In this episode, Emily Merrell sits down with Virginia Balch, a luxury travel advisor, to uncover the secrets behind personalized, stress-free travel experiences. From custom itineraries to hidden gems, Virginia shares her expertise on making travel dreams come true without the hassle. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first big trip, this conversation offers valuable insights into the world of luxury travel.
What You'll Listen:
- Meet Cute Story: How Emily and Virginia bonded over their shared passion for supporting women during the pandemic through virtual networking.
- Defining Luxury Travel: Virginia explains what a luxury travel advisor does and how it differs from the traditional travel agent model.
- Custom Itineraries: The importance of tailoring travel plans to individual preferences and needs, including dietary restrictions and family dynamics.
- Travel Trends: Current trends in luxury travel, including popular destinations like Italy and Greece, and emerging hotspots like Marbella and Slovenia.
- Travel Savings Tips: Practical advice on budgeting for travel, including setting up a dedicated travel savings account and understanding the value of travel insurance.
- Personal Inspiration: Virginia shares her favorite sources for travel inspiration, from industry webinars to magazines like Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler.
- Dream Destinations: Insights into Virginia's dream travel spots, including Ireland and Croatia, and her passion for beach vacations.
- Fast Questions: Fun facts about Virginia, including a quirky childhood belief about cable TV in hotels and her dream dinner party guests, Gloria Steinem and Larry David.
To learn more about Virginia Balch, visit her website and follow on instagram at travelwithvirginia.
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