Question 1

What type of destinations do you plan?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in travel throughout the United States, helping you discover hidden gems and unique experiences, often right in your own backyard. Have another destination in mind? Reach out! We’re always happy to explore new possibilities with you.

Question 2

How is ATE different from a typical travel agency?

Accepted Answer

ATE is focused on personalized travel planning, not booking travel. We take the time to understand how you like to travel, who is in your party, what interests you, your budget, your pace, and what you want to get out of your trip.  We provide personalized packing lists, recipe suggestions and suggestions based on your needs.We provide the research, recommendations, and customized itinerary. You make the bookings and remain in control of your trip.

Question 3

How can ATE help us save money?

Accepted Answer

We believe experiencing a place authentically doesn't have to be expensive.We help you discover where locals shop, what they eat, what they do, and how to experience more without automatically paying the tourist price.We provide practical local resources such as grocery-store recommendations, shopping lists, recipes, and specialty food shops.  Instead of spending hundreds of dollars eating every meal at restaurants you can shop locally and prepare regional dishes, making the meal itself part of the experience. Imagine visiting New Orleans and knowing exactly where to find the ingredients for a traditional Cajun meal. Or exploring Maine, stopping at a local seafood market, picking up fresh ingredients, and preparing a New England-inspired dinner at your rental.

Question 4

Can't I just ask AI to plan my trip?

Accepted Answer

You can put in the time with AI explaining your goals, preferences, and wishes, and then sorting through the information it provides. However,  the recommendations often still center around the most popular attractions and and getting beyond those suggestions takes time and research.AI also can’t provide the personal, experienced touch of a human who understands travel firsthand . We take the time to plan a trip that is truly unique and includes the details you may have not thought about.

Question 5

What if I don't know where I want to go?

Accepted Answer

We can help with that.  Tell us what you're looking for and we'll suggest destinations and experiences that fit your interests, budget, and travel style.

Question 6

Can you book travel accommodations for us?

Accepted Answer

ATE does not book flights, accommodations, transportation, or activities on your behalf.  We also do not provide real-time travel assistance or troubleshooting during your trip. However, we’ll help you prepare for the unexpected by providing contingency recommendations and alternative options when possible.We do provide accommodation and transportation recommendations and we can assist with restaurant reservations where appropriate.If you prefer a traditional travel agency that handles bookings, provides guaranteed arrangements, and offers real-time assistance when plans change, that type of service may be a better fit for your needs.

Question 7

What if a recommendation is closed, the weather changes, or plans change?

Accepted Answer

Authentic travel sometimes means embracing the unexpected.We do our best to research current hours, schedules, special events, local businesses, and attractions before your trip. When possible, we'll contact businesses directly and provide updates if we learn about changes before your departure.  However, hours, schedules, events, and availability can change unexpectedly.  Whenever possible, we'll include one or two alternative activities to help you pivot if weather or unexpected changes affect your plans.We can't guarantee that everything will go exactly as planned but we can help you be better prepared for the unexpected.

Question 8

How does the planning process work?

Accepted Answer

You'll begin with a short questionnaire about your destination, interests, preferences, budget, and what you want from your trip.  We'll then schedule a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals and get to know what you're looking for.  Once we understand your trip, we'll begin researching and building your personalized recommendations. You will receive two itineraries over the next 2-3 weeks. One initial proposal and then a final plan following your review and suggestions. Your initial proposal will typically be emailed within 1–2 weeks, depending on the length and complexity of your trip, You'll  have one week to review the proposal, ask questions, and request changes.   We'll then provide your final plan within approximately one week after receiving your feedback.Payment is due following the consultation and before the initial proposal is sent.

Question 9

Will all of your recommendations be accessible or have public facilities?

Accepted Answer

One of the things that makes off-the-beaten-path travel special is that it's not often the easy tourist destination,  some locations may have limited facilities, including bathrooms, cell service, parking, or accessibility features.It's important to tell us about any accessibility needs, mobility considerations, dietary restrictions, health-related travel limitations, or other practical requirements during the planning process.We'll take those needs into consideration and look for options that are appropriate for your individual circumstances.  Since conditions and accessibility can vary and change, we cannot guarantee that every location will meet a particular accessibility standard.

Question 10

What is your refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Once you submit your questionnaire, the planning process officially begins.If you cancel before your first draft is delivered, you'll receive a 50% refund. Once the first draft has been delivered, planning fees are non-refundable.Our goal is to create a plan you'll be excited to use. If something about your itinerary isn't meeting your expectations, we welcome the conversation and will work with you to make reasonable adjustments within the scope of your planning service.

Question 11

What does ATE planning cost?

Accepted Answer

Our pricing is based on the length of your trip. These fees cover ATE’s personalized travel-planning service and do not include the cost of accommodations, transportation, meals, activities, or other travel expenses. Our options include:Two to three day weekend plan- $250 Day-by-Day Planning - $99/dayNot sure what amount of planing you need? Reach out and we’ll help determine the best fit for your trip.

Welcome to Authentic Travel Experiences

Travel deeper. Spend less. Experience more.

Our goal is to take the stress of travel planning off your plate while giving you the tools to make your trip feel personal.

Our itineraries include:

Off-the-beaten-path destinations, hidden gems and authentic local experiences

Maps and transportation suggestions to make the most of your travel time

Alternative options in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen events

Recommendations for restaurants, cafes, markets, breweries, farms, and independent businesses

Individualized accommodation suggestions

Personalized shopping and packing lists

Local recipes and cooking ideas

Links to booking sites, trail maps, classes and other useful resources

Travel details that consider your individual accessibility needs, comfort, and interests

Authentic Adventures | Unique packages15th

Anniversary

The Gift of Escape

Acessibility Travel

Family Getaways

FAQs

What type of destinations do you plan?

How is ATE different from a typical travel agency?

How can ATE help us save money?

Can't I just ask AI to plan my trip?

What if I don't know where I want to go?

Can you book travel accommodations for us?

What if a recommendation is closed, the weather changes, or plans change?

How does the planning process work?

Will all of your recommendations be accessible or have public facilities?

What is your refund policy?

What does ATE planning cost?

What Our Clients Say

Welcome to Authentic Travel Experiences

​

Travel deeper. Spend less. Experience more.​​​

​

​​

Our goal is to take the stress of travel planning off your plate while giving you the tools to make your trip feel personal.

​

Our itineraries include:

​​​

Off-the-beaten-path destinations, hidden gems and authentic local experiences

​

Maps and transportation suggestions to make the most of your travel time

​

Alternative options in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen events​

​

Recommendations for restaurants, cafes, markets, breweries, farms, and independent businesses​

​

Individualized accommodation suggestions ​

​

Personalized shopping and packing lists​

​

Local recipes and cooking ideas​​

​

Links to booking sites, trail maps, classes and other useful resources

​​

Travel details that consider your individual accessibility needs, comfort, and interests

Authentic Adventures | Unique packages15th

Anniversary

The Gift of Escape

Acessibility Travel

Family Getaways

FAQs

What type of destinations do you plan?

How is ATE different from a typical travel agency?

How can ATE help us save money?

Can't I just ask AI to plan my trip?

What if I don't know where I want to go?

Can you book travel accommodations for us?

What if a recommendation is closed, the weather changes, or plans change?

How does the planning process work?

Will all of your recommendations be accessible or have public facilities?

What is your refund policy?

What does ATE planning cost?

What Our Clients Say

Travel deeper. Spend less. Experience more.

Alternative options in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen events

Recommendations for restaurants, cafes, markets, breweries, farms, and independent businesses

Individualized accommodation suggestions

Personalized shopping and packing lists

Local recipes and cooking ideas