GROUP TRAVEL SPECIALIST
"If you can dream it, I can plan it!
With over 25 years in the travel industry, I've worn many hats—from travel consultant to classroom teacher to band booster. Now, as the manager of Travel Leaders Student and Group Travel Department, I specialize in crafting unforgettable group travel experiences.
My passion lies in turning every trip into a transformative educational adventure. I believe travel should be more than a journey—it should leave a lasting impact on everyone involved. That's why my team and I are dedicated to creating top-notch travel experiences tailored to our clients' interests and budgets.
I handle all types of group trips, whether it's for students, adults, company incentives, friends and family, sports outings, or corporate meetings and events. From start to finish, we take care of every detail, so group leaders can enjoy the journey without the stress.
Personally, I've explored numerous destinations across the US and have a deep love for all things Orlando—I'm a certified travel planner for Disney and Universal, with countless visits under my belt. I offer insider tips, tricks, and planning expertise that make group travel a breeze.
Some of the most popular destinations are Nashville, San Antonio, NYC, DC, Boston, Gatlinburg, Chicago, and of course, Orlando!
From accommodations to transportation, meals, activities, performance venues, and complete itinerary planning, we've got it covered. No group is too small or too large, as I have planned trips for groups ranging from 20 to 1200 people.
Let's turn your travel dreams into reality. Give me a call, and let's embark on an unforgettable journey together! The world is waiting!"
My Reviews
Wonderful learning opportunity for our students!
"Our spring trip to Disney World and Universal Studios-Orlando was a wonderful experience for our students, parents, and chaperones. We attended the Technology of Disney Parks workshop at Disney Imagination Campus, which offered my technical theatre and design students an opportunity to go backstage Epcot and experience the Disney Magic in a whole new way. We also attended performances of Cirque du Soliel's DRAWN TO LIFE and Disney's FANTASMIC. Debra Smith at Travel Leaders always does an incredible job organizing these trips for our department. She has been my student travel wizard for over a decade and she never disappoints. Whether it's your first trip with students and you'd like to stick to a "tried and true" itinerary, or you'd like to branch out and go off of the beaten track, Debra will lead you through the process with ease and offer consistent support during your travels. Nobody does it better!"
-Eric Browne, Baker High Theatre Depar
By
Eric
from
Mobile, AL
Traveled to
Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Debra Smith responded:
Eric,
You are the best! It is always an adventure working with you and your theater department. My goal is to always provide the best possible customer service, tips and tricks that will enhance the experience. We definitely don't want any one clutching their pearls. Looking forward to next time.
Debra
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Best band trip manager in the business.
Always outstanding. I have taking many trips with 1000s of students through Debra and there is no one better.
By
Disney Band Trip
from
Gulf Shores, AL
Traveled to
Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Debra Smith responded:
William,
Thank you for the feed back and I am so glad the Disney trip came off without any hitches! It is always my goal to provided a stress-free trip for directors so they can enjoy the trip with their students. Looking forward to next time.
Debra
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Working with Debra takes the stress out of planning. She takes care of and has thought of everything, leaving you to worry about the students and that's it! This level of trip would not be possible for me with out her. Already planned out a year in advance and constantly kept us updated on events and any changes. Her and her staff were available and communicating the entire time! This was round two with her and we are already working on round three! (And 4!)
By
Jason Warren - MGM High School Band Director
from
Semmes, Alabama
Traveled to
Gatlinburg ~ Tennessee ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Debra Smith responded:
Jason,
The GOAT! I love it!
The only other person I've ever heard referred to as the GOAT is Nick Saban... I'm in good company. LOL..
It is always a pleasure working with you and MGM. I always strive to give the absolute best travel experience for everyone involved. Looking forward to 2025 and beyond.
Debra.
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The Most Amazing Travel Experience EVER!
I would book Travel Leaders to take me and my students literally anywhere. The professionalism, kindness, and incredible promptness that Debra Smith and her team offers in handling your tour absolutely cannot be beat. In my twenty two years of teaching I have traveled literally around the world with students, and I have never been more impressed with a travel partner than I have been with Travel Leaders for the last two tours for my band. They solve problems almost before I have even alerted them that the problem exists, and do it with humor and extraordinary competence. I highly recommend Travel Leaders if you are looking to take your musical ensemble, or any other group of students on tour. You will not be disappointed!!
By
M. Sticka
from
Bozeman, MT
Traveled to
Orlando ~ Florida ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Debra Smith responded:
Michel,
Thank you for the kind words!: I need to hire your as my publicist! :-)
I am thrilled that you have had incredible travel experiences with us. It is always our goal to create a stress-free trip and provide a top-notch experience for everyone. Looking forward to next time.
Debra
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Theodore HS Band Trip 2024
The Theodore High School Band had an excellent experience in our trip to Gatlinburg, TN. This was my first overnight trip I organized as a director and Travel Leaders helped make it go smoothly. The customer service was appreciated during the pre-trip process, as many students and parents had questions along the way. Students and parents were able to conveniently pay online, and Travel Leaders was very accommodating by working in our fundraisers through the school. Thank you to Debra, Jeni, and the rest of the team - I will begin planning our next trip now!
By
Ben Ivey
from
Mobile, AL
Traveled to
Gatlinburg ~ Tennessee ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Debra Smith responded:
Ben,
I am so glad that your first over-night trip was successful. It is my goal to make your travel experience as stress-free as possible so you can enjoy the experience with your students. I can't wait to see where you are going on your next adventure.
Debra
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