Women In… Welcomes Darci Murray: Redefining Travel Beyond the Bar
In a revealing and heartfelt conversation featured prominently on the Women In… podcast, host Toni Will connected with traveler, entrepreneur, and sober-lifestyle advocate Darci Murray—the visionary founder of Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel. In a 47-minute episode (Episode 70), Darci shares that she was "literally born into the travel biz," shaping a destiny that eventually led her to merge personal transformation with purposeful journeys (Apple Podcasts).
Darci’s story is rooted in a pivotal turning point in 2017 when she decided to quit drinking—a choice that awakened her senses and realigned her purpose. By 2021, she had launched Hooked with the mission to craft immersive, alcohol-free travel that invites deeper connection, heightened awareness, and authentic cultural experiences (Apple Podcasts, Travel Market Report).
Top Tips for Alcohol-Free Travel from Darci Murray
Drawing on Darci’s insights from that episode and broader commentary, here are strategies to elevate your sober or sober-curious travel experience:
1. Embrace “Full Sensory” Travel
Alcohol can dampen our awareness. Darci champions travel that fills every sense—early starts, active adventures, and mindful immersion in each moment (grouptravelleader.com, Travel Market Report).
2. Opt for Engaging Activities
Replace happy hour downtime with experiences that captivate:
In Iceland: cold-water plunges, make-your-own chocolate bars
In Nashville: monster-truck tours, line dancing, poster-making, alcohol-free spirit tastings (Travel Market Report).
3. Take the Lead on Planning (Especially as a Travel Provider)
Whether you’re traveling solo or guiding others, schedule active and memorable activities—think hikes, canoe rides, culinary classes—so the day never slows down (Frommer's).
4. Normalize Alcohol-Free — Include “Sober-Supportive” Travelers
Hooked welcomes everyone—those fully sober, curious, or simply choosing to skip alcohol for the trip—creating connection without judgment (Travel Market Report).
5. Make Every Moment Count
Skip the gaps that rely on alcohol. Darci says, “We fill in the holes that are typically spent drinking… you’re going to see more and do more 100%…” (Travel Market Report).
6. Track the Growing Mocktail & Sober-Curious Movement
From growing mocktail culture to demand for sober travel experiences, staying aware of industry trends helps both travelers and travel professionals stay inspired (grouptravelleader.com).
Highlight: Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel
If you’re ready to explore the world without the buzz, Hooked is your go-to. From its roots in 2021 to immersive trips across continents, Hooked focuses on authentic cultural connections, meaningful activities, and community—always alcohol-free (Travel Market Report, The Sober Curator).
Website: Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel
Learn about immersive trips and Darci’s journey—especially her personal transition, and how she channels passion into purpose (The Sober Curator, Travel Market Report).
Additional Resources & Inspiration
Sober Curator Podcast – Features episode “Hooked Travel with Darci Murray” discussing sober travel adventures and inclusive trips like a Sober Love Boat Alaska cruise and dry-grad Thailand (The Sober Curator).
Group Travel Leader Podcast – “Is ‘Mocktail Hour’ the Future of Travel?” dives into Darci’s perspective on how alcohol-free travel can unlock more enriching itineraries (grouptravelleader.com).
Frommer’s – Alcohol-Free Vacations – Offers practical advice like planning activity-focused itineraries to avoid idle time (Frommer's).
Final Thoughts
Darci Murray’s presence on Women In… not only elevates the conversation around sober travel—it invites us to reconsider how we explore the world. Through Hooked Alcohol-Free Travel, she proves that adventure, connection, and lasting memories don’t require a drink—they only require presence.
