My approach is designed to be thorough, personalized, and transparent. I believe that a truly great vacation is a collaborative creation, built on a foundation of expert planning and a clear understanding of your travel dreams. Here’s how we’ll work together, step by step.
Step 1: Fill-in the inquiry form
It all begins with a clear picture of your ideal getaway. To start, I’ll ask you to fill out a comprehensive inquiry form.
I believe that every family and every traveler is unique. You have your own preferences, interests, and non-negotiables that make a vacation truly yours. This form is our essential first step to understanding that uniqueness. The more detail you can provide about your travel style—what excites you, what you'd like to avoid, your dream destinations—the better I can tailor my recommendations to you. Think of it as our strategic briefing; it allows me to do the heavy lifting and research before we meet, ensuring our conversation is productive, targeted, and respects your time by avoiding unnecessary back-and-forth emails.
If you are based in mainland China, you probably cannot access the inquiry form. Please fill in the contact form at the bottom of the About Me page, add your contact info (such as WeChat) in the notes and I will contact you.
Step 2: Book a 45-min initial video call
After you submit the inquiry form, you should be able to see the link to book a 45-min initial video call. If you missed it, please use this link to book with me. A video call is the most effective way to build rapport, understand the nuances of your vision, and deliver true, personalized value.
Important Notes for Booking
- Please pay close attention to the date, time, and time zone when selecting a slot. The calendar should automatically display in your local time, but it's always best to double-check.
- If you don't see a time that works perfectly with your schedule, please book any available time slot to get into the system, and then leave a note in the comments section indicating your preferred times. I will do my best to accommodate your request.
- Once your appointment is booked, I will personally send a confirmation email which will include the video conference link for our meeting. Please reply that email to double confirm.
- All I ask is for your commitment to our scheduled time. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please provide as much advance notice as possible by canceling or rescheduling through your confirmation email.
For every client, I create a customized Google Slides presentation that serves as our travel blueprint. During our dedicated 45-minute strategy session, we will cover topics such as:
- Tailored Itinerary Recommendations: A curated list of cruise lines and itineraries that match your specific profile.
- Cruise Line Deep Dive: Understanding the unique character and features of each recommended cruise line.
- Strategic Timing: Discussing the best seasons to travel for weather, value, and experience.
- Cabin Selection: Guidance on choosing the right stateroom category for your budget and comfort.
- Shore Excursion Ideas: Recommendations for activities at each port.
Step 3: Securing Your Voyage (Optional)
After our strategy session, you will be equipped with a comprehensive plan and all the detailed information you need to book your chosen cruise independently. My primary goal is to empower you with expert knowledge.
However, if you find my service valuable and trust me to handle the final, crucial details, I am happy to manage the entire booking process for you. As a registered Travel Advisor with YetiTravel, I book directly through the cruise line's official system. This means you get the exact same price as booking direct—never a penny more.
My value lies in the professional guidance that helps you avoid costly mistakes, like choosing the wrong ship or itinerary. Based on the sailing, my connections, and current promotions, you may also receive exclusive perks like onboard credit.
The booking process involves a second video call where we will:
- Review and confirm every detail of the booking confirmation.
- Clearly explain all terms, conditions, and cancellation policies.
- Securely collect credit card information to pay the official deposit to the cruise line.
Step 4: Beyond the Booking - Your Advocate Until You Sail
If I am honored to manage your booking, my service doesn’t end once you've paid the deposit. I consider my job done only when you've happily set sail. I will continue to be your advocate and resource for:
- Proactive Price Tracking: Cruise line promotions change constantly. If a better offer becomes available after you book, I will actively work to adjust your booking to the new, lower price. Many advisors don't do this, as it can reduce their commission, but my priority is your best interest.
- Final Payment Reminders: I will ensure you are reminded well in advance of your final payment due date, so your booking is never at risk of cancellation.
- Pre-Travel Coordination: I’ll provide timely reminders and guidance for all the crucial details: booking specialty dining and shows, completing your guest registration, printing luggage tags, and understanding the check-in process.
- Expert Advice: From packing lists and shore excursion recommendations to tips on avoiding seasickness, I’m here to ensure your journey is seamless and stress-free.