ABOUT US
Exceptional service is at the heart of everything we do – because your journey deserves nothing less.
Now, meet the women behind the passports...
At First Class Travel, we believe luxury travel begins with connection - between the destination, the experience, and the people who bring it all to life. After years of running successful independent agencies, we decided to combine our strengths, passions, and global expertise to upgrade our travel game and bring something truly exceptional to our clients.
Merging our agencies wasn’t just a business move -it was the natural next step in creating a more refined, personalized, and elevated travel experience. Together, we offer a seamless blend of curated travel planning, insider knowledge, and warm, attentive service that sets your journey apart from the rest.
Fun Facts about Shelly:
Before starting a travel agency in 2012, I owned and managed restaurants, where I learned the true value of personalized service and creating memorable experiences for every guest.
That passion for hospitality naturally carried over into travel because, to me, both are about connecting people to moments that matter. Starting this business was a way to combine my love of travel with my dedication to exceptional service.
I am a small-town Southerner who grew up with a love for stories about faraway places, dreaming of the day I could help others explore the world beyond our hometown.
Hi, I’m Shelly
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I completed my first (and only) half marathon at 50 — with almost zero training, fueled by a week of sun, cocktails, and about three hours of sleep. Let’s just say, I’m better at planning luxury trips than pacing myself!
I’ve hiked up the Mediterranean Steps at the Rock of Gibraltar and it was totally worth the view but the monkeys scared me.
I’ve visited 30 countries – only 165 more to go!
I’m always looking for ways to travel responsibly - supporting local businesses, choosing eco-friendly options, or being a respectful guest.
Fun Facts about Kimberly
That experience opened my eyes—and my heart—to the world, and I knew I had to see more.
In 2013, I took a leap of faith and turned my passion into a profession, launching my own travel business. Since then, I’ve been helping others explore the world in a way that feels both personal and authentic. I take pride in handling every detail, crafting custom itineraries that blend unforgettable moments and seamless execution. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a client’s dream trip become a reality.
My fascination with different cultures has been a part of me for as long as I can remember, but it truly came to life the summer I studied art in Italy during college.
Hi, I'm Kimberly
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I am a bit of a Broadway junkie and go to New York at least once a year just for the shows.
I have visited 4 continents, 27 countries and 35 states. Of course I have visited some of my favorites multiple times!
While I love a good beach, I never ever get in the ocean!
Amber Hayes
VTA, CTA, Travel advisor
Location: Hoover, AL
Specialties: Europe, Hawaii, Caribbean Islands, Mexico & Cruises
Stephanie Dickson
VTA, TRAVEL ADVISOR
Location: LaCrosse, WI
Specialties: Cruising, Adventure Travel, Caribbean & Mexico
Shelly Phillips
Location: McCalla, AL
Specialties: River cruises, Europe, Ski, Caribbean & Mexico
Kimberly Kiel
Location: Pelham, AL
Specialties: Europe (esp. Greece, Italy & France), all Cruising, Africa, Caribbean
VTA, MCC, Owner
VTA, Owner
Our Team of Trusted Advisors
Karen Rayburn
travel advisor
Location: McCalla, AL
Specialties: Caribbean Islands, Mexico, North America/US and Cruising
Kristin Longley
travel advisor
Location: Pensacola, FL
Specialties: Adventure Travel, Land-Based Escapes, and Ocean Cruising.
Pamela Lockridge
travel advisor
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Specialties: Caribbean & Mexico, Cruising, Europe
Christopher Koch
travel advisor
Location: Pinehurst, NC
Specialties: Great Britain, France, Spain, Portugal, Cruising & Faith-Based Travel
Daniel Vu
travel advisor
Location: Dallas TX
Specialties: Cruising; Wine & Culinary Travel
Lisa Sullivan
VTA, Travel ADVISOR
Location: Kimberly, AL
Specialties: River Cruising, Europe
Michelle Shepherd
Travel Advisor
Location: Birmingham, AL
Specialties: Leisure travel, Premium and Luxury Cruises, Food & Wine, Beach & Sun
From the first call to your flight home, we’re here to make every part of your journey smooth, personalized, and unforgettable. We handle all the details, big and small, so you can simply relax, explore, and enjoy the kind of travel experience you truly deserve.
