La Jolla Mom
What is Virtuoso? Virtuoso is a global network of agencies that specializes in luxury and experiential travel and partners with over 1,800 of the best hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and more worldwide. It is how I have been booking my own travel for years. If you like hotels, you should be searching my Virtuoso site to get an idea of the available perks at no extra cost to you.
Are you a travel agent? Technically, yes. However, I only work with hotels and do not plan itineraries from start to finish. If you are looking for the latter, I can definitely connect you with someone. If you are the type of traveler who handles your own airfare, tours, and itinerary but needs five-star hotel advice, we’re a fit.
Is there a fee to use Virtuoso and other hotel VIP programs? No. In fact, you will likely save money by using it due to value-added amenities that can include complimentary breakfast for two, resort credits, spa credits, room upgrades, and more.
What is aRes Travel? aRes Travel is a San Diego based (which is important to me) authorized ticket seller for major theme parks across the country. Through them, I sell millions of dollars worth of tickets per year, saving readers lots and lots of money without headaches. Yes, they are very legitimate otherwise I wouldn’t work with them — there are other options out there.
Do you accept sponsored content? No. There is some sponsored content on this site from a time when I did accept it, but it is only from brands that are a good fit.
How do you choose the brands you recommend? It’s very simple. I have to trust and like the product or service. Some links to these products or services are affiliate links which means that if you make a purchase, I might be compensated. This doesn’t drive recommendations — life is too short to endure the hassles associated with mentioning inferior products.
Do you accept complimentary travel? No. Many blogs are fueled by free or paid trips. This is not one of them. The vast majority of the hotel reviews and content on this site are from personal trips. I have in the past accepted complimentary travel but I learned that I don’t like the constraints and am more comfortable sharing what I want when I want. I like to put my money where my mouth is.
Which hotel did you live in? We are very lucky to have called Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong home for four years. We return often and I firmly believe it’s one of the best luxury hotels in the world (people that I send there also agree). This is why we primarily stay in Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.