We had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Haefeli and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amy, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing about the travel industry that outsiders are probably unaware of is the misconception that travel agents charge a large booking fee for little work and only use the same suppliers over and over, and provide no support once the trip is booked. In reality, travel agents are paid by the hotel or resort through commissions, and the price of the trip stays the same whether you book with an agent or by yourself. The major benefit of using a travel advisor is first and foremost the time that is gain, research shows that it takes between 10 to 20 hours of research before booking any vacation, and it can be even more for destination that you are unfamiliar with. Furthermore, by using an advisor like me, I’m able to apply all the perks and discounts that I am offered by being part of certain consortiums, to my client as well, for the same prices, or less. You really get way more for your money !

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business, Experience UltraLuxe, offers luxury and ultra-luxury travel experiences, as well as travel coaching services. We help our clients plan personalized itineraries that reflect their interests and values, and offer round-the-clock support to ensure a seamless and stress-free trip. Another unique aspect of our business is that we can book travel through “amextravel”, which is a service not offered by many other travel agencies. This allows us to provide our clients with exclusive deals and benefits. Regarding the travel coaching part of my business, what really sets us apart is our focus on bringing healing through travel, partnering with woman-owned retreat businesses, and offering 24/7 support to our clients when on vacation. We believe that travel is not just about visiting new places, but also about finding a deeper connection with oneself and the world. That’s why we partner with retreats that offer holistic and transformative experiences, such as yoga, meditation, and wellness activities.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I can already say that anyone who knows me well, will know that we would spend most of our time in and around Brickell, I tend to stay away from the touristy area of Miami Beach, although I do book a lot there, of course, but as someone who lives in Miami already, I’m more of a pool party, everything walking distance kind of gal. Although Brickell is not my secret spot anymore, it’s way too popular since the last 2-3 years, I still adore the vibe ! For a week-long I would most likely stay with my IHG family at the Intercontinental and enjoy free breakfast, late check-out, hotel credit, upgrades and fresh fruit on them ! Staying at the Intercontinental will allow me to be close to Miami Downtown, Brickell and Wynwood, for a quick weekend, I would treat myself and stay at the Four Seasons!!! During the week I would take my bestie in Wynwood to check out the street art and grab some donuts at the Salty Donut and a coffee at Cielito. We would head, to Faena on the beach for a Omakase dinner and a show. Most of our time would be spent in Brickell, where we would go to Gekko, Marion, SexyFish, Komodo, Cipriani & La Petite Maison, I’m french afterall ! If we end up in Miami Beach, late dinner would be at the new Queen or at Fabel for more of a Tulum-vibe experience. We would absolutely explore the shopping scene in Brickell, which has a mix of luxury boutiques and local shops. We would probably end up going out to the famous LIV at least once, and maybe finish the night at Eleven. If there is a music festival in town, we would definitely add that to our itinerary, even if it’s not Miami Music Week, I can always find either a festival or a private rooftop party where my good friend gets to DJ for the day… and night !

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate a shoutout to my dad, who has been my biggest inspiration and mentor. He is the reason why I became an entrepreneur, as I saw him put his blood, sweat, and tears into his business. He always finds the time to support me and give me the best advice, and I am grateful for him every day. He taught me the value of hard work and persistence, which have been crucial in my own business journey. And I certainly wouldn’t not be where I am without the support and faith of my husband, he deserve all the credit as well.

Website: www.experienceultraluxe.com

Instagram: instagram.com/ultraluxe.travel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/experienceultraluxe

Other: https://linktr.ee/ultraluxe.travel https://www.tiktok.com/@ultraluxe.travel

Image Credits
All images are within right of usages.

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