Air Travel & Booking
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Lodging & Accommodations
Is it possible to access my room (Especially in Europe) upon my arrival?
Hotels will only guarantee access to rooms at the hotel check-in time (typically 3:00 – 4:00 pm). The only way to guarantee an early morning check-in is to reserve your room for the night prior to your arrival. While it is an extra cost, it may be well worth it, as you may be exhausted after an overnight flight between the US and Europe (as well as other destinations) and being able to get some sleep that first afternoon may assist you in adjusting to the new time zone.
is it a common practice to tip hotel maids / housekeeping staff?
Tipping hotel maids or housekeepers is more common in certain countries and regions where tipping culture is prevalent or where service industry workers rely on tips as part of their income.
As an example, it is customary in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It’s common to leave a tip of a few dollars per day, though the exact amount may vary based on factors like the hotel’s location and the level of service provided. When traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to research local practices or ask your travel advisor.
As an example, it is customary in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It’s common to leave a tip of a few dollars per day, though the exact amount may vary based on factors like the hotel’s location and the level of service provided. When traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to research local practices or ask your travel advisor.
Does the hotel have facilities for guests with disabilities?
Many hotels do have facilities but be sure to book early and let your travel advisor know exactly what you need as the number of rooms is very limited.
Are there any additional fees or taxes not included in the advertised price?
If you are comparing prices, be sure to compare apples to apples. As a travel advisor, I typically quote rates with taxes and sometimes fees (if the fees can -or- are paid in advance). There are several areas (Hawaii, California, Las Vegas – to name a few) that have resort fees. Resort fees must typically be paid directly to the resort and not paid in advance. The resort fees can cover a wide range of inclusions so be sure to ask.
In Europe, it’s common for different countries to have city taxes. The taxes are usually based on the star-rating of the hotel and charged on a nightly basis either per room or per person. City taxes must always be paid directly to the hotel.
In Europe, it’s common for different countries to have city taxes. The taxes are usually based on the star-rating of the hotel and charged on a nightly basis either per room or per person. City taxes must always be paid directly to the hotel.
Do I have access to special amenities booking through you as my travel advisor?
Yes, depending on the hotel, I have access through several programs to provide special amenities to my guests. They may range from complimentary breakfast for two per bedroom, upgrade at time of booking or arrival based on availability, food and beverage credits – just to name a few. It does pay to book your hotel nights through me.
Why DON'T I always receive my points for various hotel loyalty programs?
When hotel reservations are made through tour operators, the tour operators have negotiated special rates when purchased in combination with air. The hotels generally don’t allow guests to also receive points for the stay as they consider it double-dipping.
WhaT IS THE CANCELLATION PENALTY?
Prior to making a reservation, be sure to ask about the cancellation penalty. If you want to receive the very best rates for your hotel nights, often they require payment in full at the time of booking and are non-refundable.
There are also flexible rates that don’t require full pre-payment, but you need to know and understand when cancellation fees begin to get charged and how much they charge.
There are also flexible rates that don’t require full pre-payment, but you need to know and understand when cancellation fees begin to get charged and how much they charge.
Top Reasons to Use a Travel Agent
they save you planning time
Time is a precious commodity, and travel planning can be a time-consuming process. Travel advisors possess the knowledge and resources to streamline this process, taking care of the research, reservations, and coordination on your behalf. By understanding your preferences and requirements, they can present you with tailored options that align with your desired travel experience, saving you hours and hours that can be better spent on other aspects of your life.
they handle unexpected situations
Traveling often entails unexpected situations such as delayed flights, cancellations, or even oversold hotels. Dealing with these challenges can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially when you are in an unfamiliar location. However, travel agents act as your advocates, ensuring you are taken care of when issues arise. They have established relationships with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers, allowing them to resolve problems efficiently and minimize disruptions to your travel plans.
exclusive access
Travel advisors have extensive networks of contacts and partnerships within the travel industry. These connections give them the ability to secure exclusive experiences, amenities, upgrades, and special deals that may be inaccessible to individual travelers. At The Travel Concierge by Lisa, we are proud to be part of the Virtuoso network of Travel Advisors who are part of the esteemed Virtuoso Consortium spanning three continents (including the US, UK, and Australia). Through this consortium you gain even greater leverage and access to a network of worldwide connections and partnerships. These connections can offer you unparalleled opportunities that go beyond what is available to the general public. This means you can enjoy unique privileges such as securing reservations at sought-after restaurants, arranging private tours of renowned attractions, and receiving VIP treatment throughout your travel.
knowledgeable about complex destination travel guidelines
Travel restrictions and regulations are constantly evolving, especially in a post-pandemic world. Navigating these complexities can be challenging, but travel agents are well-versed in the latest requirements and guidelines. They stay up to date with destination-specific entry requirements, visa regulations, health and safety protocols, and other essential information that could impact your trip. By relying on their expertise, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that your agent has considered all necessary precautions and ensured compliance with the rules.
added value and benefits
Travel agents go beyond the basics of travel arrangements, offering an array of added value and benefits to enhance your journey. With their insider knowledge, they can provide recommendations for off-the-beaten-path attractions, local experiences, and hidden gems that may not be easily found in guidebooks or through DIY online research. They excel at suggesting personalized itineraries, arranging special celebrations, and offering insights into the local culture, ensuring that you make the most of your time to create unforgettable memories.
As part of the Virtuoso consortium, we are deeply connected within the global luxury travel industry. When you choose a Virtuoso travel advisor you gain access to VIP benefits and preferable pricing enabling you to get the most “bang for your buck”. We are also part of elite advisor programs like Marriott’s STARS & LUMINOUS, Rosewood Elite, Hyatt Prive, IHG Luxury and Lifestyle or the Belmond Bellini Club, among others. These affiliations grant clients exclusive perks that would never be available otherwise, like hotel room upgrades, welcome amenities, resort credits, complimentary meals, or spa treatments.
As part of the Virtuoso consortium, we are deeply connected within the global luxury travel industry. When you choose a Virtuoso travel advisor you gain access to VIP benefits and preferable pricing enabling you to get the most “bang for your buck”. We are also part of elite advisor programs like Marriott’s STARS & LUMINOUS, Rosewood Elite, Hyatt Prive, IHG Luxury and Lifestyle or the Belmond Bellini Club, among others. These affiliations grant clients exclusive perks that would never be available otherwise, like hotel room upgrades, welcome amenities, resort credits, complimentary meals, or spa treatments.
group coordination
Whether you’re planning a solo getaway, a family vacation, a corporate retreat, or a destination wedding, travel agents possess the skills and experience to coordinate logistics for groups of any size. From arranging group discounts and accommodations to organizing transportation and activities, they ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for everyone involved. By delegating the complex task of group coordination to a travel agent, you can focus on enjoying the trip with your friends, family, or colleagues.
In an era where technology has made DIY travel planning more accessible, travel agents continue to play a crucial role in simplifying and enhancing the travel experience. Their expertise, industry connections, and ability to handle unexpected situations make them invaluable assets in ensuring smooth and enjoyable journeys.
Let us bring your travel dreams to life and ensure every detail is taken care of.
In an era where technology has made DIY travel planning more accessible, travel agents continue to play a crucial role in simplifying and enhancing the travel experience. Their expertise, industry connections, and ability to handle unexpected situations make them invaluable assets in ensuring smooth and enjoyable journeys.
Let us bring your travel dreams to life and ensure every detail is taken care of.
