Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you’re wondering about working with an advisor, before your first call with us.
Travel + Leisure A-List
Three consecutive years
Virtuoso Network
Global preferred access
Preferred Partner Perks
Four Seasons, Rosewood & more
Working with an advisor
3 questions
What exactly does a travel advisor do?
When planning your travel, we start by understanding what speaks to you: what pulls you in, and where you feel most at home. We take your personal tastes and budget into account and build an itinerary that fits your travel goals. With the help of our global travel partners, we VIP you because you just can’t VIP yourself.
Why do I need a travel advisor?
We’re all busy and rely on professionals to handle many aspects of our lives, so why should your investment in travel be any different? You probably wouldn’t cut your own hair or file your own taxes, because there’s someone who can do it better. Working with an advisor means a greater return on your investment, and your time, which is a non-renewable resource, is protected.
I’ve booked through Amex or direct before. What’s the benefit of Diego Travel?
We offer clients better perks because of our global partner relationships. Through our affiliation with Coastline Travel Group and membership in the Virtuoso network, the value we offer trumps Amex Travel or direct online booking. Our relationships with hotel owners and general managers also give us the edge of knowing important details about a property or destination — which is why our clients frequently receive added amenities, upgrades, and availability even when a hotel is otherwise fully booked.
Fees & booking
4 questions
Is there a minimum spend to book with Diego Travel?
We currently work with clients planning a minimum trip spend of $20,000. This allows us to dedicate the time, attention, and global partner relationships that make working with an advisor worthwhile. If you’re planning a smaller trip, we’re happy to point you toward resources that may be a better fit.
What if I can find it cheaper elsewhere?
As your travel advisor, rather than simply an agent, we have a fiduciary responsibility to you and advocate on your behalf with travel suppliers. Many factors influence bottom-line pricing, and many OTAs publish misleading rates that don’t reflect the full picture. We ensure the best true value for our clients, not just the lowest sticker price.
Do you charge a fee if my trip doesn’t book?
Planning fees reflect the time and expertise we invest in researching, curating, and negotiating on your behalf, whether or not a trip is ultimately booked. We’ll walk you through our fee structure upfront during your complimentary consultation, so you know exactly what to expect.
What is the advantage of booking air with Diego Travel?
Many clients opt to book their own air, which is entirely up to you. When you book air on your own, we’re unable to assist with changes, delays, or cancellations. While we do charge a booking fee, it covers the customer service and support you receive when things go sideways, which can happen often with air travel. We also have access to unpublished fares not available to the public.
Villas & home rentals
1 question
Does Diego Travel book villas or home rentals?
Yes. Our villa and vacation home rental specialists around the globe provide vetted properties that ensure quality, cleanliness, and service. These agencies work with Diego Travel at no additional cost to our clients, and clients often receive bonus credits or amenities as a result. We don’t work with VRBO or Airbnb, as these platforms book direct-to-owner and offer no guarantee of the product you’re purchasing.
Planning your trip
3 questions
What destinations does Diego Travel specialize in?
We plan luxury travel worldwide, with particular depth in the Caribbean, Europe, Mexico, and California, along with curated safari and island experiences. Browse our Destination Guides for a full list of the regions we cover in detail.
How far in advance should I start planning?
For peak travel dates, luxury properties, or complex multi-stop itineraries, we recommend starting six to twelve months in advance to secure the best availability and rates. That said, we regularly assist with last-minute travel as well — the sooner we can start, the more options we’ll have to work with.
Do you plan group travel or destination weddings?
Yes. We regularly coordinate travel for extended families, milestone celebrations, and destination weddings, managing everything from group air and villa logistics to activity planning so everyone arrives with the right details in hand. Visit our Trip Planning Process page to see how we approach multi-traveler planning.
