By SAVANNAH BARR

s.barr@bradfordera.com

They say to travel is to take a journey into yourself. Getting out in the world and experiencing new sights, foods, customs and cultures helps people appreciate the beauty of life.

Angela Shipman, of Adventures with Angela, has turned her wanderlust into a thriving business, Adventures with Angela. Shipman leads group tours to destinations both domestic and international.

She first discovered the beauty and excitement of travel as a student at Bradford Area High School. She won the American Field Service Scholarship, which allowed her to travel abroad.

‘At the time, AFS allowed applicants to select their preferred destination, and without hesitation, I chose Australia,’

said Shipman. The exciting opportunity both thrilled and terrified Shipman, who had never flown commercially before. She and 50 other students traveled to Sydney.

What started as nervous anticipation quickly turned into a deep passion for travel,’ said Shipman. ‘There was something magical about standing in a new place and thinking ‘I’m in another country.” After graduation, Shipman attended the American Airlines Travel Academy in Dallas, Texas. Later, she pursued a bachelor’s degree in human resources from the University of Pittsburgh while working in tourism. Throughout her career in the industry, she has worked for multiple airlines, travel agencies and

Horizon… page A-8

Angela Shipman of Adventures.

Photo provided motorcoach companies. Ultimately, it led her to a passion for leading group travel, prompting her to open her own business.

Throughout her years guiding tours, Shipman has had many memorable experiences.

“In group travel, one of my greatest joys is introducing people to new places and witnessing their first time experiences,” said Shipman. “Whether it’s seeing the excitement in someone’s eyes as they step into Times Square for the first time or hearing their thoughts after a Broadway show, those moments are what make travel so special to me.”

During one memorable trip, she guided a solo traveller who was deaf.

“Through my trips, he gained the confidence to not only explore NYC and Washington, DC, but also to embark on international travel on his own,” said Shipman. “Seeing how travel can empower and inspire someone in such a profound way is one of the greatest rewards of what I do.”

Of all the places she has traveled, Shipman was most awe-inspired by Venice.

“There’s truly nothing like walking down a street only to find it ends in water — it’s a surreal and breathtaking experience,” said Shipman.

Her career in the tourism industry has evolved from a combination of education, hands-on experience and a deep passion for travel.

“Looking back, every step along the way has built upon the last, shaping my expertise and reinforcing my passion for making travel accessible, exciting and seamless for others,” said Shipman.

She works a fulltime job, but this is her passion project. It has ebbed and flowed throughout the years, and took a seemingly inevitable blow during the covid pandemic.

“Before covid, motorcoach and group tours were much more active in our area and I had a strong following of travelers,” said Shipman. “The industry slowed down, but many people have asked me to bring it back — so here I am, working to spread the word again!”

Shipman is always on the lookout to find adventures that are both exciting and economical.

“I look for a price point that I would be comfortable playing,” said Shipman. “It’s all about creating high-quality travel opportunities that people can truly enjoy without breaking the bank.”

Some travelers are interested in single-day journeys, while others crave a multi-day or international experience. Each trip is as unique as the travelers embarking upon it. “The goal is to provide a mix of tried-andtrue favorites alongside new, eye-catching ventures that spark excitement and curiosity,” said Shipman. When traveling by motorcoach, Shipman works closely with Niagara Scenic Tours.

“Their fleet is clean and modern and the drivers are professional, experienced and safety-focused,” said Shipman.

Her close ties even allow her to request drivers with whom she has previously traveled.

Punctuality is important, but Shipman strives to create a schedule that will still allow time for a relaxed experience. She is careful to select only the most tried and true vendors and attractions, ensuring that guests have an experience that makes them want more.

“The goal is to make everyone feel welcome and included,” Shipman says.

She loves to get to know others and engage with guests on a deeper level. Creating an enriching opportunity often involves tuning into what the group is enjoying the most at the moment and allowing for some spontaneity such as a photo opportunity.

“Especially on multiday tours, something special happens — we start out as strangers but often end up like a little travel family by the end,” said Shipman.

Adventures with Angela is still a relatively new venture, but one that has Shipman’s whole heart. She has two international tours in her lineup, to Rome and Amalfi Coast, this November. There are still a few spots available.

For anyone on the fence about group travel, Shipman has a few words of encouragement.

“Stop putting it off,” she said. “If travel is something you’ve been dreaming about, take the leap.”

Group travel in particular is a great option for people who may be new to traveling and want to enjoy the world in a secure, welcoming environment.

Finally, she wants to encourage others to keep an open mind, even if an experience is a bit out of their comfort zone.

“I always encourage travelers to embrace differences, stay open-minded and soak in the culture of the places they visit,” said Shipman. “Travel has a way of expanding not just your horizons, but your heart.”

Those who are interested in booking a tour with Shipman can do so on the Adventure with Angela Facebook page. There, she posts updates, trip announcements, behind-thescenes content and interacts regularly with members. For direct inquiries email adventurewithangela2024@ gmail.com.