Frequently Asked Questions
How do you differ from other travel advisors?
Great question! First and foremost, I’m a member of Virtuoso — an invitation-only luxury travel network that specializes in high-end, experiential, and customized travel. I’m also backed by my host agency, Departure Lounge, which supports independent luxury travel advisors worldwide with a collaborative, community-driven environment. Through these two affiliations, I have strong relationships with top hotels, tour providers, and other travel partners across the globe — giving my clients access to exclusive perks and personalized experiences. I actively participate in training and attend annual trade shows, while also traveling regularly to gain deeper insight into properties and destinations, ensuring I provide the best possible recommendations for my clients.
What does it mean to be a full-service travel company?
Jessica Drew Travel doesn’t just book hotels (although I can if that’s what you want!) but I also assist with VIP services, transfers, guided tours and excursions.
Why would I book with you when I can just do it myself?
I believe that your time is valuable, and instead of spending it searching endlessly for the best spots, working together can save you time. When we develop a relationship together, I’m able to learn your tastes and preferences, ensuring that each recommendation is tailored to you. I’m also able to connect you with the best partners in specific destinations. This means you’ll have personalized recommendations from those “in the know,” along with on-the-ground contacts while you’re traveling.
I usually just book travel with Amex, isn’t that essentially the same thing?
As a luxury travel advisor, my clients receive perks through my preferred partner programs with brands like Belmond, Marriott, Four Seasons, Rosewood and many more. These partnerships result in room upgrades (when available), exclusive amenities and an exceptional travel experience for clients while traveling. At the end of the day, what elevates my clients above others is my relationship with hotel owners and General Managers - they treat my clients (you!) like gold. There is a hierarchy to hotel bookings, and those made with a Travel Advisor sit at the top!
This all sounds too good to be true. How do you get paid?
I’m often asked how I’m compensated because there’s a great deal of mystery around how travel advisors are paid - but I work in full transparency. When it comes to hotel bookings, my commission comes from partners directly on the backend. For new trips, I require a non-refundable travel planning fee, which must be paid in advance. My current services and fees structure can be viewed here.
What makes you a luxury travel expert?
Beyond taking part in industry conferences, trade shows, and traveling on my own, my qualifications are my life experience - a culmination of years of traveling the globe to source the best hotels, experiences, restaurants, and hidden gems to make your next trip extra special.
What if I don’t need a huge itinerary for a bucket list trip, but am just doing a simple hotel booking?
One of the most widespread misconceptions about booking with a travel advisor is that I can only offer benefits on complex, multi-stop itineraries. I’m able to add value on practically any luxury hotel booking thanks to my strong partnerships, which translate to benefits like priority upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and spa and dining credits. No inquiry is too small!