Well, for sure I'm no virtuoso. Webster defines one as "a person highly skilled in music or another artistic pursuit", and that's the common understanding of the word. However, "genius", "expert" and "master" are all accepted definitions, regardless of the field of pursuit. So we agree, right? "A person with great skill"? Okay, ground rule set.
You have noticed by now that Virtuoso® appears in my weekly newsletters, social media, website, etc., and if you're not sure who or what Virtuoso® is, you'll know as of today. I'd like you to be aware of the relevance of Virtuoso® to your travel experience, regardless of who you choose as a travel planner.
Quoting directly from their website, "Virtuoso® is the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, with more than 20,000 advisors. We partner with over 1,800 of the world’s best companies such as hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and more. Our advisors use their personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke trips for clients, including unique experiences, special values, complimentary perks, VIP treatment and rare access."
TRANSLATION: Virtuoso® is the world's largest collection of top-ranked travel professionals. Since affiliation with Virtuoso® is by invitation only, the prestige associated with that is highly regarded. My host network, Gifted Tavel Network, is a Virtuoso® member, and through them I access Virtuoso® benefits and amenities that you cannot get on your own – the kinds that things that elevate your vacation experience from “pretty good” to “off the charts”. You can travel knowing that you're getting the best possible experience, and be confident that your expectations are being surpassed. Every Virtuoso® travel advisor has access to over 160 on-site, in-country experts around the world, vetted providers, and long-time partners (hotels, cruise lines, ground transportation, tour operators, and more) for customizing your trip. All Virtuoso® partners, affiliates, and preferred providers are bound to standards and expectations that elevate not just your own experience, but the reputation of the entire travel industry. As long as we abide by Virtuoso® standards, we indeed perform as 'experts', 'masters', and 'people of great skill' when we curate your trip.
However you decide to plan your vacation, remember you don't have to do it yourself - take advantage of a travel professional's connections and partners, and for peace of mind, make sure that your advisor is a Virtuoso® affiliate.
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'til next week.