Welcome to the first installment of NextTribe’s Frequent Traveler of the Month. You’ll meet one of our high-energy, high-enthusiasm NextTribe members who turns up on lots of our trips, hear where she’s been, her favorite experiences, and quite possibly learn a travel tip or two.

Action and adventure: That’s what Kelly prioritizes when traveling. To her, that’s the most exciting way to see new places. Skiing, hiking, and biking are among her favorite activities. But exploring new places isn’t the only reason she loves NextTribe trips. When NextTribe added a Lifetime Member option, Kelly was the first to sign up! Beyond spending time with her husband, her 24-year-old twins, and two Golden Retrievers, she’s all about spending time with her girlfriends. And one of her favorite things to do is go to comedy shows and festivals. (A couple of her favorite comics are Bill Burr and Sebastian Maniscalco.) “Laugh every single day,” she says, “and, don’t take yourself so seriously.” Travel, girlfriends, and laughter: No wonder she’s a frequent traveler who loves going on lots of our trips!

Where do you live?

I split my time between Austin, Texas, and Vail, Colorado, which is my favorite place in the world.

Marital status?

Happily married for 30 years.

How do you spend most days?

I volunteer. My motto is “Give where you live”. In Austin, I volunteer at Dress for Success [an organization that provides unemployed and underemployed women with the resources they need to look and feel their best when going in for interviews. Also at the Golden Ribbon Rescue, a shelter that helps with the rehabilitation and rehoming of Golden Retrievers. In Vail, I work with Vail Health to provide people in the community with healthcare.

What convinced you to take your first trip with NextTribe?

A couple of years ago, my husband and I had become empty-nesters all at once (we have twins), so I was really in an unsettled place in my life. My husband and I were in couples therapy, and I was going to a therapist on my own. She suggested taking a trip with just women outside of my circle of friends. She said it would push me outside of my comfort zone which I needed. I needed to figure out my new normal and new routine. This would also give me something new to talk about with my husband. I went to Charleston and loved it!

How many NextTribe trips have you been on?

I have been on two: Dia de los Muertos in San Miguel de Allende, and Charleston I am going on my third, the Asheville Fall Adventure, in October.

What’s your favorite thing about traveling in a group of women? How does it differ from traveling solo or with a partner?

I love meeting women I would normally not meet or cross paths with, women with different interests, perspectives, and opinions. There is no judgment and the women are vulnerable. There is a common thread and bond between all women on these trips. These trips give me renewed energy. 

Favorite place to visit and why?

Vail, Colorado!!! It is our second home, but it is truly my happy place. I feel 10 years younger when I am there. I walk or ride my bike everywhere, the lifestyle is so healthy, and everyone is so warm, giving, and kind. I feel most at peace in Vail. 

What’s your dream travel destination?

I will go to Vail in a nanosecond at any time of the year. Other than Vail, I love Greece, especially Santorini and Mykonos.

Do you believe in wearing sweatpants on the plane? If not, what’s your go-to outfit?

Sweatpants, absolutely, as long as they are super f’ing cute!

Do you have a favorite souvenir from your travels?

Every summer I get new Vail dog collars for Ollie & Oakley from the farmers market.

Do you have any travel rituals or tips that you swear by?

Stay very active. I use all of the hotel gyms. I am a workout freak and love the view from the fitness centers. Staying very active not only is a love of mine but it keeps the digestive system moving (if you know what I mean). Travel takes a HUGE toll on the system and we gals need to stay regular. For some reason, men don’t have that problem. LOL