Planning Steps for European Travel
(55 Reviews)
100% Recommended
Dan Meister, CMP
Boca Raton, FL
Luxury and Group Custom Travel Agent
“Extraordinary Moments Made Easy” – Seamless Travel for Individuals and Groups
Making Travel Easy since 1994
Luxury and Group Travel Agent
In today’s busy world with an overwhelming a...
“Extraordinary Moments Made Easy” – Seamless Travel for Individuals and Groups
Making Travel Easy since 1994
Luxury and Group Travel Agent
In today’s busy world with an overwhelming amount of choices and confusion online and offline, I help families and groups decide, design and book fulfilling travel for all reasons and seasons.
I know that planning a group or dream family vacation can be overwhelming, time consuming and extremely stressful.
From reconfirming hotel and flight reservations to securing airport transfers and show tickets, your trip can easily go off-track and awry with missed connections and incomplete information causing your dream trip to change course with regrets and stress.
It should not be that way. YOU deserve Better!
Our white-glove professional planning fee includes:
- Custom trip planning based on your desires and travel style
- Detailed and comprehensive confirmed itinerary in a handy phone app
- Off the beaten path and authentic experiences
- 24/7 concierge support service
Allowing you to sit back and relax while we design a trip that is exactly the way you want
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Meet Dan Meister, CMP – Personal Travel Coach and Group Expert
As a experienced traveler, meeting planner and travel agent, I empathize when our new clients talk about their travel and event horror stories. I have seen and experienced a lot in over 30 years of travel planning and fully understand there are no do-overs on a vacation or event.
We spend a lot of time and attention on planning, triple checking all arrangements and filling in gaps so our clients' “trip of a lifetime” does not derail into a "National Lampoons Vacation Movie Sequel".
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) & Vacation Specialist
- 30 years of high-end hotel, hospitality and travel experience
- Over 900 successful group events connecting people, places and events
- Thousands of perfectly planned trips with happy returns
- Travel coach with worldwide network of trusted suppliers
- Favorite trip or event is always the one I am on or next one I am planning
- Licensed, bonded and insured travel agency
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HOW TO START YOUR JOURNEY:
1) Let’s Chat - Share your ideas, interests and goals so we can curate a personalized experience
2) Research and Planning-Sit back and relax while we connect all the dots and manage the nitty-gritty details
3) Bon Voyage - Enjoy a stress-free, incredible trip and happy return, ready for your next adventure
When you’re ready just e-mail or call me. Thank you.
“Life is a Journey and not a Destination” ... Ralph Waldo Emerson
Can Be Reached At
1-561-279-2500
European Travel Planning Trips for Families
Dreaming of wandering through the cobbled streets of Paris or exploring the ancient ruins of Rome? Planning a European vacation can seem overwhelming at first, but with a little guidance, you’ll be sipping espresso in a quaint Italian café or admiring the aurora borealis in no time. Here’s your 10-step guide to making your European travel dreams a reality.
Step 1: Dream, Research (12-18 months before departure):
Your European adventure begins in the comfort of your home. Start by envisioning your ideal vacation. Are you lounging on the pristine beaches of Greece, or are you on a cultural escapade through Amsterdam’s museums?
Step 2: Establish a Budget (12 months before departure):
Setting a budget early helps shape your trip, from choosing destinations to deciding how you’ll explore them. Don’t forget to include allocations for flights, accommodations, tours, meals, activities, and a little extra for those unforeseen splurges!
Insider Tip: A Travel advisor can advise you on a budget based on your travel style and timeframe.
Step 3: Pick Your Dates (11 months before departure):
Timing is everything. Consider the climate of your chosen destinations and peak tourist seasons. Traveling during shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) can offer a perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Insider Tip: Try to stay away from the hot and busy months of July and August when Europe is very crowded. Have flexibility on dates so can take advantage of good pricing and opportunities when ready to book.
Step 4: Pick your travel style and Draft a Loose Itinerary (10 months before departure):
Now’s the time to get a rough idea of your travel style and route.
Travel Styles -
Do you want to see as much as possible with full support and comfort of a tour director on a guided vacation?
Do you prefer ocean or river cruising so only unpack once while getting a taste and exposure to many destinations (this is a good option for families and groups)?
Do you like independent adventures and don't mind driving, taking trains and public transportation and carrying your own luggage?
Or perhaps a hybrid of all these travel styles in one trip which a lot of travelers like?
Itinerary:
Which countries are a must-visit? Are there any festivals you want to experience?
This step doesn’t require minute-by-minute planning but having a direction is key. Europe is a large continent like the USA so we recommend focusing on a geographic area so can get an immersive experience into the culture and destination.
Step 5: Book Your tour, cruise, flights and flights (9-6 months before departure):
Now it’s time to book your tour, cruise and flights. Remember, flexibility on dates or airports can save you money! Don't forget most flights to Europe from the USA are overnight so you'll arrive the next morning.
Step 6: Secure Accommodations (8-6 months before departure):
Booking early ensures you get the best selection at the best price. Use reliable booking sites and look for accommodations with free cancellation options. If you have already booked your cruise or tour you can still book pre and post accommodations.
Step 7: Get Your Documents in Order (6 months before departure):
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Now is also the time to apply for visas if needed, and we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind.
Step 8: Research Activities and Book Tours (5 months before departure):
From cooking classes in Italy to castle and ghost tours in Scotland, now is the time to reserve spots for can't-miss activities, shows and attractions.
Step 9: Finalize the Details (2 months before departure):
As your trip approaches, fine-tune your itinerary. Make dining reservations, check public transport options, and confirm all bookings. Also, familiarize yourself with local customs and basic phrases.
Step 10: Pack and Prepare to Depart (2 weeks before departure):
Create a packing list tailored to your destinations' climate and planned activities. Don’t forget adapters, chargers, and essential medications. Print and carry all documents with you in the order you will need them. And finally, make sure your home and pets are secure and taken care of for your time away.
Why Use a Travel Agent?
While the internet provides endless information, the value of a travel agent, especially for a European vacation, cannot be overstated. They offer personalized service, insider knowledge, and access to exclusive deals.
A travel agent can navigate the complexities of itinerary planning, leveraging their expertise to craft a vacation that aligns perfectly with your dreams—and often at a cost savings to you.
Planning a European vacation can be as exciting as the trip itself, especially with these steps as your guide. Whether you're a meticulous planner or a spontaneous traveler, remember, every successful journey begins with that first step and half the fun of any trip is the journey itself. Happy travels!