When Nancy booked an Italy trip with Trafalgar back in 2012, she thought she was signing up for a simple vacation. What she didn’t realize was that she was beginning a journey that would shape her worldview, introduce her to lifelong friends, and spark a passion for experiencing cultures from the inside out.
“Little did I know upon booking that trip, how much my life would change due to travel and traveling with Trafalgar!” – Nancy
Thirteen years and countless adventures later, Nancy is still traveling with Trafalgar – and still being changed by the world. Let’s hear it in her words how travel has reshaped her story and inspired her personal growth.
Italy was just the start
Nancy’s first Trafalgar experience was a feast for the senses and a deep dive into local life. A cooking class in Tuscany, dinner at a farmhouse in Sorrento, and the company of fellow curious travelers made for a trip that was equal parts delicious and eye-opening:
“I’ve had SO many amazing experiences [with Trafalgar], such as a cooking class in Tuscany, having dinner in the Louvre in Paris, touring and having an amazing dinner at a farmhouse in Sorrento, and visiting the amazing Christmas markets in Europe, including a stop in the idyllic town of Oberammergau. And that’s barely scratching the surface on the experiences I’ve had! ”
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Travel that connects you with real people
For Nancy, Trafalgar’s Be My Guest and Make Travel Matter experiences offered something that standard sightseeing never could – connection with local people and their stories:
“Some of the more special [experiences] were thanks to Trafalgar’s Be My Guest and Make Travel Matter® Experiences, which have given a glimpse into ‘real life’ in various countries.”
Whether it’s dining in a family-owned vineyard or learning how traditional crafts are preserved, these moments that go beyond the expected and detour slightly from the well-trodden tourist trail give our guests a deeper understanding of the places they visit – and the people who call them home.
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Friends that become family
One of the most surprising outcomes of traveling with Trafalgar? The friendships Nancy has built across borders. We’ll admit it – making friends as an adult isn’t easy, but shared experiences and making memories together is a great way to forge new bonds.
Many of the people Nancy met as fellow guests have become travel buddies – and true friends for life. It’s a story we’ve heard again and again.
“I’ve made lifelong friends from all over the world. Some I’ve even booked future Trafalgar trips with.”
These relationships, she says, are part of what keeps her coming back. Travel with Trafalgar doesn’t end when the itinerary does—it continues through the people you meet along the way.
Travel Directors who love what they do
Behind the scenes of every trip are passionate Travel Directors who make every trip feel seamless, insightful, and genuinely special.
“I’d be remiss if I didn’t say how amazing Trafalgar’s Travel Directors are as well – they make the trip!” says Nancy. “I’ve kept in touch with several and they are always ready and willing to give advice on any trips I’m looking at booking!”
Portugal in 2024 – one of her best trips yet
Most recently, Nancy and her best friend of 25+ years chose Portugal for their latest Trafalgar adventure. She says they were tossing up between the Best of Italy and Greece, or the Greek Island Hopper, but are glad they opted for Portugal:
“I can honestly say, the Best of Portugal trip I took with my good friend… was one of the best yet!” says Nancy. “We then turned to Portugal as my friend’s grandparents had emigrated to the US from Portugal and booked the trip for the end of August 2024. What an AMAZING trip it was!”
From the elegant Lusitano horses at Monte Negro horse farm to a vineyard dinner at Vale da Capucha, the trip overflowed with standout moments. She climbed the bell tower in Faro – despite being terrified of heights – wandered the quaint village of Monsaraz, and felt awed at the Bom Jesus sanctuary, rode a tram in Porto – and so much more.
“I’m honestly struggling to pick just one experience that was the best as there were so many!” she says. “Our Travel Director, Tiago, was also PHENOMENAL! His energy, love of Portugal, and how well he organized our trip helped make it the outstanding experience it was!”
The most memorable, healing day in Lisbon
If one day stood out from the rest, it was their second day in Lisbon. Nancy and her friend were able to relax, let go, and enjoy the moment:
“My favorite day was day two in Lisbon, which included a stop in Cascais where we enjoyed some “Sexy Piña Coladas” and beautiful views of the sea. After, we enjoyed an incredible evening of Fado music, and then laughed into the wee hours of the morning with new friends we made that day,” says Nancy.
“It’s hard to put into words how incredible this day was for two lifelong friends, who were incredibly burned out from working long hours day in and day out for months – and one of which was going through an incredibly difficult chapter of life. This day was full of so much happiness, laughter, and just taking in the amazing views, culture, and did I mention the food and wine?”
Where’s next for Nancy?
“My friend and I are still trying to decide where we will go with Trafalgar in 2025 but I’m looking forward to the next adventure!” she says.
Whether it’s Greece, Italy, or somewhere completely new, Nancy knows the next vacation will bring more unforgettable memories. And more reasons to keep exploring! Her story isn’t just about the place she’s visited, but the moment, memories and connections made along the way.
Nancy’s first Italy vacation is a reminder that travel can shift our perspectives and open the world. Where will you go next? Leave us a comment….