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At Heart of Travel, we're not just another travel agency.

We're a community-driven, female-powered business on a mission to redefine the way you experience the world. Our name says it all – we're all about traveling with intention and impact. With a deep-rooted passion for travel, history, culture, and adventure, we're here to take you on a journey that's not just about seeing new places, but about creating meaningful connections, fostering positive change, and exploring the heart of every destination we visit.

Why Choose Heart of Travel

At Heart of Travel, we redefine the way you experience the world. We're not just a travel agency; we're your bridge to authenticity and human connection. Our journeys are built on values that elevate travel into an immersive, transformative experience. When you choose us, you're choosing to go beyond the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

Our commitment to meaningful connections sets us apart. We believe that travel is about more than visiting landmarks; it's about engaging with people and cultures in a profound way. By joining us, you become part of a vibrant community that spans borders, and you'll find yourself forming bonds that last far beyond your journey. Every itinerary is carefully curated to provide you with diverse experiences, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation in perfect harmony.

By traveling with Heart of Travel, you're not just a tourist; you're a responsible traveler. We prioritize the well-being of local communities, supporting small businesses and initiatives that make a positive impact. Our tours are led by knowledgeable locals who share their insider perspectives, taking you beyond the tourist façade and revealing the heart of each destination. Whether you're a solo explorer, a family, or a group of friends, our inclusive and diverse community welcomes you to embark on a journey of discovery and growth. Travel with us and rediscover the world through a new lens—one that fosters connections, celebrates cultures, and leaves footprints of positive change.

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Our Story:
A Journey of Connection and Inspiration

The story of Heart of Travel begins with two kindred spirits, Chelsea Glass and Ana "Chiva" Castillo, brought together by a shared love for Latin America and a deep-rooted desire to redefine the travel experience. Chelsea's voyage commenced with a solo trip to Guatemala at 19, an adventure that transformed into three years of cultural immersion, language acquisition, and an unbreakable bond with the region.

Having lived and worked as a tour guide and language teacher in Guatemala, Chelsea returned home with a newfound mission. She envisioned a travel agency that would bridge cultures, empower local communities, and provide travelers with authentic, life-enriching experiences. This vision became the foundation of Heart of Travel.

Ana's journey was equally instrumental. Hailing from Guatemala, Ana's fluency in both English and Spanish led her to teach ESL abroad. Meeting Chelsea in Guatemala in 2011 sparked a profound connection, solidifying their friendship and shared passion for cultural exchange. By 2015, Ana was collaborating on freelance guiding projects, further deepening their commitment to creating meaningful travel experiences.

In 2017, Chelsea and Ana officially joined forces to bring Heart of Travel to life. Tragedy struck that same year when Carlos, a mentor and dear friend, lost his life in a motorcycle accident. Carlos, founder of Guinness Travel, was instrumental in shaping Heart of Travel's ethos. His unyielding belief in Chelsea and Ana's vision inspired them to create a travel agency that transcended traditional tourism.

Today, Carlos's legacy lives on in Heart of Travel's mission. We're not just a travel agency; we're a community-driven movement that aims to dismantle misconceptions, amplify local voices, and champion responsible tourism. Our journey is fueled by the desire to create connections that bridge cultures, challenge norms, and leave a positive impact. Join us as we continue to pave the way for transformative travel experiences that enrich lives, empower communities, and celebrate the beauty of Latin America.

Our Stories
The 12 Tenets of Heart of Travel

At Heart of Travel, our company has been built on strong morals and dreams to create a better world. Our beliefs are what drive us to do better each day, invest in humans, and continue to believe that travel can truly change the way we live our life. So, what is Heart of Travel all about? Here are our core beliefs.

How to Ethically Travel to Día de Muertos - Oaxaca, Mexico

As one of our favorite traditions in Latin America rapidly approaches, we wanted to dive into a beautiful post written by our founder, Chelsea Glass, from a few years back. While Día de Muertos has become a wildly popular attraction to come and see in Oaxaca we think it's of utmost importance that we try to understand the rich significance this holiday holds and if we're lucky enough to visit, to do so with respect.

Meet the Team
Chelsea Glass

Captured in Viñales, Cuba

Ana "Chiva" Castillo

Captured in Acatenango, Guatemala

Allie Jorde

Captured in Oaxaca, México

Eimy Calderón

Captured in Pacaya, Guatemala

Gabriela Sapón

Captured in Paracas, Perú

Jocelyn Moulden

Captured in Machu Picchu, Perú

Gabriela Reyes

Captured in Teotihuacán, México

Laura Castillo

Captured in Izabal, Guatemala

Mafer Girón

Captured in Valladolid, México

Alejandra Parada

Captured in Tikal, Guatemala

Pau Parra

Captured in Ciudad de Mexico

Paloma Clarida Perez R.
Yeni Betancourt

Captured in Holguín, Cuba