Meet Geneice Hodge | Certified Travel Associate/Advisor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Geneice Hodge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Geneice, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
“Life is a fountain of happiness as long you protect your peace with a smile on your pretty face.”–Geniece

While many chases after family and money for happiness, I’ve found my bliss in something truly extraordinary—helping my clients discover the world and creating priceless vacation memories! The sheer joy of witnessing their smiles and tears of joy as they embark on stress-free journeys is beyond words.

Imagine being told, “You are the best!” by a unanimous client. It’s a rush of pure joy that sends delightful vibrations through my entire being, and I’m ready to break into my happy dance! Do you understand the feeling of being told “ You are the best.”

Let me ask you when was the last time somebody told you you are the best at your craft?

If you’d met me five years ago, you wouldn’t recognize the person I was. My confidence was low, and I doubted my ability to make a difference in others’ lives. But life has a funny way of teaching us lessons through our loved ones. My dear brother, who bravely fought cancer until his last breath, showed me the power of smiling through life’s challenges.

Now, I live not just for myself but also for him—his courage inspires me every day. My once-hidden smile is now radiant and wide, knowing I’m making dreams come true and spreading happiness worldwide.

So, here I am, living my dream and spreading happiness through travel planning. It’s not just a business for me; it’s a passion that fills my soul. And when I watch my clients’ travel dreams come true, my smile grows even wider, knowing that I’m honoring my brother’s legacy.

Life is indeed a fountain of happiness, as long as you protect your peace with a smile on your pretty face.

“You are the best” changed my perspective as a black woman entrepreneur. I am here sharing my happiness with the public. This shy girl would have never thought she will be sharing her story but I am falling in love with who I am becoming. Here I am writing what makes me happy.

Stand in front of a mirror and repeat an affirmation

‘I am the best. I am the creator of my success. I will continue to focus on my happiness throughout my lifespan.

So, here I am, living proof that happiness is found in spreading joy to others and creating beautiful memories.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As a Professional Travel owner, my goals, my drive, and my passion are to forward people the opportunity of relieving stress from their daily lives, rekindle flames with their significant other, and plan their family vacations, honeymoon, or weekend getaways to not only take a mental vacation but allow that place of paradise to become an affordable reality. I am proud of my accomplishments as a black woman entrepreneur in the travel industry and leading as an example to help the community to travel more by sharing my travel memories. The road as an entrepreneur wasn’t easy but I managed to stay committed by reading motivational novels, traveling to bucket list destinations, and exploring more of my hometown. In addition, I surrounded myself around with like-minded people who share a similar passion and are willing to give advice in building a brand. I learned to be consistent and keep climbing until I reach my goal. I learned we all fall down but we get back up with a stronger passion to be successful. I want the world to know never quit on your dreams. My slogan is ” Climb into your dream.” I believe we should climb into our dreams in our lifestyle including business ventures, travels, or even relationships. Never quit on yourself and protect your peace. Now it’s time to plan your next travel with our agency, Indi Star Destinations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my best friend to Las Vegas, Nevada. Day 1: We will arrive at Harry Reid Internation Airport in Las Vegas. We will take an Uber to our hotel estimated 15 minutes from the airport. We will check in at Caesars Palace Hotel and stay in Palace Premium Room. We will relax and walk around the strip. and take plenty of photos.
Dinner: International Smoke–
Entrees–Famous ribs, macaroni & cheese, and a cheeseburger. We can’t forget about a refreshing Margarita.

Day 2: It’s time to get down to business!
Brunch at the famous Bacchanal Buffet located in Caesars Palace

Tour:
ATV tour with Las Vegas Dunes.
After the tour is over, we will relax in the room until it’s time to go out for dinner and drinks.

Dinner:
Hash House A Go —we will order the popular entree chicken and waffles and cheeseburger and fries
Cocktails- Fat Tuesday

Lounge
Foundation Room located in Mandalay Bay

Day 3:
Breakfast:
Dennys

Shopping at the Fashion Mall

Take the bus to Old Vegas,
Freemont Street to experience the nightlife

Dinner:
Claim Jumper

Tour:
Slotzilla

Day 4
Breakfast
Robert Irvine’s Public House located in Tropicana Hotel

Shopping:
Take an UBER to Las Vegas South Premium( 10 minutes ride)

Lunch:
Big Chicken- Off the strip

Visit the M&M store and Hershey store located on the strip

Cocktail:
Refillable FAT Tuesday Cup to get discounts on frozen drinks

Nightlife
Time to Gamble:
Planet Hollywood
Caesars Palace

Dinner:
The House of Blues

Nightclub :
TAO nightclub

Day 5: Time to go home

Breakfast:
Ocean One Bar and Grill

Take an Uber to the airport. Relax in Las Vegas Airport lounge

In my view, the most exciting places to check out in Vegas are the Broadway shows, the outlet, Highroller, and the Fountain show at the Bellagio. Las Vegas is fun and walking the strip has a variety of bars, casinos, and restaurants even have Top Golf at MGM.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I express my deep appreciation for the profound impact that Kevine McMillan, my mentor for more than five years, has had on my journey. During the times when self-doubt clouded my confidence in both myself and my abilities, McMillan’s unwavering belief in me served as a guiding light. As I ventured into the realm of becoming a travel business owner, she provided the invaluable encouragement I needed to pursue my dreams.

There were moments when the challenges seemed overwhelming and the thought of quitting crossed my mind. It was during those critical moments that McMillan’s resolute reassurance, “You’ve got this,” echoed in my ears, rekindling my determination and pushing me to move forward.

The recognition I offer in this interview is a heartfelt shoutout to Kevine McMillan, acknowledging her exceptional qualities of motivation, compassion, and leadership in supporting others. Her genuine commitment to nurturing potential and fostering growth has not only transformed my journey but has also inspired me to pay it forward and support others in their pursuits.

McMillan’s influence extends far beyond traditional mentorship; it’s about her sincere dedication to uplifting others and instilling them with the confidence needed to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. As my journey continues to unfold, I credit a significant portion of my achievements to the unwavering support and guidance she has provided.

The next shoutout is to my college best friend Ann Corbette.

I take a moment to express my appreciation for Ann Corbette, an extraordinary individual and friend whose influence has been transformative in my journey. Corbette’s unwavering support and encouragement played a pivotal role in propelling me to follow my passion in the travel industry, while also instilling in me a profound understanding of the true essence of travel.
What makes Corbette’s story even more inspiring is her own pursuit of dreams as a self-published author. Despite her personal endeavors, she continues to extend her unwavering support to my travel company, Indi Star Destinations.

As my journey and business continue to evolve, I am reminded of the significant role Ann Corbette has played in shaping my trajectory.

Next Shoutout to my lovely parents

A heartfelt shoutout goes to my incredible parents, Byron Hodge, and Angela Divino-Kersaint. Their positivity and encouragement have shaped me into who I am today, and I am endlessly grateful for the values you’ve instilled in me. Thank you for being my role models and for always believing in me. Their presence in my life is a true blessing. Rest In Peace, Byron Hodge 8/23/23 .

Website: www.indistardestinations.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/travelwithneici

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/geneice-hodge-945831155

Facebook: www.facebook.com/travelwithneici

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@travelwithneici5589/featured

Other: https://www.travelagents10.com/US/New-York/1757803814294470/Indi-Star-Destinations

Image Credits
Kayak beach picture photo credit: Charlie’s Photography, Turks and Caicos