Is it more common to collect your fee prior to your trip or once you've traveled to your client?

Depends.  Is it someone you've dealt with before and can trust?  Will you be traveling to a location that requires a great deal of transit time and possibly airfare?  It would be quite maddening to bear the travel costs and then have the client change his mind or not show up at all.  I'd say, get at least a 50% deposit for your own peace of mind.  If they are serious, it won't be a big deal.

then you should be able to receive a deposit of about a quarter of the cost of the fee, or whatever would cover the cost of travel and hotel, which ever is more.

On the other hand, if you are planning a tour and someone makes an appointment ahead of time, then the usual rules of engagement should apply whereby an envelope is left on the counter when he arrives.

"the usual rules of engagement should apply whereby an envelope is left on the counter when he arrives."

I'm supposed to be paying him?!  Shoot!  I knew I was doing something wrong!

Ok thank you.  That was my biggest concern (to travel and then have a no show).  I will search here and see how people get deposists or if you have information that would be helpful.  I'm new so I would be in the process of building a client base.  I may start within my home based city but I'm weary of working where I live.  I'd prefer at least a different major city in the state.  

I appreciate the help, thanks.

I travel by air to meet clients about every 3-4 months.  Usually the way I handle it is they make all arrangements, and send me an e-ticket in advance.  (Business or 1st class.)  I will get myself to the airport.

Upon arrival I expect my fee in full, in advance.

I don't bother with deposits.  I've never had a problem.  Men who can afford to fly you someplace travel well and are generous.  I always let them set the rate and it is always generous.

I also require a certain level of accomodations 3,4,5 star with valet parking, and other things depending on the situation (rental car, etc.)  Again this has never been an issue.

In every case where we travel it's been a total bunch of fun for everyone!  

Bon voyage,
TS Jamie

That sounds easier than dealing with deposits.  I was concerned that men may not be too quick to fly someone in, but from personal experience (I used to be in the sugar daddy game) I do know men who will fly you in without blinking an eye do exist if they're interested in you enough.  The only thing I don't like about someone flying me in is providing the details they need for the ticket.  I don't want to make a habit of giving out my personal information. Thanks for the response.  Everyone's input is very helpful.