Real Talk: Travel Budget

 "Do you have a budget range in mind?"

If we've ever talked about a special millinery piece or any kind of travel plan, you've probably heard me ask this question.

Me? I have no idea of my exact travel budget in advance. I mean, how can I know what I want to spend without knowing how much things cost in that location? And you might feel the same way.

So how do you communicate to your travel planner what you are looking for?

1.) Current Vacation Goals and Past Experiences: Talk about the experience you are seeking, the kinds of hotels you've enjoyed before, and the amenities you prefer. (And equally importantly, let your travel advisor know if there is something you want to avoid!)

For instance, I recently spoke to a new client who at first was hesitant to express what was comfortable for their group. As we talked, I learned that a nice bathroom is extremely important, having breakfast available onsite is a strong preference, and separate bedrooms for parents and each child in the traveling party are a must. After this communication, I was able to find luxury lodging options with multiple bedrooms, offering breakfast options in the hotel dining room or through room service, and -- most importantly -- featuring really nice bathrooms!

2.) How Does This Trip Fit Into Your Financial Picture? Discuss whether this entire trip is a splurge or a more typical experience for you, whether you might need to cut corners somewhere to ensure access to your Vacation Must Do list, or whether there is no maximum budget with all options on the table.

In the past year, I have worked with several sets of guests headed to Paris for their vacations. I'll give you an example based on two separate travel plans. One prioritized luxury, safety, and walkability, while the other preferred more affordable lodging even if it is was a little farther from the city center. Because I knew that one client preferred only five-star hotels and the other was happy with tourist class hotels, I was able to find both of them their ideals places -- and both ended up being in the city center, so very walkable and near all the famous sights.

This room in Warsaw did not have AC, but the temperature was chilly,
and the 18" thick walls meant the room was well insulated.
BONUS: a full kitchen, a washing machine, and fab hammock chair!

3.) Prioritize Your Preferences. To ensure you have the best possible trip, it's important to prioritize your preferences to maximize your overall experience.

On my own travels, I prioritize walkability and access to public transportation over almost everything else. I do not want to spend my valuable vacation time traveling far to see the main sites, so I look for lodging that is nearest the activities I most want to do. During warmer weather, AC is a must for me -- and not all lodging options offer AC, especially outside the U.S. So for instance, when I'm in Budapest this summer, my lodging has a balcony that overlooks the Danube River, is just a few blocks from the famous Hungarian Parliament building and the beautiful green space called Margaret Island, and of course it has an AC. 

Does prioritizing my preferences mean that the lodging is more expensive? Sometimes ... but most places offer lodging at a variety of price points with an array of amenities in similar locations, allowing guests to choose the experience they prefer at a price-point that is comfortable.

Why Are These Discussions Important? While it can be uncomfortable discussing money matters, it is necessary to give your travel advisor a clue of your goals -- in terms of both experience and pricing -- so that she can help you create an amazing trip that meets your budget and does not break the bank.

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