THE ULTIMATE PLANNING TRIP GUIDE:

Featuring Insider Secrets from Royanne DeSilva, Certified Travel Consultant Who’s Planned 500+ Trips

8 STEPS TO THE PERFECT VACATION

✅ Step 1: Choose the Destination 

Start by thinking about what kind of experience you want—relaxation, adventure, culture, or nature. Consider the season, budget, travel time, visa requirements, and safety. 

Research different countries or cities that match your goals and make sure they fit your schedule and interests. This step will guide the rest of your planning, so take time to choose wisely.

 


✅ Step 2: Confirm Entry 

Requirements 

Luxury is peace of mind. You must check travel requirements early to avoid airport nightmares. 

Check your passport validity (usually needs to be at least 6 months before expiry date), that you have enough blank pages and that is it in a good condition; no watermark or dog ears. 

Check visa, vaccination and entry 

requirements of destination on Sherpa 

⏳ Book visa appointments 3 – 6 months before if needed.


✅Step 3: Book Flights 

Book early for better prices and routes. For VIP luxury.

Travel Consultant Tip: Set flight alerts, and book flexible tickets when possible. It is best to book tickets within 3-6 months of travel. 

If you see +1, it means that you will arrive a day later. 

You may see a cheaper flight landing at 2 am but keep in mind that you will need to pay for an extra night at the hotel to ensure check in on 

arrival.


✅ Step 4: Book Accommodation Hotels 

Luxury is all about location, ambiance, and perks like breakfast, upgrades, and late checkout. 

I have a special travel agent system where I can get discounted rates so if you want me to check a rate for you. Email me the hotel name, dates, number of persons and I can book it for you without charging you any fees.  [email protected] 

Want to know the best hotels across the globe? Use the Forbes Travel Guide which gives accurate ratings which I agree with. 

Expert Tip: After booking, search for the email on their website and mention if you are celebrating a special occasion as they usually give complimentary amenities. You can also mention that you will be filming the stay (social media counts) and they may surprise you with a room upgraded. If you arrive at the property early or leave late, ask them if they can prioritize you for a complimentary early check-in or late check out.


Villas 

If you prefer privacy, this is perfect but always keep in mind that you will have to pay additional for the grocery and staff gratuity. VRBO Luxe Villas 

Travel Consultant Tip: Always check reviews, host responsiveness, and location safety.

Cruises

Cruises are one of the easiest trips to arrange. You unpack once while visiting many destinations. It’s also perfect for multigenerational and group trips.

Cruise Line Comparison 

For couples or adults traveling without kids, Virgin Voyages is a standout choice. As an adults-only cruise line, it offers a stylish, modern atmosphere with elevated dining, trendy nightlife, wellness programs, and no children on board. 


If you’re looking for a quiet, luxury escape, Explora Journeys is ideal for couples who appreciate high end design, privacy, and wellness. It’s perfect for romantic getaways or special celebrations. 

Families who want a more upscale experience may prefer Celebrity Cruises. While known for its refined atmosphere, Celebrity still offers excellent kids’ and teens’ clubs, family dining options, and educational shore excursions. 

If you’re traveling with children, Royal Caribbean is one of the best options for families. Their ships are packed with kid-friendly features like Adventure Ocean kids’ clubs, water parks, zip lines, ice skating rinks, and live family shows. 

Another great family option is MSC Cruises, especially for those traveling on a budget. MSC offers free or reduced fares for children, themed play areas (like LEGO zones), and water parks on many of their ships.

For solo travelers, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is often rated the best. Their unique Studio cabins are designed for one person and include access to a private solo lounge and organized solo meetups. 

For ultra-luxury travelers, Silversea Cruises offers all-inclusive, intimate voyages with butler service, fine dining, and curated shore excursions. This cruise line caters to well-traveled couples or retirees who want an immersive, worry-free experience. 

My two favourite cruiselines are: 

To book, click the links above. 

Planning Tip Before You Sail 

✅ Explore and book shore excursions: Shore Excursions Guide (cheaper than booking the excursions on the cruise) 

✅ Compare cruise lines to match your travel style 

✅ Check drop-off locations at each port

 

✅Step 5: Arrange Transportation 

Start and end your trip in style. 

  • ✨ Club Kingston/ Mobay (Jamaica) 
  • LuxApp – VIP Italy airport fast track 
  • ✨VIP Airport SkyVIP Meet & Greet Services 

Insider Tip: Book meet-and-greet 2+ weeks before travel, especially during peak seasons. Book airport transfers through the hotel concierge or use Uber where available. 

Book VIP Airport Meet & Greet with Lounge in Jamaica

For Car rentals : use Expedia or booking.com

Ground Transfers & Trains 

  • Expedia Airport Transfers 
  • Luxapp.club (for transfers in Europe) 
  • Blacklane – Luxury Chauffeur Service 

Trains: RailEurope 

Pro Tip: There are taxi apps in each country, google the available one before your trip and download it on your phone and link your credit card to save time. Some luxury options aren’t listed on major booking sites—always ask your hotel concierge if they can arrange private pickups.


✅ Step 6: Book Tours & Activities 

Private tours = total flexibility, better photos, and no crowds. 

Top platforms: 

Pro Tip: Read verified reviews and choose the highest-rated tour guide.

✅Step 7: Restaurant Reservations 

Expert tip: Email the hotel concierge before arrival and ask their suggested restaurant list and local hidden gems. 

I love using the Michelin Guide to book fine dining restaurants ideally at least a month in advance for holidays. 

If the restaurant is fully booked, you can also ask the hotel concierge to contact the restaurant on your behalf as they may have connections. 

Even if you’re not staying at a 5* hotel, you can make a reservation at their restaurant or rooftop bar to experience their service & ambiance.


✅ Step 8: Make the Final Itinerary 

Organize all your travel details—flights, accommodations, activities, and reservations into one clear itinerary. 

I highly recommend the free TripIt app to keep everything in one place. 

Don’t forget. Travel Insurance. This is one of the only travel insurances that accept all nationalities. Consider Cancel For Any Reason insurance for peace of mind. 

Redpoint Travel Protection 

(make sure to book within 15 days of your first trip payment)