Victoria Peters McDowell

Tell us a little about yourself.

Born and raised in beautiful Pupukea on Oahu’s North Shore and a proud graduate of Kahuku High School, Hawaii is woven into who I am. I later graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s School of Travel Industry Management, where my passion for host cultural tourism became a lifelong calling.

As a mea hookipa, one who welcomes and cares for others, I am passionate about sharing the breath of life, ha, authentically and respectfully. Whether welcoming visitors to my home or traveling as a guest, I believe in honoring and accurately representing the culture of each place, caring for people and making them feel at home, responsibly stewarding the aina, proudly reflecting my ohana and community, and creating meaningful connections.

I believe travel has the power to broaden perspectives, deepen understanding, and bring us closer to one another and the world around us.

My faith is at the heart of how I live and serve. At my core, I’m a servant and steward, striving to lead with aloha, humility, curiosity, and genuine care — whether welcoming travelers, supporting my community, or simply helping someone along their journey.

I believe the best journeys don’t just take us somewhere new, they leave us changed for the better.

What did you do for work before becoming a Tour Manager?

My passion for host cultural tourism began at age 11, when I realized how often Hawaii was misunderstood by visitors. By 12, I had made it my personal mission to help change the stories visitors took home by authentically sharing Hawaii’s culture, history, and sense of place.

That calling grew into a 24-year career in luxury and ultra-luxury hospitality, where I served as an executive leader across Hawaii, Southern California, and New York City. My experience spans hotels and resorts, food and beverage, retail, and entrepreneurship.

These experiences shaped my leadership philosophy and deepened my passion for hospitality, people, culture, and creating exceptional experiences.

What are your hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time?

I love staying active, exploring, learning, and connecting. You’ll often find me hiking, running, swimming, enjoying nature, researching wellness and healthy living, or spending time with ohana and friends.

I’m endlessly curious and love trying new things, discovering new perspectives, and creating meaningful experiences that bring people together. For me, free time is really about learning, growing, staying connected, and enjoying the people and places that make life special.

Where is your favorite place to travel? What is your favorite thing to do there?

It’s nearly impossible for me to choose a favorite place because I love destinations for what they teach me and how they make me feel.

Japan is a favorite for its fascinating blend of tradition, culture, people, and everyday beauty. One of my most unforgettable experiences was a safari in South Africa, where witnessing wildlife in the raw beauty of the African bush left me humbled and deeply connected to the natural world.

Ultimately, I love being somewhere I can immerse myself, learn, connect, and return home seeing the world a little differently. And every journey makes me appreciate Hawaii even more.

What do you like most about being a Tour Manager?

What I love most about Tour Management is creating meaningful journeys and watching people light up as they discover new places, cultures, perspectives, and experiences. I’m honored to help travelers feel safe, confident, cared for, and fully present while bringing Non-Stop Travel’s thoughtfully curated experiences to life.

It’s where my passion for travel, people, culture, and service come together — and it genuinely brings me joy.

Is there anything else you’d like our tour members to know about you?

I’m naturally curious, adventurous, and always up for a new experience, a good laugh, and a little exploration! I love creating memories, connecting with people, and finding joy in the unexpected moments along the way. Becoming a grandmother has deepened my appreciation for the preciousness of time and the importance of making meaningful memories with the people we love.

When we travel together, bring an open heart, a curious mind, and a spirit of adventure. Let’s explore, learn, laugh, connect, and make memories together as our own Non-Stop Travel ohana!

Fun fact: I’ve traveled to 24 countries and more than 60 international cities and destinations, and I’m always ready to add another adventure to the list!