A vagabond’s journey: Mary Baskin’s purposeful travel after 50

Mary Baskin’s love affair with travel began as a child while flipping through the pages of “National Geographic” with her grandmother.

“It just sparked an interest and a curiosity in me,” she recalled.

But the real turning point came, at just 12 years old, when Mary embarked on a six-week tour of Europe.

“I came back forever changed,” she said. “I was captivated by seeing distant capitals and diverse cultures.”

Though her early career took her down different paths, including stints as a flight attendant, an interior designer and a publisher, Mary’s heart always yearned for adventure. When her twin children were preparing to leave for college, she visited her daughter in London, followed by a stop in the enchanting Luberon Valley of Provence.

“Within 24 hours, I was smitten,” she said, describing her time in the French countryside.

Armed with bags of antiques and fresh inspiration, she asked her friends a pivotal question: ‘Why don’t we organize trips and bring people here?’ They laughed, leaving her at the airport with her suitcases and a nickname that would later become her brand: “The Vagabond.”

A leap into purpose

That whimsical question led to the creation of Vagabond Travel Company, where Mary curates customized trips steeped in cultural immersion and unforgettable experiences. It wasn’t just about travel, it was about reinvention.

“After 20 years of devoting myself to my family, I wondered what I was going to do with the next step of my life,” Mary explained.

She decided to chart her own course, one that involved taking groups of adventurous souls on journeys that were as transformative as they were scenic. Her inaugural trips to Provence sold out almost immediately.

“I booked two weeks back-to-back, and I’ve been going at least twice a year for the last 15 or 16 years,” she shared.

Exploring new horizons

What began as excursions to the lavender fields of France soon expanded to other alluring destinations.

“After France, I started doing trips to England, Ireland and Italy,” Mary said. “About eight years ago, I felt drawn to Marrakesh.”

Although unfamiliar with Morocco, her instincts told her it was time to explore.

“I didn’t want to stay in a big hotel outside the city,” she said. ”Instead, I booked a charming riad in the old city and quickly developed a deep friendship with its owner. That opened the door to a whole new set of experiences and connections.”

Her itineraries now include South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, India and, soon, Turkey and the Amalfi Coast.

“It’s ever-changing,” she said. “I’m constantly growing and learning.”

The heart of cultural immersion

One of the hallmarks of Vagabond Travel is the intimacy of Mary’s trips.

“I’m known for working with locals and creating access to experiences that you wouldn’t get on a standard tour,” she said.

From private cooking classes in Morocco to abseiling off the cliffs of Ireland, Mary’s trips prioritize authentic connection.

“We’re not doing 10 countries in 10 days,” she said. “Instead, we spend meaningful time in one area, allowing people to absorb the culture and form lasting memories.”

The trips are typically small, with groups averaging between 8 and 12 participants. In fact, 10 is often the magic number for a traveling group, she noted. For many participants, the trips become pivotal moments in their lives.

“I’ve had travelers who were navigating divorce, grieving a loss or simply seeking a new chapter,” Mary explained. “They often tell me these trips have been life-changing.”

Empowering women to venture far

While Mary’s groups are open to all, the majority of her clients are women in their 50s and beyond.

“They have some disposable income and a thirst for adventure,” Mary said. “Often, their husbands aren’t interested in going, but they don’t want to tackle it alone or join a massive tour group.”

Her trips also attract adventurous women well into their 70s.

“I recently took two 79-year-olds to Morocco, where they got to ride motorcycles in the desert,” she said. “They were hooting and howling the whole way. It was incredible.”

Finding purpose and passion

Mary’s approach to business is grounded in authenticity and relationships. She’s built a community of loyal travelers from cities like Birmingham, Atlanta and Dallas, often hosting intimate gatherings to share stories and inspire future trips.

“I didn’t start this with a grand plan,” she admitted. “It grew organically, largely through word of mouth.”

Her success has also led to new ventures. In 2022, Mary met Cosmo Brockway, a writer specializing in travel and interior design topics, who has written articles for “The World of Interiors,” Britain’s “House and Garden” and “Architectural Digest.”

She found Cosmo to be the ideal person to partner with in developing new tours of India. Last January, the pair enjoyed their maiden voyage to Rajasthan. As a result of their adventures, they worked together to produce a new travel and living journal titled “FOUND.”

The magazine reads like a beautifully photographed coffee table book filled with stories, design inspirations and travel tales.

Because she considers herself to be a serial entrepreneur, Mary is also preparing to launch an online storefront for curated antiques and artisanal finds.

Lessons from the road

Of course, globetrotting comes with its challenges. Mary shared stories of navigating language barriers, unexpected detours and even chaotic London roundabouts.

“At first, I’d find myself slipping back into driving on the right side of the road,” she said. “But now I hop into a van in Ireland or England, and it feels second nature.”

Despite the occasional hiccup, Mary’s perspective remains unwaveringly positive.

“You have to stay curious and push yourself out of your comfort zone,” she said. “When you do, life opens up in amazing ways.”

No regrets, only gratitude

When asked if she has any regrets, Mary’s answer was simple: “None.” She credits her success to perseverance and faith.

“I believe in God, not coincidences,” she said. “Doors open when you keep moving forward.”

For those over 50 who feel unsure about their next steps, Mary offers this advice: “Look inward and ask what brings you joy. What makes your heart race? Whether it’s painting, writing or travel, follow that spark.”

Her life stands as proof of what’s possible when you take a step of faith in that direction. At 50, Mary Baskin embraced a bold new chapter. Now in her 60s, she continues to chart paths less traveled — and she’s taking others along for the ride.

“We only have one life,” she said. “Let’s live our best.”

For more information

To connect with Mary or learn more about her travel opportunities, check out: