Travel Advisors Cost More Money… And Other Lies – Debunked Below
Some people still sadly associate using a travel advisor with paying more money, when in actual fact – it’s quite the opposite. From getting you the best seats on the plane to working behind the scenes to ensure your vacation goes off without a hitch – after using a great travel advisor once I personally guarantee you’ll be hooked! Read on to see how a travel advisor can save you money.
Time & Money
Ask yourself, how much is your time worth? Expedia’s research indicates the average American spends 22.95 hours booking a trip in the 6 weeks before departure. That’s one hour a night for nearly three weeks or nearly three entire workdays. Is this time you can afford to lose?
Travel advisors often have access to wholesale rates and exclusive deals that the general public does not. As such, they can pass these savings on to you – their client. Travel advisors may charge a fee for the trip planning process – remember those 22.95 hours I referenced in the paragraph above? They’re working, researching, and customizing the perfect journey for you, and some charge fees for this type of work.
Planning travel has never been more complicated than in 2021 and beyond. From quarantine restrictions to PCR testing, an expert agent will save you countless hours in research and logistics alone – that’s worth its weight in gold.
Hassles
Booking with a third-party site may feel like the obvious choice, but websites like Expedia can’t connect the dots. Sure, you could book a few nights at a hotel, but can you arrange the car service, the late-night check-in, and the adjoining rooms next door to each other? Travel advisors take the hassle out of the trip planning process and can make it fun again.
By now we’ve probably all heard horror stories of trips booked immediately before Covid, and cancellations or refunds that went awry. When you book with a travel advisor and (for whatever reason) you’re unable to go on your trip – you don’t have to lift a finger. It won’t be you waiting on hold with the airline, or trying to argue about a credit vs a refund. Your travel advisor has your back and is looking out for your best interests every step of the way. That includes when things go sideways.
Check into your hotel and your room is not to your liking? Your travel advisor often has special relationships with hotels. They can (hopefully) rectify the situation seamlessly, without you having to get on the phone and ask for the manager. Look for a travel advisor that has relevant industry certifications so your experience will be smooth.
Upgrades & Connections
Everyone loves a good upgrade. From complimentary breakfast to room upgrades, most travel advisors can score their clients great perks when they book with them. In addition, travel advisors are well connected. A travel advisor’s job is to be the expert. This means traveling to countless destinations, and building relationships with hoteliers, tour operators, and even restauranteurs. Don’t discount their ability to score you that hard-to-book seat at a new restaurant. Surprise you with an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience while on a tour.
Whether you’ve hit the jackpot, have spent years saving for the trip of a lifetime, or simply have a generous annual travel budget, you won’t want to miss these luxury vacations to add to your bucket list for a trip you’ll never forget.
Planning luxury vacations often involves exploring stunning destinations and lavish accommodations. One exciting option to consider is investing in Canada real estate. With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and upscale properties, owning a piece of Canada real estate not only provides a beautiful retreat but also serves as a wise investment. Canada’s real estate market is as diverse as its vast landscapes, offering a range of properties to suit various preferences and lifestyles. If you’re planning to invest in Canada’s real estate properties, contact a conveyancing solicitor to help you make a decision. Among the sought-after locations, waterfront cottages for sale in Beaverton, Ontario, stand out for their serene settings and picturesque views. Nestled along the shores of Lake Simcoe, Beaverton’s cottages provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, attracting both vacationers and those looking for a permanent retreat. The local real estate market in Beaverton reflects a growing interest in these waterfront properties, as buyers seek the tranquility and recreational opportunities that come with lakeside living. With a mix of charming, rustic cottages and modern, luxurious homes, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic Ontario community. For those interested in investing in real estate property, contact an estate agents in Docklands for assistance. You may also check out oceanfront condos for sale Myrtle Beach SC here if you’re looking for some real estate properties.
Yachting in the Med
One of the best ways to explore Europe is by boat, but if you’d rather have your own captain and crew instead of sharing staff (and amenities) on a large vessel – then a Mediterranean yacht charter could be for you.
These luxurious floating hotels offer five-star service paired with jaw-dropping scenic views. Drop anchor along scenic coastlines and go for a dip, enjoy a gourmet picnic set among a crumbling fortress, or relax on your sundeck with a drink in hand. While each boat differs, most come equipped with gyms, hot tubs, dining rooms, and beautiful master suites. Water-sport enthusiasts will rejoice over the ample options for frolicking in the Med, from enormous waterslides to jet skis and overwater trampolines.
Mediterranean yacht charters generally run from April to October, and one of the best times to visit the Med is in September when the crowds die down, the kids go back to school, and the weather is still warm (sometimes hot, depending on where you are).
Renting a Private Island
It doesn’t get much more luxurious than a private island, and if you’re looking for the ultimate in privacy, luxury, and discretion – a private island is for you. Options abound, from thatched-roof cottages set amongst the trees in Canada’s Pacific Northwest to luxurious and sprawling villas in tropical climates.
One of the best destinations for private island rentals in the Caribbean, home to the famous Necker Island (owned by Virgin founder and business mogul Richard Branson). Located in the British Virgin Islands, this 74-acre paradise can accommodate up to 54 guests comfortably. With multiple properties scattered throughout the island, guests can opt to rent a room, villa, or the entire island.
Another Caribbean island available for rent is Musha Cay, located in the southern Bahamas Exuma Chain. Available for one party at a time, visitors have exclusive access to Musha Cay and its wealth of amenities for the duration of their stay. 150 acres of powder-soft beaches. With a fleet of outdoor water toys and elegant accommodations, visitors to Musha Cay receive the finest five-star treatment. With 30 staff members to a maximum of 24 guests, vacationers here will want for nothing. If you like it well enough, you may even start to look into Buying A House In The Bahamas. There are plenty of options, and living in a lovely place makes everyday enjoyable.
A Cozy Winter Villa
Imagine curling up in front of a roaring fire. Getting snug under a blanket as the snow silently falls outside. Warm-up in an outdoor jacuzzi as you’re delivered a flute of champagne. These are part and parcel when renting a mountain villa or luxury chalet.
While not all come fully staffed, it’s an easy adjustment to include a chef, butler, daily housekeeper, and even a yoga instructor!
If you’re a ski or snowboard buff, staying at a villa in Whistler, British Columbia is an easy decision. The Belmont Estate in Whistler’s exclusive Stonebridge enclave rests on 7 acres of wilderness and can accommodate groups of up to 14. The helipad allows for a discreet arrival and departure. Your private driver is available to whisk you away to the lifts each day.
An Alaskan Wilderness Lodge
Have you always wanted to explore the Last Frontier, but in style? No two Alaskan wilderness lodges are alike. There are a select few that provide elegant luxury in rugged Alaskan surroundings. The crème de la crème, Sheldon Chalet, combines jaw-dropping views with gourmet dining, and fly-in-only access. It doesn’t get more luxurious (or remote) than this!
Sheldon Chalet is a five-star lodge resting on a nunatak in the Don Sheldon Amphitheater of Denali’s magnificent Ruth Glacier. Days spent at the chalet are yours to explore, and activities include snow cavern spelunking, sledding, rappelling, or crevasse exploration. Nights usher in magnificent light shows, as you watch the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky. Dining at Sheldon Chalet is top-notch. Complete with a celebrity chef who has been selected to cook for the likes of Barak Obama and Neil Young.
An African Safari
With countless luxury resorts and safari experiences to choose from across Africa, it may seem impossible to narrow it down! If you must pick just one, venture deep into the heart of Kenya.
Nestled on the edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is Angama Mara, overlooking the Great Rift Valley. This owner-run safari lodge offers two intimate camps with only fifteen luxurious tented suites each. Set as the location for the Oscar-award-winning movie Out of Africa, the romance of this resort and the region itself is undeniable. Complemented by the lodge, is the Angama Safari Camp. An exclusive-use mobile tented campsite located deep in the Mara triangle. Here you can spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, large elephant herds, and buffalo. Therefore, perfectly positioned for a front-row seat to the annual migration.
While I’ve only mentioned five luxury vacations to add to your bucket list, others across the globe are not to be missed! If you’d like support in planning your next luxurious getaway, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Nothing quite says luxury like an overwater bungalow. Dotting tropical beaches, atolls, and lagoons, these thatched-roof escapes offer unparalleled views and the ultimate in island escape-ism. From Bora Bora to Vietnam, these opulent overwater bungalows across the world need to be added to your bucket list.
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam
Six Senses properties are ubiquitous with sustainability and wellness, and the Six Senses Ninh Van Bay delivers both in spades. Moving beyond resorts as simply destination getaways, Six Senses promotes connection to the places in which they host guests. Their Ninh Van Bay property, with the property’s villas thoughtfully built into rock formations. Each villa is secluded. The only person you’re likely to run into is your personal Experience Maker, on-call 24/7. Ocean views come guaranteed, as do private pools. Local activities are endless. Day trips to nearby uninhabited islands, taking a dip in the local hot springs (complete with mineral-rich mud), or sampling the goods from your in-villa wine cellar on your private sundeck.
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Nestled in the middle of the Koh Rong archipelago. This unique private island offers 24 thatched-roof villas set amidst a 247-acre marine reserve. Nature and sustainability are at the forefront and nearly every building and piece of furniture uses upcycled wood found on the island itself. Alongside the resident marine biologist, guests can kayak through mangroves as they learn about the local ecosystem. The overwater villas do not disappoint, with luxurious one and two-bedroom options. For the ultimate overwater experience, there’s the Royal Villa. Which comes complete with a large private pool and dining for up to 12 guests. The most unique aspect of Song Saa Private Island is its related foundation, the Song Saa Collective. Established in 2013, this not-for-profit organization is dedicated to protecting the habitat of the Koh Rong archipelago, therefore improving the welfare of its communities.
El Dorado Maroma, Mexico
If you’re based in North America you don’t have to travel far to experience these overwater bungalows. Set out from the shores of Maroma Beach, just forty minutes from the Cancun airport. Mexico’s only overwater bungalows come equipped with full butler service and glass floors. Breakfast is delivered each morning. Touting themselves as ‘Gourmet Inclusive’, the El Dorado Maroma is an adults-only property offering seven restaurants and five bars. Don’t miss strolling Maroma Beach, nearly five miles of unspoiled white sand and aquamarine water.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
With stunning views of Mount Otemanu, the Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora does not disappoint. There are a variety of overwater bungalow options to suit everyone. From honeymooners to families, with two-bedroom suites offering up over 2,000 square feet of pure luxury. Enjoy the non-motorized watersports that are included in your stay. Offering everything from badminton and volleyball to kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkel equipment. Adventures abound. From jet boating or deep-sea fishing with a chef to exploring the island on a 4×4 (additional costs apply). The five-star concierge team can arrange just about anything, and never hesitate to go above and beyond for their guests.
Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
While overwater bungalows are aplenty in the Maldives, some stand out from the crowd. Comprised of only 45 overwater bungalows, Gili Lankanfushi is perched on one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. It is only a 20-minute speedboat ride from the Velana International Airport. The “No News No Shoes” spirit of the Maldives is evident from the moment you step into the boat. Shoes are collected and placed in tote bags by staff aboard the vessel. Expect approachable luxury at every turn, beginning with the bubbly canapes that greet you on arrival. Thoughtful touches are evident throughout, with SPF and bug spray stocked alongside standard in-room amenities. The bungalows themselves range from 2200 square foot one-bedroom villas (their smallest). To the whopping Private Reserve, a palatial 18,000 square feet. If you’re seeking opulence in the Maldives, look no further.
Are you looking for a once-in-a-lifetime overwater bungalow experience?
Contact me here. I’d love to build your dream getaway to explore some of the best overwater bungalows across the world!
