What’s the difference between a travel planner and a traditional travel agency?
Planning a trip can feel overwhelming; endless tabs open, hotel reviews that contradict each other, and activities that all sound “must-do.” That’s where travel professionals come in. But if you’ve found yourself wondering whether to work with a travel planner or a traditional travel agency, here’s what you need to know.
Travel Agency: Efficient, Transactional, Structured
Traditional travel agencies are often set up to book standard packages; flights, hotels, transfers, cruises, all‑inclusive resorts. They usually rely on global booking systems and have access to volume-based deals.
Strengths of a Travel Agency:
Quick, efficient booking of flights/hotels
Access to packaged deals and group rates
Ideal for business travel, all‑inclusive holidays, or set itineraries
But the experience is often transactional; they take your dates and destination and plug it into a system.
Travel Planner: Personal, Tailored, Experience‑First
A travel planner (like Mokuna) takes a more boutique, hands-on approach. Instead of offering pre-designed packages, we create something fully customized, based on you; your rhythm, your passions, your style.
We blend:
Deep local knowledge
Insider access to off-the-map experiences
Flexibility to craft a journey that feels intentional and unforgettable
Why Work with a Travel Planner:
You want a trip designed around you; not mass tourism
You care about local culture, food, and slower moments
You’re seeking something meaningful, not just Instagrammable
You want support from someone who’s walked those trails, tasted that wine, or skied that mountain
A travel planner becomes your creative partner, not just your booking agent.
Still Not Sure Which One You Need?
Ask yourself:
Do I want something tailor-made or just something easy to book?
Do I want curated recommendations based on real experience; or a catalog of options?
Do I want to book it myself once it’s planned, or have someone guide me through every step?
At Mokuna, We Believe in Meaningful Travel
We don’t believe in cookie-cutter itineraries. We specialize in crafted experiences that blend nature, food, adventure, and culture; whether it’s a vineyard escape in Provence, a ski & wellness week in the Alps, or a surf retreat abroad.
If that sounds like your kind of journey, we’d love to help.