A secret to traveling well.
While there are many ways to travel well, I’m focusing on one today that most people, especially millennials, don’t know about. Ready for it? The secret lies in a network called Virtuoso. You may have seen the logo on my website, a post about it on social media, or maybe you’ve seen it pop up in publications like the New York Times. So WHAT is Virtuoso and WHY does it matter? This post is dedicated to sharing all you need to know about Virtuoso, and how you can benefit from my exclusive partnership with them.
What is Virtuoso?
Virtuoso is a prestigious network of the world’s top travel advisors and the top travel suppliers. Only 1% of travel agencies are invited to join this exclusive association. I’m the travel advisor in this scenario, and if you’re wondering what a travel supplier is, this includes hotels, guides, local operators, and cruise lines. Each supplier member must pass stringent quality standards to join the exclusive network. They must also provide value-added amenities to travelers who book through Virtuoso travel advisors (me again!)
The Virtuoso network is also a great way for me to stay in the loop with my partners around the world. We’re constantly sharing information such as the latest travel trends, new travel destinations, Covid-19 implications and protocols, and more. I spend a lot of time cultivating these relationships (albeit virtually right now). For example, I recently spent a week attending Virtuoso’s virtual travel conference, including 4 full days of back-to-back virtual meet-ups with many of my Virtuoso suppliers. We caught up personally, but I also heard first-hand what’s happening right now in destinations across the world.
So, what does Virtuoso mean for you?
Photo by Manuel Moreno on Unsplash
VIP status.
You, my client, are privy to amenities, benefits, and access that you can’t get on your own. Every Virtuoso hotel offers exclusive amenities to Abbay’s Escapes clients. Room upgrades, daily breakfast for two, and $100 spa or dining credit are a few of the most common perks. And some properties include complimentary experiences, like a pizza making class, horseback riding tour or other destination-specific experience – ooh la la!
Access.
Our on-the-ground Virtuoso partners are not only specialists in their destination but also have exclusive access to top sights or authentic experiences. Do you want to see the Crown Jewels before the Tower of London opens? Done. Need a dinner reservation at a top, Michelin-starred restaurant? Consider it booked! Want to talk wine and taste and buy exclusive vintages with winemakers in Napa (who the public can’t easily access)?
I can make it happen with the help of my partners. The world can be your oyster.
Relationships.
We send our friends to stay with our friends. This means that when you reach out to me with an inquiry, I am most likely working to plan your trip by speaking to my close contact, who is usually the sales director at your hotel. If I’m planning a full itinerary for you, I’m working closely with my partners who are locals within the destination where you are traveling. These are people whom I know and trust and want to make your trip extra special. Together, we tailor a bespoke itinerary for you unique to that destination. Also, if something goes wrong, I can quickly work with them to resolve it.
Value.
As a client, you may also receive access to preferred rates or promotions that are often better than what you can find online. Combined with the amenities, you get incredible value (and may even save actual dollars) at the world’s very best hotels!
For my fellow accountants and number people, here is the proof…
Example:
A couple is planning a 3-night stay at the Ritz Paris in October in a Deluxe room valued at 4,022€. This is the same price online except by booking Virtuoso they’ll receive the following…
Guaranteed room upgrade at time of booking to a Grand Deluxe Room for 3 nights, worth €4,922, meaning your instantly valued at €900 (approx. $1,060 in value)
Daily breakfast for two either in the restaurant or via room service valued at 100€ per day or 300€ total (approx. $260 in value)
Complimentary private round trip transfer to and from the airport with VIP meet & greet on arrival valued at least at 500€ (approx. $600 in value)
Access to the VIP security line at the airport, via your complimentary driver who will assist in whisking you to the front (value = priceless)
Early check-in, which is going to be KEY after you’ve arrived on a red eye flight and you can kickstart your trip on the right foot with a nap (value = priceless)
Total ‘quantifiable’ added value in USD = approximately $1,900.
Want to get started?
Now that you’ve got the secret, you hold the keys. Ready to go somewhere? You can get in touch with me here. If you know where and when you want to go, I’ll waive my research and booking fee, reserve it in your name, and then you can enjoy the perks of being Virtuoso on your next trip.
Take care, and always reach out if you have questions!