While this might sound like an unusual headline, it’s completely true. I am a Canadian, middle-aged mother who has spent decades pursuing various careers while living abroad, primarily in Europe and Asia. About 10 years ago, my family relocated to the Washington, D.C. area. During this time, I frequently traveled to Canada, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, to serve as the essential caregiver for my mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s. While in the U.S., I volunteered at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in the Ocean Hall.
I was fortunate to have an incredible neighbor, Cindy, who often captivated me with fascinating stories about her career as a Tour Director. After my mother’s passing, I found myself with the freedom to explore a new career path. I approached Cindy and asked, “How can I get a job like yours?” She immediately directed me to the International Tour Management Institute (ITMI). After interviewing with ITMI’s staff, I decided to take the leap and pursue certification as a Tour Director.
As part of the coursework, we were encouraged to define our career aspirations and dream job. For me, this was an easy choice—I dreamed of leading a tour in Antarctica, a place my mother had visited and cherished five times during her life. While it felt like a distant possibility, I held onto the hope that one day, I might achieve this goal.
Upon graduating, one of my ITMI instructors, Lori, introduced me to a tour operator who hired me immediately. My first assignments were leading tours for Collette in the Canadian and U.S. Rockies, followed by tours in New Zealand. Witnessing travelers’ awe as they took in the stunning mountain landscapes was truly magical. My ITMI training proved invaluable, especially when managing unexpected challenges such as wildfire evacuations, train strikes, typhoons, earthquakes, medical emergencies, and difficult guests.
I was also fortunate to be mentored at Collette by another ITMI graduate, Julie, which reinforced the collaborative spirit of this industry. I quickly discovered that even Tour Directors I had never met were willing to lend a helping hand in times of need.
As fate would have it, Cindy later began working for a French luxury cruise line, Ponant, leading tours for Smithsonian Journeys. She introduced me to their management team, and by sheer luck, they were seeking a Tour Director for several itineraries—including one to Antarctica. I was thrilled to be offered the opportunity, and I can confidently say that Antarctica exceeded all my expectations—it was truly magical.
Since then, my career has taken me to places I could never have imagined. I’ve led the American Horticultural Society on tours through Japan, exploring the country’s exquisite gardens, guided culinary enthusiasts across Italy to experience its remarkable cuisine, and accompanied international guests through the Panama Canal, Iceland’s rugged shores, and the St. Lawrence Seaway. Along the way, I’ve met extraordinary individuals within this industry, but it all traces back to one pivotal moment: joining ITMI.
