Summer travel season is here, and if you’re anything like us, your wanderlust is in full swing. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping rosé on a Mediterranean terrace or planning a family theme park adventure before back-to-school chaos begins, a familiar question tends to pop up: Should I plan this trip myself or work with a travel advisor?
The answer? It depends. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide when it’s perfectly fine to DIY—and when calling in the pros (ahem, that’s us!) will save you time, stress, and possibly even money.
Some trips are simple and straightforward enough to book on your own:
• Quick weekend getaways within driving distance
• A basic hotel stay when you’re attending an event or wedding
• Domestic flights to visit family or friends
• Returning to a favorite spot where you already know your way around…like the Florida beach condo that has become an annual tradition
If you love the process of researching and booking—and you have the time—that’s fantastic. But for everything else, there’s a good reason travel advisors exist.
Here’s when our expertise can make all the difference:
1. You’re overwhelmed by information and opinions.
Endless online reviews, conflicting advice from family and friends, and too many tabs open? We help cut through the clutter and guide you toward the choices that actually fit you—saving you hours of second-guessing.
2. You’re planning a trip with multiple moving parts.
Think international flights, connecting transportation, hotel stays, tours, and activities. We bring it all together seamlessly so you don’t have to juggle logistics.
3. You’re traveling with a group or family.
Different needs, different preferences, and different personalities? We’ll keep everyone happy and help you avoid overwhelm (and possibly a few family arguments!).
4. You want VIP perks and insider access.
From room upgrades to private experiences, Joyful Journeys has relationships that go beyond what you can find online. Why settle for standard when you could elevate your trip?
5. You want peace of mind.
Life happens. Flights get delayed. Plans change. Booking with a trusted advisor means you have an advocate in your corner before, during, and after your trip.
6. You want a one-of-a-kind experience.
Want to swim with sea turtles in a hidden cove? Charter a yacht? Sip wine at a family-owned vineyard? We don’t just book trips—we design journeys tailored to you.
Bottom line? Not every trip requires a travel advisor, but the right trips definitely benefit from having one. When you’re investing in an experience that matters, it’s worth doing it right.
So if summer travel is on your mind and you’re wondering, “Should I call?” — consider this your invitation. Let’s talk about where you want to go and how we can make it unforgettable.
