Choose Happy Travels:
Where Wellness meets Joy and Adventure
About Choose Happy Travels
Choose Happy Travels was born from friendship, laughter, and a shared belief that joy is not just something we stumble upon—it’s something we can choose, cultivate, and celebrate together.
We started this company because we both know what it’s like to search for joy after loss. In our own lives, we’ve walked through grief and pain, and we found that travel became a powerful way to reclaim joy within ourselves. Being immersed in new landscapes, cultures, and experiences reminded us that happiness is always available, even after seasons that felt heavy.
Founded by Kate Shipp and Margie Katzke, CHT curates transformative journeys that blend breathtaking destinations with deep connection. Our retreats are created with care and intention—detailed planning ensures you can simply arrive and exhale, while thoughtful presence and attunement to the group bring a sense of safety and ease.
Each itinerary is carefully designed with a balance of structure and freedom: meaningful practices and guided adventures, with plenty of space for spontaneous whimsy, laughter, and unexpected magic.
The heart of Choose Happy Travels is simple:
Adventure that awakens your spirit
Community that feels like family
Well-being that restores your soul
Memories that last a lifetime
From the wild landscapes of Scotland to the tranquil beauty of Tuscany and beyond, each retreat invites you to slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with a supportive community.
What started as a dream between two friends has grown into a global movement of travelers who are discovering that happiness is not a destination—it’s a way of life.
We invite you to join us. Come laugh, explore, rest, and create stories you’ll treasure forever.
Choose Happy, and the world opens up in the most magical ways.
Kate Shipp
Co-Owner
Kate Shipp is an authentic life strategist and highly regarded holistic trauma recovery specialist with nearly 15 years of experience empowering individuals to heal from their past and remember their wholeness.
A best-selling author, mentor, and retreat leader, she weaves together her love of travel, nature, and soulful connection to create experiences that awaken joy and restore the spirit.
Having walked her own journey of finding light after trauma and loss, Kate brings a steady presence, intentional care, and adventurous energy, helping travelers feel safe, seen, and inspired to rediscover themselves through the beauty of community and exploration.
Margie Katzke
Co-Owner
As a Yoga teacher, Margie Katzke has spent over a decade guiding students to balance and inner peace, blending compassion, community, and trauma-informed lens to empower others rise into their best selves.
Beyond the mat, Margie’s passion for travel has been a source of healing and joy in her own life. Living overseas in London for five years sparked her love for exploring the world. Through Choose Happy Travels, she combines her love for adventure, wellness, and meaningful connection, and spreadsheets.
She finds joy in helping others find their wholeness, and joy as they explore both the world around them and the world within with a playful Rainbow Brite spirit.