Common questions
The things people actually ask us
Two sets of questions, because we answer to two audiences — the advisors thinking about joining the collective, then the travelers planning a trip.
For travel advisors
Joining the collective
The practical questions advisors ask before a first conversation — fees, commissions, ticketing and what you are actually signing.
Is there an annual sales quota?
No, we do not impose annual sales quotas. Our collective exists to bring together passionate, like-minded advisors who want a supportive community behind them — not corporate targets hanging over them. You run your business your way, with our backing whenever you need guidance or resources.
Is there an annual fee?
The annual fee will cover your accounting needs and commission processing. Your E&O insurance will be covered as well. The exact amount of the annual fee is still being determined and will be updated here soon.
How often do I receive my commissions?
We are proud to provide prompt, transparent compensation. Commission payouts are processed every two weeks, and you select your preferred method — direct deposit via ACH, or a traditional check.
Do I have to learn new software to invoice?
Commission payouts are linked directly to the invoices you submit, using an intuitive, easy-to-navigate system designed for simplicity. There is no steep learning curve — we provide one-on-one onboarding to walk you through the process step by step, so you feel confident from day one.
Can I still help my clients with air tickets?
Yes, absolutely. While we focus heavily on experiential curation rather than direct GDS ticketing, I work closely with trusted air specialists and consolidators I am happy to introduce you to. They handle ticketing, schedule changes and complex routings seamlessly for your clients.
Can you help me wire payments to suppliers overseas?
Yes — handling international payments is completely covered. We have business banking established specifically to manage seamless overseas wire transfers for you. Between wires, credit card processing and check capabilities, you will have all the infrastructure needed to pay global suppliers easily and securely.
Is there a contract I need to sign?
No rigid long-term contract is required. We use a straightforward Letter of Intent to formalize your alignment with the collective, confirming mutual expectations and welcoming you aboard as an affiliated advisor.
Is there a general office number?
You will always have direct access to me by phone whenever you need support. But we don’t use a generic agency line for client calls. This collective is built on empowering you as an independent business owner, so you keep full freedom to manage client communications your way — your preferred cell, a virtual line, or your home office setup.
I’m close to retirement — can I transfer my clients to you?
Absolutely. We understand how important it is to protect the legacy and trust you have built over years of service. We will sit down together to understand your client base, discuss your preferred timeline, and design a seamless transition strategy. Our priority is making sure your travelers continue to receive high-touch care while you step back into retirement with complete peace of mind.
For travelers
Planning a trip with us
If your question isn’t here, it is almost certainly worth an email — most of these started life as one.
What makes you different from any other online travel agency?
Unlike mass-market online platforms or traditional agencies driven by quotas, our focus is entirely on bespoke curation:
- Firsthand expertise. We design itineraries around destinations our advisors have personally explored, giving you authentic, on-the-ground knowledge rather than generic recommendations.
- Unbiased recommendations. We don’t restrict our planners to rigid preferred-supplier lists tied to commission tiers. Our advisors have the freedom to partner with the best local specialists or build from scratch to match your exact vision.
- Zero sales pressure. We don’t operate on sales quotas. Our priority is crafting the right journey for your travel style and budget, not pushing unnecessary upgrades.
Your destinations are unusual — do you only plan trips to the places you list?
Not at all. Through our global network and industry partnerships, we can design custom itineraries for virtually any destination worldwide. We highlight these specific places because our advisors have personally explored or been deeply inspired by them — so you receive authentic, firsthand insight alongside our bespoke planning.
Do you offer tour packages?
We don’t offer one-size-fits-all, pre-packaged tours. Shih Travels focuses on designing fully customized, bespoke itineraries built around you. If a structured guided tour happens to be the best fit for your travel style, we leverage our global industry network to source and vet the finest boutique options available.
Do you handle all types of travel, or just customized tours?
We handle a full spectrum of travel. While our core specialty is designing bespoke, private itineraries, we also curate and book luxury cruises, guided group journeys, boutique stays and seamless logistics. Whatever style of travel fits your vision, we have the global resources to bring it together.
Still wondering
Ask us the one that isn’t on this page
Every question here started as an email. Yours is welcome too.