Frequently Asked Questions

🧳 Using a Travel Agency

  • A travel advisor saves you time, reduces stress, and helps you avoid costly mistakes. I provide personalized recommendations, insider knowledge, and support before and during your trip — so you’re never planning alone or guessing online.

  • I handle the research, planning, booking, and coordination of your trip. This includes recommending destinations, securing the best value options, managing logistics, and ensuring every detail of your itinerary flows seamlessly from start to finish.

  • In many cases, yes. Travel advisors often have access to exclusive promotions, onboard credits, room or cabin upgrades, and added-value amenities that aren’t always available when booking directly online.

    Beyond pricing and perks, the real value of using a travel agent is having a dedicated expert who understands your trip end-to-end. Instead of navigating multiple websites or waiting on hold with call centers during disruptions, you have a single point of contact who can manage changes, solve issues quickly, and advocate on your behalf.

    Travel advisors also help ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned—from flights and transfers to hotels and activities—so your itinerary is seamless, efficient, and tailored to your preferences.

  • Absolutely! You remain fully in control. I simply provide curated options based on your preferences, and you choose what best fits your travel style, budget, and goals.

  • One of the biggest benefits of using a travel advisor is support. If issues arise, I can help coordinate solutions with suppliers so you’re not stuck handling problems alone while traveling.

  • Yes — I can assist with cruises, resorts, flights, hotels, transfers, excursions, theme parks, and more. My goal is to provide a seamless, end-to-end travel planning experience.

  • At this time, I do not charge planning fees for personal travel planning.

    Business/Corporate travel bookings may be subject to a surcharge depending on the request and level of service required. Please review our Terms and Conditions for more information.

  • Once Upon a Journey was created for travelers who want more than just a booking. I take a thoughtful, personalized approach to planning each trip, focusing on what matters most to you — your vision, travel style, and budget.

    My goal is to take the stress out of planning so you feel supported, understood, and confident every step of the way, from the first idea to the moment you return home with lasting memories.

🛂 Passport Information

  • Yes — all travelers, including infants and children, need passports for international air travel. Most countries around the world require a passport book for entry.

    Please note: Passport cards are only valid for land and sea travel between Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

  • Many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Always check destination-specific requirements before traveling.

  • You can renew your passport online or by mail through the U.S. Department of State.

    If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you must complete an application and apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. You can find the required forms and nearby application locations on the U.S. Department of State Passport Information page.

  • Processing times vary throughout the year. Standard processing can take several weeks, while expedited service is faster for an additional fee. To check current estimated processing times, please check the U.S. Department of State site.

  • Travelers should contact the nearest embassy or consulate immediately. It’s also a good practice to keep copies and/or photos of travel documents stored separately.

🌍 Travel Advisories & Entry Requirements

  • Visa requirements vary by country and nationality. Some countries may require advance visas or electronic travel authorizations such as the UK ETA. Travelers should verify requirements prior to departure by visiting the U.S. Department of State site.

  • Yes. U.S. travelers must apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. It is valid for 2 years and must be completed prior to travel.

  • Europe now uses a digital border system that replaces passport stamps. First-time entry may take longer due to biometric registration.

    Tips for U.S. Travelers

    • Allow extra time when arriving in Europe.

    • Keep your passport readily accessible.

    • Have hotel details and return/onward travel information available.

    • Follow instructions at kiosks or biometric checkpoints.

    • Be patient during the rollout phase as procedures continue to improve.

    • Always use the official EU site for EES travel information.

  • We recommend checking the U.S. Department of State site before departure to confirm current travel advisories for international travel.

  • Not necessarily. Many advisories are precautionary. Always review details before making decisions.

  • Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations. Travelers should consult their physician before departure. You may also visit the CDC Travel site for additional information.

  • Entry requirements can change at any time. Travelers are responsible for monitoring requirements leading up to departure.

  • Yes. We recommend enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before traveling internationally. STEP allows the U.S. Department of State to contact you with important safety updates and assist you in emergencies while abroad. Enrollment is free and can be completed online through the U.S. Department of State site.

  • ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a required pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, including U.S. citizens, visiting most countries in the Schengen Area for short stays such as tourism, business, or transit. It is not a visa, but an online approval that will be required before boarding your flight or cruise to Europe.

    ETIAS is expected to launch in late 2026 and become mandatory in 2027. Once active, travelers will apply online through the official EU website using their passport and basic personal information. Approval is typically quick; however, it is recommended to apply before booking your flights and hotels, but no later than 30 days prior to departure as applications are subject to approval. Your ETIAS will generally be valid for up to 3 years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple trips within that time.

    If your itinerary includes European destinations in the Schengen Area — including cruises — ETIAS will be required once it goes into effect. Approval does not guarantee entry, as final admission is determined by border officials upon arrival.

    Always ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates and apply only through official government sources when the system becomes active.

    For more information, please visit the official EU site.

✈️ Flights & Airport Tips

  • We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights to allow enough time for check-in, security, and boarding.

  • Yes. Complete online check-in 24 hours before departure and download your airline app for updates and boarding passes. This will help save you some time at the airport.

  • TSA guidelines determine what items are allowed in your carry-on and checked baggage. In general, liquids in carry-on bags must follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 oz (100 mL) or less and fit inside one quart-sized bag. Items such as weapons, sharp objects, and certain flammable materials are prohibited.

    For the most up-to-date list of allowed and prohibited items, please visit the TSA “What Can I Bring?” page before traveling.

  • Keep all medications in your carry-on and check CDC travel guidance for destination-specific health recommendations.

  • Yes — arriving at least one day prior is highly recommended to avoid missing embarkation due to flight delays.

  • If your flight is delayed or cancelled, the airline will typically assist with rebooking options; however, this is based on availability and your ticket type (Economy, Main Cabin, etc.). As your travel advisor, I can also help guide you through the process and assist with coordinating updates when possible. Travel insurance is highly recommended as it may help cover eligible delay-related expenses, such as hotels, meals, or missed connections.

🛡️ Travel Insurance

  • We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for both domestic and international trips. Travel insurance can provide valuable protection in the event of unexpected situations such as trip cancellations, flight delays, medical emergencies, severe weather interruptions, or lost/stolen luggage. It offers added peace of mind so you can travel more confidently. If you are in need of purchasing travel insurance for your trip, we can help!

  • Many U.S. health insurance plans provide limited or no coverage outside of the United States. Before traveling, we recommend checking directly with your insurance provider to understand your international benefits. Travel insurance with emergency medical coverage can help protect you from unexpected medical expenses abroad.

  • Coverage varies by policy and provider, but many plans may include trip cancellation/interruption coverage, emergency medical care, medical evacuation, travel delays, missed connections, and baggage protection. We’re happy to help offer you coverage options that best fit your trip and travel needs.

  • There are two convenient ways to purchase travel insurance. I am happy to assist you in reviewing your coverage options and help you select a plan that best fits your travel needs. If you prefer to purchase independently, you can also use my personalized Allianz Travel link to compare plans, review pricing, and purchase coverage directly at your convenience. If you have any questions, I'm always happy to help guide you through the process.

💳 Money & Credit Cards

  • Yes. Always notify credit card companies of your travel dates and carry at least two different cards when possible. This helps avoid any flags made by your bank that could impact your card usage.

  • Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees (typically around 3%). Check with your bank before departure. When possible, use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to avoid unnecessary costs while abroad.

  • Yes, but we recommend only a small amount. Most destinations accept credit cards, but cash is helpful for tips, small vendors, and taxis.

  • Use bank ATMs when possible as they typically provide the best conversion rates.

    AVOID:

    • Airport ATMs

    • Tourist-area machines

    • Convenience store ATMs

    Tip: Always select local currency (not USD) when paying to avoid hidden conversion fees.

📱 Phones, Wi-Fi & Connectivity

  • Most phones will work abroad, but roaming charges may apply. Check with your provider for international plans before traveling.

  • Use airplane mode and enable Wi-Fi only. Wi-Fi calling and apps like Google Voice can also help reduce costs. There are also other great apps, like Viber or WhatsApp, that allow you to message family and friends via Wi-Fi without the extra cost.

  • Yes. Many countries use different outlets and voltage, so adapters or converters may be required depending on your destination.

  • Helpful apps include:

    • Flight tracking: FlightAware, FlightView

    • Navigation: Google Maps (offline maps), Rome2Rio

    • Currency: Xe or Wise

    • Translation: Google Translate

    • Wi-Fi Messaging/Calling: Viber, WhatsApp

    • Airline, Cruise Line, Tour Operator Apps