Questionnaire For Seattle Travel Agencies : What You Need to Know Before You Book

Choosing the right travel agency in Seattle WA can mean the difference between a trip that runs like a dream and one that unravels mid-transit. Whether you're looking to plan an anniversary cruise through the Mediterranean, a last-minute family escape to Hawaii, or a first-class honeymoon in Bora Bora, not all travel agencies are created equal. As a boutique travel advisor based in the Pacific Northwest, I specialize in luxury hotels, cruises, and fully custom itineraries that go beyond what you’ll find in a Google search.

If you're Googling "Seattle travel agency" or "travel advisors Seattle," you're probably looking for someone who understands not just logistics, but luxury: connecting flights that don't involve a sprint across terminals, resort suites that actually match the photos, and experiences that feel effortless. Here's how to tell if a travel agency Seattle WA is the right fit for you.

Questions to Ask Before Booking a Seattle Travel Agency

Do you offer fully customized itineraries or only package deals?

A good travel agency Seattle WA should be flexible. Some advisors only offer pre-set packages, while others, like me, specialize in tailoring every leg of your trip. If you're simply looking for a room at the Four Seasons, I can book that (with perks). But if you want an entire custom itinerary—a week in Italy with private guides, trains, transfers—I do that too. If you're looking for cookie-cutter packages to Vegas, I'm not your girl.

What destinations do you specialize in beyond the Pacific Northwest?

While a travel agency in Seattle WA may know Mt. Rainier better than most, that shouldn’t be where the expertise ends. My clients travel most frequently to Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, and Japan. I’ve also planned luxury adventures everywhere from New Zealand’s South Island for New Year's Eve to bespoke honeymoons in French Polynesia. If it’s luxurious and inspiring, I’ll help you book it.

Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?

This is a key question for any travel advisors Seattle. Some charge hefty planning fees up front. Others hide service costs inside inflated hotel or cruise rates. My pricing is transparent. I don’t charge clients when booking luxury hotels or cruises where I’m compensated by the partner. For custom itineraries that require in-depth planning and supplier coordination, I do not charge a planning fee—I'm compensated by the partners I book with, so my services come at no additional cost to you.

Can you help me stay within my travel budget?

A skilled travel agency Seattle knows that luxury doesn’t have to mean limitless spending. If you tell me you have $20,000 to spend on a two-week Europe trip, I won’t come back with a $50,000 proposal. (Unless you ask me to.) I can advise you on what’s realistic within your budget, what elements to prioritize, and where to save without sacrificing experience.

What exactly is included in your travel planning services (flights, hotels, tours, insurance, etc.)?

This depends on what you book through me. If it’s just hotels or cruises, that’s my specialty and I’ll make sure you’re flagged as a VIP guest with benefits like room upgrades, daily breakfast, and resort credits. For fully custom trips, I can include hotels, private drivers, trains, day tours, activities, and occasionally flights depending on the destination. I do not book restaurant reservations or Broadway tickets, but I’ll connect you with the right people who can.

Do you assist with travel insurance or visa applications?

I can absolutely help you with travel insurance. I typically recommend either Travelex or Allianz depending on the trip type and level of coverage needed. While I don’t fill out visa applications for clients, I’ll make sure you’re aware of requirements in advance and provide links or partner referrals if needed.

What is your cancellation or refund policy?

This one comes down to what you book. Hotels, cruises, and tours each have their own terms. As your travel advisor, I’ll make sure you understand cancellation policies before you pay anything. Some rates are refundable up until a certain point; others aren’t. I don’t charge cancellation fees myself, but I’ll walk you through what to expect depending on your booking.

Conclusion

Not every travel agency in Seattle WA offers the same level of service, expertise, or access. Whether you’re looking to plan your honeymoon, a milestone trip, or a multigenerational family getaway, the right travel advisors Seattle will listen to your needs, respect your budget, and elevate your trip in ways the internet can’t.

If you’re still typing "Seattle travel agency" into Google, stop for a moment and ask yourself what kind of traveler you want to be. If the answer involves stunning hotels, efficient logistics, and a few surprises you didn’t see coming (in a good way), I’d love to help you plan it. Reach out—your next luxury adventure might be closer than you think.

Whether you're dreaming of a Mediterranean yacht charter, a once-in-a-lifetime safari, or a family getaway with all the five-star perks, working with a luxury travel agency ensures every detail is flawlessly executed. As a personal travel planner, I go beyond booking hotels—crafting custom itineraries, securing exclusive upgrades, and providing insider access that turns a great trip into an unforgettable one.