Hello! I'm Heather Rosser, founder of Plot Twist Travel.
For many years, life was a predictable, well-thought-out journey with my husband of 31 years. We married young, grew up together, and were the best of friends. Together, we would dream and devise plans to make our dreams come true. Over the years, we had two beautiful children and began to prioritize family vacations. We fell in love with cruising and took one or two a year while our kids were growing up. Like so many couples, we had plans to travel the world as we neared our empty nesting years.
Then, unexpectedly, I faced one of the most difficult challenges life can bring—I became a widow. The world around me seemed to grow scarier and smaller as I wrestled with grief, identity loss, and uncertainty about my future. I knew my husband would want me to continue living life to its fullest, but I couldn’t see how.
I began to meet other widows who traveled. I was intrigued with the idea, but the thought of navigating airports, hotels, and new destinations alone felt overwhelming. It wasn’t just the logistics; it was the solitude and the fear of facing those moments without someone to share them with.
I joined an online coaching group for widows called Mom Goes On with the intent of learning how to love my life again. I was challenged to move toward the things that made me uncomfortable. Traveling was one of those things. So, as an audacious adventure, I booked a cruise to Norway for just me. I figured I wouldn’t follow through with it. But I did.
It was an amazing experience. Don’t get me wrong, it was hard. It was uncomfortable. It was scary at times. It was lonely. But I proved to myself that I could do it. I learned so much from that trip. My experience inspired others. I knew I wasn’t alone in feeling this way. I realized there were countless other women, just like me, who were longing to step out of their comfort zones, rediscover joy, and embrace life again—but weren’t sure how to take the first step.
That’s why I created Plot Twist Travel.
Plot Twist Travel is more than a travel company; it’s a community of women who “get it.” It’s a space where widows can gather, share, laugh, and explore the world together. I understand the hesitation and the courage it takes to say, “Yes” to a new adventure. I am privileged to know some amazing women who have transformed not only their travel dreams but their outlook on life. Together, we step into the unknown with the support of like-minded companions, creating connections and memories that remind us of life’s beauty and resilience.
Plot Twist Travel isn’t only about crossing destinations off a bucket list; it’s about rewriting the story of what’s possible after loss. It’s about realizing that joy can coexist with grief, that new friendships can be formed in the wake of heartbreak, and that travel can be a gateway to healing and self-discovery. I’ve learned that life doesn’t end with loss; it evolves. It changes direction. And sometimes, all it takes is a plot twist to start a new chapter.