Today we’d like to introduce you to Vessy Smith.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always believed that travel is one of the most beautiful ways to experience life. It opens your heart, expands your world, and reminds you that wonder still exists everywhere—you just have to know where to look.
My journey to becoming a travel professional wasn’t a straight path, but every chapter along the way has shaped who I am today. I’m originally from Bulgaria, and life eventually brought me to Houston, where I earned my Master’s Degree in Piano Performance from Rice University, which remains one of my proudest accomplishments.
After graduating, I chose to pursue another lifelong interest in helping others and went on to study Nursing. I later worked as a Registered Nurse in the Heart Transplant ICU at Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. It was intense, humbling work that taught me so much about compassion, precision, and resilience.
After several rewarding years in the ICU, I felt drawn back to music, which had always been a meaningful part of my life. My husband and I ran a private piano studio in Sugar Land, where we taught and performed, helping others express themselves through music. Those years were deeply fulfilling, but even while I was fully immersed in nursing and teaching, the burning desire to explore the world never left me.
Answering the Call
When the pandemic arrived in 2020 and the world slowed down, I finally had time to pause and reflect. Like many people, I started asking myself what truly makes me happy, and the answer came easily. I wanted to make travel my life’s work.
I dove headfirst into the industry, completing extensive training and earning multiple professional certifications. I eventually became a Certified Travel Associate (CTA), an ASTA-Verified Travel Advisor (VTA), and a Certified Adventure Specialist. Once the world began reopening, I gained hands-on experience working under a host agency, and in early 2024, I founded my own travel agency here in Sugar Land. I haven’t looked back since.
Being part of the travel industry has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It’s an inspiring community filled with people who share the same values of curiosity, connection, discovery, and diversity. Every trip I design feels like creating a tapestry of moments, emotions, and encounters that my clients will remember forever.
What Inspires Me
While I plan all types of trips, my heart is especially drawn to destinations that are off-the-beaten-path, often overlooked by most travelers. One of my great loves is Africa, a continent that has truly captured my heart and imagination. I travel there several times each year to explore new regions, connect with local guides, attend trade events, and partner with lodges and organizations that prioritize conservation and community.
My deep love for wildlife and nature has made sustainable travel a core part of what I do. I believe every journey should contribute positively to local people, to wildlife protection, and to the preservation of our planet’s extraordinary diversity.
Beyond Africa, I’m inspired by the vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, China, as well as the untouched wilderness of Patagonia, Antarctica, Greenland, and Iceland. I also love crafting meaningful itineraries through Eastern Europe, Greece, and Turkey—regions close to my heart and my heritage. Scandinavia is another favorite, with its blend of raw beauty and refined simplicity.
Why I Love What I Do
Every day, I get to help people see the world in new ways, and that never loses its magic. I think of myself not just as a travel agent, but as a storyteller and curator of experiences. I love the challenge of designing journeys that feel seamless yet full of wonder—luxurious yet deeply meaningful.
Travel allows me to combine everything I’ve ever loved: creativity, empathy, curiosity, and care. In many ways, it feels like all the paths I’ve taken—music, nursing, and teaching—have come together perfectly in this chapter of my life.
Helping People See the World
Houston has been my home for many years, and it’s such a fitting place for a traveler—a city full of culture, diversity, and global energy. I love helping Houstonians and fellow American travelers explore the world with curiosity and confidence.
Every journey I plan feels like a little piece of my own heart sent out into the world. Because in the end, travel isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Honestly, no. Every new chapter in life has its challenges, and starting a travel agency was no exception. There was a lot to learn, everything from understanding the travel industry’s systems and logistics to building relationships with suppliers and figuring out how to stand out as a new agent.
The hardest part was probably the uncertainty at first, especially during the pandemic when the world was unpredictable. But I’ve always believed that challenges are opportunities in disguise. Each obstacle taught me something valuable, whether it was patience, problem-solving, or the importance of truly listening to my clients’ requests.
Looking back, those struggles were essential—they helped me grow into a more confident, knowledgeable, and resourceful travel advisor. Now, when I see a client’s eyes light up at the perfect trip I’ve created for them, it’s a reminder that every challenge along the way was worth it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Vessy Travel LLC?
Vessy Travel is a boutique travel agency based in Sugar Land, and we love helping people plan trips that are truly their own—whether it’s a honeymoon, a family adventure, a group getaway, or a solo journey. Our focus is on creating meaningful, luxury adventures while supporting wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism around the world. We take pride in getting to know our clients, understanding what excites them, and crafting journeys they’ll remember forever.
What’s next?
One of the things I’m most excited about is leading small-group trips to some of my favorite destinations, in collaboration with my trusted local partners. Our first adventure will be an adult-only journey to South Africa in September–October 2026, and I would love for readers to reach out and join us. Experiencing a destination together with like-minded travelers is a truly special way to see the world, create lasting memories, and make lifelong friendships.
I’m also looking to grow Vessy Travel by bringing on skilled advisors, each with their own unique specialties. Every advisor contributes their own perspective and knowledge, adding depth and dimension to our services. That’s why having a team with diverse specialties is so important—it allows us to craft experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vessytravel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vessytravel/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vessytravel/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vesselasmith/
