How to Choose the Right Travel Advisor: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)
Your partner says, “We should do something special for our anniversary.”
And you’re thinking: great… but who’s planning it? Because it’s definitely not going to be them. And you? You’re already at capacity.
So you do what everyone does: you hop online and type,
“Anyone know a good travel agent?”
The replies flood in—hundreds of names from neighbors, your friend’s cousin, and a few people who sound vaguely like they used to sell timeshares. So… now what?
Here’s how to actually choose the right travel advisor for you.
🖥️ Start with Their Website
Your first (and easiest) filter. A travel advisor’s site should instantly tell you:
Communication style: formal, friendly, or chaotic?
Specialties: family, luxury, adventure, cruises, honeymoons, safaris, etc.
Process & pricing: custom planning, flat-rate, concierge-level service, how they work from inquiry → booking → support.
Pro tip: If you’re dreaming of Antarctica on an expedition ship and the homepage screams “Disney Earmarked Specialist,” keep scrolling. Wrong fit.
🌍 Check Destination Know-How
They don’t have to have been everywhere, but you want someone who:
Has education/experience or trusted on-the-ground partners in your destination
Shares recent trip reports, guides, or client itineraries (even anonymized)
Is clearly learning and traveling—not guessing
Your trip deserves more than vibes. Look for proof they know their stuff.
🤝 Look at Affiliations & Training
Buzzwords like Virtuoso, Signature Travel Network, or Travel Leaders Network? Green flags. These often mean:
VIP perks and upgrades
Insider access to top suppliers
A trusted network (aka backup when things go sideways)
Other great signs:
Certifications from ASTA or The Travel Institute
Supplier programs (e.g., Virgin Voyages First Mate, Sandals Specialist)
Niche expertise (safari specialists, expedition, river cruise certification, etc.)
Connections matter—and often make your trip smoother (and more valuable).
🌟 Read the Reviews (Really Read Them)
Don’t just scan the stars—read the words.
Look for:
Responsiveness & organization
Problem-solving under pressure
Trip outcomes that sound like what you want (family-friendly pacing, luxury touches, off-the-beaten-path, etc.)
Shiny Instagram posts won’t tell you who answers a 6 a.m. “our flight changed” text with a solution.
🙌 Choose Like It Matters (Because It Does)
This isn’t a random Amazon purchase. You’re handing over:
Precious PTO days
A real vacation budget
Hopes for an unforgettable experience
So: connect with your advisor, ask questions, make sure you click, and trust your gut.
My Take
I don’t believe there’s one “right” advisor for everyone. I believe in helping people find the right fit for them.
If you’re looking for someone who:
Values your time
Plans seamless trips with personality
Understands the reality of traveling with—or without—kids
📥 Let’s chat. I’d love to be your person.
🧳 Ready when you are. Let’s Adventure Smarter.
✅ Quick Checklist: “Is This Advisor a Fit?”
Their specialties match my trip type
They show recent destination expertise
Clear process + pricing (no mystery fees)
Strong affiliations/training
Reviews mention responsiveness & problem-solving
I like how they communicate (tone, cadence, clarity)