How We Work

At Hager’s Journeys, we work for you – not the travel providers. We have a six-step process in place to ensure that you have a vacation experience that exceeds your expectations. Our initial meeting with you will be in person if you are in our local area, or via Facetime/Skype or telephone if you're not..

Our Six Step Process

 

Step One - Consultation 

During our initial conversation with you, we'll learn about your travel history, your preferences, and what your target budget will be. Depending upon the type of trip you are planning, we may ask you to complete an informational form or two, and return them to us prior to your initial meeting with an advisor. At that meeting, your advisor will review your responses with you, and obtain any other information necessary.

This initial consultation is complimentary. It is the time when we learn about each other, make sure we are a good fit for each other, and discuss our fees involved to continue working on your trip (see How We Get Paid).

 

Step Two - Collaboration

Once we decide that we are a good fit to work together, we schedule a second meeting. Between the first and second meeting, we put together a few ideas regarding your proposed trip, and communicate with you, usually via email or phone call, to get your input. We discuss destinations, activities, and price.

 

Step Three – Design

Next, your advisor begins to put together a preliminary itinerary, cruise or tour recommendation, and contacts the travel providers.

By the second meeting, we have a draft itinerary and pricing ready for you. We discuss the trip and “tweak” it as necessary. We'll also present the various types of travel insurance available to protect non-refundable money and to provide medical coverage while out of the United States.

 

Step Four – Reserve

We make and confirm all your reservations, and collect and make the required supplier payments.

 

Step Five – Experience

With your permission, we keep in touch during your trip whenever possible. If you are on an independent journey, we communicate with the travel provider throughout the trip. If you are on a cruise or escorted tour, we communicate with you via email if possible – just to be sure everything is running smoothly.

 

Step Six – Share

When you return from your trip, we have another conversation. We want to know what you loved best about your trip, and what, if anything, you would do differently next time. By doing this, we get to know your preferences and can draw on this knowledge when we plan your next trip. We also share your input with the suppliers you traveled with.