowing us to unwind and make cherished family memories.

HI Taylor, our team would be delighted to assist you in planning a wonderful family trip.

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I’ve always wanted to see how parks operate up close, so I’m thinking about going to Yellowstone this summer. You indicated that a travel consultant may help create a customized itinerary for us that includes suggestions for destinations, excursions, activities, and lodgings we would not have known existed. I’ll keep this in mind and consider speaking with a travel and tour company before I take a flight to the destination this summer.

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Travel Advisor Resources

How to Become a Luxury Travel Agent: the 2023 Guide

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https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/how-to-become-a-luxury-travel-agent

luxury travel advisor reddit

Luxury travel agent . It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? If you’re someone who has a passion for travel and appreciates the finer things in life, you may be missing your calling. A luxury travel agent plans five-star — and often extravagant, downright epic — trips around the world. 

We’re talking safaris , over-water villas in Bora Bora, the nicest suites in Paris — the works. It sounds glamorous, and it often is, as luxury travel planners frequently get to experience these high-end travel experiences for themselves. There’s also the draw of bigger commission checks, as compared to modestly priced trips ( how do travel agents get paid , anyway?). But there’s far more to being a luxury travel advisor than juicy payouts and sampling the goods. There are impossibly high-maintenance clients, unrealistic expectations and plenty of hoops to jump through. Think you’re cut out for it? We got you.

(Not quite ready to tackle luxury-seeking clients? Learn how to become a travel agent from square one, or, better yet, what is a travel agent? )

First, what counts as “luxury travel?”

When most think of luxury travel , elite properties like Rosewood or Four Seasons in gorgeous places like Monaco or the Maldives tend to come to mind. But there’s more to it than extravagant, amenity-filled hotels in coveted destinations. 

You’ll be planning beyond-ordinary travel experiences (and it’s really fun)

Luxury travel planning tends to include more dimensions than an ordinary booking. Clients may have unorthodox requests, like reserving separate villas for a single couple. They might desire custom excursions, such as an off-the-rails safari through the Serengeti. They could show interest in unique destinations, like chartering a one-off cruise to Antarctica…you get the idea.

Many luxury travelers expect white-glove service

Luxury travelers often want attentive, uncompromising service and have a desire to enjoy extraordinary experiences far removed from everyday life. Some clients may expect their needs to be anticipated, rather than spoken. Itineraries may change on a whim. And frequent follow-ups are often a must (though this may vary by client).

Expectations are high, so knowing how to navigate these particulars is a necessary skill. Don’t assume this is a raw deal, though. Luxury travelers may have heightened expectations, but they’re also willing to pay top dollar for those experiences, which means greater commission. 

Plus, luxury travelers are often looking for extensive itinerary planning (which is billable), and other commissionable services, too, like organizing transportation and special experiences. 

Even so, commissions for smaller-scale luxury trips are nothing to balk at. This is, after all, why many in the industry aspire to become a luxury travel agents.

How to become a luxury travel advisor, step by step

If you’re a travel planner who’s interested in leveling up into the luxury market, read on for our tips on how to become a luxury travel agent. Or, if you're ready to dive in today, sign up to become a Fora Advisor .

Start with the basics of travel planning

If you haven’t booked travel before, you may not want to start with elite hotels, resort buyouts and organizing luxe itineraries. Instead, it may be helpful to start with ordinary bookings and trips, and then work your way up. This way, you can build your confidence and experience in a lower-stakes setting so that you’ll be well prepared for luxury travel planning in due time.

And if it’s all new, Fora can teach you everything about becoming an independent travel agent . We offer comprehensive travel agent training on everything from the basics to hyper-niche destination planning — plus endless support.

Become a luxury connoisseur

luxury travel advisor reddit

Luxury travel is one of the most exclusive subsets of an already exclusive industry. Five-star hotels and high-end suppliers (like tour companies) cater to the one-percent, which means most of us will never experience travel at the crème de la crème level.

But in order to become a luxury travel agent, you must be acquainted with the product. No, you don’t have to fork over thousands of dollars to stay at luxury hotels in order to compare them. However, you should make an effort to learn about the luxury travel industry by doing research, leveraging your fellow advisors’ expertise and poking your head into five-star hotels when you can.

Developing your eye for luxury is an important step in earning your chops as a travel connoisseur, so you can consult with your clients as they decide between the best of the best.

Develop your high-touch service skills

luxury travel advisor reddit

Knowing about luxury travel is one thing, but booking it is a whole different beast. Because clients are paying five-star prices, they are expecting five-star service — and that white-glove customer experience begins and ends with you.

As a high-end concierge or personal assistant would, luxury travel agents do their due diligence in getting to know their clients and catering to their unique needs and travel preferences. When advising on a destination or specific hotel, demonstrate your thorough research, paint an enticing picture and be sure to highlight specific details in line with their tastes.

… including razor-sharp attention to detail

luxury travel advisor reddit

The devil is in the details when it comes to being a luxury travel agent. In addition to providing a highly personalized service experience, it’s crucial to ensure accuracy when dealing with reservations, transportation and other logistics. 

When working with hotels, be sure to communicate early and often to ensure your clients are treated like VIPs. For luxury travelers, little details like a personalized welcome gift go a long way. (By the way, we have access to perks at the world’s top high-end properties that you can offer your clients). But missing a little detail — like an early hotel check-in — will not be treated lightly.

Rely on your fellow advisors (and choose your agency wisely!)

luxury travel advisor reddit

Unless you’re an experienced globetrotter, you can’t know everything when it comes to luxury travel. 

If a client is looking to you for advice on a destination you know little about, leverage your fellow travel agents. At Fora, our team of experienced industry insiders (many of whom are luxury travel advisors in their own right) knows the ins and outs of luxury travel planning worldwide, so you’ll never be taking a shot in the dark.

For context: if you work at a boutique travel agency, you may have fewer resources. Alternatively, agents at a larger, high-end travel agency often gate-keep information (new agents are often viewed as competition), making it tricky to plan trips you’re unfamiliar with. Learning how to become a luxury travel advisor is as much about making connections as it is planning travel.

Market yourself, but remember: referrals are your best friend

luxury travel advisor reddit

You’ve studied up on luxury, refined your sales skills and done your research — now what? 

First, market yourself as a luxury travel agent . At Fora, we offer content marketing tools and resources to help you look super professional and curate your expertise to skew luxury. But becoming a luxury travel agent largely relies on your first luxury client. 

To get your first client, leverage your personal network. Do you know anyone planning a honeymoon? This is often the first (and only!) luxury vacation people take, so consider offering to plan a friend’s. And when all goes well, request they share your name with their network, and so on.

Identify a niche (at least to start)

Specializing in something specific can be a good way to get your foot in the door as a travel advisor. 

You could focus on booking luxury cruises, for example, then slowly branch out as your clients’ needs inevitably change. Not many people only go on cruises, right? Your clients’ subsequent vacations can serve as opportunities to expand your services.

(Also check out how to become a cruise travel agent .)

Set yourself up for success with a host agency that takes care of the nitty gritty

luxury travel advisor reddit

Ready to get started becoming a luxury travel agent? You’ll need a host agency that gets it. 

Enter Fora. We’ll ensure you thrive each step of the way — from your first booking to your 1,000th — and arm you with the tools you need to launch your luxury travel business. You’ll get access to our technology (like our  integrated booking platform ) and community of luxury travel experts. Plus, we handle all the logistics, like chasing commissions, invoicing hotels and getting you your payments, so you can focus on what you know and love: planning trips. 

We have a community-based learning model at Fora. You'll learn how to become a luxury travel agent online alongside fellow advisors and we'll support you through your first booking to the 1,000th and beyond. 

Sign up to take the first steps today to become a travel advisor — and check out our tips on how to be a successful travel advisor .

Want to know how to become a luxury travel advisor? Here’s the bottom line...

There’s a lot to love about being a luxury travel agent, and with Fora on your side, you get all the support, training and community you need.

And if you’re looking for more intel? Check out resources on other types of travel agent careers:

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home

How Much Do Travel Agents Make Per Booking?  

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

Travel Agent Certification: Options and FAQs

Ready to start your own high-end travel business? Take the first steps to become a travel advisor today.

Eager to learn more? Download our guide on how to turn your passion for travel into $$$.

Are you the go-to person for travel tips?

Transform your passion for travel into your dream job. We'll set you up with everything you need to succeed as a travel advisor. From training to top-notch tech, marketing assets, community, commission tracking & payments (and more), we've got you.

How (and Why) to Become a Luxury Travel Advisor

Are you ready for a career change want to become a luxury travel advisor.

Imagine bringing these moments to life!

Travel Advisor Careers – Why Become an Advisor?

Many people enjoy working directly with clients, and even more of us have a passion for travel, whether if it’s around the globe or in our own backyard. Why not work in a field that combines the two?

There are plenty of benefits to becoming a Luxury Travel Advisor – even in these unprecedented times! Here’s a quick look at some of the most prevalent ones:

  • You are your own boss – something we’re all striving towards
  • How you work
  • When you work
  • Where you work from
  • You make a tangible difference in helping people fulfill their dreams
  • There is an endless supply of free training to improve your abilities
  • You get to TRAVEL – as part of your job!
  • Perhaps most importantly – The earning potential is unlimited!

This is a career that ticks all the boxes: you get to work in an emerging, engaging field with strong human elements and constant opportunities for growth. Think about how many people plan travels on their own time – as a Travel Advisor, that’s what you’ll be paid to do!

Another huge benefit of becoming a Travel Advisor is that it’s a career anyone can pursue – regardless of your past work expertise or available time. We know successful Advisors with backgrounds in law and medicine, and those who have raised children as a full-time job. It’s also a job where you can learn and work at your own pace; if your schedule only allows for a few hours a week, that’s a few hours of productive learning and earning! There is plenty of opportunity for anyone who is willing to learn the business.

Owner’s Cottage at Matakauri Lodge, one of The Luxury Travel Agency’s favourites!

How To Become a Luxury Travel Advisor: Necessary Qualities

As with any career, becoming a successful travel advisor requires certain traits and skills. Maybe you plan to develop them, or perhaps you already have them; regardless, to get anywhere in this business, you’ve got to offer your clients the following qualities:

  • Passion for all things travel
  • Excellent client care & interaction skills
  • Desire to learn and master your product
  • High EQ – connection with clients is invaluable
  • Well-honed problem-solving skills
  • Creativity & Imagination
  • Strong work ethic – travel advising is no 9-5 gig!

Every successful travel advisor is comprised of a different mix of characteristics, but all share these foundational qualities. This is a business where your success relies on your ability to bring a vision to life, and see it through to completion – something that can’t be done without all the above!

Aman Tokyo, a Hotel Partner of The Luxury Travel Agency

How To Become a Luxury Travel Advisor : Selling Travel

What is the most effective way to sell someone a product or service? As anyone who remembers the “pen scene” from The Wolf of Wall Street knows: to fill a need. Some needs are easier to understand than others; people need food, they need housing, and these things enjoy a simpler relationship between producers and consumers. Travel is different – because in a strict sense, no one needs travel. And yet, travel & tourism is one of (if not the ) largest non-need industries in the world.

This tells us two things: one, that there is such a demand for travel as to have it nearly reach the level of need for many consumers; and two, that those consumers are willing to spend large amounts of money on its pursuit. Traveling well – and in the luxury travel industry, the entire goal is traveling well – comes at a cost. Yet it’s clear that there are consumers who are willing to spend the money.

The crucial formula that arises is this: identifying the right kinds of clients, inspiring them to pursue their travel dreams, and implementing your knowledge, passion, and resources in order to bring those dreams to life.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, a Hotel Partner of The Luxury Travel Agency

How To Become a Luxury Travel Advisor : Identifying Clients

Before you can identify the right clients, you have to identify your niche as a Travel Advisor. In this era of specialization, it’s better to become an expert in one thing than to know just a little about all of them.

Combine your pre-existing knowledge with your passions, and see where that leads. Are you a hopeless romantic? Honeymoons are a fantastic niche to thrive in. If you’ve enjoyed traveling with your own family through the years, perhaps multi-generational travel is for you. You can be destination-specific – Italy, Japan, New Zealand – anywhere that enjoys a strong tourism component is a great place to start.

Finding your niche will allow you to position yourself in a way that will both attract and (more importantly) keep the right kind of clients. The more you learn about the workings of your niche, the better you’ll be able to understand what the consumers who are interested in that niche want – and how to give it to them.

Who knew going on safari could be so luxurious?

How To Become a Luxury Travel Advisor : Inspiring Dreams

At The Luxury Travel Agency, we often find that the best Travel Advisors are those who can tell a story, or paint a picture – metaphorically speaking. Since travel is a non-need industry, you cannot just wait for the consumer to come to you and lay out exactly what they require; those kinds of clients are most likely planning their own trips! People will often say that they come to Travel Advisors for assistance – which is true – but what they are really looking for is inspiration.

It is often said that decisions may be based on “hard data” such as knowledge and facts – but feelings are what trigger decisions. Your prospective client will surely take costs into account when making their decision between two far-flung tropical properties…yet if it weren’t for your ability to describe these properties as everything they are and could be, “idyllic havens of postcard-perfect luxury, every whim catered for, the finest jewels the world has to offer, etc.”, then perhaps they would not be making the decision in the first place – they would be staying at home!

You can only inspire a client by first getting to know them. This is true in every professional sales field, but especially so in travel. Every client has a different vision for their trip, different goals and preferences, and understanding not just these but the client’s very character is absolutely essential. In the luxury field, a travel advisor is expected to design a custom-built trip for their client; just as a top-notch tailor makes every piece unique for its buyer, so must you understand your buyer in order to design their journey.

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Hotel Partner of The Luxury Travel Agency

How To Become a Luxury Travel Advisor :  Implementing Knowledge

  Once you have a plan sketched out for a client, it’s time to put it in place! For any perfect trip, this requires a great deal of effort, and the aforementioned “necessary qualities” will be put to the test. You must be diligent in pursuing those things your clients need, and flexible enough to solve problems when they arise. A client’s requests will often shift or multiply through the course of planning a journey, and continually meeting (or, of course, exceeding) their expectations is a must.

We’ve mentioned the ability for constant growth as a Travel Advisor – the more knowledge you gain, the more connections you make, the better you’ll be able to plan exquisite journeys for your clients, which of course leads to more clients and more earnings! But how to start out on this path? What does one need to get the ball rolling on such a career?

Just another place for you to take your clients!

How To Become a Luxury Travel Advisor :  How to Get Started

As we’ve mentioned, getting started as a Travel Advisor is easy, which is one of the big attractions for those considering the position. You don’t need a specific background, degree, or even prior experience!

However, reaching the heights of success you’re surely seeking as an independent Travel Advisor is difficult without the partnership of a Host Agency. This agency will be able to provide you access to important contacts at the world’s best properties, airlines, tour operators, restaurants, and many more besides. You’ll also be able to offer your clients (via the partnership) exclusive benefits and amenities on their bookings that you wouldn’t be able to provide on your own. Having guidance and support is also a critical element; no industry is easy to make a name in without a little assistance!

Selecting The Luxury Travel Agency as your Host Agency makes all of this possible. We (the founders and your direct contacts with the Agency ) have been to over 90 countries and countless cities, islands, and villages. We started the business from scratch, with no support, and worked our way up to where we are today; we know what it takes to be successful!

The Luxury Travel Agency is partnered with over 2,000 of the best hotels and resorts around the world, where we can provide our clients with an array of these aforementioned amenities, benefits, and VIP status. We are members of Virtuoso, the most respected consortium in the industry, which carries a ton of weight worldwide.

We have connections around the world that can help with the planning and execution of your trips, and our company is well respected in the industry. Our brand lets your clients and prospective clients know exactly who you are and who you work with and builds their expectations of what they will receive. Plus, we’ll help with your marketing and are always here to assist with all facets of training and mentorship.  Our goal is to help you succeed!

🌟 Why Wait? Your Dream Career Awaits! 🌟

  • Be Your Own Boss : Embrace the freedom to shape your career and lifestyle.
  • Unlimited Earnings : Your hard work directly impacts your income.
  • Travel the World : Explore exotic destinations as part of your job.
  • Training & Support : Benefit from personalized training and mentorship from industry experts at The Luxury Travel Agency.
  • No Experience Necessary : Regardless of your background, we welcome you to learn and grow with us.

Complete our Becoming a Luxury Travel Advisor survey and we’ll be in touch within 24 hours. 

We look forward to hearing from you,

Andrew Satkowiak

Executive Vice President

🌟 The Luxury Travel Agency: Where Your Travel Dreams Become Your Career Reality! 🌟

Travel Notes is a thoughtfully researched luxury travel blog written by our team of expert advisors. We’ve travelled to all corners of the world and here we share our experiences. Interested in learning more? Give us a call or sign up below.

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Book a hotel

luxury travel advisor reddit

We all dream of traveling to far-flung destinations and staying at ultraluxe hotels, but nobody likes to break his/her wallet on a holiday. When booking a room at a luxury hotel, you will have to choose whether you want the cheapest price for that room, or whether you want to pay more for enjoying extra perks and/or flexibility. I hereby present you my tips for saving money and getting the best deal at a luxury hotel.

Think I forgot one? Share your own travel tips in the comments section  or take my poll below.

  • Inspiration for finding the right hotel
  • Tips for when to book
  • Tips for booking a room at the cheapest rate
  • Tips for booking a room with (complimentary) extra perks
  • Tips for staying for free at luxury hotels

INSPIRATION FOR FINDING THE RIGHT HOTEL

  • Be inspired by my luxury travel blog . Every week, I post  top 10 travel lists  and  reviews of luxury hotels . You can subscribe to my  newsletter  (3x/week) and/or follow me on  Facebook , Twitter  and  Instagram . Each Saturday, I also publish a full tour of a luxury hotel on my popular Youtube channel .
  • Visit  Kiwi Collection , a great website featuring the finest luxury hotels in the world.
  • Read travel magazines, such as the  Conde Nast Traveler  and  Travel&Leisure .
  • Read  Tripadvisor  reviews.
  • Read  Flyertalk  reviews (google the name of the hotel + flyertalk).
  • Watch Youtube clips of hotels (you can find some examples on my Youtube Channel ).

TIPS FOR WHEN TO BOOK:

  • D o not book too late  as the top luxury hotels will often sell out months in advance. Do not count on a last-minute deal (which are not offered by most top hotels anyway).
  • When you want to save some bucks,  travel in the shoulder season  (e.g. summer months for the Caribbean, autumn months for the Maldives), but try to avoid the worst months weather-wise as you may find yourself very disappointed despite the fact that you saved a lot of money!

TIPS FOR BOOKING A ROOM AT THE LOWEST PRICE

  • Most of the time, the lowest room rate can be found on the  aggregator websites  Trivago  and Hotelscombined . These aggregators verify hotel prices at hundreds of other hotel booking sites (e.g.  Expedia ,  Booking.com , Hotels.com , Otel.com , Hotelopia.com , Ebookers, etc…) and show where you can book the cheapest rate. Try it out for yourself here:
  • The member-only websites  Jetsetter  and  Secret Escapes  (which do not feature on aggregator websites) negotiate temporary, special rates with some of the world’s finest hotels, which can represent a discount of up to 60% (room only or room with breakfast).  Membership is free and without hassle (just submit your name and email address). Sign up for the Jetsetter, Secret Escapes and Vacationist newsletters, so that you stay updated about their temporary offers. Read here  why I love Jetsetter so much, and here why I am a fan of Secret Escapes.
  • Always compare the price that you found on aggregator or member-only websites with the one featured on the official   hotel website  to make sure that it is the best price indeed. Do not forget to click the “special offers” section that is present on most hotel websites (and which an save you lots of money).
  • If you find elsewhere a lower price than the one offered on the hotel website, make us of a  Best Rate Guarantee . Not only will the lower room rate be matched, you will often receive an additional discount as well (of up to 25%)!
  • Make use of  discount coupons  that you can find anywhere on the internet (google the website of hotel name + coupon). For example,  Hotels.com  is one of my prefered hotel booking websites that regularly sends out 10% discount coupons by email (albeit not for the big hotel chains though).
  • Except when staying at one of the big hotel chains (Starwood, Hyatt, IHG, Marriott, Hilton), I always try to book my hotel stays through the website Hotels.com  and you can read  here  why. In a nutshell: Hotels.com  is not only very generous in matching the best price that you may have found on another websites, but you also collect credits towards free hotel stays and they have always have discount coupons on offer.
  • Sign-up for the  newsletters  of your preferred hotel (chains) or booking website. They often email coupons or advanced notifications when they’re having a sale.
  • Stay for free by using hotels points and credits that you collected in a  hotel loyalty program   (albeit very few of the top luxury hotel chains offer that option though). Click here  for more info.
  • Stay for free or at a highly discounted rate by keeping an eye out for  erroneous rates  on this  Flyertalk post .

TIPS FOR BOOKING A ROOM WITH (FREE) EXTRA PERKS

  • Some of the  world’s most exclusive hotel brands (e.g.  Aman resorts ) will only display the best rates on their official hotel website (so do not waste your time trying to find a lower price on an aggregator or member-only website as you won’t find one).
  • Check the  hotel website  directly for packages that include extra perks like spa credits, breakfast, or complimentary nights.
  • Absurdly, when booking a room at a top luxury hotel, it is sometimes advised not to book it directly on the hotel website, but rather through a Virtuoso  travel advisor. Not only will they create unique journeys and explorations in every corner of the globe, but more importantly, you will also get free access to special amenities and receive complimentary perks (e.g. upgrades, dinners, etc …) which is not the case when you book the same rate via the hotel directly. All hotels were you can enjoy the Virtuoso extra perks are listed on their website . If you are an Aman junkie, like me, then Virtuoso is the only way to book your stay. Read here why I love Virtuoso so much. My preferred Virtuoso travel agency is Classic Travel , not only because of their excellent service, but also because they have an online booking tool.

luxury travel advisor reddit

  • Holders of an  American Express premium  or  Visa Signature   credit card  can also benefit from extra perks when they make the booking via their credit card travel office and/or pay with their credit card. Contact your local credit card company to find out whether they offer this travel service.
  • Elite members of hotel loyalty programs  will receive several benefits during their stay, ranging from late check-out and complimentary WiFi to suite upgrades and breakfast. Click here  for more info.
  • Elite members of  Cathay Pacific ‘s frequent flyer program ( Marco Polo Club ) are entitled to special benefits (e.g. early check in, late check out, room upgrade, complimentary breakfast) with partners such as Hilton, Hyatt, Fairmont, Marriott, Langham, Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, Swissotel, Peninsula, Swire and Ritz-Carlton. While some of these deals only apply to hotels or rentals in the Asia-Pacific region, others do not; the Mandarin Oriental benefit is applicable worldwide, for example.

TIPS FOR STAYING FOR FREE AT A LUXURY HOTEL

You can always try your luck to score a complimentary stay at a luxury hotel by reading my  tips for getting free hotel nights .

  • Inspiration : this website + the Kiwi Collection.
  • When money is an issue : book outside the high season.
  • Cheapest room rate : mostly found on  Hotelscombined , Trivago , and/or the official hotel website. Always check all 3 of them.
  • Best Rate Guarantee : match a lower rate and receive an additional discount.
  • Free extra perks : book a package on the hotel website, through a Virtuoso travel agent, or via your credit card travel office.
  • Complimentary stay : subscribe to of a (hotel) loyalty program.
  • My preferred hotel booking websites :  Hotels.com ,  Jetsetter  and  Classic Travel .

*** Follow me on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and Facebook  for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

JADE MOUNTAIN, ST LUCIA

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11 Comments

lovelyyy. for villa n apartments plz visit http://hotelalternate.com/

Booking a hotel is not a big task, these days….. But what sort of hotel you want to check in and what is your budget affordability that matters on the first priority.

I went through the whole post above and trust me I found it pretty informative and helpful.

I am sure many people will able to book a better hotel on their respective budget at the place where they want to send their vacation.

Thank you so much for sharing this post here with us!!

try http://www.luxuryescapes.com for great hotel packages, a little like secretescapes but more defined content

My wife and I love to travel, but it can be expensive. So, I appreciate your tips for booking a hotel at a lawyer price. I’m definitely going to try and use the websites you mentioned to compare prices so that I can get the lowest one possible.

No doubt, this blog is really helpful for the people who are travel lovers. However, the problem to these people is the high expenses of staying and other travel accommodations. Definitely, this is very beneficial for them to save their hotel charges. But, I want to tell you something about Goflyla. Goflyla is an emerging website in world, so you can also try Goflyla for booking hotels and other travel requirements at lower rates as we have the best travel partners. Hotels.com is one of them which offers the various Hotels com discount code to help its users to find the affordable hotels with great services.

There are ample of options available to book hotels in cheap prices but from my point of view the best way to book hotels through mobile devices is by downloading different travelling apps which you can compare each of them in respect to their prices and their services too.

I love your tips for booking a hotel. It makes sense that it’s smart to compare prices found on a third party site to the official hotel’s sight. I’ve never thought about that before! My wife and I want to travel this summer, so we’ll definitely remember that.

Nice tips, thanks. What’s your opinion on booking flight and hotel separately, ot in a package that many travel booking sites offer? Thanks

I found it helpful when you explained that it can be a good idea to use discount coupons when booking a hotel. My wife and I are wanting to take a short road trip to visit her sister for a couple of days. We were thinking it would be a good idea for us to stay in a hotel one night, so these tips you shared will be very helpful to us.

Thanks for this overview – for flights I use http://www.skyscanner.com which is pretty easy to use and gives a lot of options. For hotels I use http://www.privateupgrades.com which is a alternative to FHR with better customer support. Hope the crisis is over soon and we can read many more of your helpful reviews soon!

I use https://www.getaroom.co.uk which has a great range of hotels, apartment and holiday rentals plus a clever price checker which keeps an eye on prices for you.

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COMMENTS

  1. Luxury Travel: How the 1% Travel

    Hey Reddit - We are dearching for an overwater or unique hotel experience for 6-9 nights to kickoff an extended honeymoon in August and would love any advice and recommendations. ... I need to start by saying I am a Luxury Travel Advisor but also consider myself a points expert. Personally I typically use CC points to book the best biz/first ...

  2. IamA Luxury Travel Advisor specialising in personalised luxury ...

    I work with the world's largest luxury travel supplier, Virtuoso, and through my host agency, Zebrano (a Virtuoso affiliate), help clients have the perfect holiday. Within Asia, I am very well travelled, and outside of Asia, I use my extensive network in creating the perfect itinerary.

  3. I am a Luxury Travel Agent that books travel for the Ultra ...

    AMA. I am a Luxury Travel Agent with a very large travel agency that books hotels starting at $2500 a night, only first class tickets and jets, and are one of the few agents left in the world still making money. My host agency announced they were closing all their offices, possibly for good, due to the telework nature of our jobs.

  4. Is Luxury Travel Worth It? : r/travel

    No. Travel is about where you go, as in the destination. I can go to New York, Paris or wherever for X amount of money. If I choose, I can fly first class and stay at the nicest hotels. However, the core experiences will be the same, but it will cost several times as much.

  5. Host agency for luxury… is OA ok for luxury? : r/travelagents

    THEN 2. the commission split. FORA takes 30% and OA takes 20% (both better with more volume). An ancillary thing to take note of is the perks each network offers. FORA / Virtuoso offers perks for clients that are more in line with "luxury". Think of things like including breakfast at resorts, resort credits, etc.

  6. Luxury travel advisors are real? : r/Entrepreneur

    Luxury travel advisors are real? Saw a "program" from a luxury travel agency, if you take their program, which is like $2k, then you can pay to get leads from them or just secure your own. Luxury travel leads, who spend $10k+, and you make thousands in commissions from each trip.

  7. Complete Guide for How To Become a Luxury Travel Adviser

    Becoming a luxury travel adviser can be a straightforward and effective process if you follow a couple of steps. Here's a step-by-step guide that you can use to help guide you in the right direction of becoming a luxury travel adviser: 1. Select a specific niche. Most travel professionals consider luxury travel to be a niche in the industry ...

  8. Why You Should Invest in a Luxury Travel Advisor

    An experienced luxury travel advisor acts as a travel consultant and financial steward for clients. Through open dialogue and a deep understanding of clients' aspirations, values, and budget realities, they craft customized travel recommendations that align with clients' long-term financial pictures and life goals without undue strain on finances.

  9. Travelers of Reddit, what are some luxury traveling tips to share?

    There's an official "Star" system for Hotels in some countries (E.g., France, Italy). If you're looking for "Luxury", don't go below 4. If you travel to Disney World, the Contemporary is probably the best bang for you buck in the "Deluxe" level hotels. That's relative, it costs ~$600 a night.

  10. Unveiling the Magic: What Does a Luxury Travel Advisor Do?

    A luxury travel advisor is more than just an individual who books your flights and accommodations. They are professional consultants who specialize in creating personalized, high-end travel experiences for their clients. They have extensive knowledge about various destinations, exclusive resorts, premium airlines, and other luxury services.

  11. Is a Travel Agent Still Worth It? The Pros & Cons

    A travel agent handles every detail of your vacation itinerary. "The traveler still gets to be involved in the fun part of dreaming up ideas and providing their travel wishes, while we take and ...

  12. Dream Job: How To Become A Luxury Travel Advisor

    Here are some of the top tips I gathered. In the end, the #1 thing you are selling is yourself. 1. Have a Passion for Travel as a Lifestyle: I kept hearing variations on this, like "If you don ...

  13. How (and Why) to Become a Luxury Travel Adviser

    Becoming a Luxury Travel Adviser: Fostering Dreams. At The Luxury Travel Agency, we've discovered that the most exceptional Travel Advisers possess the ability to weave captivating narratives and paint vivid mental pictures for their clients. In an industry where travel is not a necessity, waiting for clients to outline their exact needs won ...

  14. 5 Reasons to Use a Luxury Travel Advisor & How To Find The Best Travel

    Anytime we make significant investments, it is prudent to rely on the advice and wisdom of an expert. Here are five reasons you should contact a professional travel agency or hire a luxury travel advisor for your next big trip. 1. Expertise - "You don't know what you don't know".

  15. World's Best Luxury Travel Advisors and Hotels

    The world's top travel advisors, the brands you know, and the perks and peace of mind you won't find anywhere else. For close-to-home escapes or far-flung trips of a lifetime, a Virtuoso advisor is your resource for the insight you need to plan a safe, successful, and unforgettable vacation. Connect with the perfect travel advisor for you now.

  16. A View on 2022: Luxury Travel Roundtable

    A View on 2022: Luxury Travel Roundtable. By Ruthanne Terrero Apr 12, 2022 10:00am. Running a Luxury Travel Agency Travel Industry Roundtables Luxury Travel Trends Ukraine. Ted Bradpiece (Explorer Travel Services) Luxury Travel Advisor recently gathered several travel advisors together on a virtual call to garner their insights on current ...

  17. How to Become a Luxury Travel Agent: the 2023 Guide

    First, market yourself as a luxury travel agent. At Fora, we offer content marketing tools and resources to help you look super professional and curate your expertise to skew luxury. But becoming a luxury travel agent largely relies on your first luxury client. To get your first client, leverage your personal network.

  18. How (and Why) to Become a Luxury Travel Advisor

    As with any career, becoming a successful travel advisor requires certain traits and skills. Maybe you plan to develop them, or perhaps you already have them; regardless, to get anywhere in this business, you've got to offer your clients the following qualities: Passion for all things travel. Excellent client care & interaction skills.

  19. Abercrombie & Kent

    Abercrombie Kent is an award winning luxury travel company, offering luxury vacations, private tours and small group adventures worldwide. 800 554 7016. ... Sat 9-1 CT or speak to your travel advisor Email Signup Contact; Agent Login; 800 554 7016 M-F 8-6, Sat 9-1 CT or speak to your travel advisor

  20. Book a hotel

    Always check all 3 of them. Best Rate Guarantee: match a lower rate and receive an additional discount. Free extra perks: book a package on the hotel website, through a Virtuoso travel agent, or via your credit card travel office. Complimentary stay: subscribe to of a (hotel) loyalty program.

  21. Trancoso: Brazil's Best Hidden Beach Town

    The originally hippie heavens of Goa, Thailand and Bali are overrun with smoothie-slurping yoga nuts or digital nomads trying to launch an IPO-worthy company. Trancoso feels like discovering Goa in the 1960s - a secret to be whispered round a fire and drawn on an old-school map. Shevlin has lived here on and off for 13 years.

  22. St. Regis La Bahia Blanca Resort, Tamuda Bay Debuts in Morocco

    The St. Regis La Bahia Blanca Resort, Tamuda Bay offers 83 guestrooms and 17 suites, all with a private balcony facing the Mediterranean Sea, including an 1,800 square-foot Presidential Suite. All guests will enjoy the signature St. Regis Butler Service. The luxury resort's culinary offerings include Baie Blanche Brasserie, a contemporary ...

  23. USA Today Report Calls Travel Agencies "Ponzi ...

    In the article, it highlighted three companies in particular: BookIt.com and two educational tour companies, Nawas Travel and EF Tours. These companies were among the three most named in complaints sent to the Federal Trade Commission regarding travel-related scams. Overall, there were 24,000 such complaints on file as it pertained to COVID-19.