virtuoso travel membership fee

The Secret Tool That Gets You EXTRA Value on Hotel Stays

While it’s true that we can choose to use points for luxury hotel stays, maybe that’s not always the best choice. After all, points don’t just drop out of the sky and into our accounts, right? Maybe we’re saving our points stash for another travel adventure. Or maybe we’ve spent our points and simply don’t have enough for an upcoming hotel stay. Or what if your travel plans take you to a destination that doesn’t have hotels you can book on points.

That’s where Virtuoso can come in. Let’s dig in and see how Virtuoso can work for you, what Virtuoso is, what benefits you can get, and how you can book Virtuoso rates.

Access Luxury Perks & Upgrades : If you’re looking to book a luxury hotel stay via Virtuoso —Katie, a member of our PointMe team, is a Virtuoso agent. She can help get you complimentary room upgrades , daily breakfast for 2, late checkouts and more (for no extra cost). Contact Katie for a fast reply to access these special perks.

Everything You Need To Know About Virtuoso

What is virtuoso.

What exactly is Virtuoso? Virtuoso is a worldwide network of travel agencies with specializations in luxury and experiential travel.

Virtuoso’s network consists of more than 20,000 travel advisors, each of which falls under a larger member agency.

Its travel advisors bring personalized travel recommendations and bookings to the clients. They have expertise when you’re looking for hotels, cruises, or tours.

Bookings made through Virtuoso come with value-added perks for no additional cost to the traveler.

What Are Virtuoso Benefits?

In almost all cases, hotel stays booked through Virtuoso come with the following benefits:

• Daily breakfast for 2 guests per room
• Room upgrade (subject to availability)
• Early check-in (subject to availability)
• Late checkout (subject to availability)
• A special Virtuoso amenity (typically a $100 property credit or other amenity valued at a minimum of $100, like a free massage or round-trip car transfer)

Are There Fees To Use Virtuoso?

Virtuoso rates almost always cost the same exact price as the best available flexible rate.

This isn’t the same as a prepaid, advance purchase, non-refundable rate, corporate rate, or member-only rate.

However, if you usually book the best available flexible rates, you’ll literally get hundreds of dollars in added value just by going through a Virtuoso advisor.

In addition, Virtuoso advisors generally don’t charge you any commissions for hotel bookings. This does vary from advisor to advisor though so check with them upfront. They get a commission on the back-end, but that cost won’t be passed on to you most of the time.

This isn’t the same as a planning fee. If you’re booking a complicated trip, you might be quoted for this extra fee depending on the travel advisor.

Virtuoso Travel Hotel Properties

The complete catalog of Virtuoso hotels includes name-brand luxury chains like:

• Aman Resorts
• Conrad Hotels & Resorts
• Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts
• Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
• Mandarin Oriental
• Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
• The Peninsula Hotels
• The Ritz-Carlton
• Rocco Forte Hotels
• Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts
• St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
• Viceroy Hotels & Resorts
• Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

This list just about covers all luxury hotel chains . You can book luxury boutique properties that may not have multiple locations or be part of a hotel group.

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Can I Earn Points on a Virtuoso Rate?

Booking Virtuoso rates is a lot like stacking benefits!

Because a Virtuoso hotel rate still goes through the hotel’s internal system, you can earn hotel points, elite night credits/stays, and even enjoy hotel elite benefits when booking through a Virtuoso travel advisor. If that’s not a win-win, then what is?

For example, if you’re a Hyatt Globalist member and you’re booking a Virtuoso hotel stay at an eligible Hyatt property, you will earn Hyatt points and enjoy Globalist benefits on your hotel stay.

Your Virtuoso travel advisor will also enter your loyalty number when booking your hotel stays, so you’ll be good to go earning hotel points on stays.

How Do I Find Virtuoso Hotels and Virtuoso Travel Advisors?

Do you have a stay in mind? Good. That’s the first step.

You can view the rates for hotels by visiting the hotel search option here , but you will need to contact a Virtuoso travel advisor (such as Katie ) to enjoy these benefits. You can even browse Virtuoso travel advisors by their destination specialties or travel interests!

Are There Other Programs Like Virtuoso?

Virtuoso is the largest group offering thousands of luxury hotels and resorts to choose from. Virtuoso was founded by Jesse Upchurch in 1986, but it’s currently lead by his son Matthew D. Upchurch. Virtuoso is a private company and has hundreds of employees.

However, other programs offer similar benefits, including Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Belmond Bellini, Dorchester Diamond Club, Hilton Impresario, Rosewood Elite, Marriott STARS, Marriott Luminous, and Mandarin Oriental Fan Club.

Virtuoso actually includes all of the brands above and offers similar benefits.  Virtuoso offers a “one-stop-shop” for booking luxury hotel stays and getting benefits regardless of which of these hotel chains you prefer.

Pro Tip: Do you Pruvo all your hotels stays? If not, do what I do and let Pruvo monitor your reservations for price drops. It’s  free and it’s the easiest way to save money on all your hotel rooms.

Virtuoso Travel vs. Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts

Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts is similar to Virtuoso in the sense that it offers perks like free breakfast and room upgrades. However, Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts offers a guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout.

Virtuoso is bookable without a specific credit card, while Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts requires a premium Amex card like The Platinum Card® from American Express. However, you need to have a Virtuoso travel advisor to help make your booking for you (online or over the phone).

Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts and Virtuoso both have overlapping hotels.

Sometimes, both programs have the same rates. But sometimes not. Best to check both programs to see if there are price differences even at the same properties.

Don’t MISS OUT on the BEST current travel credit card offers!

Final Thoughts on Virtuoso Travel

Virtuoso is the secret tool that luxury travelers use to get hundreds of dollars worth of extra value on their bookings, especially hotel stays. The best part is you won’t need to pay extra to enjoy these benefits.

Some of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands like Four Seasons, Aman, Rosewood, and The Peninsula are available to book through Virtuoso. It also includes small luxury boutique hotels that aren’t a part of a larger hotel brand, so you can enjoy a boutique experience as well.

With this program, you’ll enjoy benefits like free breakfast, room upgrades, early check-in, late checkout, and more all for the same price as the best available flexible rate.

Related  Articles:

• My Favorite Travel Resources and Products
• I Always Get the Lowest Prices on Hotel Rooms: Here’s How!
• 9 Awesome Travel Accessories To Pack for Your Next Trip
• Don’t miss out on the BEST current travel credit card offers!

The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

Shelli Stein

Shelli Stein is a travel writer, personal development coach , and story teller. She has come to realize writing as a way of sharing travel experiences brings her a lot of pleasure! Her areas of expertise are: all things  Southwest Airlines ,  hotel reviews , and what to do, see, and eat in destinations around the world. She sees travel as an adventure, trying to somehow get inside and experience a different way of life, a different cultural heritage. Maybe she can  show you something  you’ve never seen.  Inspire you with new ideas  for your next vacation. Attempt to  put a smile on your face . Help you learn from her mistakes . Or challenge your  assumptions about the world . She lives life with humor, gratitude, and humility and always sees the coffee cup as half full!

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How To Book Luxury Virtuoso Hotels Online – Get Free Upgrades & Perks at Luxury Properties

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What Is Virtuoso?

Virtuoso travel benefits, virtuoso rates, fees to use virtuoso, virtuoso hotels and properties, earning points on virtuoso bookings, how to book virtuoso travel online, remember to enter your loyalty program number, how to book multiple rooms, you can’t cancel your bookings via virtuoso, you can’t book same-day travel, final thoughts.

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If you’re a deal-seeker and you’re always trying to get extra benefits for your travel, particularly at luxury hotels, then you’ve probably come across Virtuoso at some point.

And while you might think you need to have some special connections to access a Virtuoso travel advisor, it’s actually super easy to make Virtuoso bookings online!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know to make Virtuoso bookings completely online!

What You Need To Know About Virtuoso

Virtuoso is the world’s largest luxury travel consortium . Basically, Virtuoso connects thousands of travel agencies worldwide and offers a set of exclusive benefits to each member agency.

In turn, anybody who makes Virtuoso bookings through these member agencies or travel advisors enjoys value-added benefits that might not be available anywhere else.

In doing so, these member agents can more easily convert potential travelers by offering benefits without any additional costs.

When you book Virtuoso hotel stays through a travel advisor or a member agency, you will almost always receive the following benefits:

• Daily breakfast for 2 guests per room
• Room upgrade (subject to availability)
• Early check-in (subject to availability)
• Late checkout (subject to availability)
• A special amenity like a $100 property credit or a 60-minute massage

Normally, if you booked a room rate with breakfast and these benefits directly at a hotel, you’ll see a massive mark-up compared to the best available rate.

What makes Virtuoso exceptional is the fact that for the most part, you’ll pay the same price as the best available flexible rate when booking directly with the hotel.

This excludes rates like corporate rates, non-refundable/advance purchase rates, promotional rates, and more.

Virtuoso often gets compared to Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts , but in most situations, Virtuoso rates are cheaper than Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts rates. There are a few exceptions, but in this section, we’ll walk you through a handful of example rates.

For example, let’s take a booking at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua in Maui, Hawaii. If we perform the same search on Virtuoso and Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, you might see a discrepancy.

Virtuoso is showing $2,133 per night as the cheapest available rate, while Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts is showing $2,245 per night for the stay.

And if you pivot your search to the Maldives, you might find an even larger rate parity.

The Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives would price out at $1,299 per night, while Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts would charge $1,624 per night.

However, there are a few rare instances in which Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts ends up being cheaper than Virtuoso rates.

If you look at the example booking at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island below, the Virtuoso rate is quoted at $931 per night, while the Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts rate is $791 per night.

The reason why this can happen is that American Express maintains a list of special offers that include benefits like a complimentary sixth night (as shown in the Conrad Maldives example).

Because these special offers are exclusive to Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts bookings, Virtuoso wouldn’t have access to this same offer.

Be careful, though — just because Amex has a special offer at a property doesn’t mean it’ll always end up being cheaper .

For example, the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in the Maldives is showing as cheaper at Virtuoso ($1,025 per night) even though Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts is showing a complimentary fourth-night free benefit ($1,133 per night).

Bottom Line: You can enjoy Virtuoso benefits with the best available flexible rate. This is often significantly cheaper than Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts. In general, Virtuoso matches or beats Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts except in some select situations where Amex has a special offer such as a complimentary night free on a multi-night stay.

There are usually no fees to book Virtuoso rates. As long as you book the same rate as the best flexible rate offered when booking directly with the hotel, you can enjoy Virtuoso benefits.

In some cases, travel advisors may charge an extra fee, but this is not a requirement across the board.

Travel advisors receive a small commission for these bookings, which is why they can usually assist for free.

So which properties fall into the Virtuoso umbrella? The good news is that almost all luxury hotels are partnered with Virtuoso. This includes:

• Aman Resorts
• Conrad Hotels & Resorts
• Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts
• Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
• Mandarin Oriental
• Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
• The Peninsula Hotels
• The Ritz-Carlton
• Rocco Forte Hotels
• Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts
• St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
• Viceroy Hotels & Resorts
• Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

And much more!

Remember, Virtuoso’s portfolio also includes smaller boutique hotels around the world. You can also view the full hotel catalog .

When you book Virtuoso rates, it’s as if you’re booking directly with the property, so all your bookings will still be considered as eligible rates to earn points, elite nights, and even elite status benefits .

For example, if you use the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card to book a Virtuoso stay, you’ll receive 2x Ultimate Rewards points per dollar.

Similarly, if book a stay at The Ritz-Carlton using a Marriott Bonvoy credit card like the Marriott Bonvoy Business ® American Express ® Card , you’ll get 6x Marriott points per dollar on your spending.

Generally, most people think that Virtuoso rates are booked with an advisor over the phone or via email. And while it’s true that many bookings are done this way, the reality is that you can make this even simpler by booking online through Virtuoso.com .

You can search for hotel rates completely online without designating an advisor at all. However, to actually book your stay, you’ll need to first choose your Virtuoso travel advisor – we recommend Leigh Rowan , a member of the UP team and one of the best in the business.

To find an advisor, you can visit the advisor catalog . You’ll see a window that looks like this, and all you have to do is click  Find an Advisor , where you can select specialties based on destination, interest, language, and more.

You can also perform a search before entering the advisor’s information, but the important thing to remember is that you can’t book the stay until you create an account (or log into your account if you already have one) and then select your travel advisor.

You’ll be assigned a default Virtuoso advisor. If you already have a Virtuoso advisor, you can click the button that says  Look up your Virtuoso advisor.

Enter your travel advisor’s name, and after the advisor’s image and name show up, you can click Continue Booking .

Here’s Leigh Rowan’s Virtuoso profile from our team below:

Before your stay is booked, you can also view the exact amenities you would get at that particular property: 

Then, you will need to select the hotel rate you’re booking before getting redirected to the booking page.

When you’re there, enter your travel information, payment information, and any special requests.

After that, you’re ready to go!

Tips To Remember When Booking Virtuoso Travel Online

When you’re making your Virtuoso booking, don’t forget to enter your hotel loyalty program number, if applicable. Sometimes, the hotel chain doesn’t have a loyalty program, as is the case with Four Seasons.

The box will be titled Hotel Chain Loyalty Program Number and will look like this:

Once you enter your details, you can get the points credited to the proper account and enjoy the proper elite status benefits, as well.

When it comes to booking multiple rooms, these will need to be done 1 at a time. You can still book multiple rooms at the same time, but you’ll need to do this offline with your travel advisor via email or phone.

Prefer 1-1 Service? If you have special requirements or would simply prefer to connect with a travel agent directly — Leigh Rowan, a member of our UP team, can help get you complimentary upgrades, daily breakfast for two, hotel credits, and more (for no extra cost). Contact Leigh for a fast reply at [email protected]  for that extra level of service.

Any bookings made via Virtuoso can’t be canceled online. That’s not a big deal because you can call the hotel or reach out to your Virtuoso travel advisor to cancel your booking.

Remember, canceling bookings is not instantaneous unless you go directly to the hotel, so keep that in mind if reaching out to your travel advisor to cancel a reservation.

As you might have seen during the booking process, Virtuoso rates can’t be booked for same-day reservations.

If you need to arrange same-day travel, you’ll need to utilize a different platform, such as Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts.

Virtuoso is one of the world’s best luxury travel networks — making bookings through Virtuoso often results in lots of added value in the form of elite-like perks.

One of the biggest myths out there is that you need to get on the phone or send an email to get the booking process started — you don’t!

You can book Virtuoso stays online, thanks to a seamless booking portal. Just be sure to create an online account and choose a travel advisor before trying to finalize your booking.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business ® American Express ® Card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does virtuoso travel cost.

Virtuoso doesn’t usually cost anything extra. When you book with a Virtuoso travel advisor, the advisor will earn a small commission. That’s why these bookings can be done at no additional cost. The cheapest eligible Virtuoso rate is usually the best available flexible rate.

Is Virtuoso free?

Virtuoso is usually free to travelers, but it depends on your exact travel agent. You can almost always enjoy these perks for no additional cost to you.

What is Virtuoso Travel Network?

The Virtuoso travel network is a group of travel advisors and agencies that help clients book luxury hotels, cruises, tours, and more. By going through Virtuoso, you can enjoy extra benefits like free breakfast and room upgrades.

What are Virtuoso amenities?

Virtuoso amenities usually include:

• Free breakfast for 2 daily
• Room upgrades, subject to availability
• Early check-in, subject to availability
• Late checkout, subject to availability
• A Virtuoso property amenity, like a spa or shopping credit

Who owns Virtuoso Travel?

Virtuoso was founded by Jesse Upchurch, but it is now helmed by his son, Matthew Upchurch.

Is Virtuoso a consortia?

Virtuoso is a travel consortium. Almost all of the world’s luxury hotel brands are included in Virtuoso’s consortium, as well as many of the boutique ultra-luxe properties. There are nearly 2,000 properties that fall under the Virtuoso umbrella around the world.

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Virtuoso VS Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, Which One is Best?

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"Points Genius" is an anonymous industry insider with a wealth…

The Luxe Travel Duel: Virtuoso VS American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts.

Dear luxury travelers and aficionados, we at Pursuitist understand that traveling isn’t merely about reaching a destination, but the experience itself. We, your travel & points insiders, have dived into the world of opulence, tasting the cream of the crop in luxury travel reward programs. Our exploration into the two giants of this sector, Virtuoso and American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts, has been insightful, eye-opening, and absolutely decadent. Here, Point Genius presents the insider scoop, revealing hacks, tips, and our verdict on which program offers the best experiences, value for money, and VIP access.

What is Virtuoso?

Virtuoso is a network of luxury travel agencies with partnerships encompassing some of the world’s most exclusive hotels and resorts, cruise lines, and tour operators. Since its inception in 1986, it has served as the conduit for travelers seeking an enriched and unique luxury experience.

The working model of Virtuoso is not your typical direct-to-customer program. It functions via a vast network of travel advisors who coordinate your bookings, catering to your custom travel needs, and getting you access to the special perks.

The key benefits of using Virtuoso include room upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, early check-in/late checkout, and unique experiences like private tours, spa services, or exclusive meals at the property’s premier restaurants. An array of hotel brands, including Aman, Belmond, Four Seasons, Rosewood, and Ritz Carlton, find a place in the Virtuoso network.

What is Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts?

Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, a gem in the crown of American Express’s luxury travel benefits, caters exclusively to Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders. Born out of strategic partnerships with some of the world’s most acclaimed hotels and resorts, the program brings together over 1,000 properties across 500 cities worldwide.

With FHR, you book directly through the American Express travel website. The benefits include noon check-in, room upgrades, daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4 pm late checkout, and a unique property amenity like a spa or food and beverage credit, typically worth $100.

Prominent brands such as Mandarin Oriental, Park Hyatt, InterContinental, and St. Regis are part of the FHR portfolio.

Comparing Virtuoso and Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts

Eligibility and Access: Virtuoso is accessible through its travel advisors, while FHR is exclusive to Platinum and Centurion cardholders.

Partnerships: Both programs boast a robust network of high-end hotels and resorts. Virtuoso has an edge with its additional ties to cruise lines and tour operators.

Perks: Both provide similar perks, including room upgrades and complimentary breakfasts. FHR guarantees 4 pm late checkout while it’s subject to availability with Virtuoso.

VIP Services: Virtuoso takes a more personalized approach with its travel advisors, providing a more tailored experience. In contrast, FHR lets you book directly, offering a smoother, quicker process.

Costs: Access to Virtuoso is generally free through a travel advisor. However, to access FHR benefits, a hefty annual fee applies for the Amex Platinum or Centurion cards.

Points, Miles, and Rewards: Loyalty Programs Insights

Virtuoso, being a network of independent travel advisors, doesn’t offer a standardized points or rewards program. However, the perk is that these advisors can often book you into the hotel’s own loyalty program, potentially allowing you to earn and redeem points.

In contrast, with FHR, you’re in for a treat if you’re an Amex Membership Rewards collector. You’ll earn 5x Membership Rewards points on prepaid bookings made through amextravel.com. If you stack this with other Amex card benefits, it can lead to significant point earnings.

Hacks and Tips

Virtuoso: One hack to make the most of Virtuoso is to build a relationship with your travel advisor. Their knowledge and connections can often lead to better room assignments or availability during high-demand periods.

Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts: One of the best ways to optimize your benefits with FHR is by stacking it with your other Amex card benefits, such as using your annual airline fee credit or earning 5x Membership Rewards points on your booking.

Costs and Fees

Virtuoso doesn’t charge any membership fees; however, fees might be levied based on the travel advisor and the level of service requested. On the other hand, the costs of being an Amex Platinum or Centurion cardholder, which grant you access to FHR, can range from a hefty $695 to a whopping $5000 in annual fees.

Saving Money

Both Virtuoso and FHR offer complimentary breakfasts, potential room upgrades, and other amenities, which can save a considerable sum over your stay. The value for money provided depends largely on your utilization of benefits, the specific property, and the length of your stay.

While both programs offer VIP-like perks, Virtuoso advisors can often arrange unique experiences, thanks to their personal relationships with properties. With Amex FHR, the level of VIP treatment may vary between properties but includes unique property amenities and late check-outs.

Which One to Choose?

The best choice is subjective and depends on individual circumstances.

For frequent travelers who prioritize personalized service and comprehensive luxury experiences, including cruises and tours, Virtuoso may prove more beneficial. For Amex loyalists who prefer direct bookings and guaranteed late checkouts, Fine Hotels & Resorts might be the best fit. Consider factors such as travel frequency, preferred hotel chains, spending habits, and the importance of personalized services before making your choice.

Conclusion and Verdict

As we’ve journeyed through the realms of Virtuoso and Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, it’s clear that both cater to the luxury traveler, albeit with distinct nuances.

After testing both services extensively, our verdict is this: if you prioritize personalized service, and seek experiences beyond hotels and resorts, Virtuoso might be your best ally. However, if you value the simplicity of direct bookings, and can maximize the benefits of Amex Platinum or Centurion cards, then the Fine Hotels & Resorts program might be your golden ticket.

We at Pursuitist are your companions in navigating the intricate world of luxury travel. We strive to bring you the most accurate, comprehensive, and insider information to enhance your journey. So go ahead, stride into the world of luxury travel with confidence. We’re right here with you, exploring, experiencing, and enriching our understanding of luxury, one destination at a time.

We encourage you, our discerning readers, to share your experiences and tips. Any questions for Points Genius at Pursuitist, drop us a tweet on Twitter . We’re here to assist. Stay tuned for more in-depth insights and expert analysis on the world of luxury travel, right here at Pursuitist.

"Points Genius" is an anonymous industry insider with a wealth of knowledge and years of experience in the world of credit card rewards. They are a strategic mastermind when it comes to navigating the complex world of points, miles, and rewards systems. Having worked behind the scenes in the financial sector, "Points Genius" has a unique perspective and understanding of credit card companies' inner workings and reward structures. Whether you're an avid traveler looking to maximize points for flights and hotels, or a savvy shopper eager to make the most of your everyday purchases, "Points Genius" is your go-to source for insider tips, tricks, and strategies. They are passionate about helping others unlock the full potential of their credit card points, turning everyday spending into exciting rewards. Stay tuned as "Points Genius" unravels the mysteries of reward points, and helps you navigate the intricate maze of credit card benefits with ease and efficiency.

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Meet the New Travel Agents (a.k.a. Travel Networks)

How do these networks stack up against each other, and what does it cost to take advantage of their perks?

By Shivani Vora

Why would travelers ever plan a vacation on their own when their money will go a lot further with the help of a travel agent? At a time when booking trips online seems to be the norm, it’s a message that several travel networks, each with their own group of travel agents, are increasingly pushing.

With more than 16,000 agents globally, Virtuoso is one of the largest networks. That scale can benefit the traveler: Book a trip with a Virtuoso agent, said Albert Herrera, the company’s senior vice president of global product partnerships, and you will get hotel perks such as free breakfast, room upgrades and spa treatments; these extras are worth up to $450 a property. “If you’re staying at three hotels on one trip, you’re looking at more than $1,300 of amenities that you’re not paying for,” he said.

Signature Travel Network has more than 7,000 agents. Ignacio Maza, the company’s executive vice president, said that the network’s agents can get clients benefits valued at up to $500 at hotels; on cruises, more than $1,000.

Smaller networks also offer amenities for their clients: Andrew Harper Travel , for example, began in the 1970s as a hotel review company but expanded around 15 years ago to offer travel planning services; currently, the company has around 20 agents.

How do these networks stack up against each other, and what does it cost travelers, if anything, to take advantage of their perks? Here is a breakdown of some of the top networks.

Signature Travel Network

HOW TO FIND AN AGENT signaturetravelnetwork.com

NUMBER OF AFFILIATED HOTELS More than 1,030, both large chains and boutique properties; the collection includes four- and five-star hotels.

THE COST Signature doesn’t charge a membership fee to use its agents, but some charge fees of up to several hundred dollars.

CRUISES? Yes, 30 lines. Benefits vary by sailing, but could include onboard credits, prepaid gratuities and shore excursions. Also, on a select 200 a year, travelers get a private guide and driver for a day at selected ports — a perk valued at up to $900, according to Mr. Maza.

HOTEL PERKS Up to $500 of amenities at hotels, including daily breakfast for two, an extra amenity such as a $100 dining credit, room upgrades and early check-in and checkout, when available. Some properties, like the Ritz Paris , offer additional benefits including round-trip airport transfers.

HOW TO FIND AN AGENT virtuoso.com/advisors

NUMBER OF AFFILIATED HOTELS More than 1,250 luxury hotels, both large chains and boutique properties; 900 of those can be booked through virtuoso.com .

THE COST Virtuoso doesn’t charge a membership fee to use its agents, but some charge trip-planning fees; depending on the complexity of the trip, fees can range from $50 to several hundred dollars.

CRUISES? Yes, 31 lines, with more than 500 select sailings a year. Travelers get an $800 credit to use one of three ways: onboard, for a private car and driver at a port of their choice, or for a tailor-made excursion.

HOTEL PERKS Up to $450 of amenities at hotels, including daily breakfast for two, room upgrades (either guaranteed at the time of booking or on a space available basis) and early check-in and late checkout, when available. All affiliated hotels also offer extras for their Virtuoso guests which vary by property. Examples include a six-course dinner at Casa Gangotena in Quito, Ecuador and a horse-drawn carriage tour with a stay at Alpaga Megève in Megève, France.

Ensemble Travel Group

HOW TO FIND AN AGENT ensembletravel.com

NUMBER OF AFFILIATED HOTELS Around 700, both large chains and boutique properties; the collection includes four- and five-star hotels.

THE COST Ensemble doesn’t charge a membership fee to use agents, but some charge trip-planning fees.

CRUISES? Yes, 26 lines. On more than 1,500 select cruises a year, travelers receive various benefits such as room upgrades, onboard credits and shore excursions.

HOTEL PERKS Benefits vary by property, but could include room upgrades, daily breakfast, spa treatments, and food and wine welcome baskets. The Raffles Makati in the Philippines, for example, offers daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails and 50-minute massages for two.

American Express Travel

HOW TO FIND AN AGENT AmexTravel.com

NUMBER OF AFFILIATED HOTELS More than 1,000 affiliated luxury properties.

THE COST Several network benefits are exclusively for American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders — the annual fee for a Platinum card is $550. (The company doesn’t reveal the cost of the Centurion card.) In addition, some agents charge small trip-planning fees.

CRUISES? Yes, 15 lines. On sailings of five nights or more, travelers receive an onboard credit of between $100 to $300.

HOTEL PERKS The average value of benefits travelers receive at each hotel is $550, according to Tom Stein, the vice president of American Express Travel. These include a space-available room upgrade, daily breakfast for two, noon check-in, when available, and a guaranteed 4 p.m. checkout, as well as an additional amenity that varies by property — examples include a spa treatment, a meal or a bottle of wine.

Andrew Harper Travel

HOW TO FIND AN AGENT andrewharper.com

NUMBER OF AFFILIATED HOTELS 500. The majority are 40 rooms or less.

THE COST $395 a year. In addition, advisers charge a $250 “commitment” fee which is applied to the cost of the trip once travelers book.

CRUISES? Yes, around a dozen lines. Travelers receive $100 onboard credit on every sailing.

HOTEL PERKS Benefits include daily breakfast, room upgrades upon availability or at the time of booking and an additional amenity valued at $100 that varies by property — examples include a dining credit or a cooking class.

An earlier version of this article, using information provided by a company publicist, misstated the name of a travel network. It is American Express Travel, not Fine Hotels & Resorts.

A picture caption with an earlier version of this article misidentified a building in Quito, Ecuador. It is the San Francisco Cathedral, not the Casa Gangotena hotel.

How we handle corrections

As a Virtuoso travel agency, Fora grants travelers access to perks at more than 2,000 hotels around the world, with 60+ brands like Aman, Ritz-Carlton and Mandarin Oriental.

What is Virtuoso?

A household name in the luxury travel industry, Virtuoso is a high-end global hotel consortium. By booking your trip with a Fora Advisor, you’re granted Virtuoso travel benefits at thousands of hotels worldwide — from Nashville to New Zealand.

Learn why booking with a Fora Advisor is better than all the other booking methods — including online travel sites.

What perks do you get with Virtuoso?

By booking with Fora, you’ll automatically receive benefits at all Virtuoso hotels & resorts worldwide, such as perks & upgrades.

The BEST ROOMS

Vip treatment, virtuoso benefits , perks vary by property, but may include:.

Daily full breakfast in-room or hotel restaurant (varies by property).

Virtuoso-only amenities (i.e. resort / food & beverage credit, etc.)

Preferred rates.

Room upgrade upon arrival.

Early check-in and late checkout.

Featured Virtuoso Properties

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

1 Hotels brings its eco-minded ethos to this waterfront perch in Brooklyn Heights with killer views of the Bridge, East River and Manhattan skyline.

$100 food / beverage credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

One&Only Reethi Rah

Live in luxury at this oasis in the Maldives, with spacious secluded villas and 360-degree ocean views.

A serene stay high above the city, with Aman’s signature faultless service, ryokan-style rooms and a zen-like spa.

$100 hotel / resort credit.

How To Book Virtuoso

When you book your stay with a Fora Advisor, you’ll automatically have Virtuoso perks applied to your stay at no extra cost.

Book with Fora

Tell us more about yourself to get matched with a Fora Advisor and start planning your dream trip today.

Virtuoso FAQs

What are virtuoso travel agencies.

Virtuoso is a high-end global hotel consortium. When booking with participating Virtuoso travel agencies like Fora, travelers are granted top-tier perks at its 2,000+ hotels.

How does Virtuoso travel work?

By booking your Virtuoso hotel with a Fora Advisor , you automatically access all the perks Virtuoso has to offer (VIP upgrades, spa credits, complimentary breakfast, the works...).

Do Virtuoso travel agencies offer the best rates on hotels?

Fora Advisors (all of whom are Virtuoso travel advisors) offer the best available hotel rates. Some Virtuoso travel agencies may charge a premium on top of your accommodation charges. Your Fora Advisor can provide more details.

What hotels and properties are partnered with Virtuoso?

Thousands of hotels and resorts around the world participate in Virtuoso travel, including notable brands like The Ritz-Carlton and Waldorf Astoria. Connect with Virtuoso travel agencies like Fora to learn which properties offer benefits at your chosen destinations.

What benefits and amenities can you expect when booking with a Virtuoso travel agency?

There are many benefits to booking with Virtuoso travel agencies like Fora. Among the more common perks are complimentary daily breakfast for two, early check-in and late check-out times, room upgrades, hotel and resort credits and more. 

Property-specific benefits like spa vouchers, complimentary meals and more may also be available.

Are there Virtuoso travel benefits for cruises and tours? Or just hotels and resorts?

In addition to hotel perks, Virtuoso travel agencies such as Fora offer benefits for cruises and tours, too. Speak with your Fora Advisor to learn about all the Virtuoso travel benefits available at your destination.

Is there a minimum stay requirement to obtain Virtuoso travel benefits?

Dozens of hotel brands participate in Virtuoso, each with their own policies. Your Fora Advisor will check if there are any minimum (or maximum) reservation limits placed on Virtuoso travel benefits.

Do you need a membership to book Virtuoso hotels?

Only travel advisors belonging to Virtuoso agencies (i.e. Fora Advisors) can book accommodations at hotels or resorts participating in the Virtuoso program. All you have to do to enjoy these perks is chat with a Fora Advisor .

Can you earn loyalty points when booking through a Virtuoso travel agency?

It depends on the loyalty program, but many brands allow you to earn points when booking through an advisor belonging to a Virtuoso agency (i.e. a Fora Advisor). Your Fora Advisor can offer more details.

Do Virtuoso travel agencies bill you or do the hotels? Are there fees to use Virtuoso travel?

While some Virtuoso travel agencies or agents may bill you on top of hotel charges, Fora Advisors typically do not charge for hotel reservations. Advisors may, however, charge you for additional services (like planning your itinerary).

How do you book with a Virtuoso travel advisor?

Booking Virtuoso is as simple as contacting a Fora travel advisor . 

Not only do Fora Advisors offer the best available rates and benefits (being a Virtuoso travel agency), but they can also help you with all your travel needs, from recommendations on hip restaurants and unique experiences, to booking all your arrangements.

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SmartFlyer is a full-service luxury travel agency built for curious travelers. We specialize in creating exceptional experiences around the world through curated recommendations and continuous boots-on-the-ground research  activated by decades of trusted relationships. 

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Our global team understands that the finer details make a world of a difference when it comes to your travel arrangements, so we make it seamless to book the experiences you can’t miss–all vetted by a community of trusted experts whose tried and true recommendations span from Manhattan to Melbourne, and everywhere in between. Our consultative approach to travel planning ensures that we get to know you and your preferences before we provide our recommendations, in turn creating an itinerary built just for you whether it’s a honeymoon , multi-generational family trip , bucket list safari , or quick romantic escape . Just like no two clients are identical, no two trips are the same.

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As an Independent Travel Advisor, it’s important to choose a host agency that values your success. We provide personalized support and a nurturing community for your growth. Benefit from valuable connections through our member and partner affiliations, financial stability, and timely, accurate payments. Enjoy ongoing education through webinars, our annual conference, and access to Virtuoso and their extensive Travel Academy.

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Our annual conference offers a valuable opportunity for host agency community members. Andavo takes advisors to diverse cities each year for a dynamic event where they can learn from one another, gain fresh perspectives, ideas, and expand their professional network.

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By partnering with us you gain exclusive access to top vendors, tour operators, and hoteliers. Our over 20-year membership with Virtuoso means increased commissions for you and enhanced travel experiences for your clients. You will also have access to Virtuoso® award winning publication and marketing, personalized with your name and branding to send directly to your clients.

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With over 30 years in the travel industry, we have established strong relationships with luxury hotels, cruises, and tours globally. By joining Andavo, you gain exclusive access to these connections for top-notch client experiences, increased commissions, and business success.

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Andavo Travel has been a key Preferred Partner of Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts since 2006. I have personally worked with the team at Andavo since 2005. The ownership, management team, and advisors are all of the highest integrity, knowledgeable, and consistently provide a level of service and expertise that is unsurpassed. So much so, that I trust my own travel to one of their top advisors. It is a privilege to work with the team at Andavo and to partner with an agency of this caliber.”

Victoria Uslaner, Account Director, Worldwide Sales
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

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