Our Story

About Us —
Rooted in Heritage.
Built for Adventure.

In Norse mythology, Valhalla is the legendary hall of honour — a majestic place reserved for the brave, ruled by Odin himself. It symbolises glory, courage, and the ultimate reward. Viking heaven, if you will.

When Becky and Nick Carter founded Valhalla Travel in July 2015, the
name wasn’t chosen lightly. It wasn’t just powerful — it was personal.

That feather? It lives on in our logo.

A quiet but powerful nod to heritage, leadership, and the enduring explorer spirit that inspired our journey.

Inspired by Explorers. Designed for Modern Legends.

The Vikings were pioneers. They crossed vast oceans without certainty of what lay beyond the horizon. They were curious. Courageous. Determined to see what was out there.

That same spirit drives us — and the travellers we serve.

But here’s the difference: you don’t have to navigate the unknown alone.

Becky and Nick built Valhalla Travel around a simple but powerful promise: end-to-end, expertly managed travel that feels rewarding, not overwhelming.

Think of us as your trusted guide. You bring the dream. We bring the structure, the protection, and the calm confidence that makes it seamless.

Our Shetland Roots

Our story is deeply woven into the rugged beauty and Viking heritage of Shetland.

Nick’s father was from Shetland, where Norse history isn’t just remembered — it’s lived. The islands carry a proud Scandinavian legacy, shaped by Viking settlers whose spirit of exploration still echoes through the cliffs, seas, and traditions today.

Becky herself lived in Shetland for several years in the early 2010s, managing a hotel and welcoming travellers from around the world. It was there — surrounded by dramatic landscapes, tight-knit community, and centuries-old Nordic influence — that the seed of Valhalla Travel truly began to take shape.

Shetland doesn’t just honour its Viking past quietly. Each winter, it erupts into life during Up Helly Aa, the islands’ spectacular fire festival. At its heart stands the Guizer Jarl, the chief Viking of the celebration, dressed in elaborate armour adorned with distinctive crow feathers.

Heaven on Earth — Without the Battle

Just as Valhalla was the reward for the bravest warriors, we believe your holiday should feel like a well-earned triumph.

Not stressful.

Not complicated.

Not pieced together at midnight on ten different tabs.

From first conversation to your safe return home, we handle:

Tailored holiday design

Flights, accommodations, cruises, and tours

Transfers and experiences

Protection and contingency planning

Real human support when plans shift

You get the excitement of adventure — with the reassurance of having experts in your corner.

More Than Travel — It’s Legacy

Active Travel isn’t just a business founded in 1982. It’s a reflection of heritage, family, resilience, and a belief that exploration shapes us.

From Shetland’s Viking fire festivals to the destinations we send our clients across the globe, everything we do carries the same intention:

To help you travel bravely — and return home with stories worthy of your own legend.

Because adventure should feel bold.

And planning it should feel effortless.

Welcome to Active Travel.