Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Snell.
Hi Christopher, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I live in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, and started my travel agency, Not So Hostel World, to show clients that travel doesn’t have to be stressful, complicated, or out of reach. Too often, I’d hear people say, “Is it safe?” or “Travel is such a hassle.” I wanted to change that narrative – I wanted to show people the “Less Hostel Side of Travel”
Travel has always been a huge part of my life — I’ve been to 83 countries across 6 continents, and I’m constantly exploring new destinations both abroad and here in the U.S., exploring the back roads and scenic drives in our camper van. Those years of experience taught me how transformative travel can be when it’s done right. That’s why I focus on creating seamless, fully customized itineraries for my clients — whether that’s a luxury world cruise, a custom journey through Japan, or an off-the-beaten-path stop like Howth, Ireland, or Otaru in Hokkaido, Japan.
I love working with people to craft incredible journeys, but refine our services to recently retired and luxury travelers, frequent explorers, and those who want something more authentic than a one-size-fits-all vacation. My clients know I listen — I craft trips based on their dreams, not what pays the highest commission — and I stay personally connected through calls, emails, and even texts.
Cruises are one of my favorite travel types to plan because they’re easy, fun, and full of value, but I also specialize in complex, multi-country itineraries. Over the years, I’ve built strong partnerships with cruise lines like Princess, Viking, NCL, and Virgin, earning top certifications including Commodore, Gold, and even Ph.D. status.
When I’m not helping clients plan their next adventure, I’m probably chasing snow in our camper van, scuba diving, or volunteering as an exhibit diver at our local aquarium — cleaning tanks, feeding fish, and inspiring the next generation of explorers.
At the end of the day, I became a travel advisor to show people the less hostel side of travel — where every trip feels easy, rewarding, and exactly how it should: unforgettable.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not — but I don’t think any meaningful adventure ever is. Starting a business from the ground up was both exciting and intimidating. When I launched my travel agency, I didn’t have a book of clients waiting or a team behind me — just a passion for travel and a determination to help others see traveling the world differently. I spent countless hours building my client base, nurturing relationships, learning new systems, and proving myself in a very competitive industry.
Then, just as things were beginning to gain traction, my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023. That moment changed everything. Suddenly, I was balancing a brand-new business with doctor visits, treatments, and the emotional weight that comes with something so personal. It was one of the hardest seasons of my life, but it also became my “why.” It reminded me that time and experiences are what truly matter — and that travel, at its core, is about making the most of both.
Through it all, my wife’s strength and our shared love of adventure have kept me going. The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s made me appreciate this journey — and every client — that much more.
We’ve been impressed with Not So Hostel World, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My travel agency, Not So Hostel World, was built on a simple idea — showing my clients the less hostel side of travel. I wanted to take the stress, uncertainty, and guesswork out of planning, and instead bring back the excitement and confidence that should come with every trip.
I specialize in cruises, custom land itineraries, and luxury travel that ventures a little off the beaten path. Whether it’s a multi-country European adventure, a small-ship cruise through the fjords, or a hidden gem destination most travelers overlook, I take pride in crafting trips that feel effortless, authentic, and personal.
What sets me apart is the level of attention I give my clients. I listen — I really listen — to what they want, what matters to them, and what kind of memories they hope to make. My most proud moments come when a client comes back to plan their next trip or refers their friends and family — that trust means everything to me.
Looking ahead, I’m expanding Not So Hostel World to include personally led group tours to some of my favorite regions around the world. For me, it’s not just about booking travel — it’s about sharing experiences, connecting people, and proving that the world isn’t as intimidating as it sometimes seems. It’s beautiful, welcoming, and ready to be explored — one not-so-hostel journey at a time.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I think luck has a funny way of showing up when you’re doing the right thing for the right reasons. In business — especially travel — you never really know where your next client or opportunity might come from. Sometimes it’s a referral, sometimes it’s a random conversation, and sometimes it’s standing up for someone on Facebook.
One of my biggest clients actually came from a moment like that. I was in a Norwegian Cruise Line Facebook group and chimed in to defend someone who was being unfairly criticized for mentioning Princess Cruises — which, ironically, is one of my favorite lines. We started chatting, became friends, and I happened to mention that I was a travel advisor. A few weeks later, she booked her next cruise to Australia with me — and then two of her friends did the same.
Since then, all three have booked multiple trips and referred several others. It was pure luck that our paths crossed, but it also reminded me that being genuine and doing the right thing — even online — can lead to the best kinds of opportunities. Sometimes luck isn’t random at all; it’s just the universe rewarding kindness and connection.
Pricing:
- Consult are complimentary
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.notsohostelworld.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/notsohostelworld
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notsohostelworld
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopheresnell/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/not-so-hostel-world-a-travel-agency-rancho-santa-margarita
Image Credits
Myself – Christopher Snell
