Question 1

Can we meet up in person?

Accepted Answer

Of course. We love a personal connection and are delighted to meet for a coffee to chat about your ideas, or we can use video calls if you prefer.

Question 2

How does the booking process work?

Accepted Answer

Every trip begins with a conversation to understand your travel plans, whether in person, over the phone or via video call. If you're looking for a bespoke itinerary, we'll create a tailored proposal with carefully selected hotels and experiences, refine it together and then take care of every booking and detail. If you already know exactly what you'd like to book, we can simply provide a quote and arrange the reservation. Throughout your trip, we're on hand to help and can be reached by WhatsApp, email or phone whenever you need us.

Question 3

Do you help with both small or very complex trips?

Accepted Answer

From simple weekend escapes to intricate multi-stop adventures, we give the same careful attention and thoughtful service to every single one of our guests.

Question 4

Can you plan for a specific budget?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are experts at making your money go further. By focusing on what matters most to you, we find the very best quality and value without ever compromising on standard.

Question 5

When is the best time to book?

Accepted Answer

Booking early is usually best to ensure you get your choice of rooms and key dates, though we are wonderful at handling last-minute requests with total calm.

Question 6

Are there any hidden booking fees and do you charge a planning fee?

Accepted Answer

No. For most holidays, there are no planning or booking fees. We earn commission from the hotels, tour operators, cruise lines and other travel partners you book through, not from you. Thanks to our long-standing relationships with many luxury hotels, our clients can often enjoy added benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credits and complimentary breakfast, subject to availability.

Question 7

What is better about this than online?

Accepted Answer

Booking online works for some people, but it can't replace the reassurance of having a real person looking after your trip. We take the time to understand how you like to travel, save you hours of research and planning, and it shouldn't cost you any more than booking yourself.​Travel is built on relationships. Before you arrive, we've often already been in touch with your hotel to introduce you, share any important preferences and make sure you're looked after. You're not just another booking reference or confirmation number – you're our client, and that makes a difference.​If something doesn't go to plan while you're away, we're your advocate. Rather than spending your holiday on hold or trying to resolve an issue yourself, you'll have someone you know to call who can work directly with the hotel or airline to help put things right.

Question 8

Why choose an independent specialist over a large agency?

Accepted Answer

You get a real, lasting partnership instead of a random team. As part of the Swords Travel family, we mix boutique personal care with fantastic global reach and knowledge.

Question 9

Have you been to every destination you recommend?

Accepted Answer

No, and I'd never pretend otherwise. Some of my clients have travelled far more extensively than I have and may know a destination better than I do. That's why I see planning a trip as a partnership. Alongside my own travels and experience, I have the support of the Swords Travel team, a trusted network of hotels, local partners, hotel representation companies and fellow travel advisers. If I don't know the answer, I know someone who does, so you can be confident every recommendation is backed by genuine expertise rather than guesswork.

Question 10

How does this compare to benefits I get with premium banking?

Accepted Answer

While premium banking and top-tier cards can offer travel perks, they can’t replace having a dedicated travel specialist who knows you personally. We combine access to excellent rates and benefits with tailored advice, careful planning and support before, during and after your trip. Instead of a generic call centre, you have a single, trusted contact who understands your preferences and can step in quickly if anything needs attention.

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