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Because great trips start with good information.
Travel planning should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Here, you will find clear answers to some of the most common questions about working with a professional travel advisor, including what we do, how the process works, and how we help make travel less stressful and more personalized.
You will also find helpful travel resources designed to make planning easier and more informed. From passport guidance and Europe’s changing entry requirements to Known Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, this section gives you quick access to important information before you travel. You will also find resources for emergencies abroad, including where U.S. citizens can turn for assistance.
Whether you are preparing for an upcoming trip, checking entry requirements, or simply wanting to travel smarter, this is a great place to start.
Have questions? We are always happy to chat travel. Whether you are dreaming, planning, or polishing the details, we love helping you feel confident, informed, and excited about what’s next.
Important Travel Resources
Passports: Where and how to Apply
Passports: Where and how to Apply
Passports: Where and how to Apply
Apply for or renew your passport through the official U.S. Department of State website. First-time applicants, children, and some renewals require an in-person appointment, while eligible adults may be able to renew by mail or online. Start early, as routine processing is currently listed at 4 to 6 weeks, and mailing time can add extra time before and after processing. A valid passport is required for international travel, and having it ready well in advance helps avoid delays, denied boarding, or last-minute stress before your trip.
EES, UK ETA, and Schengen Area
Passports: Where and how to Apply
Passports: Where and how to Apply
The UK ETA is a required digital travel authorization for short visits to the United Kingdom. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is the digital border processing system used by Schengen countries to register non-EU travelers. This may include passport scanning, a photo, and fingerprints. The Schengen Area includes many European countries that allow eligible travelers to visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. To learn more or apply for a UK ETA, click the button below.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
Passports: Where and how to Apply
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, is a free service from the U.S. Department of State for U.S. citizens and nationals traveling or living abroad. By enrolling your trip, you can receive destination-specific safety alerts from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. STEP also helps the embassy contact you or your emergency contact if there is an emergency while you are traveling. It is a simple extra step that can provide added peace of mind before international travel. To learn more or enroll, click the button below.
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry
U.S. Citizen Emergencies Abroad
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are trusted traveler programs that can make airport travel easier. TSA PreCheck helps eligible travelers move through expedited security screening when departing from U.S. airports. Global Entry helps pre-approved travelers move through expedited customs processing when returning to the United States from international travel and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. Both programs require an application and approval, so travelers should apply well before their trip. Click the button below to learn more or apply.
U.S. Citizen Emergencies Abroad
U.S. Citizen Emergencies Abroad
U.S. Citizen Emergencies Abroad
While your travel advisor and travel insurance provider are important first points of contact for many travel issues, some situations may require direct assistance from the U.S. Department of State. If you are abroad and need help with an emergency, a lost or stolen passport, a crisis, support for a crime victim, or another serious issue beyond the scope of your travel advisor or insurance coverage, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Click the button below for contact numbers, more information, and additional resources.
Visa Central
U.S. Citizen Emergencies Abroad
U.S. Citizen Emergencies Abroad
Visa requirements can vary based on your destination, passport country, length of stay, and reason for travel. Some countries require a traditional visa, while others may require an ETA, eVisa, arrival card, or no visa at all for short tourist visits. Before you travel, it is important to verify the entry requirements for every country on your itinerary, including layovers or connections when applicable. VisaCentral is a helpful resource for checking destination-specific requirements and obtaining assistance. Click the button below for more details