Podcast Episode Show Notes: From Hesitant High School Traveler to Passionate Travel Advisor

In this inspiring episode, I share my personal journey of how a reluctant high school senior’s summer trip to Europe unexpectedly sparked a lifelong passion for travel. What began as hesitation transformed into wanderlust, leading me through college, teaching, international cultural exchanges, and finally to a fulfilling career as a travel advisor.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How a surprise invitation from a high school teacher to travel across six European countries—the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Monaco—became a defining moment in my life.
• The unforgettable experience of witnessing the royal wedding dress rehearsal in England and its impact on my travel enthusiasm.
• How my love for Spanish language motivated me to pursue it as a college major and the immersive study trip to Mexico, which deepened my cultural understanding despite initial challenges.
• My career path as a substitute teacher evolving into a full-time teacher and how that led to creating an enriching student exchange program with Spanish colleagues — offering authentic cultural immersion beyond typical tours.
• The lasting friendships and lifelong connections formed through this exchange program, and the bittersweet decision to end it upon retirement.
• My pivot to becoming a travel advisor to empower educators and travelers to craft meaningful, authentic trips without reinventing the wheel.
• Reflections on embracing unexpected career twists and the importance of flexibility when discovering your true path.

Why Listen?
Whether you’re uncertain about your own journey or passionate about travel and cultural exchange, this episode offers honest insights on following your passions, learning through travel, and creating impactful experiences that transform lives.

Connect & Engage:
Subscribe now to hear more about my travel adventures and forthcoming interviews with inspiring guests—starting with an American living in St. Croix and sharing her unique island experiences next episode.

Episode Keywords & Topics:
travel journey, high school travel, study abroad experience, Spanish immersion, cultural exchange program, student travel, teaching and travel, becoming a travel advisor, wanderlust stories, meaningful travel, travel career path, authentic travel experiences

Recommended For:
Travel enthusiasts, educators planning student trips, aspiring travel advisors, language learners, lifelong learners, anyone navigating career transitions

Subscribe & Follow:
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