Hi there! I’m Nichole, and I’m so glad you’re here. At Designed Vacations, I believe travel should be deeply personal, beautifully executed, and utterly unforgettable.

Luxury travel isn’t just about where you go — it’s about how you feel while you’re there. It’s about the way your breath catches at a view you’ve only dreamed of, the laughter over a private dinner in a vineyard, or the quiet awe of being completely present in a moment crafted just for you.

In this guide, I want to take you behind the scenes of how we at Designed Vacations create transformational journeys for our clients. Whether you’re dreaming of an island escape or a culture-soaked adventure, let’s explore what true luxury travel looks like today.

What Luxury Travel Really Means

For me, luxury travel is about connection, emotion, and intention. Yes, we book five-star suites and private jets — but what truly sets a luxury journey apart is how personalized and meaningful it is.

Luxury is knowing that every detail has been designed for you — your style, your pace, your story. It’s the difference between checking into a hotel and walking into a room where your favorite flowers are already waiting.

The most unforgettable trips are the ones that reflect who you are, and that’s the heart of what we do at Designed Vacations.

The Art of Custom Travel Planning

When I begin planning a journey for a client, I start with one essential question: What do you want to feel on this trip?

From there, I dive into your preferences, travel history, passions, and even the little things — like whether you prefer slow mornings or sunrise adventures. The result? A travel experience that feels effortless, inspiring, and uniquely yours.

We collaborate with expert partners around the world to fine-tune every moment. And because I know real life doesn’t always follow a script, we build in flexibility so your journey can evolve with you along the way.

Where Luxury Travelers Are Going Now

At Designed Vacations, I specialize in creating custom journeys all over the world — because your perfect destination is wherever your heart leads.

Still, some places have been lighting up my clients’ imaginations lately. If you’re dreaming big, here are a few destinations that are trending with luxury travelers right now:

• Italy — Timeless and indulgent. From private wine tastings in Tuscany to gondola rides in Venice at sunset, Italy continues to capture the hearts of sophisticated travelers.
  
• Japan — A perfect blend of serenity and innovation. Clients love private tea ceremonies in Kyoto, stays in sleek Tokyo hotels, and exclusive culinary experiences with local chefs.
  
• Greece — Iconic yet intimate. Think cliffside suites in Santorini, private catamaran cruises around hidden coves, and archaeological tours led by historians.
  
• South Africa — For those craving adventure and refinement. Imagine sunrise safaris, boutique vineyard stays, and vibrant coastal cities like Cape Town.
  
• French Polynesia — Ultimate seclusion and serenity. Overwater bungalows, coral reef snorkeling, and spa rituals make this a favorite for honeymoons and milestone escapes.
  

Of course, these are just ideas. At Designed Vacations, no two itineraries are the same — because no two travelers are. Wherever you want to go, I’ll make sure it’s unforgettable.

What I Do as a Luxury Travel Designer

People often ask me, “Nichole, what exactly do you do?” The short answer is: I handle everything, so you don’t have to.

But more specifically, I:

• Learn your travel style and build a trip around it
  
• Use my network of trusted global partners to secure VIP perks and access
  
• Manage all logistics, down to the tiniest detail
  
• Add personal touches and surprises that bring joy
  
• Stay available before, during, and after your journey to ensure it’s seamless
  

Think of me as your travel architect — here to turn your ideas into experiences that exceed expectations.

Making Travel Truly Unforgettable

Here’s what I’ve learned after years of planning high-end trips: it’s the small, thoughtful moments that clients remember the most.

Maybe it’s a handwritten note from a hotel GM who knows it’s your anniversary. Or a surprise picnic overlooking the Tuscan hills at golden hour. Or maybe it’s just the feeling of being seen and understood throughout your entire journey.

Luxury travel is also about ease. You don’t have to think about how to get from point A to point B — it just happens, perfectly. You’re free to be fully present.

That’s the magic I strive to create for every client.

Choosing the Right Travel Partner

If you’re considering working with a luxury travel agency, here are a few things I recommend looking for:

• Someone who listens first and sells second
  
• A planner with strong global connections and personal destination knowledge
  
• Transparent pricing and clear communication
  
• A service that feels personal, not transactional
  

At Designed Vacations, I limit the number of clients I work with so I can give each one the time, attention, and heart they deserve. That’s how we create magic.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel

Looking forward, I see luxury travel moving toward meaning and mindfulness.

More of my clients are asking for sustainable, wellness-focused journeys — think eco-luxury lodges, private yoga retreats, and meaningful cultural exchanges. Tech is helping us offer even more personalization, while privacy and space remain top priorities.

Above all, people are seeking depth, not just distance. They want to connect, not just consume. And I couldn’t be more excited to help guide them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I work with a travel designer instead of booking myself?
I bring access, creativity, expertise, and time-saving support you just can’t get from a website — plus I’m here for you every step of the way.

2. Do you only plan international trips?
While international travel is our specialty, I also design exceptional domestic experiences for clients who want something close to home.

3. Is your service only for very wealthy travelers?
Not at all. I work with clients who value experience over expense. It’s about intention and meaning, not just budget.

4. Can you help with last-minute trips?
Sometimes — but for the best results, I recommend planning at least 3–6 months in advance (more for big bucket-list trips!).

5. How do we get started?
Just reach out! We’ll start with a call to see if we’re a good fit and then move into crafting your dream journey.

Warmly,
Nichole
Founder, Designed Vacations