What a travel advisor actually does (and why it's free)

The most common question I get is some version of "what does this cost me?" The answer, for almost every trip I book, is nothing. Hotels and cruise lines pay advisors a commission out of the rate you were already paying.

What you get in return is time and judgment. I've either been to the property, sailed the ship, or can reach someone who has. Instead of forty browser tabs, you get two or three good options with a clear reason behind each one.

You also get perks. Through Fora, my bookings often include room upgrades when available, daily breakfast, resort or onboard credit, and early check-in requests. Those extras don't come with a discount-site booking.

And you get an advocate. When a flight cancels, a port is skipped, or a room isn't what was promised, you send me a message instead of joining a two-hour hold queue.

When is it not worth it? A one-night airport hotel or a cheap domestic flight — book those yourself. Cruises, all-inclusives, honeymoons, multi-city itineraries, and family trips with a lot of moving parts are where an advisor earns their keep.