The Perks of Hiring a Travel Advisor

As the travel industry evolves and travel demand continues to increase, more people are interested in working with a travel advisor. I thought it would be a good time to talk more about what the Atlas team can do for you when planning a trip and the perks of hiring a travel advisor. In today's fast-paced world, where time is of the essence, a travel advisor can save you precious hours and provide expert guidance, insider knowledge, and personalized recommendations to ensure that your next journey is unforgettable. Enlisting the services of a travel advisor can be one of the best decisions you make for your travel experiences.

I’ve spent most of the last decade traveling and have now visited over 40 countries and 150 cities to date. I’ve used these experiences to immerse myself in local culture, build relationships with travel vendors, and find the best aspects of any destination. Many of the travel questions you’re asking yourself while planning any trip are likely experiences my team has lived through first-hand. Whether you want someone to plan your entire trip, or you just want help with a few logistical questions, my team is here to help your travel dreams become a reality.

My team leverages our personal relationships and robust network of travel partners to ensure our clients receive VIP status and have the best trip possible. Our goal is to elevate your itinerary based on your dreams and preferences. These are just a few of the perks you receive when booking hotels through us:

  • Room upgrades 

  • Complimentary breakfasts

  • Food & Beverage Credits

  • Spa treatments

  • Welcome amenities

  • Early check-in/ late check-out

Your trip will be custom-tailored to meet your personal interests, travel style, and budget. You’ll have access to destination recommendations and need-to-know information (from our own experiences, our travel partners, and from on-the-ground locals we are frequently in contact with). Outside of our own experiences and knowledge, we also benefit from our even broader support from Embark Beyond bespoke travel collective based in New York. This allows us to tap into even more locations outside of our own team’s vast knowledge. 

While I hear from customers how much they’ve enjoyed planning their own trips in the past, they also mention how exhausting it can be. If you do an internet or social media search of the places you want to visit, you’ll be inundated with thousands of responses that will take hours to wade through. It can quickly become overwhelming and frustrating. Working with a travel advisor saves you time and includes reputable recommendations tailored to your interests. Time is one of our most precious resources and we’re able to give you back the hours, days, and weeks you could spend planning a trip.

If you’re planning an adventure-based trip like a safari or a hiking trip to the Dolomites, even more important details need to be planned for. We’re able to anticipate many of those important details that add up over time such as identifying the best airport to fly into, the best transfers, how to navigate public transportation, cultural considerations, and more. One of our favorite aspects is recommending special experiences that you might not have considered before such as access to premium event and concert tickets, private excursions, and exclusive access to museums. Those special moments are the core memories you’ll carry with you long after the trip has ended.

 It can be extremely overwhelming to plan a trip while also juggling your daily life. Let us take off some of the challenges of planning a trip so that you can truly enjoy your time without any worries. If you’re ready to access the perks of hiring a travel advisor, schedule a consult and we can get started planning a trip that aligns with your vision and preferences.

10 Travel Essentials for Europe

I’m often asked what to pack for a trip to Europe and I’d like to think I’m somewhat of a pro considering I travel SO often for work. At one point, I lived out of a single suitcase for four months while traveling in Europe several years ago. So far this summer I’ve traveled to Sweden, Greece, Italy, and France. I never leave home without these 10 essentials every traveler needs in Europe.

1. LUGGAGE TAG

Traveling in Europe means your suitcase is likely to be dragged around even more than it is domestically (consider planes, trains, taxis, ferries- you name it). Those flimsy airline tags are bound to rip off, so invest in a chic + sturdy leather luggage tag like this monogrammed one from Paravel or this one from Aspinal of London.

 

2. DURABLE LUGGAGE

I'm asked about luggage a lot. And rightfully so- it's the most necessary item for any traveler. I've learned that the cheaper the luggage, the shorter the lifespan. I invested in a Rimowa suitcase a few years ago and have not regretted it. They have various sizes to suit your needs. Always check the measurements against airline regulations. I love that Rimowa has a chart you can reference to ensure you have the appropriate size. Your best bet for luggage that will last (the case, the zipper, the wheels, etc.) even in the harshest conditions on trains, planes, and automobiles, will be brands like Rimowa, Victorinox, or Tumi. Away luggage is also a great option at a lower price point. I always recommend brands that offer a lifetime warranty as we all know how much our luggage gets knocked about when traveling.

 

3. CASHMERE SCARF

Temperatures while traveling are constantly changing-- especially in Europe. Light layers are key, and you can't go wrong with a cashmere scarf (especially this birch color that goes with everything). If you’re looking for a silk cashmere scarf, this one is beautiful as well.  Wear it like a traditional scarf or wrap it around you like a blanket on the plane/train. Either way, you'll be so glad you have it. 

 

4. DePuffing Mask

Travel is so hard on your skin: the dehydration from airplane altitude, the ever-changing climates, the list goes on. To help with the puffiness, I use these under-eye gels and the Clairins depuffing mask. I swear by these to help my skin bounce back. The SK-II mask is a great option if you’d rather pack a sheet mask to save on packing space. To protect from sun damage, I use 35 Thousand sunscreen here in the UK, but Elta MD is also a great option for those stateside. It can be easy to let our skincare routine slip while we’re traveling but I’ve become more vigilant as I get older.

 

5. CREDIT CARD CASE

Over the last few years, I found that instead of a larger wallet, I prefer a thin card case to keep my ID and cards handy. Between that and being able to tap to pay for the tube with my phone, I don’t really need anything bigger. Plus, I try not to carry much with me when I’m out for the day other than the essentials. My Celine case is no longer available but the Alfred card case from Sezane and the Monogram Ziptop case from YSL are similar.

 

6. PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER

We all know the struggle to keep an iPhone battery charged, but this pain point seems to be amplified even more while I'm in Europe. When one device serves as your camera, map, and means of communication (among many other things), it's naturally going to be in your hands almost non-stop. So instead of having heart palpitations when your "10% battery remaining" notification comes on the moment you're about to see the Mona Lisa, just pull out a handy portable iPhone charger for an additional battery to save the day. I like this one from Anker for a fuller charge and they also have a wireless version if you don’t have the connector cords. For a smaller option, this one plugs right into your phone. I’ve had friends use this for concerts and sporting events where there are bag size restrictions.

 

7. LIFESTYLE WALKING SHOES

Europeans know a thing (or 20) about stylish footwear. One reason why? They do TONS of walking.  While heels may look cute, they're not the most practical option. To fit in like a local, pick up a pair of stylish lifestyle shoes like these Jack trainers from Sezane, Court sneakers from Everlane, or the  Adidas Sambas you can wear with just about any everyday outfit. I’ve seen these all over London and Paris lately.

 

8. PASSPORT CASE

I used to think a passport case was unnecessary and that it just looked cute. But it does extend your passport life when it inevitably ends up in the bottom of your carry-on bag. This one can be monogrammed and it would make a perfect gift for a fellow travel lover. I also love this stone-colored case from Cuyana. Overall, I've found it to be a form of expression (similar to a lot of things we carry) for one of my most prized possessions- so why wouldn't I want one?

 

9. WEEKENDER OR OVERNIGHT TOTE

In addition to durable luggage, be sure to have a solid carry-on tote. I have both this weekender bag and overnight tote from Cuyana and both are wonderful. I also use this monogrammed duffel from Leatherology a lot. On a recent girls' trip to Provence, we all gushed over my friend’s weekender from Mark & Graham. Sadly, this brand is currently only available in the States. Different airlines have different allowances for carry-on baggage, but these are allowed (and if you don't get a personal item, they'll also fit your purse). Additional perk? I'm using them for shorter trips when I can leave my big suitcase behind.

 

10. AIRPODS

I use my AirPods every. single. day. On a plane or a train. Working on my laptop in a café or while walking and exploring the city streets. They have active noise cancellation, which is essential to me. They're in my ears more often than not some days and I don’t know what I would do without them. I have my eye on this Airpod case from Cuyana to keep them in when not in use. 

What I Packed for Provence

I am thrilled to be back in the Provence region of France! I’m combining work and pleasure on this six-day trip. The first few days of the trip will be spent scouting locations so I can check out hotels for clients and potential future Atlas Adventures trips. We’ll be exploring Gordes, Apt, Crillon-le-Brave,  Châteauneuf-du-Pape (for some wine tastings), Menebres, and a few others. Then, I’ll be joined by a few girlfriends for my bachelorette/hen party!

Why I Love Provence

Provence is arguably one of the most beautiful regions in France (which is probably why Rénoir, Van Gogh, Cézanne, Picasso, and other great impressionist artists frequented the area to inspire their work). The region is full of the most charming villages scattered throughout rolling hills. Whether you're nestled in the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail, by the sparkling waters of Côte d'Azur, or discovering endless fields of lavender or sunflowers, Provence is a stunning variety of landscapes. There's so much to do here that you could easily spend months in the area and never get bored. A few years ago, a friend and I visited Valensole to see the lavender fields in all their glory before visiting Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Paradou, Aix-en-Provence, Ménerbes, and Gordes. I’ve visited Provence several times since that trip and in 2023, we hosted our first Atlas Adventures trip in the region. 

The region includes the coast of southeastern France next to the Mediterranean and includes hundreds of cities, towns, and villages. Many of these villages could easily be pulled from the pages of Beauty and the Beast. While it will be at the beginning of summer, the temperatures typically range from high 70s to mid 80s. I’m packing plenty of lightweight clothes to match the casually chic vibe of the villages.

My Tips for Visiting Provence

If you’re visiting Provence (and I highly recommend you do), let me first suggest renting a car. A lot of these quaint villages are fairly remote and would be difficult to get to without a car. It may seem intimidating to drive in a foreign country, but I assure you that if I can do it, so can you! Just be sure to always have plenty of Euros handy because the tolls in France are a pretty penny. You’ll also want to make sure and book your reservation for an automatic car if you aren’t used to driving stick shift. 

The markets in the towns are a true joy and a must-see. However, market days tend to get very busy so be sure to plan ahead (and know which day they take place in each town!) Many of these villages are built within the hillside; which means you’ll likely come across stone staircases and plenty of cobblestone streets. You’ll want to pack comfortable shoes with good tread to easily navigate the charming thoroughfares. 

My team has a wealth of knowledge about this region: everything from the best hotels, to fantastic restaurants, navigating which specific towns to visit & more. We’d love to help you plan a trip of your own! When you book with us, we’re also able to get you exclusive perks & even upgrades at the top hotels. Get in touch to start planning!

What I packed for provence

For this trip, I packed a few classic pieces that can be used in various settings. For my hen party, we’re staying at a villa with a pool that overlooks a winery so I anticipate a lot of relaxing poolside and exploring a town or two here & there.

I have been living in this olive green linen top and pants and these sandals. They are so chic yet incredibly comfortable. I love being able to mix and match the pieces. For cooler evenings I’ll pair it with a sweater. In Italy recently, I paired the top with this silk skirt and these espadrilles for a dinner out in the town. This outfit is making a repeat appearance in France. I packed a floral print Ellie Nap Dress and a linen maxi dress to wear when exploring the area. I also packed my trusted woven flats.

We will likely spend an evening or two in town so I’m taking this dress with the sweetest lace cut-out detail. The draping of the hem has a perfect flutter to it. I’m also packing a blue floral dress from Sezane. While mine is sold out, the Mariama dress from them has a similar cut.

For days spent lounging at the pool, I’m taking this floral one-piece. I got so many compliments on it when I wore it last! I also packed this gorgeous caftan that can be worn over my swimsuit and I also wear it on its own. I wore it to lunch in Capri a few weeks ago while visiting a new luxury hotel. Finally, I packed my favorite set from Lake Pajamas. These are hands down my favorite pajamas!

I am so looking forward to this trip and feel incredibly lucky to have this special time with my friends!

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