What does a travel advisor do? Why should I use a travel advisor instead of booking online?

A travel advisor with Howe Travel Co. helps turn your travel ideas into a clear, thoughtfully planned journey, providing guidance, organization, and support every step of the way. Online booking sites may make it easy to purchase travel, but many travelers find that planning their own full trip can quickly become complicated. Flights, hotels, tours, transfers, entry requirements, and confirmations often exist on multiple platforms, and when you book everything yourself, you’re responsible for making sure each part fits together. Even small oversights can create stress or confusion along the way.

A personal approach
With Howe Travel Co., you are never just a confirmation number. Your trip is personal — designed around your travel style, pace, and what you want the experience to feel like. We focus on understanding your journey and your goals for the trip, not just filling in a reservation.

Clarity and organization
Travel can involve many moving pieces, especially international land tours or multi-destination adventures. Working with a travel advisor brings structure to the process and helps make complex plans easier to understand.

Time saved and confidence gained
Researching destinations, comparing choices, and coordinating logistics can take many hours (sometimes days or weeks), especially for those not used to planning travel. Using a travel advisor streamlines that work, letting you spend less time researching and more time enjoying the excitement of your upcoming trip.

Support along the way
Questions come up before or during your trip — having a travel advisor means you have someone to reach out to for guidance, clarification, or reassurance. While every traveler’s experience is unique, knowing you have a knowledgeable point of contact adds confidence and reduces stress.

Travel should feel inspiring and exciting, not overwhelming. Working with a travel advisor helps keep the focus on the adventure ahead.

What types of trips do you plan?

We plan a wide range of trips, including African safaris, global land tours, leisure vacations, cruises, group travel, destination celebrations, and more. Whether you know exactly where you want to go or need inspiration, we can help guide the process.

How does the booking process work?

We start with an inquiry to learn about your travel goals, preferences, and priorities. From there, we research options, design recommendations, and guide you through booking and next steps so everything feels clear and organized. View the full booking process here

Do you charge a planning fee?

Some trips include a non-refundable planning fee based on the time and expertise involved. Details about fees, what they cover, and when they apply are shared transparently before any planning begins. 

What it covers
A planning fee helps cover the time and expertise involved in creating a personalized itinerary tailored to your travel goals. Planning a trip — especially an international adventure or multi-destination journey — usually involves research, coordination, and careful attention to planning details. 

Why it’s worth it
Instead of spending hours, days, or weeks piecing everything together on your own, a planning fee ensures you receive a thoughtfully curated itinerary that’s organized and presented in an easily understandable way. It helps eliminate chaos and confusion throughout the planning process.

What it isn’t
The planning fee is not a payment toward the cost of your trip. It’s for the professional guidance, research, and planning that goes into creating your itinerary.

Peace of mind
Many travelers find the planning fee worthwhile because it reduces stress, saves time, and provides confidence in their travel arrangements. Having a well-organized itinerary helps keep planning manageable and supports a smoother journey.

Can you help if I already have a trip partially planned?

Sometimes—depending on how far along your plans are, we may be able to step in to assist, refine details, or take over coordination. It will depend on the specifics and timeline of your trip.

Do you offer group travel?

Yes. We arrange group trips for travelers who enjoy exploring with others, whether that’s joining an existing group or planning a trip for your own group of friends, family, or organization.

Can I still travel independently if I work with you?

Absolutely, we book independent trips. Group travel is simply an option for those who enjoy shared experiences or want to travel alongside others.

What happens if something goes wrong while I’m traveling?

If issues arise, we are here as a point of contact to help guide next steps and provide support. While we don’t control airlines or suppliers, having an advisor means you’re not navigating challenges alone.

How do I get started?

You can begin by submitting a travel inquiry through the website by clicking “Begin Your Journey.” From there, we will connect and take the next steps together.

Is Howe Travel Co. an official travel agency? 

Yes! Howe Travel Co. is registered both locally and federally as Howe Travel Co LLC. Gabby Howe is registered as an independent affiliate with KHM Travel Group which is affiliated with Travel Leaders Network. Gabby does not work for KHM or Travel Leaders Network, but her affiliation with them grants Howe Travel Co. access to vetted suppliers and exclusive resources. Gabby Howe is a member of Cruise Lines International Association.