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Shel Hansen

La Crosse, Wisconsin Travel Agent
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Shel Hansen

Shel Hansen

La Crosse, Wisconsin Travel Agent
A Full-Service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
26 Reviews | 100% Recommended
If you see the text box to the right do not fill it in

Australia, N.Z., Fiji, Mexico, Cruise Specialist

As a 30-plus year industry veteran, I have traveled the South Pacific numerous times, including 8 times to Australia, plus additional visits to New Zealand, Fiji, and Tahiti. For 21-plus years, I have been an Aussie Specialist and have also earned the status of Premier Aussie Specialist. Along with my many travel specialist certifications, I’ve also earned the Master Cruise Counsellor designation. In addition, I've traveled to Mexico several times and have visited virtually every major tourist destination. Let my expertise and experience help make your trip of a lifetime even more special.

My Travel Specialties

Premier Aussie (Destination) Specialist

On one of my many visits
During my 30 years in the travel industry, I have been an Aussie Specialist for 21 of them. With my sales experience, extra-curricular (Aussie-related) activities, including hosting and conducting annual Aussie Nights and other Australia events, I have earned my way to the ... Read more from my Premier Aussie (Destination) Specialist bio.

Your Mexico Specialist

Shel Hansen and husband in PVR
Mexico - land of beautiful beaches, friendly people, a vast cultural heritage and so much more!   If this is a destination you’re considering, please reach out to me to help plan your trip and add the value that my expertise can ... Read more from my Your Mexico Specialist bio.

Master Cruise Counsellor

Enroute to earning my Master Cruise Counsellor status with CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), there was rigorous study, including first attaining my Accredited Cruise Counsellor status, a requirement to sell many, many cruises and, of course, to sail and inspect many ... Read more from my Master Cruise Counsellor bio.

New Zealand Destination Specialist

New friends in New Zealand
In 1994 I had the great pleasure of hosting an exchange student from Blenheim, New Zealand. I could only imagine in my mind how beautiful New Zealand was by the stories told and how the scenery was described to me. However; ... Read more from my New Zealand Destination Specialist bio.

I am Your Fiji Specialist

Enjoying time with Fijian children
I have been to Fiji several times; each time I visit different areas and seek out what’s special, so that I can better help you plan your unforgettable experience. Fiji is made up of over 330 islands and it’s hard to ... Read more from my I am Your Fiji Specialist bio.

CERTIFICATES & AWARDS

Certified ASTA Travel Agent
Certified Leisure Travel Specialist
Premier Aussie Specialist
Travel Leaders Certified Travel Specialist
Aussie Specialist
Master Cruise Counsellor
Dominican Republic Specialist

My Travel Stories

Shel, with some Fijian children
Fiji
My new friends outside Queenstown, NZ
New Zealand
A much-photographed rock formation
My Australia Adventures!

Puerto Vallarta - a Sparkling Gem!

After a short 4-hour flight out of Minneapolis you will arrive in beautiful, Puerto Vallarta - a resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, in the State of Jalisco.  

Nestled beneath the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains, it boasts spectacular beaches, water sports, marine life and (with the same latitude ... Read more from my Puerto Vallarta - a Sparkling Gem! story.

What Makes Kangaroo Island Special?

When I think about all of my Aussie adventures, one of the favorites has got to be Kangaroo Island. A short 45-minute flight from Adelaide brought me to the land of wild kangaroos, koalas in the trees, Seal Bay, the Arch, Remarkable Rocks and lunch in the bush. ... Read more from my What Makes Kangaroo Island Special? story.

My ATE Invitation to Perth

Because I am not only an Aussie Specialist, but have also earned my Premier Aussie Specialist Designation and am recognized by Tourism Australia and Travel 2 (formerly Qantas Vacations), I do receive invitations to various training and network events in Australia. An annual event is Corroborree (a joint meeting ... Read more from my My ATE Invitation to Perth story.

My Reviews

Rating: 5 26 Reviews | 100% Recommended

Amazing destination wedding!

Reviewed By Dena - Holmen, WI | Traveled to Negril ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
Shel is the best at answering all of our questions, addressing any concerns, and paying attention to the tiniest details to make sure our traveling experience is the absolute best it can be! She is also great at finding the best deals and piecing the whole itinerary together so it is fun, safe, and efficient in every aspect. She responds quickly to emails which is awesome when you're so excited to plan your vacation! If you're looking for an experienced travel agent - look no further than Shel Hansen!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
60 of 92 people found this review helpful
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Best travel agent in the business

Reviewed By Happy traveler because of Shel - lacrosse wi | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
We have been working with Shel for around 20 years. She has suggested and sent us on some wonderful trips. Shel has always given us 120% when working on adventures for us.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
40 of 59 people found this review helpful
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A Great Travel Agent

Reviewed By Tracy - Onalaska, WI | Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean
Shel is great at what she does and goes above and beyond to ensure everything is in order when she books your trip and she will work with you if you have any special accommodations you may need while traveling or on your trip/destination.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
51 of 82 people found this review helpful
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Fantastic trip down under!

Reviewed By Patty - La Crescent, MN | Traveled to Australia & New Zealand
Shel was great to work with . She planned all the details with us and gave great tips on our destinations. I am planning another trip with Shel because of the great experience I had. With her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
42 of 70 people found this review helpful
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The best trip of our lives so far!

Reviewed By Dick and Pat - Onalaska, WI | Traveled to Australia & New Zealand
All good. When we had a slight problem in Morea she dealt with it over night. Also she answered questions from Sydney
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
42 of 72 people found this review helpful
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Escaping to Mexico is our Zen.

Reviewed By Lon - Holmen | Traveled to Mexico ~ Mexico
She has always been prompt and given us good travel advice. She is very thorough and polite.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
43 of 75 people found this review helpful
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Australia, and New Zealand, and Ireland, Scotland.

Reviewed By Margaret - CASHTON | Traveled to New Zealand ~ Australia & New Zealand
Shel explains the trip extremely well. Explains in detail where there might be problems. We just came back from Australia and everything went great!!!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
42 of 73 people found this review helpful
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Always A Great Trip

Reviewed By T and B - La Crosse, WI | Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean
Very friendly, understanding, well organized always have a great trip booking through Shel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
46 of 81 people found this review helpful
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Reliable and experienced

Reviewed By Beach lover - Wisconsin | Traveled to Riviera Maya ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Shel has helped us with travel plans for several years. She works diligently to find the best deal and travel times that work for you. She has experience to help you with your questions.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
42 of 74 people found this review helpful
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Alaska Cruise

Reviewed By Theresa W. - La Crosse, WI | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
She has been so helpful in planning any kind of trip, whether in Alaska or Australia.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
48 of 86 people found this review helpful
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My husband and I had an amazing honeymoon!

Reviewed By Cassie - Onalaska, Wisconsin | Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean
Shel is great to work with. I have used her for so many trips and they have all been amazing.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
42 of 77 people found this review helpful
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Looking forward to the best trip ever

Reviewed By Pam - La Crosse | Traveled to Mexico
so helpful and knowledgeable
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
40 of 75 people found this review helpful
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Shel gave us the confidence for overseas travel!

Reviewed By Heatherb - La Crosse, Wisconsin | Traveled to Europe
Trip after trip Shel has provided thoughtful, complete travel arrangements that took the stress off our family. Leaving nothing for us to do but enjoy! We won't travel without her guidance.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
43 of 81 people found this review helpful
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It was an excellant trip.

Reviewed By susan - Chaseburg, Wisc | Traveled to Mexico
Shel went above and beyond to plan our trip. Nothing was left out. She made sure with this co-vid time that everything was covered.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
11 of 18 people found this review helpful
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Best trip ever to Mexico.

Reviewed By Pam - La Crosse, WI | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
Shel did an outstanding job for our trip planning. From arranging assistance at the airport to booking a handicap accessible room, she was great. Traveling to a smaller resort per her recommendation was a real plus.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
10 of 16 people found this review helpful
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Alaska cruise/land

Reviewed By Karen - West Salem , WI | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
Shel is wonderful to work with. She takes the time to find out what you really want and need out of your travels. She is very prompt and courteous!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
41 of 78 people found this review helpful
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The Best Trip

Reviewed By Chris - West Salem | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
The experience was phenomenal. She was very responsive and accommodating for our large group and our constant changes and demands. She went beyond just planning our trip. She gave great advice and expectations for our trip. She was so amazing, we already booked another trip with her.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 11 people found this review helpful
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Gave me the travel bug to go again

Reviewed By Vacation Dreamer - Chaseburg Wisconsin | Traveled to Mexico
My first time traveling outside of the country and she made it so easy. Everything from obtaining a passport to what to expect in Mexico.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
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Every Trip has been amazing

Reviewed By Reggie - Onalaska | Traveled to Mexico D.F. ~ Mexico
She is easy to work with and understands what I expect and goes beyond
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 14 people found this review helpful
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A fantastic trip and well planned

Reviewed By Troy n Beth - La Crosse WI | Traveled to Mexico
Friendly and Reliable
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
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Return to Cozumel!

Reviewed By Marcia - Onalaska, WI | Traveled to Cozumel ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Shel is personable, knowledgeable and truly helpful in planning all sorts if travel experiences. For our first post pandemic trip, Shel gave us current, reliable advice and made us feel confident in our decision to travel internationally again.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 13 people found this review helpful
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Reuniting in Australia

Reviewed By Lynda - West Salem, WI | Traveled to Australia & New Zealand
Shel knows what she is doing and does it very well!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 14 people found this review helpful
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A family vacation to remember.

Reviewed By Rhonda - La Crosse Wi | Traveled to Playa Del Carmen ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Shel did a fantastic job,the resort was spot on for what we wanted.We had a couple people cancel after booking and she got everything in order. Shel answered my emails and phone calls right away.This was the best resort we have stayed at and will go again and use Shel for all future travel.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 14 people found this review helpful
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Very relaxing week.

Reviewed By MICHAEL - West Salem, WI | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
Shel had everything planned out. Beginning with the hotel in Minneapolis, the ride to the airport, flight, taxi to hotel, check in, and then the return home. Everything went smoothly.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 15 people found this review helpful
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Group trip to Mexico

Reviewed By Karen - West Salem | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
Shel is a wonderful agent and truly kind, wonderful person. She always goes way above and beyond what I would expect a travel agent to do.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 15 people found this review helpful
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Many wonderful trips!

Reviewed By MGT - Onalaska, WI | Traveled to Mexico
Shel is lively, kind, efficient and knowledgeable. We have been working with her for about 15 years. She has given us terrific advice and wonderful service.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
37 of 77 people found this review helpful
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My Travel Experience

Places I’ve personally traveled to or destinations I’ve booked for my clients.

Customer Testimonials

A Wonderful Trip of a Lifetime

Thanks to Shel Hansen, Travel Leaders Australian Specialist, we had a fabulous trip to Australia and New Zealand. We shared with her what we wanted to do and see; she set up an incredible agenda. Highlights included: a few days stay at our favorite winery resort, fishing off of a yacht in Sydney harbor and a safari to a wild life preserve, Kangaroo Island, with our own private guide. We saw cultural museums, landmarks such as Uluru, National Parks, the Outback and the beautiful Blue Mountains. We were transported by planes, trains, cable cars, boats, submarines and for a few days our own rented auto. Everything was well-coordinated with drivers and guides waiting to help us with the next connection. It was a wonderful trip of a lifetime.

Provided by Tom and Doris D., Onalaska, WI

So Glad I Connected With Shel at Travel Leaders

My daughter and I had dreamed of taking a trip to Australia and New Zealand since she was a child. Our dream nearly slipped away from us until I connected with Shel at Travel Leaders. This was our dream trip and I wanted it to be perfect; Shel was very patient with me and my endless e-mails. I entrusted her to come up with an itinerary that would include the list of things we hoped to do within a budget we could afford. Complications arose along the way but Shel went out of her way to help smooth out the wrinkles. Our long-dreamed-of trip finally came true in January! From holding a live koala bear in our arms, to SCUBA diving on the Great Barrier reef, to touring the Sydney opera house, to seeing the beautiful landscapes where scenes from the Lord of the Rings movies were filmed, to zip-lining down a mountainside--we did it all and much, much more. Thanks to Shel’s hard work, our dream trip became a reality, and now our memories will last this mother and daughter a lifetime!

Provided by Ruth W., Onalaska, WI

I Found the Perfect Person With Which to Work!

My husband and I began planning a trip to Australia to visit our son who had moved there. We didn’t know where to start, and trying to book a trip of a lifetime by ourselves via the Internet seemed daunting. When I called Travel Leaders, they directed me to their Australia expert, Shel Hansen. I couldn’t have found a more perfect person to work with on a trip like this. I found out Shel had been to Australia six times and knew all the ins and outs of traveling there. She was amazing! Her knowledge and first-hand experience of traveling to Australia made it so enjoyable and fun to plan the trip. Now I always tell people to contact Travel Leaders rather than doing it on their own.

Provided by Teresa N., Hokah, MN