FAQs
It starts with a conversation — I want to understand how you travel, what excites you, and what you want this particular trip to feel like. From there, I handle all the research, design, and logistics. You'll receive a custom itinerary built from scratch, and once we've refined it together, I manage the bookings, deposits, and coordination so you can simply show up and travel.
How does this all work?
1
How far in advance should I start planning my trip?
2
For complex international itineraries, I recommend starting 6 to 12 months before your travel dates. Some destinations — safaris, peak-season Europe, high-demand lodges — require even more lead time to secure the best availability. The earlier we begin, the more options we have.
How long does the planning process take?
3
That depends on the complexity of the trip, but most itineraries go through up to four rounds of revisions before we finalize. A straightforward two-week trip might come together in a few weeks; a multi-country journey with several moving parts can take longer. I'll set expectations at the start so there are no surprises.
How do we communicate?
4
Email is my primary channel for all trip-related communication. Anything that needs to be acted on — dates, preferences, changes, approvals — must come through in writing via email. This keeps everything documented and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
What about calls & texts?
5
Calls and texts are great for general conversation, but they're not how I track trip details. If something comes up in a call or text that you'd like me to act on, please follow up with an email. I need a written record to ensure accuracy and accountability.
What does the design fee cover?
6
The $500 Design Fee covers all of my conceptual research, itinerary development, and planning work. It's due at the start of our engagement and represents the time and expertise that goes into building your trip from the ground up. This fee begins the moment we agree to work together.
Is the design fee refundable?
7
No. The Design Fee is non-refundable. It compensates for the research and creative work I invest from day one, regardless of whether you ultimately book the trip.
Why do you need a budget upfront?
8
Knowing your budget allows me to design the best possible trip within your parameters. It ensures I'm recommending the right properties, experiences, and level of service from the start — rather than presenting options that don't align with what you want to spend. It's a matter of respect for your time and mine.
What is the minimum budget required?
9
The minimum budget is about $10,000 per week for two travelers. Some regions during peak season will be more (e.g. Italy in August). This reflects the level of service, accommodations, and experiences I curate. It's the threshold at which I can deliver something genuinely exceptional.
Can you just book a hotel or part of my trip?
10
I don't take on à la carte, single-item bookings. My work is designing complete travel experiences — that's where my expertise adds the most value. If you're looking for a standalone hotel reservation, a booking platform or your hotel's concierge will serve you well.