When it comes to your “Bucket List,” timing isn’t just a detail—it’s the difference between a trip and a true transformation.

Every January, we find ourselves dreaming of far-off horizons and new cultures. But as a travel curator, my job isn’t just to help you decide where to go; it’s to guide you on when to start.

I often tell my clients: The best time to plan was yesterday. The second-best time is now.

In a world where travel demand is higher than ever, the most enchanting experiences—the ones that truly delight the soul—don’t wait for “last minute.” To help you navigate the year ahead, here is my Curator’s Guide to the planning horizon.

12–18 Months Out: The Legacy Journeys

If you are dreaming of a luxury African Safari, an Alaskan expedition, or a specific European River Cruise ship, this is your window.

These intimate experiences have limited “keys.” The most sought-after lodges and boutique vessels are often claimed a year and a half in advance by travelers who plan with the intention of securing the very best. To ensure you aren’t settling for what’s “left,” we start the conversation early.

9–12 Months Out: The Milestone Celebrations

Are you planning a Celebra-cation® for a 25th anniversary or a multi-generational family gathering in Hawaii? To secure a specific luxury villa or the connecting suites that keep your family together, you should be in the “Clarity Phase” at least a year out.

6–9 Months Out: The Deep Dives

For custom itineraries through Italy, Croatia, or Greece, this window is vital. It allows us to secure the elite private guides and those “impossible to get” dinner reservations that make a trip feel truly personal and seamless.

Planning is Freedom

Planning early isn’t about being rigid; it’s about freedom. It is the freedom to choose the room with the specific view you’ve imagined, the guide who knows the hidden history of the city, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing every detail is being held with expert care.

“The most enchanting experiences don’t wait for ‘last minute.’ They are claimed by those who plan with intention.”

Step Into the “Possibility Phase”

Are you looking toward later this year or even next year? Let’s map out your year of discovery together. My calendar is currently open for complimentary planning sessions to help you turn your bucket list into a confirmed itinerary.