6 Things I’ve Learned in My 6 Years as a Travel Advisor

Six years.

Hundreds of trips.

Thousands of questions, emails, travel alerts and happy vacation photos.

I've learned so many lessons that have helped me refine how I serve my clients and ensure their experiences are smooth, meaningful, and stress-free. Here are just a few, and I hope they’ll give you a little glimpse into how I approach planning and why working with a travel advisor makes a difference.

1.  Flexibility Beats Perfection

Even with the best preparation, flights get delayed, weather changes, and life throws curveballs. One of the first things I learned is to build flexibility into every itinerary.  Downtime.  A buffer time between flights.  Travel insurance that actually protects you.

Takeaway: A great itinerary isn’t rigid. It handles real life without spiraling into chaos.

2.  Convenience Is The Ultimate Luxury

Sure, you can take the 3-stop flight with a 5-hour layover to save $80. But most travelers would rather arrive fed, rested and ready for adventure. Private transfers, skip-the-line tickets, luggage services and the right room category matter.

Takeaway: Time and energy are valuable vacation currency. Protect them.

3.  Details Make The Memories

The little things matter.  Finding a special meal experience.  Arranging a private airport transfer.  Knowing where the unique local experiences are.  These thoughtful touches are what you remember and appreciate the most.

Takeaway: The destination can be great.   The details make it unforgettable.

4.  Price and Value Are NOT The Same Thing

A cheap resort with terrible food and long shuttle lines is not a win. The lowest-cost cruise cabin under the nightclub is a loud life lesson. I look beyond the price tag and explain the pros and cons, so you can make the best choice for your vacation. I’m not here to make you spend more than your budget. I’m here to make sure your money goes as far as possible while enhancing your experience.

Takeaway: Never sacrifice the trip you want for a few dollars you’ll forget you saved.

5.  Clear Communication Means Everything

“Beachfront” and “oceanview” are not the same. “Walkable” for one person is a marathon for another. The more I understand what matters to you, the easier it is to avoid disappointments and elevate the win moments.

Takeaway: Tell me what you love, what you hate. I’m listening.

6.  Travel Makes Life Bigger

One message shows up over and over in my clients’ feedback. The memories are what stick. Laughing with your kids in a lazy river. Sharing gelato in the streets of Rome. Watching a sunset from the deck of a ship with someone you love.

Takeaway: Experiences are the souvenirs that get better with time.

Thank you for six years of trust, referrals, photos, and “this was the best trip ever” messages. I can’t wait to see what we plan next.

Where are we going? Email me today to start planning!