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  • A Long Way From Home: The Moment That Changed How I Travel

    In 2003, I flew from Canada to Gothenburg, Sweden—excited, curious, and completely unaware that this trip would change the way I travel forever.

    From Gothenburg, I took a train to Linköping. It was a six-hour journey with a transfer in Malmö. I was barely awake, exhausted, and almost missed my stop. When I stepped off the train, I was disoriented, standing in one to two feet of snow, unsure of where I was or where to go next. I had to cross to the other side of the tracks to catch the next train, and moments after I crossed, it arrived.

    By the time I reached Linköping, it was dark.

    I remember standing there thinking, “Now what?”

    This was 2003—no smartphone, no Google Maps, no instant translation. The dial-up phone at the station was entirely in Swedish. I had an address and a phone number for where I was staying, so I took a taxi and showed the driver the address. When I arrived, there was no buzzer with the person’s name on it. I stood there, alone, cold, and anxious, unsure of what to do next.

    Then, by pure luck, a woman walked by with her dog. She spoke English. She helped me call my sister, who lived in the building. That moment—simple as it was—felt like relief washing over me. I was safe, but my anxiety had reached its peak.

    That trip made something very clear to me: I didn’t want to travel alone.

    I grew up in a big family, always surrounded by siblings. Being together was my normal. And in that snowy Swedish train station, so far from home, I realized how much connection matters—especially when things don’t go as planned.

    That’s why, for the last decade, I’ve chosen group travel. And eventually, that’s why I created my own travel groups.

    Today, I design trips where no one has to ask, “Now what?” You’re supported, guided, and surrounded by people who quickly feel like friends. You share experiences, laughter, and moments that become memories—together.

    Travel is better when it’s shared.
    And no one should have to feel alone, a long way from home.

  • I believe every destination has a story to tell if you take the time to listen. Whether it's the stillness of the Sahara, the energy of a bustling medina, or the calm waters of False Creek, I guide travelers to not just see a place, but truly feel it. My trips always balance adventure, relaxation, and meaningful connection.

    • Hosted 60+ travelers on international group trips, including Mexico, Morocco, and the Dominican Republic

    • Organized unique experiences: themed evenings, catamaran excursions, horseback riding, hikes, and more

    • Welcoming travelers from multiple countries including Canada, the U.S., Germany, and Norway

    • Skilled at creating stress-free itineraries that allow guests to enjoy every moment

    • Large group trips (7–10+ nights) with curated activities and excursions

    • Weekend getaways and day trips for smaller groups, designed for fun, relaxation, and exploration

    • Personalized guidance and support before, during, and after your journey.

  • Whether you’re joining a big group adventure or a short getaway, I make sure every experience is seamless, unforgettable, and full of connection. Explore upcoming trips or reach out to start your next adventure!

I’m Vivian Hutchison, a passionate travel advisor and group trip host with years of experience bringing people together to explore the world. From tropical beaches to mountain adventures and cultural escapes, I design experiences that balance adventure, relaxation, and meaningful connections.

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