A couple holding hands and walking on the street in Charleston, in front of a pink building with palm trees.

A little about me

Ciao Fam!  I’m Chelsea Vanacore (hence, Vanacore Adventures).  My husband, Chris, and I live outside of Charlotte, NC, with our two fur babies.  We met in Tulsa, OK but I’m originally from New England (and will always carry that with me.) 

I have a love for learning, and I’m always trying to understand and master new things. I studied psychology and neuroscience in college, was in education for 10 years, as a teacher and a principal, before transitioning into full-time ministry. I’m currently an Associate Pastor (need a wedding officiant? I’m your gal!).  The one constant in all my career changes has been my passion for TRAVEL! (hence #thepassportpastor) 

A group of five people, two adults and three children, in Martha's Vineyard, standing together on a beach with sand and a wooden fence in the foreground. There are large houses with multiple windows and balconies in the background, along with trees.

I am obsessed with travel – from small weekend trips to international travel.  I believe you can find adventure in your own city (a staycation can be magical,) and I am a believer that there is something really special about getting outside of your bubble and experiencing different cultures.  My favorite things about travel: the people, the food, and the scenery. My favorite challenge to conquer is finding the hidden gems and local hotspots - that’s the win.

Since my first overseas trip for my 16th birthday (thanks to a friend and her dad working in England part time,) I have enjoyed planning my own trips, helping family and friends plan theirs, and sometimes, just spiraling and learning everything about a country that has caught my attention. After over 20 years of traveling to over half of the United States and more than 10 countries - and planning most of those trips myself - I decided to make it official!

Two women outdoors on a cloudy day, standing on a dirt area in front of a large moss-covered rock, with a grassy field and hills on a road trip through Ireland.
Scenic view of a lake with a mountain in the background, partly covered in snow, and a small village with houses at the foot of the mountain in Switzerland.
Chelsea Vanacore wearing a black coat with a fur-lined hood walking along a snowy path in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland. Snow-covered mountains and trees are in the background, with a stone wall on the right side of the path.

I am grateful to combine my love of travel with the planning and organization skills to ensure my clients get the trip of their dreams! I have a passion for crafting personalized experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of a tranquil beach getaway, a bustling city adventure, or an off-the-beaten-path expedition, my goal is to curate an itinerary that fits your interests, budget, and schedule. 

Ready to embark on your next adventure? I’m thrilled to be a part of your journey toward discovering new places, creating unforgettable memories, and exploring the world’s hidden gems.  Let’s connect and start planning your dream trip. Whether you have a specific destination in mind or need inspiration, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

P.S. I’m also a BIG fan of recommending travel essentials, along with some of my favorite things to use or wear… so if you’re in search of something, or want to know what you’re forgetting to pack? I got you.