For most destinations, eight to twelve months gives me the room to do things properly, especially for peak travel seasons or places that require more lead time. That said, I have pulled together remarkable journeys on shorter notice when the timing is right. If you have a trip in mind, reach out sooner rather than later and I will let you know what is possible.

When you work with Tern & Meridian you are working with someone whose years in the travel industry have built a genuine understanding of what makes a trip extraordinary. I know the guides worth hiring and the lodges worth staying in, and I care deeply about getting it right for you. There is no call center, no script, and no one-size-fits-all-itinerary. Just a real partnership built around you and the kind of travel that actually means something.

Every journey begins with a non-refundable $100 planning fee, which is credited toward your Design & Management Fee. That fee depends on how complex your trip is, and you’ll know the exact amount before anything is booked. Most suppliers then take a deposit, with the balance due closer to departure. I’ll map out the full payment schedule with you. See How It Works for planning levels and starting fees.

This fee covers the work behind the trip, the research, the itinerary design, the reservations, and everything else that happens before you ever set foot on a plane. It also means I'm here for you throughout the process, refining details, answering questions, and making sure nothing gets left to chance. Think of it as the cost of having someone in your corner the whole way through, not just a booking made and forgotten.

I plan wildlife, expedition and culturally immersive journeys across all seven continents, from African safaris and polar voyages to Japan, Patagonia and beyond. Browse the Destinations pages for inspiration, or if you have somewhere specific in mind, reach out and let’s talk about what’s possible.

Not at all. Some clients come to me with a fully formed idea, others just know they want to feel something different this year. Either way, part of what I do is help you figure out where that feeling actually lives on a map.

Before you go, I'll make sure you have local emergency numbers and know exactly who to call if something comes up. I also require all clients to carry travel insurance, since that's what actually protects you if plans change unexpectedly. While I'm not on call around the clock during your trip, you're never navigating a problem blind, you'll have the resources and contacts you need close at hand.

There's no set minimum, but every trip I design is fully bespoke, built around real intention rather than a template. If you're not sure whether your trip is the right fit, reach out, I'm certain we can find a way to make it work together.

Travel insurance is booked separately on your own, but I consider it an essential part of any well planned trip. As part of the planning process I will walk you through the best options so you understand exactly what you are covered for before you go.

Yes, and they’re some of my favorite trips to plan. Honeymoon clients also get a personalized page where wedding guests can see your plans and contribute to your honeymoon fund. See the Honeymoons page for everything included.

Yes. I host a small-group journeys that I travel on myself. Next up is Under African Skies, a hosted women’s safari through Tanzania in November 2027, limited to 12 guests.

As a Virtuoso affiliate, I can add perks at thousands of hotels worldwide, such as daily breakfast, resort credits and upgrades when available, at no extra cost to you.

Yes. I’ll walk you through what each country requires and point you to a trusted visa service, so the paperwork is handled well before you fly.