My Custom Travel Planning Process: Five Things I Always Do for Every Trip

If you’ve ever tried to plan a trip on your own and ended up with 47 tabs open, conflicting advice, and decision fatigue… you’re not alone. Custom travel planning is one of those things that sounds simple - until you’re knee-deep in forums, maps, and “top 10” lists that all say something different.

Here’s a little peek behind the scenes at what I actually do when creating a personalized itinerary for my clients:

1. Every Custom Travel Itinerary Starts with a Real Conversation

No forms. No guessing. Just a conversation, over the phone or a digital meeting (or if you live where I live, over coffee), where I get to understand what you want from your trip. Are you foodies? History buffs? Relaxation-seekers? Do you want to pack your days or leave room for spontaneity? Your trip should reflect you, not someone else’s idea of a “perfect itinerary.”

2. I Balance Must-Sees with Breathing Room in Every Trip Plan

You don’t need to see every museum, ruin, or landmark to have an amazing trip. I build in downtime and lesser-known experiences alongside the must-sees so you don’t come home needing a vacation from your vacation.

3. I Coordinate All the Moving Parts for a Seamless Itinerary

Flights, transfers, hotel policies, check-in times, activity start times, ferry schedules, regional holidays - yep, I can juggle all of that (so you don’t have to). A smooth trip depends on making all the logistics talk to each other.

4. I Rely on Trusted Partners and Firsthand Experience

I’ve travelled to over 60 countries, cruised on rivers and oceans, and worked with a vetted network of local suppliers around the world. When I recommend something, it’s either because I’ve done it or I trust the people behind it. No generic “packages” here.

5. I Support My Clients Before, During, and After Travel

My work doesn’t end when you board the plane. I check in before you leave, while you’re travelling, and when you get back. And if something goes sideways while you're away? I'm only a message away to help.

Planning a truly great trip takes time, strategy, and care - because it’s not just about where you’re going. It’s about how you want to feel while you’re there. That’s what custom means to me.

Want to work together on your next trip? Schedule a call here or reach out to ange.f@gotravelcompany.com.

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