We often get calls and emails from people looking for a “cheap deal” on their next vacation. When I ask them what they want to do or where they want to go, they often just reply with “I want a good deal” or “whatever is cheapest”.
This focus on getting a big discount distracts them the true reason they want to go on vacation in the first place, whether it is for romance, to connect with family, to have an adventure, or to relax.
When you focus solely on price, you will miss out on many of the things that can make your vacation special.
This doesn’t mean we will ignore your budget, or recommend overpriced services when we plan your trip.
What it does mean is that we will recommend the experiences that will deliver exactly what you’re looking for, even if they might cost a bit more.
We will work to eliminate anything that might create a hassle for you while you’re traveling, so you can just relax and enjoy your trip without having to worry about logistics.
We’ll also steer you away from overpriced tourist traps and towards authentic restaurants where you can get a true taste of the places you’re visiting.
You probably already know that price doesn’t equal value, and that just because something has a high price doesn’t mean you’re going to love it. But if you’re fixated on finding the cheapest vacation possible or on saving $100 on a $10,000 trip you’re going to miss out on some amazing experiences.
My favorite example is the use of pre-booked transfers from the airport to your hotel. Sure, you could just figure it out yourself when you get there and save a few hundred dollars.
But then when you arrive in Rome after a long overnight flight, where you really didn’t get much sleep, you’ll need to figure out where the taxis are, find one, and then hope they speak English and aren’t overcharging you to get you to your destination. You’ll have to figure out if they take credit cards, or use the ATM at the airport if you don’t have the local currency on you.
Contrast this with the option spending a bit more but having a uniformed driver with a sign with your name on it waiting for you when you land to whisk you off to your hotel with no hassles. Does this cost a bit more? Yes. But isn’t it a nicer way to arrive?
I’ve done it both ways, and if my budget permits, I want the driver every time!
Private guides cost more. But, with a private guide, every activity is customized to your pace and interests.
• Want to spend all your time in the Greek section of the British Museum? Done!
• Want to get into the Sistine Chapel before the crowds arrive? Done!
• Want to take an impromptu gelato break in the middle of your day of touring Florence? Done!
If you’ve ever been on one of those group tours where there is that one person that asks a million questions and holds up the entire group, you know what I mean. Or those tours when you feel rushed and don’t have time to really enjoy the places you’re visiting because you must stay with the group.
When you hire me, I design a vacation that is completely customized to your interests, budget, and desires and that allows you to really experience the places you visit, not just see them.
If this sounds good, schedule a Discovery Call with me.