Why We Don’t Provide Line Item Pricing
Every once in a while, a potential client asks me why I won’t provide the cost of each individual service of their customized vacation package. I have struggled to explain it in the past because there are so many aspects to a full service travel package. Also, while there are other reasons, I really don’t think anyone cares about the confidential rates and contracts we have with our vendor partners, and suppliers, even though it provides great benefit to everyone involved.
Some clients have “compared” my recommendations to online travel sites and other flimsy resources, but it’s important to understand that they’re often comparing apples to oranges. While they may find similar hotels, the services, room types, and tour companies are likely not the same. My recommendations are more than just hotel bookings. I leverage my decades of experience to curate unique travel experiences that align with your specific needs and preferences. While online tools can be helpful, they often lack the personalized attention and expert insights I provide.
The bottom line is that I have access to services that aren’t always available to the public. Even on simple trips, my service to the client goes above and beyond the small amount they may save by booking on their own. Oh, and if something goes wrong? Well that’s a different story.
As a self-proclaimed dining expert and lover of food, I started to see the comparison in my industry similar to the restaurant industry. I mean, you can get a burger at Burger King, but it won’t be the same as a burger from Ruth’s Chris. Mind you, neither of those places are going to provide individual pricing on the ingredients.
After using this as a comparison a couple times, and seeing the a-ha moment on my clients faces after this comparison, I feel it is time to share it with the world. I hope it helps you to make the best decision for your travel needs.
Imagine planning a vacation as if it were a meal. You have two options:
1) The Pre-Made Feast (Travel Package)
This includes pre-arranged flights, accommodations, activities, transportation, recommendations and maybe even some meals.
It’s like a carefully curated gourmet meal – all the ingredients are sourced, prepared, and presented beautifully, saving you time and effort. If your cooking skills are as basic as mine, it also gives you the opportunity to eat edible food.
While you may not know the exact cost of each ingredient (chicken, spices, vegetables), the overall price reflects the convenience and expertise involved in creating a complete dining experience.
2) The DIY Meal (Do It Yourself Travel)
You do all the research, read all the reviews from people you have never met, book flights, hotels, activities, and transportation individually.
It’s like buying groceries and cooking from scratch. Keep in mind that restaurants often use high-quality, specialty ingredients and seasonings that elevate the dish which cannot always be accessed at your local corner grocery store.
You might potentially save money by finding deals, but it requires significant time investment and research skills. And if you cook like me, it won’t be as delicious as a chef-prepared meal.
Choosing the Right Option
Both options work for different people. Travel packages offer convenience, expertise, elevated experiences, and maybe even bundled discounts, while DIY travel allows for the cost of each item, flexibility, and potentially lower costs (if you have the time and expertise).
Our Value Proposition
Similar to a delicious, gourmet meal, our customized travel packages go beyond the sum of their parts. We curate itineraries, source exclusive experiences, and handle logistics, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey – a service to you that is worth every dollar.
I hope this helps you as much as it has helped some of my clients. I don’t know about you, but I have to sign off here. Am I the only one that is hungry now?
