Veritas Grand Tours

Based in Kansas City, Missouri, USA, we at Grand Tours International are committed to promoting international cultural travel to students, young professionals, and anyone looking to take the jump and go after their dreams.

In 2013, founders Spencer Carlson and Ryan Derks set out on a round-the-world journey that took them through 30 countries on five continents, planning and executing the entire trip utilizing their own resources. Through their incredible experiences and growth as individuals they realized a passion to share this experience with others searching for the same experience and growth - thus the birth of Grand Tours International. They have a drive and vision to transform the way people think about international travel and strive to facilitate that transformation.

History

The idea of creating an opportunity to help others experience the incredible cultures of the world came about when founders Spencer Carlson and Ryan Derks were on their own round-the-world tour in 2013, planned exclusively by the two. Not wanting to look back on life and wonder 'what if' is what spawned their journey, and now they want to help you to fulfill your desire to travel internationally, experience the local cultures hands-on through their international network, and grow as an individual so that you can expand your mind and realize your true potential in life.

In early 2013 the two began planning and saving for a six-month round-the-world trip which began in Russia, just as our Europe+ 2015 tour will in June. Following Russia the two traveled by train, bus, ferries, and flights through most major destinations in Europe before stopping in Istanbul as their gateway to the East. From there Spencer and Ryan spent time in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates before continuing on to Southeast Asia to tour the area. Spencer then continued on to Australia for a stint touring the country before returning to the United States in early 2014. Combined the two have experience in over 40 countries on every continent other than Antarctica.