Navigating your travel journey: Frequently Asked Questions

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01

Why should I use a travel advisor instead of booking on my own?

Booking with Passports & Palms Travel Co. saves you time, stress, and ensures a more luxurious experience. We provide expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and access to exclusive upgrades and VIP perks that you can’t get on your own. We handle all the details - flights, accommodations, transportation, and activities - to ensure your luxury travel experience is flawlessly planned and executed. We offer support if plans change, we make travel seamless and enjoyable. With us, your journey is elevated to a truly unforgettable experience. 


02

What makes Passports & Palms Travel Co. different from other travel agencies or online booking platforms like Expedia?

We are a boutique luxury travel agency specializing in luxury, wellness, group, and romance travel. We create bespoke experiences with exclusive access to premium amenities and unique adventures, all tailored to your preferences. Backed by deep industry relationships, expert knowledge, and a commitment to excellence, we ensure every detail of your trip is handled with care.

What truly sets us apart is our exceptional service. Unlike online booking platforms, we’re here to assist you every step of the way—from solving problems to providing emergency support.  Being based in one of the world’s leading travel hubs allows us to stay connected with the best in the travel industry. 

03

Do you charge a planning fee? 

We charge a Professional Services Retainer because crafting your perfect trip requires time, care, and expertise. With over 25 years of travel experience—including 7 years in the travel industry—we know that exceptional travel experiences don’t happen by chance. Every detail matters, and our goal is to make your journey seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable.

The retainer reflects the dedication we bring to your travel planning. From researching the best destinations to curating exclusive amenities and managing logistics, we ensure every trip is tailored to your unique desires. Whether it’s a dream honeymoon, a luxury cruise, or a last-minute getaway, we handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your journey.

Retainers must be paid before any work begins on your trip proposals to allow us to fully focus on designing your perfect getaway. We offer flexible options to meet different needs:

  • Professional Services Retainer – $150 (per room): Covers research, design, consultation, and arrangements for hotel or cruise-only travel. Includes a complimentary 30-minute consultation and up to three itinerary quotes to ensure we align with your preferences.

  • VIP Professional Services Retainer – $250 (per room): Perfect for clients seeking more detailed guidance, this includes everything in the standard retainer plus arranging private transfers and excursions, access to a mobile travel app with your itineraries and travel documents, and extended support for questions and follow-up before and during your trip.

  • Flight Add-On: Flights can be booked with land or cruise accommodations for $50 per person. This includes monitoring flights for changes or cancellations and proactively assisting with rebooking if needed.

  • Groups (5+ travelers): Retainers start at $400, depending on the group size and complexity.

  • FIT (Flexible Independent Travel): Retainers start at $350 for multi-destination trips.

Please note that trips booked within 45 days of departure are considered last-minute and require an additional $200 fee.

All retainers are non-refundable and reflect the care and expertise we dedicate to ensuring your travel experience exceeds expectations. By entrusting us with your travel plans, you’re gaining a partner committed to creating an extraordinary journey, tailored just for you.




04

Do you book budget vacations or “too good to be true deals"?

 We focus on quality and value, not budget vacations or “cheap deals" —because they often are. We only work with trusted partners that meet our high standards and we would never recommend a hotel that we wouldn't personally stay at..  We want to ensure your vacation is stress-free, memorable, and worth your investment. Your time is precious, and you deserve the best.

05

What types of travel can I book with Passports & Palms Travel Co.?

We offer a diverse travel options tailored to your needs. From resort vacations (all-inclusive or not) to luxury cruises, wellness retreats, group trips, and FITs (Flexible Independent Travel), we craft experiences designed just for you. We specialize in honeymoons, babymoons, romantic getaways, girlfriend getaways, and inclusive travel for LGBTQ+ clients.

Whether you’re planning a family reunion, bachelor/bachelorette party, or traveling solo for self-discovery, we handle every detail to make your trip effortless. If you’re dreaming of an exotic escape or a city adventure, we’ll bring your vision to life. For businesses, our incentive trips inspire and reward teams. If there’s something we can’t book, we’ll always be transparent. Share your travel dreams, and we’ll make them a reality.

06

Which destinations do you plan?

The world is yours to explore. From tropical paradises like the Maldives and Koh Samui to cultural hubs such as Tokyo and Paris, we’ll help you discover the best of the world. Whether it’s an African safari, a Caribbean escape, or Europe’s historic landmarks, we craft personalized itineraries to match your dreams.

Not sure where to go? For destination inspiration, click here to explore our travel blog for expert insights and ideas. You can also sign up for our complimentary newsletter here to receive curated travel tips and destination highlights straight to your inbox. Let us guide you to your next adventure!


07

How does Passports & Palms Travel Co. handle travel uncertainties and changes?

We prioritize flexibility and peace of mind for our clients. While we are not travel insurance experts, we always highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment and will present options for coverage. Our proactive approach includes:

  • Automatically providing real-time updates on global travel advisories.
  • Offering personalized support to adjust your plans when necessary.

No matter what happens, we’re here to assist and ensure your journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

08

What if I don’t need your booking services but want help with an itinerary or using points and miles?

You can absolutely use our expertise!  We offer consultations tailored to your needs:

  • For $125, we provide a one-hour Points/Miles Consultation with expert recommendations to help you maximize your points and miles for exceptional travel experiences. With extensive knowledge—and personal experience—regularly using points and miles for top-tier hotels and flights, we’ll guide you in making the most of your rewards.

  • For $125, we also offer an itinerary creation service, where we’ll collaborate with you to design a travel plan that matches your preferences and goals, whether you book on your own or with points.

Even if you don’t need full booking services, our expertise ensures your trip is well-planned and extroadinary.

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Testimonials from Happy Clients

I was a little apprehensive about my first trip overseas, but that was quickly resolved when working with Catherine. She laid out exactly how the trip was going to go, from the flight, to the drive to the resort and everything in between until it was time to fly back. She even told me which weather-appropriate attire I would be most comfortable in. The entire trip was seamless. I can't recommend her services enough."

- Richard

"I can't recommend her services enough."

Traveling is always stressful! Catherine helps you make it less about being a daunting task and more about what works for your needs. She listens and really works towards providing options that make sense for your trip and is SO friendly and understanding. She takes the time to be detail-oriented, timely, and wants you to have the best experience possible. Working with Catherine is like planning a trip with a friend, while also providing experiences you might not have thought about. If you are someone who wants to get the most out of the time out have to travel, working with Catherine is the way to go!

- Angela

"Catherine is like planning a trip with a friend"

- Karen

Catherine planned a stress-free experience

My girlfriends and I just returned from a lovely vacation to St. Croix. I am thankful we used Passport & Palms Travel Co. Before our trip we told Catherine exactly what we were looking for and she handled the rest. I needed a stress-free planning experience and Catherine ensured I received one. We knew exactly what to expect and she gave us wonderful recommendations.
If you want an amazing vacation you are in fantastic hands with Passport & Palms Travel Co.!

Catherine has done it again! She planned my family vacation in 2023 and now my anniversary! You can’t lose with her services! She is helpful, honest, and knows exactly what I need as her client.

- Dierra

"You can’t lose with her services!"

Group Trips 2025

Crafting Memories one group Trip at a Time

BodyHoliday St. Lucia 
 7/31 - 8/5

Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres
  8/16 - 8/20

Recharge your mind, body, and soul at this wellness-focused resort in stunning St. Lucia. With spa treatments, fitness activities, and endless relaxation,
it’s the ultimate escape.

Experience an upscale getaway near Isla Mujeres with stunning beaches and spacious suites. Enjoy the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

© Passports and Palms Travel Co. LLC 2025

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Passports & Palms Travel Co. is a full-service luxury boutique travel agency based in the NYC Metropolitan area. Our travel experts offer personalized itineraries, exclusive hotel and resort access, and exceptional service to create memorable travel experiences. Discover our top destinations and contact us today to start planning your unforgettable getaway.