FAQ
What does a travel advisor do?
At Compass & Coast Vacations, I design personalized travel experiences from start to finish. This includes destination research, curated recommendations, booking management, itinerary design, and ongoing support before and during your trip.
You simply share your vision—I handle the rest.
Why should I use a travel advisor instead of booking myself?
While online booking can feel convenient, it often comes with hours of research, uncertainty, and limited support if something goes wrong.
Working with me means:
- Expert guidance backed by 20+ years of global travel experience
- Tailored recommendations based on your preferences
- Access to VIP Perks and Benefits
- Time saved (no endless searching or phone calls)
- Advocacy and support if plans change
Your time is valuable. Your travel experience should reflect that.
Does it cost more to book with you?
In many cases—especially cruises, resorts, and packaged travel—my services are complimentary, as I’m compensated by travel partners, not the client. I also will have access to additional VIP Perks and promotions to benefit my clients.
For more customized or complex itineraries, I charge a professional planning fee. This reflects the time, expertise, and attention to detail required to create a truly exceptional experience.
What types of trips do you specialize in?
- International Luxury and Family Travel
- Ocean and River Cruises (all lines including Norwegian, Princess, Disney, Royal Carribean, Cunard, Viking and more)
- All-Inclusive Resorts
- Theme Park & Resort Packages
- Custom US and International Itineraries
- Multi-Destination and Milestone Trips
- Group Travel
Every trip is fully customized to your travel style.
The itinerary struck the perfect balance between structure and flexibility.
-Happy C.
What is included in your planning services?
Depending on your trip, services may include:
- Proposal with Destination and Resort recommendations
- Personalized itinerary design
- Booking flights, hotels, tours, and transportation
- Dining, excursion, and activity guidance
- Travel documentation and preparation
- Ongoing support throughout your journey
How does the booking process work?
- It starts with a consultation.
- I design and present curated options based on our discussions.
- I send an email with a video walking you through the proposal.
- You select your preferred itinerary.
- I handle all bookings and confirmations.
- You receive a detailed travel plan and can follow along on a mobile app.
- I provide ongoing support leading up to and during your trip, help handle all changes and emergencies.
Can I transfer a booking I already made to you?
In many cases, yes—particularly with select cruise lines—provided the booking falls within the allowable transfer window (often within 14-30 days of initial booking).
This allows you to still enjoy the benefits of dedicated support and personalized service.
How far in advance should I plan my trip?
- Cruises & peak travel: 6–12 months in advance
- International/custom trips: 4–10 months
- Last-minute trips: Always worth asking—I can often help!
Do you recommend travel protection?
Absolutely, yes. Travel protection is an essential part of safeguarding your investment and your experience.
I can provide a tailored recommendation from a trusted company to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your journey, offering peace of mind from departure to return.
Do you work with military families?
Yes—this is a community I’m deeply connected to as both a veteran and a military spouse.
I understand the unique demands and flexibility required in military life, and I plan travel with that in mind—thoughtfully, efficiently, and with care.
As an added benefit, I also guide military families on how to thoughtfully leverage the travel rewards and credit card benefits available to them—helping you maximize points for flights, hotel stays, and elevated travel experiences.
Click here for the military exclusive Points and Perks Program page.