From a young age, Gunes Hposon has been traveling with her family, beginning with an international trip as a toddler on a transatlantic flight to Turkiye.
She has since visited 41 countries (and counting!), as well as 46 states (including Alaska and Hawaii), plus countless cruises. Now, whether staying in a fine hotel or chatting with a call center agent on the phone, the experience of superb customer service absolutely delights her. And as a travel planner overseeing Luxe Travel by Gunes, she’s passionate about details and knows how to read the fine print (proven by a law degree).
What are your travel specialties or areas of expertise?
Luxury Travel, Europe, Caribbean, Cruises (ocean, river, expedition), Disney, National Parks.
What inspired you to become a travel advisor?
I've always enjoyed planning custom itineraries for myself and somehow became a Disney guru after visiting the parks many times with my family. I decided to take the leap and start planning trips for others in 2019. It was quite a fateful leap, as within six months, the pandemic hit, and everything shut down. That gave me plenty of time to hone in on my professional training and develop my marketing plan. Slowly but surely travel came back, and I've been planning memorable family vacations for my clients ever since!
What is your most popular travel destination among clients?
In Europe, it's Italy. Maybe that's because I've have been there several times (including for my honeymoon!). When you know a destination, then it makes it much easier to plan a vacation for clients.
What’s the most valuable tip or trick someone has shared with you that makes planning family travel easier?
Get to know your client. I always strive to build strong relationships with my clients. I ask lots of questions so that I can customize itineraries and anticipate my clients' needs.
What is one tech tool you consistently use when planning family travel?
I love Travefy. This platform allows me to present beautiful day-by-day itineraries to my clients.
Learn more and get in touch with Gunes at luxetravelbygunes.com.
Photos courtesy of Gunes Hopson.
