Ellie Hamby and Sandy Hazelip are back in Texas after an 80-day trip around the world.
The two women have been friends for 23 years and decided to celebrate their respective 80th birthdays by visiting all seven continents.
After a one-year delay caused by travel restrictions, they took off on their trip of a lifetime on January 11.
Their journey began in Antarctica, followed by stops in Lapland, Zanzibar, Egypt, India, Nepal, Bali, Japan, Rome, and London.
Both women were already seasoned travelers.
Hamby, a resident of Abilene, had extensively traveled while working as an international documentary photographer.
Hazelip, a doctor living in Eastland, traveled abroad frequently to speak about women’s health at various events. She also participated in several ladies’ retreats and missions in China, Russia, and Zambia, among others.
Their travel philosophy was dictated by an old Arab proverb, “Trust in God, but tie your camel.”
As such, they spent years planning their journey. This meticulous planning allowed them to travel to remote and exotic locations across the globe.
Prioritizing “experience” over “comfort,” the two friends saw the wonders of the world, including the northern lights, husky-drawn sleigh rides, camelback excursions, and more.
Hamby told NBC 5 that the idea to post their adventures on social media came when so many of the people they encountered would ask them for their handles.
“Maybe we should get this going,” she thought.
With the help of Brandi Huddleston, Hamby and Hazelip began chronicling their travels on social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, amassing thousands of followers who were inspired by their courage and determination.
“The thing that has excited both of us is how we’ve brought people joy as they followed us on this adventure,” Hazelip told NBC 5.
As the duo returns home to Abilene and Eastland, they will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps.
Their message was simple yet powerful: you are never too old to embark on a new adventure and explore all the world has to offer.
The traveling grannies’ fans are already calling for a sequel: 85 and Still Alive.
