Johanna Bugarin & Darren Upchurch

Tell us a little about yourself.

Johanna: I was born in Waialua and grew up in Wahiawa, along with my 7 brothers and 2 sisters. I graduated from Leilehua in 1970, a proud Mules alumni. I have twin sons and 4 beautiful grandchildren. My partner, Darren Upchurch, and I joined Non-Stop Travel together and have been blessed to be able to travel the world together, working alongside each other as a team.

Darren: I was born and raised in Honolulu, and I have always had a passion for traveling. Alongside my fiancée, Johanna Bugarin, I relish visiting new countries and immersing ourselves in diverse cultures. Meeting people from all over the world and experiencing how others live is one of my greatest joys. Each destination we visit holds a treasure trove of rich history, and I’m always eager to try new foods. It’s a thrill to capture photos next to buildings or homes older than the United States and think, “WOW! How amazing!”

When not traveling, I dedicate my free time to serving on the Shriner’s Hospital for Children’s Board of Governors. Professionally, I work as a manager for HighTechLending. Traveling with Johanna has always been an extraordinary experience, allowing us to create lasting memories we cherish and share with others. Together, we are blessed to help raise four beautiful grandchildren, and we hope they can join us on our adventures one day.

Our ultimate goal is to complete a tour of all seven continents—we’ve already explored three. Being part of Non-Stop Travel provides me with the incredible opportunity to witness the world’s beauty firsthand.

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

Johanna: Since I graduated from high school, my work history has been in Real Estate and Finance. I was a Realtor for 9 years before I became a Mortgage Originator for the next 31 years. I am now retired.

Darren: Currently employed for HighTechLending as a Branch Manager

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

Johanna: I love doing long walks and working out with family and friends. I love working in my yard.

Darren: I enjoy taking walks with friends and family. I also serve on the Board of Governors at Shriners Hospital for Children and belong to several fraternal organizations.

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

Johanna: Anywhere in Europe was always my favorite place to visit. We’ve travelled extensively doing bicycle tours all across Europe, as well as travelling on our own. Since joining Non-Stop Travel, we are getting to explore Asia as well and have loved our tours to Japan and Korea. We just enjoy exploring and experiencing the different cultures. And the food has been incredible.

Darren: So far, I would return to all the places I have traveled to. Each location is unique in its own way. My favorite things are trying new foods, talking stories with our members, and enjoying experiences together.

What do you like most about being a Tour Manager?

Johanna: Just being able to explore these different countries, along with our tour members, has been so rewarding. The greatest feeling is knowing the tour was a success and everyone was happy when they returned home.

Darren: Watching a diverse group of individuals come together as a family or “Ohana” by the end of a tour is incredibly fulfilling. Johanna and I have built lasting relationships with many Non-Stop members from our first tour.

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

Johanna: Their happiness and satisfaction is our number 1 goal!

Darren: When given the opportunity, please join us on tour. We would love to meet you!