About Small Group Tours

SMALL GROUP TOURS BY THE TRAVELING PROFESSOR

People often ask us, “How did you start this amazing career?”  The answer is a journey as unique as the destinations we visit.

Over 15 years ago, Steve retired from his career as a mathematics professor. While leading a tour to Florence, Italy, he met Linda, who was traveling with friends on a separate trip. That chance meeting turned into a life-changing partnership. After retiring and getting married, they decided to create the kind of dream job everyone imagines—one built around a shared passion for travel.

Together, they launched their “Second Act” retirement career: leading small group tours to the world’s most unforgettable destinations . Since then, they’ve guided thousands of travelers to Paris, Italy, Austria, Croatia, Scotland, Iceland, Machu Picchu and Peru, Ireland, the Normandy Invasion Beaches, and across Canada.

Their inspiring journey has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, MoneyNing, and WCBS Radio. Steve is also the author of the popular travel guide The Traveling Professor’s Guide to Paris.

Today, The Traveling Professor continues to design carefully curated small group tours that combine expert guidance, cultural immersion, and personal connection—turning every trip into an unforgettable travel experience.

www.smallgrouptours.com  info@smallgrouptours.com +1.413.528.2125

Professor Steve Solosky

Founder, Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor

Steve founded Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor in 2008 and is considered one of the pioneers of the small group travel concept. He personally researches and designs exceptional tours throughout Canada, South America, and Europe. In addition, Steve is a dynamic and entertaining travel speaker, known for sharing his expertise with audiences worldwide. 

Woman in Edinburgh Scotland

Linda Sloan

Owner, The Traveling Professor

Linda is the heart of every Traveling Professor small group tour. She’s the one who finds the charming hotels, handpicks the knowledgeable local guides, and makes sure everything runs effortlessly—so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the journey.

Yannick Sterke

Guide, Paris and the Normandy Beaches

From the time he was just 13 years old, Yannick knew he wanted to share the stories of valor and bravery from June 6, 1944. Today, he is widely regarded as one of the finest guides in Normandy, offering visitors an unforgettable and deeply moving experience.

Rocio Durel

Guide, Tour Leader Peru, Machu Picchu and the Amazon

Rocio was born and raised in Peru and now calls Houston home, but her heart is always in the Andes and the Amazon. As our newest tour leader, she loves sharing the beauty, history, and traditions of her homeland on journeys to Peru, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon. With her warmth, experience, and ITMI certification, Rocio makes every trip feel like traveling with a friend.

Stefan Valsson

Guide, Iceland

Widely recognized as one of Iceland’s most experienced guides, he has been leading Traveling Professor tours for nearly 10 years. Passionate about sharing his country’s stunning landscapes and unique culture, he also lectures at the University of Iceland and the Iceland School of Tourism, bringing fascinating stories and insights to every journey.

Mark Doherty

Guide, Ireland

Mark has been guiding tours since 2008 and is a National Approved Guide of Ireland. With a true gift for travel, he loves sharing the beauty and history of his country with every visitor. Known for his storytelling and a knack for a good song, Mark makes each tour both entertaining and unforgettable.

Marijana Bonetta

Tour Manager, Croatia

Marijana has been leading our tours in Croatia for several years, and travelers love her warm, attentive presence. She not only keeps every tour running smoothly but also helps with dining choices and activity plans, making sure each guest enjoys a truly memorable experience.

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