Why Travel Feels Harder Than It Used To
Travel today is busier than it’s ever been. Global demand continues to surge every year. What used to feel manageable five or ten years ago now requires more planning simply because more people are competing for the same flights, hotels, and experiences.
The result is a travel landscape where demand consistently outpaces supply. Hotels haven’t expanded inventory at the same rate as demand, and popular destinations are seeing record visitor numbers — especially across Europe.
You may have noticed the impact firsthand:
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Airports are more congested, with longer lines at check-in, security, and lounges.
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Major destinations feel crowded, particularly during peak seasons and school holidays.
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Hotel availability is tighter, pushing rates higher than many travelers expect.
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Airfare is more volatile, with fewer “wait and see” pricing windows.
But if you are still planning to travel this year, here are three (3) key pieces of advice that I’ve been sharing with my clients who’ve reached out to me to curate their trips.
1. Book Travel Comfort Services
Private transfers start your vacation off on the right foot!
As your personal travel advisor, my goal is to keep you informed and to do what I can to ease the current travel discomfort. My recommendation is a simple one: do whatever you can to ensure your comfort and safety on the road. Here are some of the ways I’m adding care and comfort to my client trips.
Get Global Entry
This is one of the best ways to make your airport experience more tolerable and your departure and re-entry a breeze.
On your departure, Global Entry entitles you to TSA Pre-Check, which allows you to speed through a separate line at security checkpoints in US airports. You’re not required to remove your shoes and jackets and, best of all, you do not need to remove your laptop or other electronic devices from your carry-on bag.
On re-entry, bypass the long immigration and customs lines. Instead, you’ll use a kiosk to answer a few questions and scan your passport. The terminal will take your picture and spit out a receipt which you will show the agent on your way through the gate. You’ll be processed within 5 minutes or less versus waiting 30 minutes to an hour or more in the standard lines.
If you don’t currently have Global Entry, do yourself a favor and apply today on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. It costs $100, and it’s the best value money can buy!
Upgrade Your Seats
Flying coach is the fastest way to ruin a perfectly planned vacation. Today’s airline seats are just too narrow and uncomfortable. If you can manage it in your budget, upgrade your airline seats to Premium Class or Business Class. Trust me, your lower back will thank you.
Some airlines are now offering a new service between Premium and Business on transatlantic flights. Delta calls it Premium Plus — you board early, get checked bags, eat better food, and drink top-shelf liquor. This might be a good option for some travelers.
Private Transfers
Instead of asking friends and family members to take you to the airport, calling an Uber, or booking a shared shuttle, arrive and depart your destination in style through private transport organized 100% by me.
It’s also a fabulous way to start your vacation off on the right foot.
On the day of your departure, imagine slipping into the soft and supple leather seats of a Mercedes S-Class sedan. Your driver will load your bags into the trunk and whisk you away to the airport.
On your return, the experience is even more convenient. Your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with your name on a sign. He or she will help you with your bags and escort you to your luxury vehicle or SUV. There’s nothing quite like sinking into the hushed environment of your private car after the hustle and bustle of the airport.
The private transfer experience is designed to remove the hassle and worry of getting from point A to point B. Once you begin utilizing this service you won’t ever look back.
Meet & Greet Airport Service
This VIP service is a lifesaver for anyone traveling overseas. Upon arrival, you’ll be personally welcomed at the gate and escorted through passport control. Your English-speaking host will also collect your luggage and connect you with your driver in the arrivals hall.
The same service is available upon departure. At the airport, your host will welcome you and help you with check-in and luggage handling. Most importantly, he or she will accompany you through passport control and duty-free shopping and then take you directly to your business lounge.
Airport meet and greet services are especially handy during travel high seasons and are worth every penny!
2. Ensure a Stress-Free Trip
Azul de Oaxaca Hotel + Galeria in Oaxaca, Mexico
There are several ways to reduce the anxiety surrounding planning your trip. To ensure a stress-free travel experience, I recommend the following plan of action.
Plan Ahead
It goes without saying that you should give yourself plenty of time to plan your trip, preferably six months to a year (or more) in advance of your travel dates.
Ever since the travel boom, all aspects of the curation process take much longer. Travel partners are taking much longer than usual to return quotes.
I talk more about this in my post linked below:
How Far in Advance to Plan Your Trips
Protect Your Travel Investment
For the love of all things holy & travel-related, please don’t leave home without travel insurance!
Even in perfectly planned trips, something can go sideways. In case that happens, you need to safeguard against any unforeseen events that could disrupt your trip. You’ll also want to protect your investment in case you cannot travel due to a medical emergency or work-related event.
- Read my latest blog on the top five benefits of travel insurance.
- Download my personal insurance checklist.
I want you to have a worry-free vacation when you travel, and that’s why I strongly recommend travel insurance. Get in touch to request a travel insurance quote for your upcoming trip.
3. Get My Travel Support Services
What happens when you’re in the middle of your vacation, and you need immediate assistance? Who do you call to order a last-minute transfer, make a dinner reservation, or extend your hotel stay? To help you navigate your trip with grace and ease, I’ve designed three travel support packages that meet a variety of travel needs while you’re in-destination.
Bronze Support Package: WhatsApp Group Chat
This package is a great fit for those who want to stay in touch during their trip. It gives you access to the MLT Concierge Team via a private WhatsApp Chat. We are your personable in-app support to answer questions, make itinerary changes, and help you navigate your destination with ease from the comfort of your phone.
Silver Support Package: 24/7 Support Line
Independent travelers will appreciate the Silver Support package because it provides a lifeline in case of an emergency during your trip. Our 24/7 support team is familiar with your itinerary and can be reached immediately via a dedicated phone line.
Just like travel insurance, the Silver Support package gives you peace of mind. It’s the kind of support that you may not need but are infinitely grateful to have when the need arises.
Gold Support Package: On-Site Concierge
For those who enjoy the finer things in life and desire only the best, the Gold Support package is perfect for you. It provides in-person support during the first few days of your trip. Yes, you’ve read that right! Your personal travel concierge will meet you at your destination to help you acclimate to the city.
The Gold Support package is the ultimate in real-time care & comfort so that you have the most amazing vacation ever.
For more details on the individual packages, including costs, please visit the Travel Support Page.
We’re in this together!
Ribiera Brava, Madeira, Portugal
I know that this is a lot of information to process, but I want you to understand the current challenges we’re facing in the industry and for you to be prepared for anything that might come your way on your next trip.
After all, life is short, so take the trip!
I’m more than happy to help you navigate these challenges brought about by revenge travel. We’ll get through this together.
xoxo
Tee