Clarity from the start, luxury in every detail.
Every trip we design is as unique as the people traveling. That’s why our process is flexible — adapting as your needs and dreams take shape.
What does this mean for you? We meet you where you are — so we can take you where you want to be. Now, let’s explore the framework our process is built on.
An introductory conversation — by form, email, text, or phone — begins the process of learning your style, timing, budget range, and must-haves. We’ll confirm the basics, brainstorm early ideas, and outline next steps so you always know what to expect.
This is where we really go to work for you. We invest the time and effort to research and compare options, then curate a custom trip outline — suites, routes, upgrades, and special touches — all matched to your style and travel desires. When needed and where possible, we’ll even place courtesy holds with our partners to protect in-demand options while we finalize what fits best for you.
This is where our work turns into your fun. We review the options and, if needed, brainstorm further before fine-tuning the details. Together, we lock in your selections — rates, perks, deadlines, and terms — so everything is clear and aligned. We don’t stop until we’ve designed and secured an itinerary you’re excited about. We’ll handle the paperwork, contracts, payment schedule, and set your trip timeline. You mark the calendar, and let the anticipation begin!
Bon voyage, not au revoir. While you’re sipping your poolside cocktails, exploring world heritage sites, or enjoying your private, beachside anniversary dinner, we stay available and working to make sure every part of your trip wows. If there’s an issue or plans change, we can step in to advocate for you and make adjustments on-the-fly. Even though we might be at our desks, we’re with you when you travel.
Quick, general guidance. Policies and availability vary by supplier — we’ll confirm specifics for your trip.
We’re ready when you are. You can simply click the “Start Your Trip” icon, text or call us at 216-525-9059, or email us at info@merkertravel.com. We’ll start with a quick introduction which allows us to listen closely to your needs so we can begin to anticipate and shape your travel dreams. We can’t wait to work with you.
Whether it’s simply booking a hotel suite or specific cruise you know you want, creating fully bespoke itineraries from scratch, or handling anything in between, we are here to partner with you so you can enjoy your journey. Call us travel designers, advisors, or agents — we’re here to make your travel dreams come true.
While we specialize in luxury travel, cruises, and all-inclusive experiences, we love to get creative. We’re a custom travel designer, after all. Flights, rail, cruises, hotels, resorts, tours, and beyond — we handle it all.
Absolutely. In fact, there are times we may even recommend that you book certain items yourself if it benefits you. But planning travel can be time-consuming, complicated, and stressful on your own. Life is busy enough — travel shouldn’t be. By using us, you free up time, avoid stress, and tap into our experience, supplier connections, and perks. And yes, you may enjoy special rates or upgrades along the way.
We sure do. From romantic getaways and honeymoons to multi-gen adventures and small groups, we tailor each trip to create lasting memories. Whether it’s a beach honeymoon, family reunion cruise, office retreat in the mountains, or Disney adventure with the kids, we’d love to design a journey that fits your style and needs.
This is probably the most common question we get — and the most surprising answer we give. Typically, nothing. Most bookings are commissionable by travel suppliers such as cruise lines, hotels, resorts, and tour operators. That means they compensate us for the work we do on both your behalf and theirs. Occasionally, for non-commissionable reservations or more complex projects, a transparent planning fee may apply. If so, you’ll know upfront — no surprises.
Absolutely not. We only recommend trusted, vetted suppliers or options available through our networks. As a bespoke travel design firm, our responsibility is to recommend what fits your style and exceeds your expectations. Commissions don’t drive our decisions — your travel experience does.
Thanks to our supplier relationships and industry connections, we can sometimes offer advantages that aren’t available to the general public. This could mean a lower cruise fare, a complimentary room upgrade, or an added perk that enhances your trip. While specifics vary, if we can get something “extra,” we will.
We regularly monitor publicly available promotions and preferred-partner perks to deliver the best value. If you see something compelling, share it with us — we’ll compare it “apples-to-apples” to confirm it’s legitimate and, where possible, match or even improve the overall value with added benefits.
We’re travelers just like you — thrilled by the journey and wowed by luxurious accommodations and destination wonders. Have we experienced it all? Not yet — but we’d love to! What we do have is years of travel experience that includes cruising, air and rail journeys, boutique and large hotel stays, all-inclusive resorts, and much more across the U.S., Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. And we’re always adding to that portfolio by exploring new places and experiences. Curious about some of our favorites? Take a look at The M Collection.
For popular cruises, resorts, or high-demand suites, planning 6–12 months ahead is usually ideal. Some experiences may require even earlier booking for the best rates and availability. When you’re ready, we’ll review what makes the most sense for your trip.
Most suppliers, like cruises and resorts, require an immediate deposit to confirm a booking, with final payment due closer to travel (often 60–90 days out). Each supplier and trip is different, so we provide clear timeframes and payment schedules as we design your trip.
We typically process payments directly through the travel supplier’s secure systems. Once a payment has been processed, you receive a confirmation. Simple, direct, and transparent.
Change and cancellation policies vary by supplier. Typically, flexibility decreases as travel dates get closer. We collaborate with clients and suppliers to make adjustments or cancellations, when necessary, clearly and efficiently.
We strongly recommend travel insurance, as it may cover things like delays, interruptions, lost baggage, or medical needs that aren’t covered by other personal or medical insurance. We can share options and help you explore and secure a policy that offers peace of mind and protection.
Yes. Airlines, cruise lines, and other travel suppliers require names to exactly match your government-issued ID or passport.
Requirements vary by travel type, destination, and nationality. Typically, a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) is required for travel within your country of citizenship, while a passport is needed for cruises and international trips. We’ll provide guidance and resources, but documentation is ultimately the traveler’s responsibility.
In most cases, yes. While we don’t personally prepare your meals or design cruise ships and hotels, we have extensive experience assisting with dietary restrictions and mobility needs. Many in our own traveling parties have food allergies, and our President & Lead Travel Designer, Mike, has over 15 years of experience supporting individuals with a wide range of abilities. We’re here to advocate for you — we get it, and we’re here to help.
We love this part of our job. Dining reservations, celebratory moments, spa days, or a surprise bottle of champagne or flowers delivered to a suite — we’ll help make your trip unforgettable. Just let us know what you’re celebrating, and we’ll suggest ideas to enhance the experience.
These things happen — but they don’t have to ruin a trip. We’re here to make sure your journey runs as smoothly as possible. If something comes up, call us (use Option 1 for our emergency line). We’ll step in to advocate for you and adjust plans where possible so you can get back to enjoying your travels faster.
Absolutely. We love to hear about your experiences. Your insights help us design and refine future trips for you and our other clients. If you’re thoroughly wowed, you may even see your favorites earn a place in The M Collection.
No pressure. Just possibilities.