ABOUT

OUR MISSION:

At the Diabetic Travelers Network, our mission is to empower individuals living with diabetes to take their power back over their condition and embark on sensational journeys around the world. We are more than a travel company; we are a global community that believes in the transformative power of travel, friendships, and shared experiences.

We facilitate group trips for T1D, T2D, T3c, LADA, and beyond, our goal is to create an environment where every journey becomes an opportunity for growth, exploration, and lasting connections. We aim to be the guiding compass for those who seek to break free from the constraints of diabetes, providing the resources and community support necessary to make every adventure both seamless and extraordinary.

In the spirit of inclusivity and understanding, the Diabetic Travelers Network is dedicated to building bridges across borders, connecting individuals with shared experiences, and ultimately, transforming the narrative around living with diabetes. With each trip, we aspire to inspire courage, foster community, and redefine what's possible for those who dare to dream beyond the limits of their condition.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with us, where your diabetes is not a limitation but a passport to unparalleled experiences. And if you need support to plan your own trip, you can book a one-to-one session with our founder right here.

OUR STORY:

The DTN® has grown into to connects thousands of people with diabetes with a desire to travel.

Our community comprises vibrant individuals—T1D, T2D, T3c, LADA—united by the spirit of adventure and a shared understanding of the nuances of living with diabetes. We've crafted a haven where your journey isn't hindered by your condition; it's celebrated.

We, who live with diabetics all have the same worries, independently of where we live in the world,

Yet, we often feel lonely, misunderstood, and overwhelmed.

The DTN® is THE place to find help, support, and create lifelong friendships.

WHAT SETS US APART:

At Diabetic Travelers Network, we know and recognize the unique needs of living with diabetes. We bridge the gap in the travel industry, curating experiences that cater specifically to your requirements. This is NOT a diabetes camp and diabetes is NOT the main subject of focus and discussion. We create a safe space for you to ENJOY your vacation, have fun, and be present without constantly having to worry about food timing, carb counting, or how to keep your insulin cold. Everything is already planned for you. All you have to do is book your trip and buy your plane ticket!

Whether you're seeking new friendships, personal growth, or simply a damn good holiday, we've got you covered.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Unwind, Laugh, and Create Lasting Memories: Get ready to slow down, have fun, and savor every moment of your trip. Our adventures blend the excitement of discovery with the transformative essence of a retreat.

Embrace the Adventure: Join a group that not only acknowledges but celebrates the uniqueness of every moment. Be part of a community that embraces the spirit of adventure, turning your journey into a celebration of joy and exploration.

Bucket List Destinations: Explore the world without the hassle. Our seamlessly curated trips take care of everything, from intricate details to delightful surprises, ensuring you relish every aspect of your adventure.

4-star accommodations: We don’t joke when it comes to accommodation and a great bed.

Done for you: Everything is already planned and booked for you. All you have to do is book your trip and buy your plane tickets. The meal inclusion varies based on the trips. While all lunches are not always included to allow you to try the local cuisine as you wish, breakfasts and dinners are included on all our trips.

Travel with Confidence: Our trips are crafted to provide a secure and supportive environment for individuals with diabetes eager to explore the world. Understanding the unique considerations of managing diabetes while traveling, our experienced team ensures you have the necessary support and resources throughout the journey.

Friendship and Connection: Our trips transcend mere visits to stunning destinations; they are about empowering each other, forming lifelong friendships, and creating cherished memories. Immerse yourself in a community of like-minded individuals who understand the triumphs and challenges of living with diabetes, building a supportive network to enhance your travel experience.

Cultural Immersion: Deepen your connection with the places you visit, allowing their wisdom to amplify your own journey.

Empowering Activities: Engage in transformative activities designed to help you tap into your inner power and embrace a thriving life with diabetes. Each experience is crafted to cultivate self-confidence, resilience, and a deep connection with yourself.

Hey, I’m Julie K.

I am a travel passionate, life enthusiast, Capricorn sun, and proud founder of the DTN®. I was diagnosed with type 1 in 1997.

When I started thinking about traveling some people close to me started to worry.

And they passed that fear onto me. It wasn't mine to begin with.

I started to freak out and play all the worst-case scenarios in my head.

What if my insulin doesn't work and I have to pay for it?

How am I going to get enough supplies to cover this 6 months trip?

What if I have a severe low and no one understands that I have diabetes? What if I die from this? Could I?

Those were LONG sleepless nights believe me!

I know for a fact that diabetes can be very lonely, especially when no one around you has it.

I know the stress that kicks in every time you try something new.

It is like playing the lottery.

Except that you’re playing with your life.

I had a dream of traveling the world, but I had no idea how to make it a reality.

Like you, I had nobody to talk to.

I felt alone, stressed, and misunderstood.

I refused to let diabetes control my life or dictate what I could or not do.

So I wrote down all that could happen and I made a plan for each scenario. Making sure I had a backup plan if things were to go wrong.

And they did.

When I was about to embark the security took my ice packs. I had to make a choice risking my insulin to go off and taking a leap of faith to live my dream or go home and be miserable.

I choose number 1. I took that plane.

Fast forward I've traveled to 28 countries, lived on 3 continents, learned 2 foreign languages, and became an expat in a foreign country. Travel opened my eyes to the world. To humanity and its kindness. It taught me that you can make real friends in 5 years or in 5 mins. That you're never alone unless you decide or want to be.

I became so confident in my ability not only to manage my diabetes but to keep myself safe and to manage unexpected situations with a smile. It taught me to not believe what people say but to go and see it by myself. I felt safe and at home in Colombia while it was supposed to be unsafe and scary. I did a road trip around Scotland for a week and it barely rained.

Without travelling I would have never done half of the things I have now done. When I started I was exactly like you. I was scared unsure and I didn't want to go alone.

But I knew deep down that there was another way than going to work and watching others traveling the world. If they did it, I could too.

That's why I founded the Diabetic Travelers Network and started a company that facilitates group trips for individuals who live with diabetes (all types are welcome) so they can stop the fear and overwhelmed and finally feel alive.

I am here to show you that diabetes can be a tiny detail in your life. That you don’t have to live your life as a victim of your diagnosis. Life is unpredictable even without diabetes, and I’m here to show you how to build confidence & the know-how to take your power back.