Frequently Asked Questions
What is the benefit of working with a travel advisor?
Travel advisors still play a crucial role in the travel industry, and our expertise and services continue to be highly valuable to clients. While technology has made it easier for travelers to book certain aspects of their trips online, travel advisors bring first-hand knowledge, a high-touch experience, unmatched connections around the world, and in-destination support.
Why is working with AMC Travel better than booking through my credit card?
Credit cards that reward travel are fabulous! Some cards, like Amex, will also get you special perks when you book a hotel. But essentially it's a fancy Expedia - your reservation is just another number to the hotel. When you book with me, your reservation is prioritized at the top of the list for perks like room upgrades. We communicate directly with the hotel staff before your arrival so they know exactly who you are, ensuring you get the VIP treatment you deserve.
Can I use my points to book?
We cannot use your points to book a trip. Many of our clients use their points for flights, then book the hotels with us to get all the perks! Hotel bookings with points as part of a larger itinerary (our planning packages) are taken on a case-by-case basis, as we do require most of the accommodations bookings to be made through us so we can provide a seamless travel experience.
Do you get better rates than if I booked myself?
My goal is to ensure that you have the best experience possible that is perfectly matched to your vision and interests. There are many times that I do have access to negotiated rates, but the real value is in how I can save you time, stress, and frustration either prior to traveling or while actually in the destination. If you’re looking for a custom-made seamless planning and travel experience, I’d love a chance to show you the difference of working with a travel advisor!
Do you work with VRBO or Airbnb?
We do not work with properties that are individually managed, as we are unable to stand behind the quality of individually owned properties. If you are looking for options with shared space (like a living room), we will work with our partners to find vetted villas, apartments, and/or hotels that meet your needs.
What if I like doing research on destinations and hotels and restaurants. How would partnering with a travel advisor serve me?
There is so much inspiring travel content online. Researching is the fun part, and we love getting clients’ input on what they are seeing. We can help you sort through the endless — and sometimes outdated or inaccurate — information online to help you make selections based not just on what’s all over social media, but what’s a good fit for you and your needs. Backed by our destination partners and network of luxury travel advisors, you’ll get the latest scoop on which hotels are looking a little tired, which airport transfer service won’t cancel your pick-up at the last minute, or how you can score hard to get reservations.
And if you do want to do your own research, I can book your hotel stay(s) so that you’re getting the best treatment everywhere you go.
What hotel brands do I work with?
How far in advance should I start planning my trip?
It depends on where you want to go and when. Ideally, Itinerary Planning would begin 6-12 months prior to your departure date. We can certainly accommodate planning inquiries with less lead time, but you may have fewer options (or things will be more expensive) based on availability. Inquiries for trips departing in less than 30 days are subject to a rush planning fee.
What is Fora?
Fora Travel is a network of travel advisors. AMC Travel is an independent affiliate of Fora, which means we have access to Fora's industry partnerships
and affiliations (like the invite-only Virtuoso hotel consortium and brand-specific programs like Rosewood Elite), a community of other travel-obsessed
advisors who are constantly sharing their feedback on destinations across the world, and hundreds of hours of training resources.