Frequently Asked Questions

  • While MTD can’t be everywhere, MTD collaborates with trusted travel partners around the globe to help craft unforgettable vacation experiences. They provide invaluable local insights and resources. Additionally, MTD has a network of fellow Travel Advisors who share their expertise, ensuring your trip is meticulously planned, even if it’s to a destination MTD hasn't personally visited.

  • With limited exceptions, hotel and airline rewards points cannot be redeemed directly through MacMillan Travel Design. If you’d like to use points for flights or accommodations, or if earning points during your travels is important, please let MTD know in advance. This should be done during the initial Connect phase of the planning process.

    During the proposal stage, MTD can research flight and hotel options that align with your loyalty program guidelines. Once you’ve made your reservation using points, you can forward the confirmation details to MTD, who will include them in your final itinerary.

  • Email is the preferred method of communication during the planning process, as it helps us keep an organized record of our discussions. MTD strives to respond to emails within two business days. If you prefer a phone conversation, you can schedule a call through the MTD calendar. That allows MTD to prepare any necessary research or documents beforehand.

    While traveling, MTD is available to assist you as much as possible. Due to potential time zone differences, responses may not always be immediate. You will have access to local partners who can help with any urgent matters. MTD will also provide emergency contact information for our suppliers in the final itinerary, which you’ll receive before departure.

    MacMillan Travel Design’s office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm PST, with additional hours by appointment only. Please note that MTD does not provide 24-hour assistance.

  • In the event of an emergency, MTD recommends contacting our supplier partners first. They are often on the ground in your destination and can provide the quickest and most efficient assistance. Please also notify MacMillan Travel Design of any issues, so we can support and advocate for you as needed. Keep in mind that emails are not monitored 24/7, so response times may vary.

  • MTD highly recommends travel protection for all trips. During the planning process, MTD can provide you with a quote tailored to your needs. While travel insurance is strongly encouraged, it is not required to purchase any other products or services offered by MacMillan Travel Design.

  • MacMillan Travel Design does not work directly with Airbnb or VRBO for accommodations. Instead, MTD collaborates with global alternative partners who offer annually vetted luxury home and villa rentals, ensuring a high and consistent level of service. Airbnb and VRBO may not provide the same level of support, and MTD has limited ability to assist with issues that may arise at rentals booked through those platforms.

  • Yes, MTD's Air Desk handles airline ticket bookings for clients of MacMillan Travel Design. Ticketing and service fees may apply and will be communicated up-front. Please note that MTD does not book air-only trips.

  • MacMillan Travel Design is an affiliate of Travel Planners International (TPI), a proud member of Signature Travel Network. TPI equips MTD with the tools, support, and resources to deliver knowledgeable, efficient, and competitive travel planning services.

    Established in 1956, Signature Travel Network (STN) has over 65 years of experience and connects more than 15,000 travel advisors, collectively generating over $11 billion in sales.

    With TPI and STN's support, MTD offers exceptional value, competitive pricing, and exclusive privileges. These partnerships provide insider access to some of the most sought-after destinations and help MTD enhance your trip with exceptional service and unique experiences. Together, these affiliations help ensure that your journey is not just a getaway, but an unforgettable adventure.

  • MacMillan Travel Design LLC operates on a professional fee and supplier-paid commission basis. MTD service fees are published on the website at macmillantravel.com and may be subject to change. Costs related to accommodations, airfare, transportation, and other trip components are billed separately and in addition to professional fees.

    For most trips, suppliers pay a commission to the travel advisor after you’ve completed your travel. In the case of cruises, commissions are typically paid after the final payment is made, which is usually 60-90 days before the sailing.

  • Planning a trip today can be complex and time-consuming. Travel advisors simplify the process and add significant value. While technology makes booking certain aspects of travel more accessible, travel advisors offer invaluable expertise, personalized service, time savings, and unmatched global connections.

    By working with MacMillan Travel Design, clients gain a dedicated partner who maximizes and personalizes their travel experience. MTD handles the critical research, providing a range of informed choices and keeping everything organized, eliminating the hassle of endless online searches. MTD's goal is to make the planning process as stress-free as the vacation itself.

    Clients benefit from expert knowledge, tailored recommendations, and comprehensive support, ensuring every aspect of their trip is well-coordinated. This leads to happier travel experiences and establishes MacMillan Travel Design as a trusted resource for future vacations, making every journey seamless and memorable.

  • MTD's primary goal is to provide you with the best experience, tailored to your vision and interests. While MTD often has access to exclusive negotiated rates, the true value of working with MTD goes beyond just pricing. MTD saves you time, reduces stress, and handles the details both before your trip and while you're at your destination.

    If you’re seeking a customized, seamless travel experience, MTD would be delighted to demonstrate how working with a travel advisor can enhance your journey and ensure it’s truly exceptional.

  • Absolutely! MTD understands that part of the excitement is researching and anticipating your destination. MTD's role is to enhance your travel experience by offering expert advice, personalized recommendations, and insider knowledge that might not be readily available. MTD views our collaboration as a partnership where MTD supports your planning efforts while adding value and ensuring a seamless and unforgettable trip.

  • MTD's goal is to curate comprehensive travel experiences that are seamless and tailored to your preferences. By bundling accommodations, transportation, activities, and additional services, MTD can leverage industry relationships to secure the best overall value for your trip. While MTD is happy to explore ways to reduce costs, please note that our suppliers work with contracted rates, so detailed price breakdowns aren’t always available.

    Typically, higher costs are driven by premium elements like hotel quality and private tours. If there are components that are less important to you, we can consider adjusting or removing them to meet your desired price point. Understanding your priorities allows MTD to refine the itinerary and create a trip that aligns with your preferences and budget.