When it comes to luxury travel, few understand the nuances of crafting an unforgettable experience better than Heather Blond, founder of Elevate Global Luxury Travel. With an extensive career spanning luxury’s most exclusive experiences—from private yachts to five-star resorts—Blond has cultivated unparalleled expertise in curating extraordinary journeys. Through her deep industry connections and keen attention to detail, she transforms ordinary vacations into seamless, once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
For Blond, true luxury isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the details. “True luxury isn’t just about exquisite décor or a stunning location,” she explains. “It’s about the people. While a beautifully designed hotel is important, what makes an experience truly extraordinary is the service—the attention to detail, the warmth, and the hospitality that makes guests feel valued.”
Luxury travel goes beyond opulent accommodations or gourmet dining—it’s about feeling exclusive and cared for at every moment. Blond highlights that even the smallest touches, from VIP airport meet-and-greets to a personalized welcome note in your suite, can transform a trip from exceptional to unforgettable. “It’s about how you’re treated—the sense that every need is anticipated, every moment thoughtfully curated,” she says. “That’s what truly defines a luxury experience.”
If you’re looking to elevate your travel experiences, Blond offers expert insights into lesser-known luxury travel strategies that can make all the difference.
One of her top recommendations? Work with a travel advisor.. “You can’t VIP yourself,” she explains. “But as a travel advisor, I can personally reach out to hotel management and ensure you receive special treatment—whether it’s an upgrade, exclusive perks, or personalized service that makes your stay exceptional.”
Through her extensive network, Blond can arrange exclusive experiences that most travelers wouldn’t even know how to access. “For example, do you want a private meeting with the Pope? I can make that happen,” she says.
Beyond securing upgrades and perks, a skilled travel advisor helps travelers select destinations that align with their style. “Many travelers default to the most famous locations, but often, a lesser-known alternative offers a more authentic and enjoyable experience,” Blond explains.
Take Capri vs. Ischia, for example. “Capri’s glamour and celebrity appeal make it a well-known destination, but with that comes overwhelming crowds, especially during peak season. By contrast, Ischia offers a more serene, off-the-beaten-path escape, complete with natural thermal spas, stunning coastal views, and a laid-back atmosphere.”
Closer to home, she highlights the contrast between Mustique and Canouan in the Caribbean. “Mustique is ultra-exclusive, known for its celebrity clientele and private villas, whereas Canouan offers similar luxury but with world-class resorts like the Mandarin Oriental, plus fewer crowds and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Grenadines.”
Another invaluable tip? Knowing when to travel. “I always recommend traveling in the off-season,” Blond advises. “Take a safari, for instance—September is ideal. August is crowded with families, while October can be too dry. In September, you’ll find better rates, fewer crowds, and equally—if not better—weather.”
With expert guidance, insider access, and personalized recommendations, a travel advisor can transform a standard trip into an extraordinary journey. “True luxury isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you experience it,” Blond emphasizes.
When it comes to high-end travel, Blond emphasizes the importance of flexibility—particularly when booking accommodations. “I always book refundable rates,” she advises. “I never recommend committing to a non-refundable rate because you never know what might come up. It may seem like a cost-saving decision at the time, but in the long run, it can be penny-wise and pound-foolish.”
She recalls a situation where this strategy saved a client from a significant financial loss. “They had planned an extensive trip through Croatia, the Czech Republic, and Germany, but just a week before departure, the client required unexpected shoulder surgery. Because everything was booked with refundable rates, we were able to cancel and reschedule effortlessly—without stress, penalties, or lost investment.”
For hotels that don’t offer refundable options, Blond has another expert strategy. “Use a credit card that includes travel insurance as a benefit. That way, if plans unexpectedly change, you have a safeguard in place,” she explains. “For one client, we booked a stunning cliffside retreat overlooking the Adriatic that didn’t allow cancellations. Since it was an exceptional property, I ensured they used a credit card with built-in travel protection. When they had to cancel, they were able to file a claim through their credit card and receive a full refund—something most travelers overlook when booking luxury stays.”
This approach extends beyond hotels. “Rental cars are another area where travelers can maximize their benefits,” Blond adds. “I always book rentals on a credit card that includes rental car coverage. That way, I don’t have to purchase additional insurance—which, let’s be honest, no one has time to read through all the fine print on those policies anyway.”
By prioritizing flexibility, leveraging travel protection benefits, and making smart booking decisions, travelers can enjoy luxury experiences with peace of mind, knowing they’re covered if the unexpected happens.
For Blond, the true value of luxury travel isn’t just in the opulence—it’s in the seamless, stress-free experience it provides. “Luxury is about knowing that every detail has been taken care of, so all you have to do is enjoy the journey.”
She emphasizes that luxury travel isn’t just about spending money on comfort—it’s about making informed choices that elevate every moment of the trip. Whether it’s choosing the right season to travel, using a travel advisor to unlock exclusive experiences, or leveraging the right credit cards, Blond’s expertise ensures that your next luxury vacation will be nothing short of spectacular.
Ready to elevate your next journey? Explore more luxury travel insights on Heather’s blog at www.elevateglobaltravel.com. Follow along on LinkedIn for insider tips, destination inspiration, and exclusive travel opportunities.
