What’s the difference between a travel agent and a travel advisor?

Nothing! They are interchangeable. A lot has changed in the travel business and “travel agent” can evoke the image of an old school system where agents are sending cookie cutter proposals and sitting behind a desk issuing tickets all day. A “travel advisor” is doing the same job but this new title reflects a fresher, more dynamic role, offering personalized trip planning with unique experiences that are un-googleable.

How do you make money?

Commission! Speaking specifically to hotels, most luxury properties see travel advisors as an extension of their sales team. They want to educate us so that we recommend their hotel to our clients, and more importantly, the right clients. In return for sending clients to them, they pay us commission.

But hotels are so booked up these days, do they really need your help?

A travel advisor knows the hotel and knows their client so it’s a bit like matchmaking. Luxury hotels dont’t just want any guest, they want the right guest. If someone checks into a hotel thinking it’s going to be a very quiet retreat and it ends up being a lively atmosphere, they are not going to have a good experience and will not be speaking highly of the hotel.

Are there any clients or trips that you cannot help with?

Yes, plenty. It’s important to us that we are a right fit for eachother, both from a business and personal perspective. From a business perspective, we typically work with budgets of at least $15k per week for a family of up to four people. There are many variables so that is a very rough estimate. For example, a safari in Africa would be more and a trip to Florida would be less. It’s important to note that we focus on luxury and do not price match or work with discount companies such as booking.com. From a personal perspective, we know how important trips can be. They require a large investment and taking time off of work and some trips are a once in a lifetime experience. That being said, we want trip planning to be fun and and don’t take ourselves too seriously. We place a high value on mutual respect, patience, and kindness.

What if I want to go somewhere that you’ve never personally been?

The travel industry is all about connections. If we haven’t personally been somewhere, we still have the resources to plan a fantastic trip. One way is through DMCs (destination management companies) who are experts of a specific country or area and are lcocated in that destination. Another way is through our host agency, Embark Beyond, and our network of travel advisors. We are constantly bouncing ideas of each other and sharing real time feedback. While the agents at Embark are indepedenct contractors, we are about collaboration, not competition.

Is it more expensive to book hotels through you instead of booking direct?

Nope! Most of the pricing you see on hotel websites are gross costs, meaning the commission is already built in. So whether you book directly with the hotel, or with a travel advisor, it’s the same price. Plus, you’re getting the extra perks!

Do you only work with certain hotels?

Our recommendations are based on personal experiences and opinions and there is no bias or agenda to push clients to certain hotels. Most luxury hotels worldwide are commissionable but some are more travel agent friendly than others. Not all hotels offer extra perks for travel advisor bookings but we prioritize those that provide the best value and amenities.

What about home rentals?

Yes. We partner with trusted villa providers worldwide, but not Airbnb or VRBO, as those lack personal connections and reliability. Our vetted villas ensure accurate listings of a home that is in excellent condition and can include staff such as a villa manager, chef, housekeeper, butler, babysitter, driver, and/or driver.

I like to book my own travel. Would it still make sense to work with you?

Yes! Book your hotels through us to receive the perks. You will recieve VIP perks and get a second set of eyes on your reservation and we get compenstated by the hotel so it’s a win-win! Also, it’s a nice way to start working together without going all in.

I’ve been booking travel through American Express. How is it different to work with you?

While they typically provide similar perks, you won’t have one dedicated travel advisor. We really value getting to know our clients so that we know what you want before you do!

Is someone available 24/7 to assist during my trip?

Yes, but not us. Kalokairi should be booked mainly for pre-travel planning. If you would like to ensure you have assistance during your trip then your trip will be booked through a DMC (desinational management company) who is located in the destination that you are traveling to. This way you have access to a company that will be in your time zone while you are traveling. DMCs often only work with travel advisors and we have fully vetted them.