How working with me works
One person, from the first phone call until you're home.
The steps
We talk.
A phone call, a Zoom, or coffee nearby. I'll ask about where you'd like to go, when, who's coming, what you've loved (or not) on past trips, and your budget.
I do the research.
Based on our conversation, I compare ships, itineraries, resorts, dates and prices so you don't have to, and I check things a brochure won't tell you. You'll typically have something in your hands within a week.
You get 2 to 4 options.
Side by side, with what's included, what isn't, and my honest notes on each.
You decide, and I book it.
Because pricing is constantly changing, ideally you'll make a decision and approve your deposit within 3 to 5 days of receiving your proposal. Then I handle the booking and the paperwork. You get your whole trip in one place, day by day, along with your payment schedule and a secure way to pay.
I'm with you until you're home.
Questions before you go, or something changes on the trip? You call me.
What it costs
There's no fee to work with me. The cruise line, resort, or tour company pays me a commission after you travel, so my services are complimentary to you!
Through my network, I often have access to special rates, added perks, or onboard credit. While those extras aren't guaranteed with every booking, I'll always let you know when they're available. What you can count on is having a dedicated travel advisor in your corner, from the time you book until you return home. I'll be there to answer questions, help navigate the details, and advocate for you if something doesn't go as planned.
Finding the right trip takes time, research, and a lot of behind-the-scenes work. That commission is how I'm compensated for the time and expertise I bring to the process. So if you love what I've found and are ready to book, I simply ask that you book through me. That's how I get paid for helping make your trip happen!
A note about pricing
Travel prices can change, sometimes quickly, much like airfare. The pricing I provide in a proposal is current at the time it's prepared, but it isn't locked in until your deposit is paid and your booking is confirmed.
Ideally, you'll be ready to make a decision and place a deposit within 3 to 5 days of receiving your proposal. Sometimes the timeline may be shorter if a promotional rate or courtesy hold is about to expire. I'll always let you know what to expect when I send your options.
I never want you to feel rushed into booking, but I also don't want you to miss out on a great option because pricing has changed. For that reason, I recommend requesting a proposal when you're feeling ready to make a decision, rather than just beginning to explore possibilities.
Is working with an independent travel advisor legit?
Absolutely! And it's a great question, especially if you've never worked with one before. Here's a little more about how my business works and what you can expect.
Who do you book through?
I'm an independent travel advisor affiliated with Travel Planners International (TPI), an established host agency that provides me with access to major travel suppliers, industry resources, and professional support. I run my own business, but I don't work alone!
Can I reach you?
Yes! I'm a real person, running a real business right here in the Naperville area. You can reach me by phone at (630) 410-9667 or email at leslie@
How are you paid?
I'm always transparent about how I earn a commission and what it costs to work with me. You can find all the details in the What it costs section above.
I'm a member of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, Signature Travel Network and the American Society of Travel Advisors. If you'd rather talk in person, I'm happy to meet for coffee in the area.
This is a nice Chicago area agency run by a real person who cares. I do not hesitate to recommend Leslie and Inclusive Escapes Travel.Michael D.Review on Yodl
Questions people ask
- Do I need a travel agent to book a cruise?
- Nope! You can absolutely book directly with the cruise line. However, cruise lines build travel advisor commissions into their pricing, so you're generally paying for that service whether you use it or not. Why not take advantage of it? I'll help you compare options, find the right fit, handle the booking details, and be in your corner if questions or unexpected hiccups come up. My services are complimentary, so you get the added support without an extra fee!
- I already booked my cruise. Can you still help?
- If you enjoy researching and booking your own cruises, you may still be able to transfer your reservation to me at no cost and enjoy the benefits of having an advisor in your corner. Most cruise lines have a transfer window of 14 to 30 days after booking, so reach out sooner rather than later!
- Will I pay more than booking it myself?
- There's no fee to work with me. The cruise line, resort, or tour company pays me a commission after you travel, and through my network I often have access to special rates, added perks, or onboard credit. I'll show you the price before you decide anything.
- How long does planning take?
- Usually about a week from our first conversation to your options.
- What kinds of trips do you plan?
- Cruises, river cruises, all-inclusive resorts and guided tours. If your trip is something else, I'm happy to point you to someone good.
- Can we meet in person?
- Yes. I'm in the Naperville area and happy to meet for coffee. Phone and Zoom work great too.
- Do I need travel insurance?
- I strongly recommend travel insurance to help protect your vacation investment and provide peace of mind. I typically recommend comprehensive plans through Allianz Travel Insurance, which can provide coverage for things like trip cancellations, travel delays, lost baggage, emergency medical expenses, and medical transportation. Coverage varies by plan, and I'll help you explore options that make sense for your trip!
- What if something goes wrong on my trip?
- Travel doesn't always go exactly as planned. Some issues need to be handled directly by the cruise line, resort, or tour operator, but I'll help you understand your options, connect with the right people, and advocate on your behalf whenever I can.
- Do you work with people outside Naperville?
- Absolutely! I work with travelers all across the United States, so distance is no barrier. I'm based in the Chicago suburbs, so any meeting times I share will be in Central Time. I'll always be happy to coordinate a time that works for both of us!
Hi! I'm Leslie.
I'm an independent travel advisor based in the Naperville area. I'll narrow down the choices, help you find a trip that fits your travel style, interests, and budget, and handle the booking details so you can spend less time researching and more time getting excited about where you're going!