Why I Don’t Charge A Planning Fee & What That Means for You

Why I Don’t Charge a Planning Fee (And What That Means for You)

If you've ever thought, “Wait… you help me plan the entire trip, and I don't have to pay a fee?” — you’re not alone.

In a world where service fees are everywhere — from booking flights to canceling dinner reservations — the idea of getting full-service support from a travel advisor with no upfront cost might feel too good to be true.

But here's the truth: I don’t charge a planning fee.
And that decision is intentional.

Let me take you behind the scenes and explain how this works, why I’ve chosen this model, and how it benefits you as my client.

💡 First, Here’s How I Get Paid

I’m a travel advisor — not a travel hobbyist.

When I book your cruise, resort, tour, hotel, or even private transfers, I’m paid a commission from the travel supplier (not from you). That commission is already built into the price you’d pay if you booked directly — so you’re not paying more to work with me.

In fact, many times, I have access to exclusive pricing, promotions, upgrades, or perks you can’t get on your own — or even better, I’ll know when something looks like a deal but really isn’t.

Working with me means you get a real person with experience, connections, and insight — without paying more than you would clicking around on your own for hours (or days).

🤝 Why I Don’t Charge a Planning Fee (Right Now)

Every travel advisor runs their business differently.
Some charge flat fees, hourly rates, or per-trip design fees — and in many cases, those fees are absolutely justified, especially for complicated custom itineraries or high-touch VIP travel.

But I’ve chosen a different path — and here’s why:

1. I believe travel should feel approachable.

For many families, couples, or first-time cruisers, paying an upfront fee to start planning can feel like a barrier. I want to make it easy to say “yes” to the planning process without pressure or hesitation.

2. I want to build trust first.

I’d rather earn your business by providing great service than ask you to pay before we even know if we’re a good fit. Relationships matter more than transactions.

3. I focus on value and long-term relationships.

My goal isn’t just to plan this trip — I want to be your go-to advisor for every trip after that. When you see the care and quality I bring to the table, I know you’ll come back (and tell your friends, too).

🛎️ So… What Do You Actually Get From Me?

Even though I don’t charge a planning fee, the service you receive is anything but basic. Here’s what working with me really looks like:

✅ Personalized consultation to understand your travel style, preferences, and goals
✅ Research into destinations, properties, cruises, and experiences that match your needs
✅ Cruise or resort comparisons laid out clearly (no more 47 browser tabs!)
✅ Access to exclusive perks, promotions, and upgrades when available
✅ Expert itinerary planning and booking of every trip component
✅ Answers to all those “wait, do I need this?” questions
✅ Guidance on travel insurance, documentation, packing, tipping, and more
✅ Help with pre- and post-travel logistics, like excursions or transfers
✅ Real-time support in case something changes during your trip
✅ A personal advocate (ahem, me) from start to finish

It’s the kind of care you can’t get from a booking engine — and it’s all included when you book through me.

🤔 “But What If I Don’t Book?”

Great question. If you decide not to move forward, there’s zero pressure. I completely understand that life happens, plans shift, or sometimes things just don’t align.

All I ask is for honesty and respect. If your plans change or you decide to book on your own — just let me know. My time and energy are valuable, and transparency keeps the relationship strong, no matter what.

There may be a point in the future where I introduce planning fees for certain types of trips (like multi-country itineraries or extended group travel), but you’ll always be informed upfront. No surprises, no fine print.

💬 Why I’m Sharing This

Travel planning can feel confusing — not just the trip details, but who does what and how they get paid. I believe in transparency, trust, and treating every client like family. I don’t charge a planning fee because I want you to feel confident, supported, and excited from the moment we start talking about your trip.

And when you come back glowing from the best vacation of your life?
That’s what makes this all worth it.

✈️ Final Thoughts from Your Friendly Travel Advisor

Working with a travel advisor doesn’t have to mean added costs — it means added value.
When you book with me, you’re not just getting a trip. You’re getting peace of mind, personalized service, and someone who truly cares about making your experience unforgettable.

So if you’ve been wondering, “Is it worth working with a travel advisor?”
Let me show you — no planning fee required.