We like to believe that we can connect with anyone. That with enough curiosity and openness, every conversation can become something meaningful. And often, that’s true. But when it comes to travel, especially when you’re being guided by someone else, fit matters more than people admit. 

You’ve probably felt it. That moment when the person showing you around is technically doing everything right, but the whole thing still feels slightly off. The timing, the energy, the tone of voice. Maybe they’re too enthusiastic when you’re feeling quiet. Or maybe they’re too laid back when you were hoping for structure. It’s nobody’s fault. It just doesn’t click. 

That’s the piece that often gets ignored in the guide industry. Most platforms assume that if someone knows the city and has good reviews, they’re automatically a good match for anyone. But personality matters. Tempo matters. Awareness matters. The best experience isn’t always about knowledge. It’s about intuition and connection. 

I’ve been on those mismatched tours. Once, I joined a small group experience where everything sounded perfect on paper. Unique location, passionate local, great rating. But within ten minutes, I knew it wasn’t for me. The guide was energetic in a way that made me feel exhausted. The others were excited to socialize, and I just wanted space. I smiled, followed along, but felt like a background extra in someone else’s memory. 

That’s not how it should feel. 

Travel already strips away your usual habits. You’re in a new place, probably on a different schedule, maybe even thinking in a different language. The last thing you need is to feel out of sync with the one person you’re supposed to rely on. 

That’s why Marv doesn’t stop at geography. It goes deeper. When you connect with a Counselor, it’s not just about what they know, it’s about who they are, how they communicate, how they hold space for someone like you. It’s not matchmaking, exactly. But it is matching. 

Some travelers want stories. Others want silence. Some want to be challenged. Others want to be reassured. And people switch between those roles depending on the day, or the hour. 

That’s why one-size-fits-all doesn’t work. 

And that’s why it’s okay to say, “Not this one.” You’re not rejecting the person, but respecting the moment. 

Travel opens up when you stop forcing the fit. 

And starts to feel real when someone meets you where you actually are.