10 Things I Never Do as a Luxury Travel Advisor

After years of designing intentional, meaningful trips (and taking plenty of my own), I’ve learned that how you travel matters just as much as where you go. There are certain things I just won’t do. Not because I’m rigid, but because I know they lead to rushed, forgettable, or underwhelming experiences.

Whether it’s winging it with dinner plans, booking a hotel because it’s “Instagrammable,” or assuming every client wants what’s trending, I believe in thoughtful choices that reflect the traveler and are tailored to the destination.

Ready for a trip that’s curated with care, not copied from trends? Let’s design something extraordinary together. Contact us to schedule a consultation to design your dream itinerary.

10 Things I Never Do as a Luxury Travel Advisor

1. Wing it when it comes to dinner bookings. I might leave a night for flexibility or cozy room service, but the best tables book early, and I want to be at them. Even spontaneity deserves good planning. There’s nothing worse than wandering around your destination trying to find a place for dinner only to be repeatedly turned away.
   

2. Skip travel insurance. Even as a pro, I don’t take chances. Insurance gives me peace of mind to enjoy the journey fully. I was never more thankful for travel insurance than when we had to cancel our honeymoon due to unforeseen health circumstances. Personally and professionally, travel insurance is a must.
   

3. Overpack the itinerary. Travel should inspire, not exhaust. I create space for spontaneity and meaningful rest, not just checklists. You don’t want to return home more exhausted than when you left, thinking you need a vacation from your vacation.
   

4. Assume every client likes the same thing. Travel isn’t one-size-fits-all. I get to know you, what you want to get out of the trip, and then build something that feels just right. That’s what makes what we do special. There are no step-and-repeat trips.
   

5. Treat solo travelers like couples missing a plus one. Some of the most transformative journeys are taken alone. I design solo escapes that are just as intentional and luxurious as any couple’s trip. Everyone deserves a customized dream trip tailored to their preferences, regardless of the number of people traveling.
   

6. Book a hotel just because it’s “Instagrammable”. Pretty photos are great, but not if the service is subpar or the walls are paper-thin. This is why we carefully vet every one of our hotel partners.
   

7. Make dinner bookings based on what’s trending on TikTok. Just because it’s viral doesn’t mean it’s worth it. I’d rather find spots with soul and that are a truly unforgettable experience.
   

8. Plan trips around “popular” months only. Peak doesn’t always mean best. I help you travel smarter when places are less crowded, more authentic, and still magical. Traveling during shoulder season is often my favorite times to travel.
   

9. Assume a client wants what is trending. Trends come and go, but great travel is timeless. What’s trending today may lead to overrun destinations teeming with tourists tomorrow.
   

10. Assume “luxury” means the same to everyone. For some, it’s a five-star hotel. For others, it’s complete disconnection. We work closely with our clients to get to the heart of their ideal itinerary.

Ready to work with us to plan your next trip? Learn more about our travel planning services here. Interested in joining one of our Atlas Adventures trips? Learn more about where we’re headed next!

What to Buy from Sézane

I have been a lover of Sézane clothing for a long time. It's a luxury French brand at attainable prices, and the company prioritizes sustainability in its production process. Their pieces are timeless staples that will last for years. Some of my favorite wardrobe essentials are their sweaters, but I also own their blouses, jeans, coats, and accessories. In the past few years, they have expanded into menswear, kidswear, and home decor.

If you ever get a chance to visit one of their stores in person, I highly recommend it! Their stores (called L'Appartements) are so lovely and exude the type of energy that will make you want to linger. We have been lucky enough to offer private shopping experiences on a few of our Atlas Adventures trips to Paris, and it’s always one of our most popular activities! They have several locations in Europe and have expanded to the United States in recent years. 

tips for shopping Sézane

Each month, Sézane releases a new collection featuring updated colorways and patterns of its most popular clothing, along with new designs. These releases tend to sell out fast online as they are released Sunday mornings at 9:30 am Paris time. They always preview the collection a few days ahead, so if you have your heart set on something from their new collection, set your alarm and shop strategically!

As it is a French brand, sizing can run smaller than you're used to. If you can't shop in-store, their return process is free and easy, so you might want to order two sizes. I would encourage you to utilize their online sizing guide. If you’re between sizes, they recommend sizing up. You can find their size guide directly on each product page by clicking "See our Size Guide". If you are ordering online, note that the minimum order for free shipping is $200. One thing to note for those in the States is to keep your order under $800 so that you don’t have to pay customs duties.

I've created an edit of my favorite Sézane wardrobe essentials below if you're new to the brand or looking to discover new favorites. Most of these are what they call their “French Heroes,” which can often be found in stock. These pieces are staples in my closet and can easily be paired with other wardrobe items to create a multitude of outfits. 

My Favorite Sézane Essentials

SWEATERS

The Gaspard sweater has been a staple in my closet since I first learned of  Sézane. I have it in multiple colorways, and the front and back are interchangeable. This sweater can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion. I recently purchased the Ecru version. The Betty cardigan was in heavy rotation for me last fall, and I know I’ll be wearing it again often this year. For those who can't wear other Sezane knits like the Gaspard due to the fabric, this would be a great option for you! The Simon jumper is a classic black turtleneck that is the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Pair it with jeans or a skirt and you’ve got an instantly elevated outfit.

TOPS

Every wardrobe needs a great button-up blouse, and this Tomboy shirt and the Max shirt are two of my favorites. They have so many colors and prints to choose from. I've also had this classic Parisian-inspired striped Colette shirt in my wardrobe for several years. The button details on the shoulders give it a fun twist outside of a basic striped tee. Sézane makes the lovliest lace blouses for when you want a shirt with a little something extra. I love the detail of the Rym, and this looks great layered underneath a sweater as well as on its own. The Clo blouse is another wardrobe hero. It’s the perfect lightweight silk blouse and has the prettiest embroidery down the front and collar. I own this in multiple colors! I’ve worn this to business meetings, sightseeing (see photo below), and also for date night. That’s what I love about Sézane- their clothing can be worn for just about any occasion.

JACKETS & COATS

There's a reason why trench coats never go out of style. It's the perfect topper to any outfit, and the water-repellent material is a must for rainy days in London. I own the Scott trench coat in classic camel. Another excellent wardrobe choice for those in between seasons, where you need a lightweight jacket but not a heavy coat, the oversized fit of the Will jacket is a great option. It’s the perfect casual third piece. I recently purchased this Clyde in chocolate brown. This long wool coat will be perfect once the temperatures start to drop.

PANTS, DRESSES, & SKIRTS

I own these jeans in the mottled ecru and denim colorways. They're the perfect wide-leg, and the length works well with flats, heels, or boots. I always recommend these because the length prevents the bottoms from getting wet when it’s raining. I’ve had my eye on this Naelle skirt as it’s a knit version of a silk slip skirt that I wear often in the summer. I’ve also been considering the Dorotha dress for warmer months (I love the tie straps!), and the Hillary long-sleeve knit dress for fall and winter.

ACCESSORIES

These no-fuss white leather sneakers go with just about any outfit! I've worn these all over Europe. I also love their leather bags. The Farrow is the perfect bucket bag, while the Claude is a great saddle bag. The Milo is that classic bag that will see you through any occasion. These all have matching wallets, but I’m partial to their slim card case. If you love a Parisian scarf, Sezane has you covered! From the Cleopatra to the Gaston, to the larger Maryse, there are plenty of patterns and sizes to choose from. I love to wear a scarf during travel days to help me feel pulled together.

Sezane is always my go-to when I need to fill a gap in my wardrobe, and I love their commitment to sustainability. If you’re new to the brand, I can’t recommend them enough! If you’ve been a fan like me, I hope you’ve found a few new-to-you pieces from this post.

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Airport Etiquette

Let’s be honest, air travel can bring out the best and worst in us. Between long security lines, cramped cabins & inevitable delays, it’s easy to get impatient. But the truth is: flying is a shared experience. And a little self-awareness goes a long way in making it better for everyone involved.

After years of travel, I’ve picked up on a few simple, unspoken “rules” that help flights run more smoothly. So I put together a list of travel commandments, not to shame, but to gently remind us all how to be better humans in transit:

1. BE READY AT SECURITY

A little prep equals a smoother start. Wear easy-off shoes, keep liquids accessible, and stash electronics where you can grab them quickly. Once you’re through, step aside to get reorganized. Don’t block the lane.

2. SHARE THE OVERHEAD BINS

Don’t get me wrong- I know how annoying it is to use your precious legroom to store personal items like a purse or your laptop bag. But technically, it’s common courtesy to keep one bag at your feet and the other overhead, not both. Bin space is shared space. Place your bag wheels or handles first, not sideways, to leave room for others. Stash just one larger bag up top, and tuck the smaller one under the seat. Wait until boarding has completed to store any additional items overhead as a common courtesy to those needing to store larger carry-ons somewhere that won’t fit under the seat.

3. SUPPORT LITTLE TRAVELERS

Kindness makes the cabin better for all ages. Parents: help your kids use inside voices and avoid kicking seats. Snacks and quiet toys = lifesavers. Fellow passengers: Remember, kids are kids. Meltdowns happen. Patience (and some noise-cancelling headphones) go a long way.

4. RESPECT SEAT SPACE

Comfort with courtesy is the goal. Unless you're in a pod or next to someone you know, it's best to keep your shoes on. If you absolutely must take them off on a long-haul flight, wear clean socks and keep your feet on the floor and away from your neighbor’s space. Thinking about reclining? Just take a quick peek behind you.

5. MIDDLE SEAT PASSENGERS GET THE RIGHT OF REFUSAL TO ARMRESTS

Stay in your zone, and we’re golden. Window seat? You’ve got the wall to lean on. Aisle seat? Enjoy a bit of stretch space (between snack carts). But middle-seat friends: take the armrests, but let’s not get carried away...this does not mean you can stick your elbows in my personal space and pour yourself into my seat.

6. DON’T TURN THE AISLE INTO A SOCIAL ZONE

Take a quick stroll, then head back. Need to stretch on a long flight? Absolutely. But hanging out in the aisle to chat with friends a few rows back? Not so great. Others are trying to sleep, read, or find a little quiet.

7. CONSIDER YOUR SCENT

Fresh and subtle keeps everyone breathing easy. Plane air is recycled, so whatever you’re wearing, we’re all wearing it too. Shower, use deodorant, and keep perfumes/light fragrance minimal.

8. BE SMART WITH BATHROOM BREAKS

Be mindful, keep it quick so others don’t have to wait. Try to avoid going during meal service or when most people are sleeping. If you know you’ll need frequent breaks, an aisle seat is your best friend.

9. DEPLANE WITH PATIENCE

Everyone wants to get off the plane as quickly as possible. Let the rows in front deplane first. Always let the passengers in front exit first unless they invite you to go ahead. If you're tight on time for a connection, tell a flight attendant before landing so they can assist those in your position to have priority getting off the plane.

10. WALK LEFT, STAND RIGHT. ESPECIALLY ON MOVING WALKWAYS

Whether it's before or after your flight, you're likely to encounter a moving sidewalk at the airport. These are created not only to help move you along if you're weighed down with luggage, but also if you're in a hurry. It’s a small move that makes a big difference. Moving walkways are for everyone, whether you're strolling or sprinting to a gate. If you’re standing, stick to the right. Leave the left side clear for those in a hurry.

Flying is a necessary part of travel that can often be a headache. Let’s all be courteous to one another and not make it any more painful than it has to be. None of us are perfect travelers, but a little awareness and kindness in shared spaces is how we make flying better.