Here’s exactly what happens when you work with me.
No mystery, no pressure, no obligation until you’re ready. Just a clear process.
Six steps from the first hello to the final boarding pass.
Step 1 — You reach out
Fill out the inquiry form with a few details about the trip you’re thinking about. Even “I have no idea yet” is a perfectly good place to start.
Step 2 — I respond within 48 hours
You’ll hear back by email within 48 hours — usually sooner. I’ll ask a few follow-up questions to get a clearer picture of what you’re looking for before we get on a call.
Step 3 — We have a discovery call
This is the conversation where the trip starts to take shape. We’ll talk through your travel style, what matters most to you, what you want to feel on this trip, and what you’d rather avoid.
Step 4 — The planning fee is confirmed and collected
Before any research begins, a planning fee is collected. The fee reflects the expertise, time, and care that goes into designing your journey. Fees vary by trip type and complexity.
Step 5 — The proposal
The proposal isn’t a list of options. It’s a fully researched, carefully considered recommendation built around who you are and what this trip needs to be. From here, we refine it together until it’s exactly right.
Step 6 — Booking, departure, and beyond
Once the itinerary is finalized, I handle all bookings and coordinate directly with suppliers. Before departure, you’ll receive a detailed finalized itinerary. While you’re away, I check in once to make sure everything is going well. And if anything comes up at any point, I’m available.
A note on planning fees and why they matter.
The planning fee is collected before research begins. It’s separate from your travel costs, and it isn’t offset by supplier commissions. They exist because great planning takes real time and genuine expertise, and the clients who invest in it are the ones who get the most out of the process.
Planning Fees
*There are no planning fees for hotel-only or cruise-only bookings if you know your property and/or sailing choices.*
If your travel dates are within 60 days of travel, a rush fee is charged in addition to standard itinerary fees based on the complexity of your journey.
The planning fee applies to cities and countries worldwide and covers hotel room bookings, transfers, itinerary planning, and more. Ongoing availability before, during, and after the trip is also included.
Price is per cabin. Curating a tailored journey on some of the most exclusive lines takes time. This fee includes pre and post journey planning.
All planning fees are non-refundable and collected at the start of engagement before research or itinerary work begins. The final fee is confirmed during the complimentary discovery call. Complex or time-sensitive itineraries may be quoted at the higher end of the range.
What’s included beyond the itinerary.
You’re part of the process. We keep communication open and decisions shared—no black boxes or surprises.
Preferred access to 1,300+ luxury properties. As a Signature Travel Network member, bookings through Quintessential Travels come with exclusive amenities, upgrades, and recognition that aren’t available when you book direct.
On-the-ground supplier relationships. Once during the trip, you’ll hear from me to make sure everything is exactly as it should be. And also, before, during, and after the trip, if something comes up, I’m here. That’s what the relationship is for.
A proposal that will genuinely surprise you.
Not a list of options with prices attached. A fully researched, carefully considered recommendation — built around who you are and what this trip needs to be. Every property, every experience, every logistical decision is explained: not just what is being recommended, but why.
A check-in from me and ongoing availability.One conversation. No pressure.
A few things worth knowing before you reach out.
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The trips worth taking deserve the planning they require. Last-minute bookings or looking for “deals” is not part of my services. I am happy to share and promote special offers as suppliers, cruise lines, and hotels offer them.
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It’s collected before research begins because the research is the work. By the time a proposal lands in your inbox, significant time, expertise, and care have already gone into it. That’s what the fee reflects — and it’s also why the proposal surprises most clients with how thorough it is.
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If the discovery call makes it clear that what you’re looking for isn’t something Quintessential Travels is the right match for, that will be said — clearly and kindly. The goal is always the right trip for the right traveler. Sometimes that means pointing you in a different direction. It’s the honest thing to do.
FAQs
What services do you offer?
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I offer planning for private and group travel, as well as cruises. I plan for couples and families who want to explore in ways they feel comfortable with, whether it’s to a theme park or across the globe.
How do I get started?
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Getting started is simple. Reach out through my contact form or schedule a call. I’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
What makes you different?
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I combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. I love intellectual conversation and working with professionals or retired professionals who are as curious about the world as I am. And I’ll find the trip that best suits their nees.
How can I contact you?
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You can reach me anytime via our contact page or email. I aim to respond quickly, usually within one business day.