Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful details before we start planning.
Working with a travel advisor should feel clear and straightforward. Here are answers to the most common questions — and if you don’t see yours, just ask.
Working with Michelle
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Anyone can click “book now.” I design travel that feels seamless from the moment you leave home to the final day of your trip.
The right hotel.
The right room category.
The right pacing.
The right experiences.Every decision is intentional — because thoughtful travel isn’t about more, it’s about choosing well.
You show up. I’ve already handled the rest.
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We start with a conversation about your trip — your priorities, preferences, comfort level, and vision.
From there, I curate options, refine the plan with you, and manage the details through booking and travel. You have guidance, clarity, and support throughout the process.
Booking Details
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I can often complete a “takeover booking,” meaning I’m added as the agent of record so you can still receive preferred partner perks and support.
No additional cost — just added value.
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Absolutely. Many clients come with ideas, not a finished plan. I can help refine destinations, timing, and overall trip direction based on your goals and travel style.
Pricing & Payment
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Most of my income comes from commissions paid by hotels, cruise lines, and travel partners after you travel — not from increasing your trip cost.
In many cases, you’ll receive added benefits like upgrades, amenities, and perks at the same publicly available rate.
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Hotel bookings alone are complimentary.
Planning fees apply only when designing custom itineraries because they reflect the time, research, coordination, and personalized attention required to build a seamless trip tailored entirely to you.
Comprehensive trip design is a dedicated service — and worth every detail.
Flights & Accomodations
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Yes — I arrange premium economy, business, and first-class flights, as well as private aviation.
Economy flights may also be included when packaged with a resort stay, cruise, or full itinerary. If air travel is part of your trip, I help identify the most seamless options.
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I don’t book directly through Airbnb or VRBO. Instead, I work with trusted villa and private residence partners offering vetted homes with professional management and local support.
You get the privacy of a home with the reliability and service of a professionally supported stay.
Using a Travel Advisor VS Booking Online
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Those platforms can be helpful for browsing options, but they don’t replace a thoughtful strategy, preferred partnerships, or personalized guidance.
I don’t just generate options — I curate the right ones.
The right hotel.
The right room category.
The right pacing.And if something shifts before or during your trip, you have a real person in your corner — not a customer service queue.
Technology is a tool.
Personal expertise is the difference. -
Hotel bookings alone are complimentary.
Planning fees apply when designing custom itineraries because they reflect the time, research, coordination, and personalized attention required to build a seamless trip tailored entirely to you.
Comprehensive trip design is a dedicated service — and worth every detail.
