Jody Richardson

Kalamazoo, MI

No Place is Too Far....Just Go!!

With over two decades of experience in the travel industry, I’ve been fortunate to explore many of the world’s wonders, from the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel in Italy to the Great Wall of China, My passion lies in creating unforgettable memories for my clients. While I understand the appeal of booking your own travel online, what you miss out on is the expertise and personal touch that I provide. As a Certified Leisure Travel Specialist, I firmly believe that there’s no better way to understand a place than by immersing yourself in its culture and connecting with the locals. In recent years, I have traveled extensively throughout Europe and escorted many small groups. What sets me apart is my commitment to creating and cultivating relationships with my clients and industry leaders. Though I have not had the chance to travel to every corner of the globe yet, I’ve personally organized trips to all seven continents, including the remote and awe-inspiring Antarctica. Just Go!

My Travel Specialties

Ireland Expert

I've gained extensive knowledge and passion for this enchanting country by exploring Ireland’s beauty on three separate occasions. Now it has become my home away from home. As a travel specialist, I draw inspiration from the comforting cuisine and the warmth of its people, who embrace everyone as...
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Hawaii Expert

As a certified Hawaii Expert with Travel Leaders, I’m an expert in curating unforgettable experiences on this mesmerizing volcanic island paradise. It’s incredible that these islands were formed through volcanic activity 40 to 70 million years ago and continue to evolve today.With five personal visits,...
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Group Travel Specialist

As a passionate group travel specialist, my main goal is to relieve the stress of planning your unforgettable adventures. With over 20 years of experience organizing trips to astonishing destinations such as Ireland, the Mediterranean, the Baltics, Mexico, and the Caribbean, I've honed my expertise...
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Europe, Asia, Africa, Hawaii and Group Travel

With over two decades of experience in the travel industry, I’ve been fortunate to explore the world’s wonders, from the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel in Italy to savoring authentic Chinese cuisine and its Great Wall. My passion lies in creating unforgettable memories for my clients, friends, and family....
Read more from my Europe, Asia, Africa, Hawaii and Group Travel bio.

Discovering Pompeii in 2008

Italy Expert

Italy is one of my top-selling European destinations, and I’ve explored it extensively during two visits. My first trip was an educational tour, where I learned the ins and outs of navigating Italy by train. Now, I specialize in crafting customized Italian experiences tailored to your unique preferences....
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My Travel Albums

China

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Just Go!

My first group to Ireland. Saying Farewell.

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Customer Testimonials

Alaska Group Travel

It began with an idea to extend an existing trip to the U.S. Open in Seattle. My husband and I decided to add a cruise to Alaska. We knew that Travel Leaders specialized in cruises. When we walked into the Grand Ledge office we were greeted by Jody Carpenter. We hoped we might have 2 or 3 more couples interested in going, but Jody suggested spreading the word. As it turned out, we had 20 additional family members and close friends that joined us. Pleasing a group of 22 people is no small task. After about a year of planning, many telephone calls and e-mails (as most of our group was not from the Grand Ledge area, and a few even out of state), we set sail for an Inside Passage cruise to Alaska! All of the details, including shore excursions, were handled expertly and efficiently by Jody. Everyone was thrilled with the quick and timely responses to all of our questions and concerns. We all will travel in the future, and will not hesitate to call upon Jody again.

Mary and Bob Keller, Grand Ledge MI

From Florida to Europe

Working with Jody has been an incredible experience, she is truly passionate about what she does. As a travel agent, she goes above and beyond to ensure you have the best vacation. She's very caring and very thorough down to the last detail; whether I am flying to Florida or to Europe. She's the best!

Rita Klopfenstein, Parma MI

My Reviews

31 of 50 people found this review helpful

best trip

jody is a true professional.she is always eager to please and always responds in a timely manner to your questions and concerns.she is easy to talk with and is always willing to share her travel experiences.jody has arranged three trips for us in the past two years and i will continue to contact her with all my travel needs.

By cleve from florence,s.c.
Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends