Q: Will working with Brown Sugar Vacations cost me more money?

The idea that working with a travel agency will cost you more money is a huge misconception. Any commission we receive is paid by the vendor, and the rates we're able to offer you are at least as good - if not better - than the rates you would be able to find on your own. Plus, by booking through us, you'll get white-glove treatment, complimentary VIP benefits, and exclusive upgrades you wouldn't have access to if you booked on your own. Even with our planning fees, which depend on the complexity of your trip, the added value makes up for it.

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Q: What are the benefits of working with Brown Sugar Vacations?

When you book your travel with us you will be traveling as a VIP wherever you go. Because we're members of nearly every affinity club and preferred partner program, we're able to offer you exclusive opportunities, upgrades, and amenities that aren't available through online travel websites (like Expedia and Travelocity) or other travel agencies. The benefits will vary by hotel, but you generally include upgrades, $100 USD equivalent resort credit, and added amenities.

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Q: I don't see the destination I want to visit on your website. Can you still plan my trip?

Brown Sugar Vacations is a full-service luxury travel agency with partners across the globe.  Our featured destinations are just a few of the places you can vacation.  Don't see the destination you want to go to on our list?  No problem!  We can design your dream vacation anywhere you want to go in the world!

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Q: What budgets does Brown Sugar Vacations work with?

Budgets vary greatly depending on the destination, number of days you're staying, how active you want to be, and whether any touring is done–in small groups or privately. In most cases, we partner with hotels that run anywhere from $500-$1000+ per night per room. This means we generally work with budgets of $1,500+ per day for full itinerary planning (more for larger groups or when multiple rooms may be needed). Do you need some inspiration about what your budget could get you? Download our free couple's destination guide.

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Q: I want to plan a family, solo, or group trip. Can Brown Sugar Vacations help me?

The short answer is YES we can help you plan your family, solo, or group trip.  Brown Sugar Vacations is a full-service boutique travel and lifestyle concierge company.  When you work with us, you'll have exclusive access to our luxury perks and VIP benefits for your vacation.

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Q: Are your fees included in the cost of my trip?

To maximize the value of your investment, Brown Sugar Vacations works on a fee + commission basis. Please note our fees must be paid prior to planning your trip, are separate from the cost of your vacation, and are non-refundable.  After we receive your client survey, we'll assess the complexity of your trip, the number of travelers, and the time frame.  If what you need is very complicated and/or last minute, it may result in a higher fee.  Of course, we always advise our clients of their fee total in advance of any booking. 

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Q: Can Brown Sugar Vacations book my trip using points or miles?

Unfortunately we cannot assist with hotel or flight booking using points or miles. However, we do work with several third-party frequent flier experts that we're happy to refer you to if you're interested.

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Q: How far in advance do I need to book my trip through Brown Sugar Vacations?

While there is no cut and dry answer, we generally recommend to stat planning 9-12 months in advance for peak travel periods such as holidays, school breaks, and summertime. For involved trips such as  South African safaris and anywhere in the Caribbean over the holidays, begin thinking about your trip more than a year before your anticipated travel date.

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Q: Can Brown Sugar Vacations help me book a AirBnB or VRBO?

We have many condo/villa rentals in our network, but unfortunately we don't work with AirBnB or VRBO properties as we can't properly vet them. We have no recourse if something goes wrong, and when that does happen, it’s a nightmare. Though we do not specifically work with AirBnB or VRBO, We have access to rental apartments and villas throughout the world, and we offer many other unique accommodations like haciendas, castles, treehouses and ranches.

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Q: What if I only want to book a hotel or go on a short weekend trip?  Can you still help me?

While our goal is always to help you achieve a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience and ensure that you have the best time possible, Brown Sugar Vacations can happily assist you in planning a short trip or simply just booking a hotel. For Virtuoso hotels, you can also book your hotel online instantly.

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Q: I still don't get why I can't just book my own vacation?

When you book direct through the hotel, or websites like Expedia or Travelocity, you won't have much help if something goes wrong. For example, if you're staying at a Marriott but you're not one of their Marriott Rewards’ top members, it's going to be much harder to get the help you need than if you booked through Brown Sugar Vacations. It's our job to make sure nothing goes wrong, but if something does, we make sure to get it fixed with the least possible amount of inconvenience to you. Plus, we know the secrets the hotels won't tell you, like what rooms actually have the best views vs. the rooms that face the garage. However, if you still feel the Brown Sugar Vacations experience isn't for you, that's ok!  We understand we aren't for everybody.

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