Planning a meaningful trip should feel exciting, not overwhelming. That is where I come in.
Empty Nester Getaways specializes in customized luxury travel experiences for couples who want more than generic vacations and crowded tours. Every trip is carefully designed around your travel style, interests, pace, and priorities.
Whether you are planning a luxury cruise, European cultural journey, relaxing resort escape, or milestone anniversary trip, the goal is simple: create a smooth, memorable experience without the stress of doing everything yourself.
Why We Charge a Planning Fee
Travel planning takes time, research, coordination, and expertise.
Your planning fee covers the professional time involved in:
• Destination and resort research
• Supplier and itinerary vetting
• Custom trip design
• Personalized recommendations
• Proposal preparation
• Supplier coordination
• Booking management
• Travel support before your trip
This fee allows me to focus fully on creating the right experience for you instead of rushing through quick bookings.
Planning Fee
Most custom travel planning services begin with a non-refundable planning fee starting at $350.
The exact fee depends on factors such as:
• Trip complexity
• Number of travelers
• Length of travel
• Number of destinations
• Level of customization required
Simple resort or cruise bookings may require a lower fee or no fee at all, depending on the trip.
Your planning fee will always be discussed before work begins.
All planning fees are non-refundable and non-transferable under all circumstances once planning work has started.
The Planning Process
1. Complete the Start Planning Form
Every trip begins with a planning form. This helps me understand your travel goals, interests, budget, preferred travel style, and priorities before we meet.
2. Schedule Your Zoom Consultation
After reviewing your form, we will schedule a Zoom call to discuss your trip in more detail.
This conversation helps clarify your vision, narrow options, and identify what matters most to you. It also gives us a chance to make sure we are a good fit to work together.
3. Planning Fee Is Paid
Once you decide to move forward, your planning fee invoice will be sent.
Planning work officially begins after the planning fee is paid and the client agreement is accepted.
4. Your Custom Proposal Is Created
I will research, design, and prepare a personalized travel proposal tailored to your goals and preferences.
Depending on the complexity of the trip, this may include:
• Resort or hotel recommendations
• Cruise options
• Flights
• Transfers
• Tours and excursions
• Travel protection options
• Customized itinerary ideas
5. Proposal Review Zoom Call
Once your proposal is ready, we will schedule a second Zoom call to review everything together.
During this meeting, we will go through the recommendations, discuss details, answer questions, and make adjustments if needed.
6. Deposit Is Paid
Once you are ready to move forward, deposits will be collected based on supplier requirements.
Your reservations are then confirmed and secured.
7. Final Payment
Final payment dates vary depending on the supplier and type of trip booked.
You will receive reminders and guidance throughout the process so nothing gets missed.
8. Experience Your Trip
This is the fun part.
You enjoy the trip knowing the details have already been handled for you. Before departure, you will receive your final travel documents and trip information.
Support remains available while you travel if assistance is needed.
Ready to Start Planning?
Complete the Start Planning Form to begin designing your next unforgettable getaway.