Clever Compass

15/08/2024

13/08/2024

Hello travelers! Raise your hand if you are a visual learner? Sometimes it is nice to have a physical item in hand to look at, which is why I'm excited to offer brochures from one of my favorite travel partners, Tauck. I'm ready to order 2025 catalogs for the following offerings. If you want one of these, or you know someone who wants to travel but isn't on the internet and needs a way to shop, please DM me your address and I will mail one to you. Tell me the title below and then the country within that region you'd like to visit or the activity on your bucket list in that region so I can make a few suggestions and match you with the perfect tour.
Tauck is celebrating 100 years of Travel Beyond Ordinary and is an American based family owned company.

2025 North America Land Journeys

2025 European River Cruising (think HOLIDAY MARKETS!)

2025 Europe Land Journeys

2025 Small Ship Cruising

2025 Africa & Middle East, Asia & South Pacific, Americas

10/08/2024

⏰Flash sale at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
📆Book now through August 31, travel through July 19 2025! (Blackout dates apply)
Rates starting at $367 per night...this is unbeatable on Wiakiki Beach!

Perks when you book through me:
Daily Breakfast for 2 at Surf Lanai
A $100 resort Credit
Daily resort fee WAIVED. (A $42 + tax per day value!)
Early check-in/late check out, based on availability
VIP status granted
Priority of comp room upgrade AND priority for requested room category
Welcome gift
Welcome note from the Gen Manager.

09/08/2024

🌴Savings at this Punta Cana Adults Only All Inclusive.
Example rates:
Oct 7-11, 4 nights, $394 per night double occupancy in a Junior Suite Garden or Pool View
🥰What we love: FREE airport transfers with stay of 3 nights or longer.
Southwest 1 stop flights out of Dallas Love start at $282 Wanna Get Away (self book)
💌DM to get started booking your Dominican Republic getaway!

05/08/2024

Those pesky resort fees can really start to add up.
What if I told you I had access to hotels that offer my clients waived resort fees and free parking? PLUS 15% off Best Available Rates?
📍San Diego Mission Bay Resort, California
20 min from San Diego Zoo
35 min from Legoland

05/08/2024

🫵Fall break for under $3500 for a family of 4?
Love Field to San Diego via Southwest + San Diego Mission Bay Resort.
October 14-18.
✈️Flights for 4-approx $1632 on Southwest, Direct Flight, Wanna Get Away rates (self-book)
4 Nights at San Diego Mission Bay Resort-
📣Perks when booked with me:
15% savings off Best Available Rate, Discounted 30 Resort Fee,
Discounted 30 USD Self Parking
🛟Waterfront Villa 2 Queens-avg $380 per night + taxes and fees=$1,860.70
15 min from San Diego Zoo,
35 min from Legoland

03/08/2024

Just Booked!
Fall Gal Pal getaway to NYC.
This iconic Tribeca hotel is the epitome of retro chic, infusing its mid-century modern aesthetic with Art Deco and Regency-era details.
Why we love it: There’s a coffee shop (Jack’s) and two restaurants with bars featuring live music. The 118-seat Roxy Cinema shows first-run independent films, rare archival prints, and 35mm cult classics. Who can forget the oyster bar?
Perks make this stay extra special. Enjoy the Big Apple, Ladies!

26/07/2024

New Hotel Partnership🔥🔥🔥
Rio Perdido, Costa Rica.
Discover the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation at Rio Perdido, a hidden gem in Bagaces, Costa Rica, now a part of Fora Reserve! Nestled within a pristine private reserve, this eco-luxury resort offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From thermal river pools to breathtaking canyon views, Rio Perdido promises an unforgettable escape.
Each room at Rio Perdido is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Guests can unwind in stylish bungalows featuring private terraces, luxurious bedding, and eco-friendly amenities. The harmonious design ensures a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure.
Perks when booked with me:
Welcome chef amenity

20% discount on spa and adventure services

Daily breakfast

Room upgrade subject to availability

Early check-in/late checkout, subject to availability

19/07/2024

What are the pros & cons of my job? Full podcast interview link in comments.

Thanks for this opportunity to share my passion for travel Matthew Soto ♥️🧡

Follow me 📣📌 Facebook: https://bit.ly/3LdLGRJ📌 Instagram: https://bit.ly/3WeZhhK📌 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4cPr8usLet's Grow Reality Group 📣📌 Website: ...

17/07/2024

Recently booked: I’m a sucker for the repurposing mission and fun designs of in College Station TX
Check out their other locations in Tucson AZ & Pullman WA
This was the perfect fit for travelers needing a spot to relax in while pursuing some swim-meet hardware. (Good luck kiddo!)

10/07/2024

S Hotel Montego Bay Jamaica. A great non-AI option. Save 24% on stays of 4 nights or more. Enjoy various dining options with authentic island cuisine within our beautifully decorated resort. Relaxation peaks at our rooftop Champagne bar and lounge, where you can unwind by our glass-enclosed pool, surrounded by stunning views.
Booking Window: Now - August 14th, 2024
Travel Dates: Now - October 31st, 2024

06/07/2024

Tauck small ship river cruises, land journeys, and family adventures are all inclusive. Until July 31st, they are offering a special locked in flight rate.

06/07/2024

Update on Hurricane Beryl in the Cancun area from our partner Hyatt all inclusive:

“We are grateful to confirm that Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection resorts in the Mexican Caribbean remain fully operational with no damage to the following properties after this week’s impact from Hurricane Beryl:
Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa
Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Dreams Aventuras Riviera Maya
Dreams Cozumel Cape Resort & Spa
Dreams Jade Resort & Spa
Dreams Natura Resort & Spa
Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa
Dreams Sapphire Resort & Spa
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Dreams Vista Cancun Golf & Spa Resort
Hyatt Vivid Grand Island
Hyatt Zilara Cancun
Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya
Hyatt Ziva Cancun
Hyatt Ziva Rivera Cancun
Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets
Impression Moxché by Secrets
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya
Secrets Aura Cozumel
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen
Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres
Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort
Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Secrets The Vine Cancun
Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club
Sunscape Sabor Cozumel
Additionally, the following airports are open and operational. Please check with airlines for latest flight information and status.
Cancun International Airport (CUN)
Cozumel International Airport (COZ)
Tulum International Airport (TQO) is temporarily closed and plans to resume operations on Sunday, July 7, 2024. We encourage guests to check with their airline regarding flight information and status.

Ferry service to Cozumel and Isla Mujeres is projected to be restored on Saturday, July 6, 2024.”

06/07/2024

Do you use WhatsApp?
I have a new WhatsApp Group for sharing travel deals “4th Night Free Travel Deals with Jen McG”
Why WhatsApp and not here on Fb?
Visibility!

‎”Hi everyone! This community is for people looking for travel deals like 3rd, 4th or 5th night free or similar promos. Deals are usually time sensitive so you’ll need to be flexible or be ready to travel and book soon.
Currently only booking via email or over the phone (direct booking links in the future)
[email protected]

Why book with me & not on your own?
1-you are supporting a small female owned business. Hotels pay me, you don’t!
2-I can often extend other perks with our hotel partners. Free breakfast, early check in/late checkout, food & beverage credit, etc
3-I can assist if needed during your travel and help with plans & excursions, leaving you to relax and enjoy your trip. Need a full itinerary? I’m here to help!
4-I can contact hotel management to VIP you for special occasions or celebrations

03/07/2024

4th Night Free Deal in the Florida Keys. Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa is excited to extend our Virtuoso partners a 4th Night Free Promotion, valid for stays through April 30, 2025, when booked by July 31, 2024

Blackout dates may apply.

Virtuoso Amenities Included:
For 2024:

⭐️Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
⭐️Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
⭐️$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
⭐️Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
⭐️Complimentary Wi-Fi

02/07/2024

Score last minute Eras Tour Tickets on the European leg? Or are you still looking? Armani Hotel Milano has a package that puts you right in the VIP lounge. Here are a few ideas on where to stay should you need ideas :)

If you haven’t been able to snag an Eras Tour ticket, not to worry: there are still tickets — and hotel rooms — available in cities around the world.

27/06/2024

Standing under a waterfall in Switzerland is .

📍Behind me is popular Swiss wedding venue and hotel Grandhotel Giessbach. The views are breathtaking, so I understand why!

Thanks to the incredible for a dream tour day from Zurich. You can see this spot and many other highlights during one of his full day tours. Fabian and his family own a local farm, have dairy cows, and provide goods to their community in their honesty shop. His Switzerland content is probably my favorite account on IG! I mean, what’s not to love!?
Thank you for sharing your beautiful country, incredible cheese & baked goods, and passion for your farming community. Your hospitality was a highlight of our visit to Switzerland.

21/06/2024

Excited to share I reached a goal that I had set for myself this year..before Q3!. It was a pleasant way to cap off our vacation when the notification I hit Pro Advisor with sizzled into my inbox.
I have to thank all of the families, friends, and clients who have trusted me with their travel needs over the course of 2024. I strive to provide a personalized approach to vacations and hotel stays. I am also committed to continuous learning.
I know it’s very easy to let this part of your life be transactional. When you book travel through me, you are helping a small business. And fueling my wanderlust. I appreciate the support and I love helping you take.the.trip!
Where to next, friends?

19/06/2024

Traveling to Costa Rica with your family, a friend group, or in need of a retreat location? These villa rentals are the perfect home base for exploring volcanos, jungles, beaches..or just for relaxing. With the added bonus of a 5th night free, they can be more cost effective than hotel stays.
Thanksgiving in Costa Rica, perhaps?
DM your dates and let’s start planning. Pura Vida awaits.

19/06/2024

Did you know you can check the crowds at popular tourist spots in Europe through live we**ams?
2025 is a Jubilee year for the followers of the Catholic Faith. While I would never want to discourage plans for visiting Italy next year, I do think it should be taken into consideration and recognize that it will be very busy. I have seen estimates of 30 million visitors over the course year set to visit Rome for the series of events and celebrations. Tell your friends & family who want to travel to Rome or other parts of Italy next year that booking early is best for 2025.

https://www.skylinewe**ams.com/en/we**am/italia/lazio/roma/fontana-di-trevi.html

Visit Rome with our Trevi Fountain we**am now! Click here and explore our Rome live cams and other amazing destinations in Italy!

17/06/2024

“Life becomes more meaningful when you realize the simple fact that you’ll never get the same moment twice.”-Anonymous
Our time in Switzerland was filled with moments of complete and joyful awe. Happy to share one such moment with you.

📍Gimmelwald, Switzerland

🇨🇭

12/06/2024

Living in a fairytale.

📍Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

06/06/2024

There’s something about sipping coffee at a no rush breakfast on vacation in Switzerland that makes all other coffee from now on feel *different*

📍Hotel Storchen, Zürich 🇨🇭

📩[email protected] for perks and itinerary planning

🇨🇭 🇨🇭

03/06/2024

Hello from Zürich, Swizterland. After a lengthy delay we have arrived!

🇨🇭

29/05/2024

From the honeymoon couple stopping over in Zurich who booked Hotel Altstadt with me:
“We had a really sweet note left for us and the view from the Altstadt is beautiful! Thank you for all your help.”
Congratulations to the newlyweds & happy travels!

📩[email protected]

20/05/2024

Unscientific Poll: When you travel for leisure, do you take your laptop just in case? Or are you truly OOO?

17/05/2024

I share some insight with you about how I feel about flights. This is long; buckle in and place your tray tables in their upright positions.
It's not my favorite topic, but it's important.

The reason it's not my favorite is because the airline industry is constantly changing. From schedules to route cancellations, policies, fee structures, and rate increases. Even the way they work with Travel Advisors has changed. With the exception of Business Class or First Class Tickets and International flights, airlines have cut out domestic flight commission to TAs. (Call me if you need one of those other kinds of tickets, lol.)
I don't mind booking packages with air to places close to the US like Mexico/Caribbean; but find that their rates have so many restrictions (Ie: non refundable fares, no seat selection, extra charges for everything) that the savings from any available contracted package may not be worth it in the long run.

Let's say I booked your flights as a courtesy directly with the airline. If an issue arises, I'm not authorized to speak to the airline on your behalf. I couldn't help you in these situations minus being a shoulder to cry on. There's not even a spot on their public client booking platforms for me to add my travel advisor number to for documentation. They wouldn't know me from Adam & Eve.

The travel brands associated with their respective airlines are easier to partner with like AA, Delta & SW Vacations and I can definitely work with you on those.

If you decide to book through a third party, whether that's a package through me or an online travel provider (Expedia or Booking dot com etc) you might face difficulty with customer service from the airline should an issue arise. Try reading those ticketing change and cancellation policies. Enough to give you a headache. While I would do my utmost to assist you if we book a package together and educate you on the different fare categories and restrictions, I just want to lay that foundation that it's not always the best route to go.

When you book directly with the airline, THEY will be the go-to for issues. THEY service their own bookings more efficiently. Is it a pain in the hiney if issues arise no matter where you book? Of course. No one LOVES missed connections or cancelled flights. Who is best to service your missed connection at 3am CST when you are in Greece 8 hours ahead trying to get home? While I wish I could say it's me...in all honesty, it's the airline. That's why booking directly with the airline IS MY #1 advice on this topic.

If you are brand loyal or saving up those miles for a big trip, the great deal you get for tickets with XYZ airline would mean you have more to invest in your experience at Turtle Bay on Oahu.😉And that's where I find my sweet spot.

I am more than happy to research best flights & times, arrival airports, transportation to/from, and share the flight deals I find. But 8 times out of 10, I encourage clients to book their own air. I get that it might be against the standard notion of what a Travel Advisor does. I prefer to concentrate on your experience on the ground. But definitely have an airport Bloody Mary for me. Could my philosophy on flights change? Absolutely. Just like the world and my favorite song from Waitress, Everything Changes.

PS: I have a great new resource for stacking points from multiple sources/cards to get ticket deals that I will share soon.