A process designed with intention
At Designed Vacations, we believe a well planned trip begins long before travel day. Our process is built around thoughtful guidance, clear communication, and an understanding that your time and trust matter. Every decision, from initial recommendations to final confirmations, is made with care and purpose.
Rather than rushing through options or overwhelming you with choices, we take the time to understand how you want to travel. This allows us to design experiences that feel seamless, personal, and well considered, so you can move through each step with confidence and ease.
Our Process
Begin by completing our inquiry form. You may request a specific advisor, or we’ll thoughtfully match you with the team member best suited to your travel style and needs.
Submit Your Inquiry
Once we receive your inquiry, you’ll be invited to schedule a complimentary consultation call. This conversation allows us to get to know you, understand your vision, and determine if we’re the right fit.
Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation
During your consultation, we’ll fine tune your travel details, walk through our planning process, and clearly explain applicable planning fees. If you choose to move forward, your planning fee secures your place on our design calendar.
Consult & Confirm
Once your planning fee is received, we begin designing your trip. Each recommendation is curated with intention, balancing experience, comfort, and value based on how you like to travel.
Proposal Design Begins
You’ll review your proposed itinerary and share feedback. We refine the details together, making thoughtful adjustments until everything feels just right.
Review & Refine
With plans confirmed, we handle the logistics and remain available before and during your trip, so you can travel feeling prepared, cared for, and completely at ease.
Travel With Confidence
FAQs
designed vacations
Absolutely. If you have someone in mind, you’re welcome to request them on your inquiry form.
Can I request a specific advisor?
Your planning fee includes up to three proposal revisions. Additional revisions beyond that may require an added fee, as our time and expertise are thoughtfully allocated.
How many proposal revisions are included?
Planning begins after your consultation and once the planning fee is paid. This secures your place on our design calendar and allows us to begin curating your itinerary.
When does planning officially begin?
Yes. After submitting an inquiry, you’ll schedule a complimentary consultation call. This call allows us to confirm fit, fine tune details, and review our process and fees before design begins. Additional calls can be scheduled if needed throughout the planning process.
Is there a consultation call?
Most communication is handled via email and secure forms, which allows us to keep details organized, documented, and easy to reference. This helps ensure nothing is missed as your trip comes together, while keeping the process efficient and clear.
How do we communicate during the planning process?
We recommend beginning the planning process 9–12 months in advance for most trips, especially for Europe, cruises, and travel during peak seasons. Earlier planning allows for the best availability, thoughtful pacing, and a more seamless overall experience. While some trips can be planned with less notice, starting early offers the greatest flexibility.
How far in advance should I start planning?
Once your trip is confirmed, we handle the logistics and remain available for support before and during travel. As your departure approaches, you’ll receive helpful emails from us with key details, reminders, and guidance so you feel prepared, informed, and cared for every step of the way.
Payment schedules vary by supplier. Most trips require a deposit to reserve, with final payment due closer to travel. We’ll clearly outline all payment deadlines so there are no surprises.
Our planning fee reflects the time, expertise, and thoughtful care that go into designing each trip. We invest continuously in education, destination training, and firsthand experience to stay current in a constantly changing landscape. This fee allows us to apply that knowledge with intention, giving every itinerary the attention it deserves while creating a seamless, well considered experience.
Why do you charge a planning fee?
California Seller of Travel Registration # 2089491-50. Registration as a seller of travel in California does not constitute the state's approval. Agent is not a participant in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. Florida Seller of Travel Registration # ST37113. Hawaii Seller of Travel License # TAR 7231. Iowa Seller of Travel Travel Agency # 960. Washington Seller of Travel UBI # 602 775 122.
