I love to travel so in my partially retired life I decided to adapt my passion for travel along with 25 years of experience in Travel & Tourism to create Trips by Patty.
I received a BA in American History from UNC-Chapel Hill. Not knowing what I was going to do with that degree, I started working as a desk clerk at a hotel in Raleigh. I enjoyed the hotel business and the career path began. Hotel operations and sales, Convention Center operations and marketing, destination marketing with a Convention Visitors Bureau and even a stint as a tour guide. What happened to the history degree? Well, many times when I am escorting my trips I share the history of the destinations we visit.
It's a great feeling to take your career skills and adapt them to your own small business. I love what I do and hope you'll join me on a trip one day!
By Kim F for Night of A Thousand Candles on Dec 22, 2025
We had a wonderful time. Coach was comfortable , the trip well organized and on time! Let’s get trips to Cary for Chinese lanterns and a one day trip to Statesville to see Hot Air Balloon Festival. Also like to do some DPAC concerts! Love not having to drive late after dark!
This trip was extremely well planned and executed. There was much to do and everyone on the Patty’s team was excellent. I would highly recommend this excursion.
This trip was an absolute joy! Brookgreen Gardens was just stunning. We had a fantastic dinner in the Harvest Restaurant and everything was perfect. Patty's team was exceptionally attentive to every detail, made sure everyone was comfortable, hydrated and happy. They wanted to make sure everyone was happy. Donnie was amazing. Best driver ever! Can't wait to take more trips with Patty and her team!
Patty provides an excellent experience from beginning to end. Stops are well timed, accommodations are always top notch, activities are well organized . Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend taking one of her trips
So enjoyed the Annie Leibovitz trip! This was my first over night trip. Patty and team are pro's, with friendly, and considerate, "can do" attitudes. Top notch planning and execution. Great hotel! Looking forward to my next Bryson City Train and Biltmore trips!