Glenn Abbott

About Me

Hi, I’m Glenn Abbott. I retired from teaching World History for over 30 years at Seneca High School in Oconee County in 2006.

I have always had a passion for travel. In 1986 I started organizing trips for my students to New York City. It was amazing to see them experience the wonder of a big city for the first time. Highlights included The World Trade Center, a Broadway Play, the Statue of Liberty, guided tours from SoHo to Central Park as well as Art and History museums.

For many students, experiencing a Broadway play was the highlight of the trip. I used a local tour company and after a couple of trips they allowed me to manage my own trips. After 9/11, they quit doing student tours, and I began using Good News Travels. They allowed me to continue managing my trips.

When I got ready to retire John Tribble asked me if I would be interested in managing tours for GNT. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity. This job has allowed me the opportunity to share experiences with other teachers and students. 

Best Trip 

I never tire of going to New York City. It is the one destination that everyone should experience. Washington DC is also a favorite destination. I have also managed some adult groups on a Circle Tour of Michigan, the Colorado Trains Tour, and a tour to San Antonio. Other student destinations have included Chicago, Chattanooga, and Charleston, SC. Each tour is unique. I enjoy the challenges of the expected and the unexpected. I have always viewed travel as an adventure and an experience not to be missed. 

Travel Musts 

I cannot travel without my cell phone, my tour manager notebook (when managing trips), a comfortable pair of shoes, and rain gear.

Jimmy Johnson

About Me

Hello, I’m Jimmy Johnson from Rock Hill, SC, and hopefully we’ll be traveling together somewhere soon. I come to GNT as someone who absolutely loves to travel with others that love to travel! 

Best Trip 

As a young US history teacher, I took a group of 30 teenagers on a YMCA sponsored travel camp from Rock Hill to Los Angeles for the 1984 Summer Olympics and back camping all along the way. Yes that’s right, camping. But, we made it. What I do still remember about that trip is the facial expressions when we first looked down into Yosemite Valley, when they dashed out on Santa Monica beach for their first taste of the Pacific Ocean (a little colder than they thought!), and the sights and sounds of the parade of nations into the LA Coliseum. I was hooked for life! I “dragged” my wife and 2 sons all across the country to every national and state park we could find for years to come! 

Over the years, I have been a dad (to 2 sons, Tripp and Lane), a grandad (to Hadley, Hunter, and Henry), a husband (to Julie), a history and English teacher, a coach, a middle and high school principal, assistant superintendent of schools, educational consultant, and chief operating officer of a regional YMCA. But quite possibly one of my most enjoyable over the last 9 years has been leading a travel group in Rock Hill called the Silver Fox Club sponsored by the YMCA. We have traveled to China, to the Canadian Rockies, to Alaska, to British Isles, to Spain and Portugal, but also to “out of the way” places like Shatley Springs, near West Jefferson, NC, and Korner’s Folly in Kernersville, NC. 

I can say without reservation that it is the “experience” of actually being somewhere that you have always imagined being that makes travel magical. It’s the anticipation of looking over Bright Angel trail down into the Grand Canyon for the first time, or seeing the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park that makes it all worthwhile. It’s ALL good. I take great pleasure in making the experience for those traveling with me to be interesting, engaging, and as enjoyable as it could possibly be. It goes without saying that when we travel together, share new experiences and discover new places, we become a family or sorts. I want to get to know you and all those traveling with us in a way that makes these discoveries just more meaningful because you are with friends. 

Why GNT?

A good tour manager should have your travel experience organized, coordinated, and orchestrated in such a way that each traveler simply has little to be concerned about at all (other than having a great time and maybe what to eat for dinner!) It’s my job to make sure that your experience is a delightful one. Finally, being a teacher at heart, I love a good story. I think that a well told story always helps make new experiences more meaningful (if it’s a good one!) 

Travel Musts

Finally, take with you a sense of adventure. Trying or doing or seeing something new or maybe just differently. Sure you need a toothbrush, cell phone, umbrella, and a change of clothes, but don’t forget to be prepared for something new and different, maybe even to be amazed. I hope that you will consider joining me as experience new lands, peoples, and cultures, some far away and some in our own back yard!

Linda Eskew

About Me

Hi, I’m Linda Eskew. I have lived in Powdersville for 11 years. I grew up in Greenville. I've been married to my husband, Ron, for 37 years, and we have two married children.  We are expecting our first grandchild in November. In 26 years, our family has moved 14 times.  My husband was in the military. We were able to see much of the country, and over the years, I fell in love with travel. When I became an empty nester, I thought becoming a Tour Manager sounded adventurous, so I pursued it.

Best Trip

I've enjoyed all my trips. During my trip to The National Flight Academy in Pensacola, FL, we experienced immersive learning adventures aboard the world's largest simulated aircraft carrier.  We lived in a multi-story 102,000 square foot facility filled with flight simulators, and virtual reality games.  We all were given a mission with squadrons and competed to successfully finish the task.  Each team had to practice critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication to get through their mission.  This experience opened my eyes to a whole new world.

Why GNT?

I love meeting new people. I've always thought of strangers as friends you simply haven't met yet.  I love to see new places and experience new things. By far, the relationships made along the way are my favorite. 

Travel Musts

Every trip, I take my umbrella, phone charger and extra battery, reading glasses, pillow, and blanket.

Connie Merritt

About Me

Hi – I’m Connie Merritt from Easley, SC and I have the privilege of accompanying your group as we begin our travel together. 

Because I live in Easley (really known as Powdersville) you may wonder if I am a Clemson Tiger Fan - that answer would be YES. After retiring from USPS, I desired a fun part-time job with travel. I am grateful for 12 years with GNT and many new friends. I have two sons – Rob & Michelle, and Brent & Mandy. They have blessed me with four wonderful grandchildren, Ansley, Seth, Presley & Foster. It is such a blessing to be a grandmother. 

Best Trip 

Every trip is great, but my favorite place would be the National Parks. It is nice to get away from busy schedules where there is no cell service. I love just experiencing the real beauty of God’s creation with a float down Snake River in the Teton Mountains or taking a Jammer ride in Glacier Park. 

Why GNT? 

At GNT, we do it your way! We work to make your travel a true adventure on every trip. Licensed guides will meet you at many destinations to provide you with history, culture, tours, and hands-on experiences. 

My job involves developing a relationship with each of you that will give you lasting memories, the feeling of security, confidence, and excitement knowing that I will responsibly handle your arrangements. I will confirm reservations, handle finances, and work with your driver to get us to each destination safely and on time. I will provide you with as much information and fun as possible as we travel. 

Travel Musts 

Before each trip, I say a prayer for safe travels. I make sure that I have a positive attitude and patience, my camera, notebook, phone, snacks, bug spray, sunscreen, glasses, and a blanket for naps. This all makes for happy travel! 

Melissa Hood

About Me

Hi, I’m Melissa Hood. I live in Powdersville, SC with my husband of 25 years and my two children. My son is currently at Clemson University, and my daughter goes to Anderson University. I have a Bachelor of Science degree from Lander University. I taught elementary school for six years before deciding to stay home with my children. When they got older, I went back to work as a ministry assistant at Mount Moriah Baptist Church, where I’ve served for twelve years.

My husband and I chose to take our children on adventurous vacations beginning when they were very young. As a family, we’ve been to over 25 states and Canada. I enjoy travel because it allows me to explore all of God’s wonderful creation and meet new and interesting people. My desire to share this love with other people led me to Good News Travels! 

Best Trip 

I’ve been to Atlanta many times in my life, but seeing it through the eyes of middle schoolers travelling there for the first time was truly touching. After a backstage tour at the original Chick-fil-a, hearing one of the students exclaim “Best field trip ever!” was one of the highlights of my job. 

Why GNT?

My job, as your Tour Manager, is to ensure that your trip goes smoothly. You need not worry about all the little details, as I will handle money, reservations, restaurants, busses, and hotels. Just sit back and relax, and allow me to make your trip a memorable experience. Although these are my duties, they allow me to get to know new people and form new friendships, which is ultimately the most rewarding part of my job. 

Travel Musts 

I can’t go on a trip without my cell phone and charger, my Tour Manager Notebook, a sturdy backpack, a friendly smile, and a good attitude! 

Donita Wagner

About Me

Hi, I’m Donita Wagner.  I live in Pendleton, South Carolina.  I have a BA Degree in Speech and Communications for Illinois State University which has served me well over the years in my professional careers.  Currently I work in Development at Clemson University and looking forward to retirement very soon.

My daughter Stacey, her husband Tim, and my two amazing grandsons, Caden and Colton live in Powdersville.  The boys love to travel as Stacey inherited my “travel gene”! There is no better education than traveling.

My Travel Experiences 

For eighteen years I had my own travel agency in Clemson, South Carolina - Holiday Travel.  It was and continues to be my first love, not only for the travel advantages it afforded me and my staff, but most importantly it was the opportunity to get to know my customers on a personal level – many of whom  still stay in touch today.  I personally focused on the customized group travel – for students, adults, and university exchanges – taking the “idea” of a group leader from its beginning through its completion and enjoying being the tour guide on all of them.  Interesting note:  I knew about Good News Travels during my travel agency days  and now I am part of this great organization!

Why GNT?

My daughter, Stacey Kreger introduced me to Skip Anders as her son and Skip’s daughter are in the same grade at Powdersville Middle School. Through conversations with Skip and John, I was asked to come and learn about the company during a three day training in January of this year.  It was truly a great experience and here I am anxious to get started.

Favorite Destination

I have experienced so many favorite travel destinations, but domestic and internationally – that it is hard to choose a favorite.  Looking forward to the new destinations wherever the journey leads.

Al Brown

About Me

Hi, my name is Al Brown and I grew up in Hartsville, SC. I got my undergraduate degree from Clemson University and my MBA from the University of South Carolina. Yes, I am still a Clemson fan! I worked fulltime in the IT field for 35 years and am now “semi-retired” from that profession. I still do some consulting work in the IT field but became interested in being a Good News Travels Tour Manager by my friends Ralph and Mark K Bryan who are Good News Travels Tour Managers.

We had talked for about a year when I finally decided to check out Good News and it has been a great adventure. This being my first year as a tour manager I have managed a limited number of trips but I have enjoyed each trip. 

Best Trip 

I have especially enjoyed my trips with Good News to Washington, DC. Seeing kids (and many adults) experience our nation’s capital for the first time is so exciting. I have always said that Washington, DC is at the top of the list of places that all Americans should visit. I have been fortunate to have travelled many places both for my work in IT and for pleasure. For those of us that have visited many parts of the US and the world we sometimes forget that many people have not had the opportunity to see so much that this world has to offer. I have always felt that travel enriches one’s life in ways that are hard to fully describe. Seeing places firsthand that one has only read about is an eye opening and memorable experience. I was first bitten by the travel bug when my parents took our family to the World’s Fair in New York City in 1964. I still have great memories of that trip. Travel gives one memories that last their entire lifetime. 

Why GNT? 

A good tour manager is a “people person”. One of the best parts of being a Good News Travels Manager is meeting the people on the trip. I’ve always liked meeting new people and learning of their life stories. Being a Good News tour manager affords an opportunity to meet a wide variety of people. It’s great! Being a tour manager has made me realize that many people want to travel and see places but they are somewhat intimidated to the work involved to make it happen. Let’s face it, a good trip requires the four functions of business management – planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Good News staff along with the Good News tour manager perform these functions for the traveler so they don’t have to. Having planned many trips on my own, and having done all of the work to make the trip go smoothly, I now appreciate that people can go on a Good News trip and leave the worrying about the details to Good News and the Good News tour manager. 

Travel Musts 

Travel musts for me are a backpack to keep all of my “stuff” handy. My backpack will always contain my iPad, sunglasses, reading glasses, disinfecting wipes, multiple pens and markers, some snacks, and last but not least, maps! Yes, I still like having maps and I always have old fashioned maps to see where we are going.

Jennifer Norman 

About Me

Hi, I'm Jennifer Norman. wife to Bill Norman, mom to three college age girls (Margaret 22, Sarah Alice 20 & Isabelle 18) I'm a pet mom to Mooney & Night Train two active Gordon Setters,  Goldie, a wild cat & Fredward a 11 year old goldfish my girls won at a fair. I've worked in the tourism industry since 2003 as a destination marketer.  I grew up in Atlanta and have lived in Anderson, SC for 8 years. I have always had a huge passion for travel and my friends tease me that my middle name is GO. I love being a tour manager for GNT because you meet the most interesting people doing the thing that I love most: EXPLORING! 

Best Trip

Every trip that I go on is my best trip. I'm just as excited for a one night getaway as I am for two weeks in Europe. I believe there is something to be learned by traveling. One of my favorite quotes is by Rick Steves of PBS fame. “Travel is rich with learning opportunities, and the ultimate souvenir is a broader perspective.” 

Why GNT?

At GNT, we take your business very seriously. From our high level of personalization to our attention to detail, we treat every trip like our child or mother was traveling with the group. You won't find another organization that is as committed to providing an amazing experience. Our groups become like family! 

Travel Musts

Organization is the travel must. I always make sure I have all my paperwork,
a phone charger, comfy shoes, my favorite scarf that I got in Rome in 2001
and a great attitude. 

Vivian Anders

About Me

My Travel Experiences 

Why GNT?

Travel Musts 

Sandra Woodham

About Me

Hello, my name is Sandra Shaw Woodham. I am a tour manager with Good News Travel of over 10 years. I am married and have two children. 

I am a retired school teacher in the public school systems and private. My last teaching assignment was at New Heights School in Columbia, South Carolina. 

I have always enjoyed traveling. Some of my fondest childhood memories involved family trips in the summer.

We packed a basket of food and cold drinks and took to the open road. We visited family and friends over the United States in our trusty old Ford. 

During my teenage years, I had the opportunity to travel alone on the bus or train. The passing scenes from the windows helped me to discover the diversity of our nation and its people. As an adult, I picked up the mantle from my parents and took my children on trips to see the United States, small towns, big cities, and open meadows. 

The travel bug affected my teaching career. I wanted my students to know there was much to learn outside the walls of the classroom. My last field trip with my students was to 

Williamsburg, Virginia. The parents voted to travel with Good News. Their brochure and initial contacts with the company made it an easy decision. Every detail was handled with precision. We only had to raise the money for the trip and pack our bags. 

On the morning of our departure a large coach arrived at our school. I met the driver and our tour manager for the first time. Our trip was a grand success. Everyone had only praise for Good News. 

Due to this trip, and at the suggestion of our tour manager, I decided that Good News would be an excellent choice for a second career. I took the training and apprenticed under a seasoned tour manager. I was totally hooked. 

Best Trip

As a tour manager, I am afforded the opportunity to interact with students and adults. I enjoy meeting and talking to each group. They often call me Miss Sandy. I never turn down a hug and warm words of appreciation. I love to sing and sometimes share music when appropriate. I can catch up with the latest education strategies and expectations from teachers. I once had a student who was afraid to take a ferry. I spent a bit of time with them and explained what a neat experience it would be. Afterwards, I received thanks and bubbling words of excitement. 

I took an adult group to Canada. Most had never been outside the United States. They were amazed at the similarities and differences. I wish more people would catch the travel bug and discover for themselves the wealth of cultures, environments, and traditions that can only be captured through experiences. 

Travel Musts 

I now understand what “less is more” is all about. When traveling, I pack comfortable shoes and clothing, raingear, camera, and a good dose of patience and humor. 

I really enjoy doing something that broadens my horizons. Every trip is a pleasure with unique challenges. I relish being flexible and being the problem solver. What a fabulous job!!! I help make people happy and relaxed.

Beverly McGee

About Me

Hello, I am Beverly McGee. I grew up in Greenville County and now live in Starr, SC (Anderson County). I attended Campbell College (University) in NC and graduated from Erskine College with a BA degree in Elementary Education. My teaching career was in Anderson County District 3, having taught at Iva Elementary and Starr-Iva Middle Schools. I am a member of Starr Baptist Church. 

Kenneth McGee, my husband, and I live on a farm that has been in his family for well over a hundred years. We have beef, cattle, and poultry. Our sons and grandsons are an important part of the operation of our farm. 

I have always liked to travel. My first recollection was going to Florida with my parents and sister and cooking breakfast on the side of the highway. I was hooked on traveling from then on! 

Best Trip 

When I saw that Good News Travels was having a Tour Manager Training in January, 2012, I signed up right away. By March, I was on my first trip to Washington, DC as a trainee. I may have been to the same destinations, but no trips have been exactly alike. We customize the trips according to your wishes, as well as your curriculum. 

Since I was in the school business, I still enjoy being with the students. My role has changed, but it is a pleasure seeing the students, teachers, and chaperones having a good time and slipping in some learning at the same time! 

Why GNT?

I have enjoyed the last 5 years with the company, and I am glad to be a part of the Good News Travels Team. I am looking forward to meeting and serving you on our trip to make wonderful memories!

Travel Musts 

Important items for me to have on a trip are two pairs of sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, a jacket/rain jacket, and, most importantly, knowledge and familiarity of our destination, attractions, and venues. 

JR & Libby Thomas

About Us

Hi, we’re JR & Libby. We have lived in the Greenville, South Carolina area since 1994. JR grew up in South Georgia, while Libby was raised in North Eastern Ohio. We met in Atlanta in 1974 and the rest is history! We are parents and in laws to Carrie & Lance, Ben, Katie & Greg, and Pop and Nana to Chandler and Emma. JR is retired after 38 years with General Motors. We enjoy walking, gardening, reading, serving at our church, and spending time with family & friends. 

Our Travel Experiences 

Libby was raised in a family of avid travelers and from an early age had the opportunity to explore the US. When we married, she brought that love of travel to our family. Believing it was important to expose our children to the world outside their hometown, we hit the road early on. We visited beaches, out-of-state family, and the areas around them. As the kids grew we went farther afield, including a 3 week, 6800 mile loop around the western US, plus mission trips to New York, Massachusetts, Illinois, as well as Nicaragua and Venezuela. As empty nesters we've had the privilege of traveling to Alaska and Europe, and there's still LOTS more we want to see! We believe travel is both a wonderful and effective tool for broadening our horizons, deepening our understanding of our world and of ourselves as we encounter new people and places. 

Why GNT?

We met the owners of Good News Travels in 2008, but it was actually our son-in-law who suggested to them, and to us, that tour managing might be a good fit for us. We started in the spring of 2011 and have never looked back. We enjoy traveling and serving as a couple, finding our marriage to be a good platform for managing the details of our trips and caring for our customers. Each destination has its own charm, but one of our favorites was a trip to Amish country because of the historical, cultural, and tasty experiences it included! We love being a part of our groups as they experience different destinations and make their own travel memories. Helping them make those memories by managing the details of the trip gives us great satisfaction! 

Travel Musts 

Our first "must" is each other, and after that our phones, our Tour Manager notebook, comfortable shoes, umbrellas, hats, and jackets. Add to that a spirit of adventure and an attitude of flexibility, and we're good to go!

 Norma & Earl Switzer

About Us

Hi!  We are Earl and Norma Switzer, and we are excited about meeting you and helping you experience the trip of your dreams!  We work as a team to provide a wide range of organizational and communication skills.  Earl is a retired Federal Agent, and Norma retired from a career in Real Estate.  Norma grew up in upstate South Carolina and met Earl when his first assignment brought him to Greenville.  We now live in Anderson, SC on Lake Hartwell where we enjoy boating and glorious sunsets across the lake.  Having lived in six different states, we have traveled to many exciting destinations.  Our son, Curtis and his wife Ellie, live in London, England.  Our daughter and son-in-law, Jenna and Tim, live in Woodstock, GA with our adorable grands, Stella Rose and Callahan.  Our son was a fighter pilot with the USAF and an exchange pilot with the Royal Air Force.  Since he was stationed in many different states and countries, we have had so many opportunities to visit him and pursue our passion for travel.  We hope to be able to share our experiences and passion for travel with you! 

Best Trip

We are new to Good News Travels as Tour Managers.  A training trip to Nashville was the highlight of Fall while providing great leadership training and the opportunity to learn skills that will be invaluable for future trips.  We have traveled to many locations throughout the US and to a number of countries throughout the world.  Every trip is exciting and different with great opportunities to learn more about our beautiful world.  We look forward to many trips in the future with GNT and for the opportunity to help make your trips exciting and memorable!

Why GNT?

Having known the owner for more than 40 years, we know that GNT was started with a passion for travel and love for serving people, and it quickly became a trusted name in the travel industry.  We were excited to join the GNT because we know that the leadership is one of the best in the buisness.  We love that each trip can be custom designed to meet each and every need and provide the opportunity for an unforgettable travel experience.

Travel Musts

A positive attitude is a must for every trip!  Comfortable shoes, phone and phone charger, sunglasses, and a lightweight jacket for those unexpected changes in weather are essentials.  

Joey Espinosa 

About Me

Hi, I'm Joey Espinosa. I am a former chemist, and have been working in the world of non-profits since 2007, including my current job of being one of the pastors at Grace Church (Greenville, SC). I enjoy traveling and am thankful for my role as a Tour Manager, giving me at outlet from the normal "grind." My favorite parts of working with travel groups are making sure the trips are enjoyable, smooth, and purposeful. 

Best Trip

I love taking groups to Chattanooga. Every time I go, I'm surprised by how many fun things there are to do in this quaint part of Tennessee. I've also spent a lot of time in Savannah, on both personal and work trips. As long as it's not too hot or storming, that's always a great place to visit!

Why GNT?

I'm relatively new to Good News Travels, but I love how this team feels like family. We all support and cheer for each other. Every team member, from point-of-sale to tour management, has the opportunity to let their light shine and bless others. 

Travel Musts

I'm a pretty simple traveler. Just give me a cell phone, map, tour management notebook (when I'm working), a good pair of shoes, and a visor, and I'm good to go!

Jane Trexler

About Me

HI!  I’m Jane Trexler from Greenville, South Carolina, and and I am your future GNT Tour Manager for an adventure that awaits!  We will explore the world and experience travel like never before!

I live in Greenville, South Carolina with my husband Mark Trexler and two English Springer Spaniels: Colby and Bruster.  I was a Branch Manager for First Union Bank before I retired to start a family.  I am the mother to Haley and Whitney, along with a son-in-law- Harry.  Whether it was a day trip to a pumpkin patch or a school trip to Italy, I was always the first in line to sign up,   When I became an empty nester, I looked for other opportunities to learn about new places.  Upon leaving a tennis luncheon the fall of 2013, I expressed my desire to travel and create lasting friendships to the owner of Good News Travels...I guess you could say the rest is history!

Why GNT?

 One word...Personalization.  We personalize everything about your trip...even the tour manager! With GNT, I have the opportunity to make the Tour Manager role a part of your group “family”. This bond creates lasting friendships.

My job begins before the trip ever takes place. Whether it is confirming reservations, getting cash allotments, or making special accommodations,  a well planned trip makes for little wasted time and surprises! While on the trip, I keep our group on schedule, pay any expenses, and take care of any situations that may arise on the trip. My favorite duty is getting to know each and every one of the trip participants. I love making these personal connections and enjoy these friendships long after the trip is over.

Travel Musts 

I never leave home without a raincoat, umbrella, fleece jacket, light blanket, small pillow, ipad , sunglasses and my phone!  I like to pack these in a small bag that I can keep on the motorcoach during the length of the trip.  

Debbie Hesson

About Me

Hi, I’m Debbie Hesson from Seneca, South Carolina. I was born and lived in Indiana until about 7 years ago when my husband, John, and I moved south. We have since added a miniature Aussie ,Tucker, to our family! I have three grown daughters, Kassie, Ashley, and Lindsay and one remarkable grandson, Colson.

I graduated from Indiana University and went to work for Indiana Bell as a computer programmer/data systems analyst. After a few years we moved to a small town and I did part-time bookkeeping work and immersed myself in raising my children! During this time we also restored, owned and operated an Historic Bed and Breakfast where I had the opportunity to interact with many interesting people!

Since moving to Seneca I have been doing ‘retirement’. I joined a book club, learned to play Pickleball and have explored many of the fascinating mountain towns and trails all around us. While playing Pickleball I met Glenn Abbott, who is a Tour Manager with Good News Travels, and I thought what he was doing sounded like something I would really enjoy! I pursued the opportunity with Good News Travels and have now been trained as a Tour Manager and I’m anxious to start traveling.

My Travel Experiences 

Growing up I was fortunate to travel all around the United States with my family, even a guided fishing trip to Canada! We visited Washington, DC, California, the Grand Canyon and many other places including the beaches of Florida. As an adult I have been able to go on many travel adventures. New York City, San Diego, Seattle and even a walking tour in Italy are some of my favorites. On several of these trips I did the planning and took care of the many details to make sure the trip ran smoothly.

Why GNT?

As I mentioned earlier, I first heard about GNT through a friend at Pickleball. After going through my training, and learning the background and mission of GNT, I have a genuine appreciation for all of the people I met and their commitment to making every trip the best possible for all of the travelers! Each trip is custom planned allowing travelers to enjoy exactly what they want from the trip, and with each Tour having a personal Tour Manager to handle everything behind the scene, it appears to be the ideal way to travel!

Travel Musts 

I travel with my cell phone, information about destinations, rain gear and an eagerness to learn new things. I will probably also have a soft blanket and pillow just in case! Now I will also travel with my Tour Manager notebook and the desire to make new friends!

Mary K. Bryan

About Me

Hi, I’m Mary K. I live in Easley, SC with my husband Ralph.  I am the mother of two girls Whitney and Mallorie.  I have two grandchildren, one boy and one girl.  I was an elementary school teacher for Pickens County School District for 32 years before retiring.  I am not one to sit still. I have always enjoyed traveling to lakes, beaches, mountains and beyond.   As a school teacher I participated in many field trips and enjoyed seeing the students and parents excitement when visiting new places. After retirement someone suggested I should talk to Good News about being a Tour Manager because you use many of the same skills that a teacher does as a Tour Manager.  That was great advice because I have enjoyed traveling as a Tour Manager for Good News Travels, taking students and adults to many places over the last four years.

Best Trip 

It is impossible to choose one destination as my favorite. I have enjoyed traveling to many destinations with groups of people, especially when people in the group have never been to this destination.  Seeing the excitement on their faces and hearing their comments make it all worthwhile.  I took one group to California and none of them had ever been to the west coast. That was a very memorable trip!

Why GNT? 

I love being a tour manger because I love meeting people. I try to introduce myself to every person on the trip to understand their expectations for the trip. I try to be very thorough by calling each destination, looking and studying the itinerary, and making sure I have all documents and money needed for the trip in advance.

Travel Musts 

When traveling I like to have comfortable shoes, a light jacket and a light blanket.  And most definitely a cell phone for confirming reservations and a camera to record and share your wonderful experiences are required.

 Susan Alexander

About Me

Hey, y’all! That’s the words of southern hospitality! I grew up in the upstate of South Carolina and went to Clemson for an elementary education degree. In my sophomore year, I was flown to Myrtle Beach for the day to get engaged. I am sure that started my love for travel. Bill and I got married that summer and the next year moved to Ohio. Since then, we have lived in Ohio, Georgia, Missouri and Michigan before God brought us back to South Carolina! This time this summer to the coast. 

We have been blessed with 4 children and now a daughter in law. With our oldest and his wife in Kansas City, travel is a must but also a passion. The blessings of our friendships from all the places we have lived keeps us traveling too. I am always looking to the calendar to see when and where we can go. I have been able to travel with my husband’s work, with kids’ sports, running events and fun family and friend trips. 

Why GNT?

It was on vacation that I was presented with the opportunity as a tour manager with Good News Travel. This summer we had breakfast with the flower girls from our wedding almost 31 years ago. One of the girls is married to Skip, a salesman with Good News Travel. 

I am just beginning my career as a tour manager with trips to New York and Nashville. I am looking forward to all the opportunities that will come to share places and events with our groups through Good News Travel. The Christian atmosphere and foundation of this company is a blessing to me and I pray that is spread to each one in our tours. 

Travel Musts

A smile is the first thing to take on a trip. Giving it to others is the next thing to do. A phone has everything else you need with a note pad, numbers, camera, maps and apps to share information about our locations. Don’t forget everything else to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable like the comfortable shoes, jacket, blanket and travel pillow! 

Phil Darity

About Me

My Travel Experiences 

Why GNT?

Travel Musts 

Bill Evans 

About Me

Hi, I'm Bill Evans from Simpsonville, South Carolina. In June 2017, I retired after teaching 28 years at Hillcrest High School and ended a 33-year teaching career. My heart was full in the classroom as I saw students grow in confidence and self-esteem while pursuing and appreciating their education. My wife Maria and I live in Simpsonville, SC and have three children who have careers of their own. My family is bi-lingual (English/Spanish); I met and married my wife in Puerto Rico while on a work assignment with Fluor-Daniel and lived there for eleven years. I have always had a yearning for travel and have had the privilege of enjoying a cruise in the Caribbean and Alaska. Also, I have travelled extensively in the United States with my students in competitive speech and debate. Therefore, the opportunities offered by Good News Travels is a great fit for me. 

Best Trip 

I've never had a bad trip, but one of the most memorable ones occurred when I took my academic team from the high school to compete in a National Competition in Chicago. When we got to the airport, I realized that most of them had never flown. My first grade son was along and he told them about what they could expect. He had been on several other flights with us. 

Why GNT? 

Customization - an experience designed by you and your group and executed by our team at Good News Travels. GNT will make your adventure with us fun and memorable. 

Once I'm selected as your Tour Manager I get an itinerary of our trip and start studying and reviewing it to iron out the details.  My focus is on ensuring that you and your group maximize your time and experiences together. I handle all of the logistics - confirming reservations, scheduling drop-offs and pick-ups, handling any changes that occur, and work with your group leader - to assure your experience with GNT is enjoyable and memorable. 

Travel Musts

One should always have an umbrella and a light coat for quick changes in weather. A cell phone is a must in today's travels because of immediate accessibility. Of course the trip itinerary in a travel case is expected.