My Favorite Trips to Plan
When clients ask about my favorite destinations to plan, my answer often surprises them—it’s not so much about any one place on the map, but rather the incredible people I collaborate with around the globe. Over the years, I’ve cultivated relationships with trusted on-the-ground partners who serve as my eyes and ears in destinations around the globe. They bring insider knowledge that a traveler alone might never uncover. Because these partners truly know their homelands—its rhythms, its hidden gems, and its most exclusive connections—they empower me to create experiences that aren’t just vacations, but deeply immersive adventures that draw on authentic, local insight.
Where I truly thrive is in the synergy I create among my clients, my partners, and myself. I regularly jump on calls with both the travelers and my local collaborators, brainstorming in real-time to ensure that every trip reflects each client’s vision. This collaborative process feels like a perfectly tuned symphony, where every note—expert guidance, personal preference, cultural insight—comes together to create a really special experience.
While my partners work their magic behind the scenes, their true value lies in the peace of mind they provide. In destinations where everything feels unfamiliar, having someone on the ground to support you every step of the way is priceless. In a world full of unpredictability, I’ve had to navigate some hurdles that I’m not sure I could’ve handled without the support of my partners.
Take, for example, the time my clients who were in Iceland over the summer. There was an increasing chance of another volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula, an area where eruptions have been more frequent. Throughout this, my partners were incredibly communicative, keeping us updated at all hours and ready to act if their hotel was at risk. Thankfully, they were safe, and they ended up wrapping up their stay at the iconic Blue Lagoon retreat and were to fulfill many of their bucket-list adventures, like an ice glacier hike, exploring waterfalls and taking in extraordinary views on an ATV excursion.
There was another time I was woken up by a notification from my clients in Chiang Mai, Thailand, about a flood that was worsening. (Never a dull moment!) While I was asleep, my partners had already arranged an alternative stay (at no additional cost) and were sending me real-time updates, including pictures like these. As much as it was an adventure for my clients, it’s these moments where the warmth and hospitality of the Thai people really shine, and I feel incredibly grateful for it. I’ll admit I was disappointed to cancel the biking adventure I’d planned for these active travelers, but under the circumstances, ensuring their safety and peace of mind was what mattered most.
In the end, it’s the unexpected moments that often define the most memorable journeys. That’s why having trusted experts by your side is invaluable—not just to navigate the twists and turns, but to ensure every experience is met with care, understanding, and the human connection that transforms a trip into something extraordinary. My goal is for my clients to return home not just with souvenirs, but with stories worth sharing and memories that last.
A final tip: Always invest in travel insurance. It’s a crucial safety net for any journey, especially in these uncertain times.
If you’re interested in creating a personalized trip like the ones I’ve described, I’d love to hear from you. Please note that for more extensive itinerary planning, I do charge a per-day planning fee, ensuring that every detail of your adventure is thoughtfully crafted from start to finish. Of course, not every trip I book is as elaborate. Whether it’s a single hotel stay, a cruise, or a car transfer, I’m here to make your life easier. Every trip, big or small, deserves the same level of care and attention to detail.
PABLO NERUDA
