Good to know
Questions, answered.
The honest version. If your question isn’t here, call June — that’s rather the point of working with a human.
Fees
How do your planning fees work?
We charge a flat planning fee that compensates the research, supplier relationships, and design behind a custom trip — from $350 for a focused getaway to $1,500+ for a complex multi-country journey. The fee is partially or fully credited toward your trip when you book through us, per your engagement letter. Fees are earned once design work begins and are non-refundable.
Will a trip cost more than booking it myself?
Usually not. We work at supplier rates and often add value — room upgrades, resort credits, breakfast — at no extra cost through Virtuoso. Avoiding a single costly mistake frequently covers the planning fee. That said, prices are subject to availability and change until ticketed or confirmed.
Working together
What exactly does a travel advisor do?
We design a custom itinerary around how you travel, book every component, layer in VIP amenities through our Virtuoso affiliation, hand you a confirmed day-by-day itinerary, and stay on a 24/7 line while you’re on the road. Think of us as a consultant, concierge, and advocate in one — the opposite of a search bar.
Do I have to be in Charleston to work with you?
Not at all. We’re based in Charleston, South Carolina, but most clients work with us entirely remotely — discovery calls by video, itineraries in your secure trip portal, and our concierge a phone call away wherever you are in the world.
Credentials
What is Virtuoso, and why does it matter?
Virtuoso is an invitation-only network of the world’s top travel advisors and 2,300+ luxury hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators. Our affiliation means we can secure VIP amenities and upgrades you can’t get booking direct — typically free room upgrades, daily breakfast, a property credit, and early check-in / late check-out.
Protection
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend it on every trip and require it for remote or expedition travel. A good policy covers trip cancellation, interruption, medical emergencies, and evacuation. We’ll always explain your options and what a policy does and does not cover, but we are not insurers and the final choice is yours.
Logistics
Do you handle visas, vaccinations, and entry rules?
We advise on visa, passport-validity, and health requirements for your destinations and flag the timelines, but official requirements change and the responsibility to meet them is ultimately yours. For medical questions we’ll point you to a travel-health clinic.
How far in advance should I plan?
The sweet spot is 6–12 months out for peak-season or complex trips (safaris, holidays, expedition cruises), and 3–6 months for most others. We do take on shorter-lead trips when our calendar allows — just ask.