Our Journey Creation Process
How we turn your travel dreams into a trip that feels 100% you—every single time
1
Discover
(Inquiry Form and 15 minute complimentary call)
After completing our inquiry form where you will let us know about your travel style, must-haves, never-agains, and what "perfect" means to you, we meet by phone for a relaxed, no-pressure conversation to answer any questions about our services, any applicable fees, and what to expect throughout the planning process.
2
Collaborate
We shape the big picture together—destinations, dates, pace, and the exact feeling you’re chasing. Whether you have a pinpoint plan or just a vibe, we refine until it feels exactly right.
3
Design
We present a detailed, day-by-day proposal filled with the perfect hotels, experiences, and insider touches. You review, tweak, fall in love.
4
Reserve
We lock in every element at the best available rates, secure all VIP amenities and upgrades, and triple-check every confirmation so nothing slips through the cracks.
5
Prepare
In the lead-up to departure, you receive gentle check-ins, final documents, tailored packing lists, and instant access to everything in our Trip Plans app. Behind the scenes, we’re already alerting hotels, guides, and local partners that a very important guest is arriving.
6
Experience
You travel. We stay on duty—monitoring flights, handling last-minute requests, and solving any hiccups before you notice them. You simply live the moment.
7
Celebrate & Dream Again
Welcome home! We debrief over your favorite stories and photos (because your feedback makes every future trip even better), and we usually end the call already sketching your next adventure.
“The communication Michelle provided before, during, and after the trip was exceptional. Her experience and insights made all the difference—I look forward to planning my next vacation with her.”
Cheryl C.
One conversation. One trusted partner. A lifetime of unforgettable journeys. Your complimentary Discovery Call is just a message away—let’s begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Escapes by Escala?
A luxury travel concierge crafting deeply personal journeys worldwide. As an independent Virtuoso affiliate, we pair intimate, high-touch service with the world’s most exclusive partnerships and amenities.
What types of travel do you specialize in? Milestone celebrations, romantic escapes, multigenerational trips, private group travel, golf & wine journeys, wellness retreats, safaris, cruising, and active adventures — anything that deserves to feel uniquely yours.
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Why Work With Escapes by Escala?
Four common reasons people hesitate — and why our clients never look back
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“I love planning myself — I don’t want to give up control.” Our clients decide exactly how involved they want to be (and it can change trip to trip). Love the research? We’re your professional partner to validate ideas and execute perfectly. Prefer to hand everything over? Done. Either way, you keep the fun and lose the stress.
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“The internet has everything I need.” It has options. We have decades of on-the-ground experience, trusted global relationships, and insider knowledge that turn good plans into unforgettable ones — plus access no search engine can match.
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“A travel advisor will cost more.” The opposite is almost always true. As a Virtuoso advisor we secure the same (or better) pricing than online, plus exclusive VIP amenities — upgrades, credits, private experiences — that far outweigh our transparent planning fee.
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“I’m not sure what the real value is.” Our clients value saved time, unbiased expertise, peace of mind, and someone truly in their corner before, during, and after travel. When plans shift, one message to us fixes it — that alone is priceless.
What is Virtuoso?
The invitation-only global network of the world’s top luxury travel advisors and partners. It unlocks exclusive benefits, upgrades, and experiences unavailable anywhere else — from daily breakfast and $100–$200 hotel credits to private tours and VIP recognition.
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Do you have a minimum budget?
We specialize in true luxury travel. Excluding international airfare, most custom international journeys begin around $1,000 per person per day (higher in peak season or remote destinations). This reflects 4- and 5-star properties, private guiding, and the exclusive experiences that make travel unforgettable.
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Planning Timeline & Practical Questions
How far in advance should I book?
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12–18 months: high-demand destinations, holidays, villas, large groups
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6–12 months: most luxury travel
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3 months–2 weeks: possible for many trips (availability may be limited)
Why are airline tickets so expensive right now?
Post-pandemic recovery, inflation, fuel costs, staffing shortages, and record demand have all driven fares higher. We monitor closely and use every tool to secure the best routing and pricing.
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Can you book travel using my points & miles?
We do not redeem or manage points/miles. Clients may handle award portions themselves (just let us know in advance); all cash components remain with us.
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Fees, Changes & Protection
Do you charge planning fees? Yes — we are proudly fee-based and independent. Fees begin at $500 for a typical one-week custom trip (varies by complexity) and cover research, revisions, detailed documents, VIP perks, and support before, during, and after travel. The fee is fully discussed and agreed upon before we begin. It is non-refundable, which is why we start with a complimentary discovery call to ensure we’re the perfect fit.
What is your change & cancellation policy? Up to two complimentary revisions are included. Additional changes are $50/hour.
Do you recommend travel insurance? Always because one unexpected moment can cost far more than a policy ever will. Travel is a serious investment—of your time, money, and excitement.
What additional costs should I budget for? International flights (when not included), gratuities, personal shopping/spa beyond credits, and optional experiences. We supply detailed tipping guidelines for every destination.
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What We Do (and Don’t Do)
Should I bother you with “simple” bookings? Yes! Even one hotel night or cruise deserves VIP treatment and added amenities. There is no planning fee required for hotel-only bookings if you know the hotel and dates you would like to book.
Can you book villas, apartments, or homes? Yes, but only through our personally vetted, fully supported private villa partners (never public platforms like Airbnb or VRBO). These properties include on-site concierge, daily housekeeping, and pre-stocking — often at lower cost than the public listing.
Can you help with flights? Yes. Ticketing fees start at $75 domestic / $100 international per person.
What don’t we do?
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Flights-only
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Bookings on Airbnb, VRBO, or similar public platforms
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Redemption of points/miles as payment
Ready to Begin?
Complete the form linked below and we will reach out to schedule a complimentary 15 minute discovery call. We’ll listen to your vision, answer every question, and explain exactly how the process works. Your next extraordinary escape is one conversation away.
Still have questions? We’re here for them — anytime. Let’s talk soon.