Perspectives Travel

08/02/2024

Leaving town for Mardi Gras and guess where I’m going…

I’ll give you a hint: I’ve gone at least once every year since 2019 and it’s the home of the Piña Colada. If you guessed, Puerto Rico, then you know me too well!

Now this trip is going to be a bit different than my previous ones because they’ll be a small tot in tow, and we’re traveling with friends. But please believe there will still be plenty of opportunities for me to show you what I love about San Juan!

San Juan is a great starting point for a Puerto Rico getaway and a stay at can easily be combined with or . I love this combo because it gives you time to explore the city and visit historic Old San Juan, but then you also get beach and pure relaxation just a short one hour drive away.

Puerto Rico will always be one of the destinations I return to year after year. The people, culture, food, music, and of course, the beach check all of my vacation boxes, and probably a lot of yours too.

So, dinner reservations have been made, the babysitter has been booked, and now I just need to know what questions you have about San Juan! Head to the comments to share!

Have you been to Puerto Rico?

07/01/2024

Couldn’t sleep last night, so I booked a years worth of travel 😬

What can I say, I do my best work at night when my roommate aka baby isn’t fussing at me for not having his bottle ready fast enough 😂. So, with the house quiet it seemed like the perfect opportunity to pull a semi-all nighter and get my personal travel plans made.

This year my goal was to create travel experiences where I could spend time with my family, husband, friends, and solo, plus allocate time for work trips. I’m starting this year at the new for CORE (more to come on that) and from there on I have a trip a month on the books until 2025.

See where I’m headed in 2024 ⬇️

January- London
February- Puerto Rico
March- Palm Beach
April- Houston
May- Mexico City and
June- Green Turtle Cay
July- St Barths
August- Las Vegas
September- Tennessee
October- TBD Park City or Deer Valley, Utah
November- Virginia
December- TBD Europe

And since I still have a couple TBD months, head to the comments and share where you’d like me to explore!

01/01/2024

Starting 2024 with a bit less baggage ➡️ for how I started 2023 🤗

2023 was the year that bulldozed my life, but the end result was something so much more than I expected.

On January 20th, I became a mother and embarked on the most exhausting, nerve wracking, joyful, confusing, and hilarious journey of my life.

Friends I am tired! But also so grateful for having the best year of my business, being able to travel with my son (and without 😜), and of course for all of the support, love, and advice I’ve gotten from you.

So, this years’ photo recap is a bit shorter, but every single picture means that I got up at 6:30a, kept a baby alive, took a shower, and remembered where my phone was 😂

Happy New Year and may 2024 make all your travel dreams come true!!

Here’s where I stayed this year (head to my highlights for more behind the scenes):

x3

05/11/2023

Personally striving to visit every Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in North America, because it’s good to have goals… right?!

October had me checking in to not one but two properties Four Seasons Hotel Austin and Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach for a work stay and a girls getaway.

Two totally different reasons to travel, but two exceptional stays that already have me plotting my next trip.

And in case you missed the memo, when you book Four Seasons through Perspectives Travel as a SmartFlyer affiliate, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits!

So, what are you waiting for?? Let’s get your next Four Seasons stay on the books!

13/10/2023

3 reasons why booking your next 5* stay with Perspectives Travel is better than booking on your own

1. Access- When I tell you that I sit down for cocktails with the folks who run your favorite five star hotel, that’s not an exaggeration! When your advisor personally knows the person who decides which guest gets the best suite, there’s a level of access that you just can’t obtain on your own.

2. Experience- Our clients are just treated differently! And maybe it’s because the VIP email that we send on behalf of every client that books a hotel stay with us is as detailed as a biography, or maybe it’s because when hotel teams see our SmartFlyer email, they know that our clients’ expectations are high, but ours are even higher.

3. Service- Sick of having to explain who your are and what you need to the person at the end of an 800 number? When I talk about service, it’s not just how we treat clients, but it’s also about eliminating the hassles and stress that are now tied to traveling. We make it easy, fun, and stress free so that you can just show up and enjoy.

Reach out to Perspectives Travel if you’re not getting any of the above in your current travel relationship. And if you’re already a Perspectives Travel client, share when you realized that you’re done booking your own luxury stay!

10/10/2023

Does off season travel still exist?

There’s been a lot of talk in the travel industry about the end of off season or shoulder season travel.

The basic idea is that since the pandemic, people travel year round to destinations that may have previously had a slower season or even seasonal closures. Think traveling to the Caribbean in the summer months which for many had been a no go because of the heat and humidity, but also because of hurricane season.

There’s definitely been a shift in how we travel, and some of that elements that the industry has seen affected are increased pricing, labor shortages, and just a general feeling that people are everywhere all the time.

I’m personally a huge fan of traveling at unpopular times of year for a few reasons:
1. Pricing can still be more competitive. When I stayed at Four Seasons Anguilla in July my suite was ~$300 less per night than during the high season aka the December holiday season.

2. You tend to run into more locals during off seasons than high seasons and have a better chance of snagging hard to get reservations, tours, and tickets.

3. If you’ve ever wanted to establish a relationship with a hotel team, fewer guests mean that you have the ability to connect with the folks who make your stay so enjoyable. That way when you return the next year, you have your people to reconnect with.

Reach out to Perspectives Travel when you’re ready to plot your off season escape! And what are your thoughts on off season travel? Can you take it or leave it?

04/10/2023

Just back from Twin Farms for a birthday getaway that can only be described as magical!

With just 28 accommodations, this 300 acre property feels private and luxe in the best ways possible. There is no detail that’s been overlooked, but the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. You can do as much or as little as you want to do, but the thing that is certain is that you will eat and drink well!

I stayed in the Main House Guest Room, which had recently been updated and was both cozy and aesthetically stunning. Some of my favorite features were the wood burning fireplace, stunning views, meticulously curated art, and the snack box! I loved being in the main house because of the proximity to the game room, dining room, and of course, the bar!

Twin Farms sells out early and often, so reach out to Perspectives Travel when you’re ready to start planning your luxe farm getaway!

19/07/2023

Three years ago this month I changed my life…

I’d been a travel advisor for exactly one year and then the pandemic hit. I could’ve quit, I could’ve kept consulting at my old job, but instead I got comfortable with the fact that everything happens for a reason.

As terrible as the early days of the pandemic were, it was one of the few times in my life that I had the chance to be still and reflect on what I wanted my life to look like in my new career. And I knew above all else, that I wanted to be a member of community.

It was one of the first accounts that I ever followed from my account and I frequently IG stalked and to see what destinations they were exploring.

So, I took a leap of faith, reached out, interviewed and officially became a Smartie on July 14, 2020! And when I tell you my life (and business) changed, that is not an exaggeration.

Between my colleagues, the relationships that has built over the past 30+ years, and the confidence that I gained knowing that I’m providing the absolute best experiences for my clients, it’s clear that I made the right choice.

My maternity leave message will officially come down on August 1st, so if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work with a luxury travel advisor who has the best in the business behind her, this is your opportunity to find out! I’ll be taking on limited new clients as I ease back into working mom life 😊, so reach out now so I can add you to my interest list.

Now head to the comments and tell me… have you ever done something that completely changed your life?!

06/05/2023

THE TRUTH ABOUT HOW TRAVEL ADVISORS GET PAID

How do you earn a living? One of the things that is the most confusing to people about using a travel advisor is how we are compensated.

Like any service business, everyone has their own method, but since I’m fielding so many calls from new clients, I figured that now was a good time to break down how I keep the lights on at Perspectives Travel.

Head over to the Out of Office Blog for the full story!
https://www.perspectivestravel.com/blog/howtraveladvisorsgetpaid

04/04/2023

True or false: 41% of consumers are planning to spend even more on travel in 2023….

This truth came from a recent survey, and may not come as a huge surprise based on how much more everything seems to cost.

When I look at the trips my clients have on the books for this year, there’s definitely an uptick in spending, but we’re also trying to layer in more meaningful experiences.

We all know that experiences over things is the new mantra, so if you plan on splurging a bit more on your next trip, what exactly should you spend the money on?

1️⃣ A VIP meet & greet or a private transfer- So the difference depends on where you’re traveling to & from. For international flights, I always recommend a greeter to meet clients as soon as they deplane and es**rt them through customs. For domestic flights, a pre-arranged private transfer (think your name on a sign) will suffice.

2️⃣ The room you actually want- Hotels are still hot commodities, which means that occupancy is high. While I am typically able to use my VIP powers to get you that magical upgrade, I can’t guarantee it (in most cases), so it’s important to spend a bit more on the room that you actually want.

3️⃣ Wellness is worth it- There are some amazing spa and wellness experiences that are popping up at hotels around the globe. The key here is to make reservations early, and to be prepared for prices that skew a bit higher than years past. To make sure you get the most bang for your spa buck, schedule your treatment on your day of arrival, especially if you’re arriving before check in. This gives you a refuge from the lobby, time to reset, and you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything since you’d just be hanging around waiting for your room to be ready.

Are you planning to spend more on travel this year? If so, what are you splurging on?!

21/03/2023

A huge thank you to Robb Report for this wonderful feature!

Robb Report's recent article, The 14 Best Black Travel Specialists to Help You Create Your Next Dream Vacation, includes five incredible Virtuoso travel advisors. These experts are making sure luxury travel also prioritize the Black traveler.

Amina Dearmon, Perspectives Travel
Brianna Glenn, Milk + Honey Travels
Kemi Wells, Wells Luxury Travel
Linda Scroggins, Affluent Luxury Travel
Tisha Neufville, Neufville Travel

Read more: https://robbreport.com/travel/destinations/gallery/best-black-travel-agents-1234808354/

04/03/2023

Who says that Spring Break is just for kids? If you’ve been looking for a grown up way to get out of town, take advantage of the pleasant weather in the Caribbean, and island hop your way to a memorable Spring Break.

I shared my absolute favorite 2 island combo with my colleagues at SmartFlyer, and it’s got me dreaming of Pina Coladas!

Reach out to Perspectives Travel when you’re ready for your own luxe Spring Break and tell me in the comments which Caribbean island you can picture yourself on right now!

This Caribbean island hopping guide will take you through the iconic and more-hidden gems found throughout San Juan and St. Kitts.

04/02/2023

3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT 2023 TRAVEL

Towards the end of 2022 my inbox was flooded with client inquires for 2023 trips. And I’m here for it, because after the last minute planning phenomenon that was 2022, the further out we can get your travel arrangements made the better!

Head over to the Out of Office Blog for 3 things that you need to know about 2023 travel! And reach out to Perspectives Travel when you’re ready for a well deserved getaway!

3 Things to Know About 2023 Travel

15/01/2023

27 Best Vacation Spots for Every Type of Couple ❤️

Conde Nast Travel recently asked me to weigh in with tips on how to plan a tailor-made getaway for two.

I’ve learned a lot planning honeymoons and anniversary trips over the past few years. And of course, my own experiences as 1/2 of a traveling couple always help inform what I recommend to clients.

With the expertise of your favorite travel advisor (ahem 😉) it means that your next romantic getaway can be stress free and most importantly memorable!

Read on for more of my tips and tricks!

Whether you crave a blissed-out spa getaway, a culinary vacation, or an adventure-packed itinerary.

26/12/2022

This is my third Christmas as a travel advisor and the best gift has been the clients, colleagues, and cheerleaders who have supported me on this journey.

Without your bookings, insights, follows, likes, and most importantly your trust, I would not be wrapping up a year where I advised on almost 4x more travel than last year.

Thank you for taking this journey with me, for continuing to indulge my love of luxury travel, and for sticking around for what will without a doubt be a memorable 2023.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Kwanza! Here’s to more travels in the new year 🥂

📸 for

13/12/2022

What does everyone want for the holidays? Travel, of course! According to a recent study by American Society of Travel Advisors ASTA, travel tops consumer wish lists, with 77% of those surveyed said they would pick a vacay over a new computer, TV, or gaming console.

And with 48% of consumers feeling like travel is the best investment in these times, why not gift a trip, or a gift card for professional travel planning services (hint, hint 😉) to those you love!

Reach out to learn more about how you can put Perspectives Travel under the tree, and don’t forget that I can VIP your hotel stay at hundreds of five star hotels. So, don’t book that holiday staycation or NYE suite until you chat with me!

23/10/2022

"In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different." -Coco Chanel

With all the new travel inquiries I’m managing right now, it seemed like a good opportunity to pop in and tell you what makes traveling with Perspectives Travel in your corner different.

I’m the best at what I do because when it comes to travel, my expectations are even higher than my clients’. And since your time is irreplaceable, making your travel dream a seamless, stress free, memorable reality is my one and only goal.

Want to know how I do it? Read on👇🏾

DETAILS ARE EVERYTHING- I understand that it’s the minor details that create major memories. And it’s the minor details that when not managed can take a trip from awesome to awful (looking at you entry protocols 👀). So, I triple check the details to ensure that the who, what, when, where and why are communicated to my travel partners all over the globe.

THIS IS A SERVICE BUSINESS, SO I PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE- Every day my clients trust me with large sums of their hard earned money to create an experience out of an idea. It’s a level of trust that few small businesses owners get, so when it’s time to advise, collaborate, and advocate, I’m here before, during, and after your travels.

UNIQUE ACCESS TO THE PLACES THAT EVEN GOOGLE CAN’T FIND- Nothing that I do is copy and paste. I believe that “needle in a haystack” travel experiences should be the norm and not the exception. If you don’t want to step foot in a single museum and drink wine all day instead, I won’t judge you (I’ll probably applaud!), because what we create is based on your goals, priorities, and interests and not a random top 10 list from the internet.

So, come say hello when you’re ready for a transformative travel experience!

19/10/2022

Want to know the secret to checking in to your hotel early?

Work with a travel advisor (ahem 😉)! Ok, that may sound a little too easy but here are the facts:
⭐️ As a preferred partner with hundreds of five star hotels all over the world, one of the complimentary perks that I’m able to offer you is priority aka top of the list for early check ins (and late check outs).

⭐️ As a luxury travel expert, I have a solid knowledge of the hotel brands that are changing the game and offering more flexible check in times. Think the ability to choose a fully flexible arrival and departure time at no extra charge!

⭐️ And when all else fails, I’m here to advise you on when it makes sense to pay for that extra night, so that when you land at 8am after a long travel day, you’re not waiting until 3pm to check in.

Reach out to Perspectives Travel when you’re ready for that check in to unpacking time to be significantly improved!

10/08/2022

I’m very much looking forward to heading back to Virtuoso Travel Week for the 2nd year in a row! Read on to learn about why this is one of the most important weeks in the luxury travel industry.

Gearing up for the world’s best luxury travel conference.

12/07/2022

Portugal is pure magic! If you've been looking for your next European destination, then I have an idea... Portugal! Not only is this country diverse in it's topography, wine, and culture, it's also one of the most welcoming destinations that I've ever visited.

Head over to my highlights on Instagram to see why Portugal is perfect for travelers who have "been there, done that" when it comes to Europe, first time travelers to Europe, and solo travelers.

https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17954202508804821/

12/07/2022

The Caribbean is one of my most requested (and favorite) destinations to plan. If you've been wondering which islands to explore when cold temps creep back in, then read on for the insights that I shared with Washington Post! And of course, reach out when you're ready to start planning!

Advice for planning your next Caribbean trip, whether you're most interested in beaches, nightlife or food.

27/04/2022

Anyone want to come with me to check out Tulum’s newest 5 ⭐️ hotel?

When the team at Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya and Hilton invite you to spend days in Riviera Maya, you immediately say yes, and bring your friends along. So, you’re coming too as I make my way to Quintana Roo and the newly opened Conrad Hotels & Resorts

Now the truth is that Mexico had been off my radar until I came down for a Mardi Gras break in 2021. But now that I’m on my third trip in less than 14 months, you might say that I’m kind of obsessed.

And if you hear Cancun and think Senior Frogs and Spring Break, then you really need to stick around as I share my stay over the next week, because I promise you… things have changed!

If it’s a change of scenery that you’re looking for then pick from one of the 5 pools, 16 spa treatment rooms, 5 restaurants, or 6 bars.

Oh and did I mention that this is all set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea? And that you’ll see that sea from one of 348 rooms, each with a private balcony and relaxation tub or plunge pool.

And maybe the best part… the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya has focused heavily on unique cultural activities from Mayan calendar reading and jungle immersions to exploring the cenotes and Chichen Itza, you can do as much or as little as you want.

Stick around as I share more of my experiences in Mexico. And give me a 🙌🏾 in the comments if you’d be my travel buddy to Mexico.

29/03/2022

"Luck is the residue of hard work and design" ~ Branch Rickey

Three years ago I left behind a well-paying job, health insurance, and a career path that I’d carefully crafted since getting my MBA to venture out on my own and start Perspectives Travel.

As I was gaining momentum and a supportive client base, a global pandemic erupted and it felt maybe like I'd made a misstep in leaving behind a 15 year career in luxury marketing and sales for an industry that was now in dire straits.

But today, as I celebrate the 3 year anniversary of Perspectives Travel I know that I made not only the right decision but also that it is hard work and not luck that has gotten me through the last two years!

I won't pretend that owning a travel agenc during the last two years was a breeze, but since 20% of new businesses fail in the first two years without a global pandemic, I'm pretty damn proud of myself for everything that I've accomplished.

Year three is already shaping up to be a banner year, I've booked more sales in the first 3 months than I did in all of 2021. Plus, I have so many new inquiries I'm having to ask clients to be patient as I get to their requests.

If luck really is the residue of hard work, then I have a lot of luck coming my way! Here's to 3 years & a huge thank you for all of your support!

What should I do to celebrate? It’s definitely going to involve champagne! 🥂

04/03/2022

How to spend your last day in paradise aka One&Only Mandarina 🌴

When your last day on vacay goes a bit like this: wake up, swim, eat breakfast, swim, drink cocktails, swim, finally figure out how to use binoculars, swim… why would you want to leave.

I’ve loved my time at One&Only Resorts and want to share a few more answers to questions that I’ve gotten + fun facts that you should know for when we book your next stay!

🇲🇽 Fly to Puerto Vallarta airport (PVR) and we’ll arrange a private car for the 1 hour to 1.5 hour drive to Mandarina.

🇲🇽 My villa is a panoramic ocean view villa, there are several types of villas, so we’ll figure out what’s most important to you, like views or proximity to the adults’ only pool, and pick a category accordingly.

🇲🇽 March weekend rates start at $2,190/night and as a Virtuoso property, I can add on VIP amenities like priority for an upgrade at arrival, $100 resort credit, priority for late checkout, and 2 nights free on 5 night stays!

🇲🇽 One&Only Mandarina is good for a wide range of guests from extended family groups to couples, and solo travelers. Families will appreciate the kids club, couples will like being able to meet for sunset cocktail at Treetop before dinner, and solo travelers can tuck into to their plunge pool and in villa dining.

🇲🇽 There is so much to do, but you also won’t be judged for doing absolutely nothing 🙋🏾‍♀️. Hike or mountain bike, zip line, take horseback riding or surf lessons, and then hit the spa for Temazcal treatment.

Reach out when you’re ready for even more info and head to my saved highlight if you missed any stories from this week.

Now tell me… how would you spend your last day in paradise?!

10/02/2022

Not ready to venture out of the country just yet? Don't worry, I'm here to share U.S. destinations that you should add to your 2022 travel list! Let's go to Sedona, Arizona!

WHERE TO STAY, EAT & PLAY IN SEDONA, AZ⁠
*Save + Share this post* for your next trip!
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Sedona has always been a popular destination for wellness and spiritual travel, but it's also my go-to spot for clients who want a wine scene, lots of outdoor activities, and maybe a chakra reading or two. ⁠
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Stay: Enchantment Resort tucks right into the red rocks of Boynton Canyon so seamlessly that you might be tempted to never leave the resort. But one of the beauties of Enchantment is that when you're ready to leave, you can bike to nearly 400 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. The property is taking this opportunity to refresh the world famous Mi amo, but don't worry the new Spa Suites offer the spa's popular experiences provided by the same team of intuitive therapists. When it's time to rest, you'll find 218 refreshed casitas set on 70 acres. The pool suites are my personal favorite because they feature not only spectacular views, but also your own pool, viewing deck and outdoor patio!⁠
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Eat: There's a reason that Mariposa - Latin Inspired Grill was voted one of the most scenic restaurants in the U.S. The views from the patio are stunning and luckily the service and food are equally as lovely. The Hudson Sedona will give you serious Southern California vibes. It's a stylish space with local craft beer on tap and a well edited menu with something for everyone. If you need a quick pick me up Wildflower Bread Company has you covered from cookies to pastries, and lighter fare like soup and salads. ⁠
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Play: No trip to Sedona would be complete without a Pink Jeep Tours. You get to explore the red rocks all from the comfort of a guided jeep tour. Also, don't miss opportunities for golf, hiking, wine tasting, ATV rentals, and day trips to Jerome and Cottonwood. Sedona offers a well rounded experience because you can focus on your body with a sunset hike, mind with an adventure filled horseback ride, and spirit with a chakra reading, or an aura photo. Plus, it's easy to extend your trip with visits to the Grand Canyon, Scottsdale, or Phoenix. ⁠
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Have you been to Sedona? What's your fave spot?

07/01/2022

What a great way to start off the year! Thank you Travel Noire for highlighting Perspectives Travel!

Let 2022 be the year that you take your travel experiences to the next level by investing in luxury travel. Luxury travel is more than traveling...

30/12/2021

I’ve spent a lot of time traveling the U.S. in the past 2 years, so it only seems right that I highlight some of my favorite destinations. Let’s get started with Charleston!

WHERE TO STAY, EAT & PLAY IN CHARLESTON, SC (and of course where to sip ☺️)

If I had to pick one southern city besides New Orleans to live in it would be Charleston. Charleston has food, history, and charm in spades. It also happens to be close to beaches, some of the best golf in the country, and it’s one of the few destinations where you can experience Gullah culture.

I’m sharing just a few of my recommendations for how you can spend a day in Charleston!

Stay: Charleston Place, A Belmond Hotel is the perfect mix of high-touch, old school Southern charm, and elegance. The City View Suites are my favorite rooms at the hotel for two reasons. They’re corner suites which always adds a little square footage, and they have floor to ceiling windows so you can people watch all of the happenings on King Street.

Eat: Obsessed does not describe how I feel about places like 167 Raw Oyster Bar - Charleston, The Ordinary, and Leon's Oyster Shop. From the vibe, to the service, to the menu itself these restaurants will have you in a happy food coma in no time. And when you can’t eat one more southern staple head to Circe's Grotto for some of the best sandwiches in town.

Play: Wander through Charleston City Market and pick up a handmade sweetgrass basket from a local artisan. Pop into Candlefish for a class on candle making class. Then see what events or tours the Historic Charleston Foundation is offering. The advocacy organization has worked with historic houses like Aiken-Rhett House and Nathaniel Russell House tell historically accurate stories of these homes, including those of the enslaved. If you feel like no vacation is complete without a trip to the beach, you’re just 22 minutes to Folly Beach.

Sip: Bin 152 is Charleston’s oldest wine bar and has an astonishing 40 different wines by the glass.

The Cocktail Club has a serious speakeasy vibe and a menu full of classic cocktails and new innovations.

*Save this post* for when you need a visit to the Holy City!

Now tell me... what’s your favorite Charleston spot? And if you’ve never been which of these ideas sounds like your kind of vacation?

14/12/2021

Wondering what to get your loved ones (aka yourself 🙋🏾‍♀️) for the holidays? I shared my thoughts with Women's Health on the best carry-on bags on the market. And they just happen to also make amazing presents! Read on for why I’m 100% team carry on, and tell me where’s the first place you’d take a new suitcase?

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/g38193595/best-carry-on-luggage/

There are some key factors to consider.