Answers to what travelers ask me most — fees, deposits, documents, and what a travel advisor actually does for you.  Last reviewed July 29, 2026.

Working Together

1. What does it cost to work with you?

Resort and cruise bookings cost you nothing extra — I'm paid a commission by the supplier, and your price matches booking direct. Custom Europe itineraries take many hours of research and coordination, therefore, fees for customized itineraries may vary based on the complexity of the trip. An upfront deposit may be asked for before creating a customized program.  The deposit will be credited toward your total upon booking.

2. Why use you instead of booking online myself?

I've walked many properties and inspected multiple ships.  Those that I have not done so in person, I have researched so that I am able to help guide you to know which "swim-up suite" actually has privacy and which cabins are the best for booking.  I can add perks you may not be able to book for yourself — resort credits, upgrades, onboard credit. And when something breaks, you call me instead of a hold queue. 

3. Will I pay more than if I booked direct?

No. I book through the same suppliers at the same published rates, with access to promotions, group space, and resort credits the public sites don't show. If you find a legitimate lower price on a comparable booking, send it to me — I'll usually be able to match it or explain the difference (which is often a non-refundable rate, a different room category, or a fare with no cancellation protection).

4. How does the process work?

1. Consultation — a 20–30 minute call or a quick form so I understand your budget, travel style, dates, and dealbreakers.

2. Proposal — I send curated options, usually within a couple of days, with real pricing and honest notes on the tradeoffs.

3. Booking — once you choose, I handle the reservation, deposit, and confirmations.

4. Pre-travel — you'll get a final document packet with everything you need several weeks before departure.

5. While you're gone — I'm reachable, and I'm watching your trip.

5. What happens if something goes wrong during my trip?

You get my direct line, and I answer it. A cancelled flight before your cruise, a room that isn't what was promised, a storm in the forecast — I work the supplier and rebooking channels while you handle the actual situation. 

All-Inclusive Resorts

6. What does "all-inclusive" actually include?

Room, meals, drinks, non-motorized watersports, and nightly entertainment are standard. What varies: premium liquor, specialty restaurants, airport transfers, spa, excursions, gratuities, and Wi-Fi tiers. Before you book, I'll tell you exactly where that line falls at your specific resort. 

7. How do I choose between all the resorts that look identical online?

That's the actual job. Adults-only versus family, quiet versus lively, a swimmable beach versus a beautiful-but-rough one — the marketing photos are designed to hide these differences. Tell me how you want the week to feel and I'll narrow 50 options to 2 or 3.

8. Are flights and airport transfers included?

Not automatically — most rates cover the resort only. I can bundle flights and transfers into one package, which often prices better and protects you if a flight goes sideways. I always offer to pre-arrange the transfer rather than sorting it out on arrival. 

9. What about hurricane season?

The Atlantic season runs June through November, peaking in August and September. Those months bring the year's best rates, and most storms miss most resorts — but "most" isn't a plan. I'll book a supplier with a hurricane guarantee and insist on insurance. 

Cruises

10. Does it really matter which cabin I pick?

Enormously — and it's what people most often get wrong booking alone. Deck position affects motion, noise, and how far you walk each day. A cabin under the pool deck is a different vacation than one mid-ship. I will help you to choose the specific cabin from your preferences.

11. What's included in my cruise fare, and what will I actually spend on board?

Your cabin, main dining, most entertainment, pools, and gym. Typically not included: gratuities $18–25 per person daily, alcohol, specialty restaurants, excursions, Wi-Fi, spa. Luxury lines bundle far more. I'll show you the real all-in number so you're comparing accurately.  I'll also tell you honestly whether a drink package pays off for how you actually drink. For a lot of people, it doesn't.

12. Do I need a passport for a cruise?

I recommend one for every sailing. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports have generally allowed a birth certificate and photo ID — but if you miss the ship abroad, you can't fly home without a passport. I verify current requirements before you sail.  Passports should also be valid for at least six months beyond your return date for many destinations, and some ports require visas.

13. When is final payment due, and what if the price drops?

Cruises typically require final payment 90–120 days out; resorts often 45–60. You'll get exact dates in writing, plus reminders. If the price drops before then, tell me — on many lines I can request the lower rate or added onboard credit. After final payment, the options narrow considerably, which is one more reason not to book yourself and hope.

Custom Itineraries & Europe

14. How far in advance should I book, and what documents will I need?

For peak season and holidays, 9–12 months isn't too early; 4–6 works for most trips. And for specific river cruises or specialty expedition cruises, bookings should be completed 18-24 months in advance. You'll need a passport valid six months beyond travel, plus any visas. Europe now requires biometric registration at Schengen borders, so allow extra time on arrival. 

15. Do I need travel insurance?

Yes — and I'll ask you to accept or decline it in writing. Your health plan likely doesn't cover you abroad, and medical evacuation can reach six figures. I'll explain the options, including "cancel for any reason" and its purchase deadline. I'm not an insurance agent and can't tell you which policy to buy — but I'll make sure you understand the options before you decide.

Still have a question?

Robert Cook / Business Phone 682-337-9466 / travelbycook@gmail.com / https://travelbycook.com

Travel By Cook — Florida Seller of Travel - ST37113 — CLIA & IATA certified / KHM Travel Group