One of the original members of the NextTribe crew, Ellesor Holder is the energetic, extra-friendly leader of our Charleston, Peru, and Colorado trips. When she’s not guiding the women of NextTribe around the world, you’ll find Ellesor hiking, biking, working out, and mastering the latest and greatest apps. (Her current favorites are CapCut, Canva, and Storyluxe.)

NextTribe takes women ages 45+ on fun, immersive trips across the country and around the globe. Learn more about joining Ellesor on a Rocky Mountain adventure here or in Machu Picchu here.

Being born and raised in South Carolina, her taking the reins of the Charleston trip was a no-brainer. Being a lover of nature and adventure, the Colorado trip also called to her. “I had never been to that part of Colorado before leading the trip, and now it’s among my favorite spots,” says Ellesor. Her hunger to explore new places runs strong: Nowhere is too far-flung. “The world is a big place that can also feel very small once you’ve traveled around enough,” she says. Learn more about Ellesor here.

Where do you live? 

Greenwood, South Carolina

Marital status?

Married

Occupation? 

I’m a marketing & brand strategist.

How did you become a NextTribe trip leader?

I have worked with NextTribe since its beginning. I also am a world traveler who loves sharing these experiences with others. I went on the first NextTribe trip to Peru with Jeannie [Ralston, the company’s Founder and CEO] and loved it so much that I was thrilled to take it on.

What’s your favorite aspect of being a trip leader? 

The exploration of the destination and the connection that traveling together with NextTribe creates for its guests.

What is your favorite experience to share with NextTribe groups? 

I love navigating NextTribe groups through action-packed places; that’s the best. I especially like guiding women through the white-water rafting and mountain hikes in Colorado. And interacting with the locals, too. Right out of the gate, the people of Peru make the trip. From the moment you land you know you’re in a very special place.

I love guiding women through the white-water rafting and mountain hikes in Colorado, says Ellesor.

How would you describe your leadership style? 

Confident, fun, joyful, and filled with high energy!

Favorite place to visit and why? 

Anywhere in the mountains or with a sense of adventure, including Colorado and Peru. I love the outdoors and hiking.

What’s your dream travel destination? 

Norway because the scenery just looks amazing. And I would also love to climb Mount Kilimanjaro one day; it’s been on my list for years.  

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

I’m a yoga pants and layers kind of person. Being comfortable counts.

Do you have a favorite souvenir from your travels? 

Artwork that’s quintessential to that location. I brought back some needlepoint pillowcases and other beautiful textiles from Peru last time I went. Not only are they beautiful, but they were made by female textile artists from the area, so by buying them, I’m helping the local economy. 

I love the beautiful textiles I brought back from Peru. They were made by female artisans there, so by buying them, I’m helping the local economy.

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

I always keep all my electronics charged and ready for enjoying.

What’s your trick when people are tired and dragging — favorite kind of break/pick-me-up? 

Snacks, especially sweets!

What’s your favorite thing about leading a group of all women?

Getting to know all about them, their interests, and their travel and life experiences. Having that time to bond and connect with them and see them connect with each other!

How would you describe the “vibe” of a NextTribe trip? 

Relaxed, engaging, and full of joy and authenticity.