Travel Planning Resources
These are the exact tools I use to book trips for myself and my clients.
I don’t include anything I wouldn’t personally book through.
Some are straightforward, and likely you’ve heard of them or used them before. While others might be new, I encourage you to give them a try.
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Start with flights
Expedia
A good place to start when you’re figuring out flight options and timing (along with Google Flights). I use this early in the planning process to get a sense of routes, pricing, and what’s realistic for your trip. If I’m not booking directly with my Air Canada Aeroplan Points Card, I book with Expedia.
Book your stay
Before booking your accommodations, read reviews that mention quiet neighbourhoods, proximity to local cafés, and easy walking access — all signs of a slower-paced experience.
Plum Guide
This is where I go first. Plum Guide is a highly curated vacation home booking platform where every home is vetted, well-designed, and backed by superior customer service. If you want a space that feels considered—not just functional—this is a strong option.
Booking.com
My most-used platform for hotels in Europe. It’s reliable, easy to filter by location, and often offers flexible cancellation—which makes a big difference when you’re still shaping your itinerary.
VRBO
If I’m not finding the right fit on Plum Guide or Booking.com, I’ll usually look here next. Between VRBO and Airbnb, this can be a good option for longer stays or when you want more space.
This is something I spend a lot of time getting right for both my own trips and my clients.
“My first time using a travel consultant, and I couldn’t be more pleased. Renee found the perfect apartment in a great neighbourhood—and it was even below my budget.”
— Tina
If you’d rather have help finding the right place, I can help with that as part of my trip planning services.
Plan how you’ll get around
Rail Europe
A simple way to book train travel or passes across Europe without needing to figure out local rail companies—it connects directly with them for you. Booking earlier usually means better pricing, especially on popular routes or times of year.
Auto Europe
A booking platform that lets you compare rental cars across major companies like Avis and Budget in one place. It makes it easy to see options, pricing, and choose what works best for your trip.
Add experiences to your trip
This is where your trip starts to feel more personal. I also recommend booking key experiences in advance—many popular sights now require timed entry tickets.
GetYourGuide
A reliable platform for booking entrance tickets, tours, and experiences. I often use this for major sights where booking ahead saves time and guarantees you entry.
Viator
Another strong platform for tours, tickets, and experiences. I usually compare this with GetYourGuide to see what’s available and choose the best fit.
Tripadvisor
I use this less for booking and more for cross-checking reviews and getting a sense of what’s consistently worth your time. But a third option is sometimes necessary during peak travel season.
GuruWalk
One of my favourites for something low-key and local. These are tip-based curated walking tours led by local tour guides—great for getting oriented in a new city without overcommitting.
EatWith
If food is part of how you experience a place, this is worth exploring. Think small group dinners, local hosts, and more personal food experiences like cooking classes.
Guess Where Trips
For when you’re not travelling to Europe, this is a fun way to explore closer to home. Self-guided surprise day trips across Canada and the U.S., designed around local stops and hidden gems.
Stay connected with Holafly eSIM
This is the easiest way I’ve found to stay connected while travelling. No need to swap SIM cards or search for a local provider—you’re connected as soon as you land.
Be Protected with SafetyWing Travel Insurance
A flexible option designed for longer trips and travellers who aren’t moving on a fixed schedule. This is especially well-suited to slower travel, where plans may shift, and you want coverage that can adapt along the way.