Almost everyone has their passion – that thing that puts a twinkle in their eye and gets their heart beating just a little bit faster. It’s that “something” that makes you who you are and defines how you spend much of your free time. Some people are huge football fans, while others love horseback riding. My “something” is travel. I can sit on the computer all day, reading hotel reviews and studying maps, checking the going rate for flights to dream destinations, and planning theoretical trips, without ever getting bored. I love reading travel blogs and guides and belong to many online travel discussion groups. It is not, therefore, surprising that when I decided to start my second career (my first was teaching), that it would be in the travel industry.
My travel obsession is a result of a childhood spent as an expat in North Africa and Europe, and a good part of my adult life spent living in the Middle East. In all, I lived for almost 25 years outside of my native Texas. Living overseas just clicked with me! I loved meeting people from other cultures, was fascinated by their food and all the different languages and loved to host huge community pot luck dinners at my house where everyone could share something from their home. Thanksgiving will never be just about turkey and pumpkin pie any more!
I majored in History and French in college and then taught middle and high school history and geography for many years. I later also worked at the American University in Dubai as an English and Public Speaking instructor. Throughout college, and later during my work and “mom” life, I continued to travel extensively, often bringing groups of friends along to share in the fun. In all, I have visited more than 40 countries (ask me about my magnet collection!) and have so many more places on my to-do list. These travels eventually led me to start my own business doing something that I absolutely love to do– plan trips!
I joined Montrose Travel, a Virtuoso agency, as an independent contractor, and began planning customized trips for families and groups. I later began to personally escort small groups on trips to some very cool places. With these trips, I aim to give my travelers an affordable alternative to the big bus tour, with highly rated restaurants and hotels plus some off-the-beaten-track type activities. I also enjoy adding some outdoor and cultural experiences to all of my trips, which may include hiking, biking, cooking classes or visits with local families.
I’d love to plan your next
Happy travels,
Kelly Hanania
Kelly Hanania
Owner
Pathfinders Travel