Frequently Asked Questions

These frequently asked questions explain how I work, what to expect from the travel planning process, and whether working with a travel advisor is the right fit for your travel style.

What does a travel advisor do, and how can you help plan my trip?

I’m a Vancouver-based Virtuoso travel advisor specializing in premium cruises, expedition travel, river cruises, and thoughtfully designed custom itineraries. I help clients plan complex or meaningful journeys by managing logistics, sourcing trusted partners, and providing personalized guidance from initial planning through travel and return home. This means you get expert support, value-added benefits, and a travel plan tailored to the way you like to travel.

I prioritize travel experiences that support local communities, respect the places visited, and create meaningful cultural connection — without sacrificing comfort or thoughtful planning.

Why should I use a travel advisor instead of booking online?

Working with a travel advisor provides expertise, access, and advocacy that booking online can’t replicate. I help clients navigate complex itineraries, access preferred partner benefits, and receive support before, during, and after travel if plans change. This level of service is especially valuable for premium, expedition, or multi-component trips.

Who do you typically work with?

I work with curious and experienced travellers — including solo travellers — who value thoughtful planning and meaningful experiences. Many of my clients are interested in premium cruises, expedition travel, river cruising, or custom itineraries where details, pacing, and support matter.

How do you help clients plan luxury river cruises?

I work with select river cruise partners known for immersive itineraries, well-designed ships, and strong local connections. I help clients choose the right river, ship, and sailing based on travel style, pace, and interests, while arranging pre- and post-cruise stays to create a seamless experience.

Do you charge fees?

Depending on the scope and complexity of the trip, planning fees may apply. For more detailed or multi-component journeys (such as expedition travel, custom land itineraries, or extended cruise packages), a travel preferences questionnaire helps me understand your needs before scheduling a complimentary consultation. If you would like to discuss my fees or see if we are a good fit, please contact me.

What does it mean to be a Virtuoso travel advisor?

Virtuoso is a global network of leading travel advisors and carefully vetted travel partners. As an Independent Travel Advisor with Direct Travel — a Virtuoso member agency — I have access to preferred amenities, added-value benefits, and exclusive experiences that are often not available when booking independently. This affiliation allows me to plan travel with an added layer of confidence, quality, and support for my clients.

How much time do you need for planning vacations for clients?

The more time we have to plan, the better — particularly for safaris, expedition travel, custom itineraries, or small-ship and longer voyage cruises which often require advance planning. That said, I understand plans don’t always follow long timelines, and I’m happy to discuss what’s possible based on your travel dates. To begin planning in earnest, the first step is to complete my Travel Preferences Questionnaire so I can understand your priorities and constraints.

For last minute requests, please contact me with your phone number and I will check if I can accommodate you.

I’m based outside Canada. Can you still help me plan my trip?

Yes — I work with clients based in Canada, the United States, and internationally. We coordinate via email, phone, and video call depending on what works best for you. To get started, please complete my Travel Preferences Questionnaire so I can better understand your travel plans and needs.

I booked a cruise directly with the cruise line — can I transfer it to you?

In many cases, bookings made directly with a cruise line or tour operator can be transferred within a limited window (typically within 14 days), though some exceptions apply. Policies differ by supplier, so please contact me to review your booking details and confirm whether a transfer is possible.

Can you help me book flights only?

I do not book domestic flights as a standalone service, but I may assist with flights as part of a broader itinerary that includes hotels, transfers, or other components. For international flights, assistance is available as part of full trip planning when appropriate. To begin, please complete my Travel Preferences Questionnaire.

Do you work with groups?

I assist with select group travel requests, including multi-generational family trips and certain corporate or incentive group cruises (typically 60+ guests). Group planning is considered on a case-by-case basis and may involve additional coordination. I do not work with destination wedding groups. For applicable group enquiries, please complete my Travel Preferences Questionnaire.

What are your cancellation fees if I need to cancel or postpone my vacation?

To cover administrative and planning costs, cancellation fees may apply. Specific terms will be outlined at the time of quotation and detailed in my Booking Terms & Conditions. Planning service fees are non-refundable, and supplier penalties may vary by provider.

Why is your website called Upscale Travel but communication comes from Direct Travel?

Upscale Travel is my personal travel brand and is used for my website, blog, and social media. I am an Independent Travel Advisor hosted under Direct Travel, a Virtuoso agency, and operate under CPBC license 74718.

When working together, communication related to your booking will come through my Direct Travel email and phone number.

What is your privacy policy?

I am committed to providing clients with a safe and secure planning process that protects personal information. Please review my privacy policy for full details on how personal information is collected, used, and protected.

I’m ready to talk about travel planning. What’s the next step?

Wonderful — I’d love to hear about your plans. For more detailed enquiries, please complete my Travel Preferences Questionnaire with as much information as possible. I will then follow up to schedule a complimentary 30-minute travel planning call when appropriate.

What if I still have questions?

If you are not quite ready to complete my Travel Preferences Questionnaire and have questions, feel free to contact me and we can connect by email. Upscale Travel works best for travellers seeking personalized planning, premium cruise expertise, and guidance for complex or meaningful journeys.

Do you have Booking Terms & Conditions?

Yes, comprehensive Booking Terms & Conditions are shared with prospective clients as part of the planning process and can be reviewed here.

Didn’t find your question? Feel free to contact me - I’m happy to help.