Two 80-Year-Old Friends Finally Travel the World

A Friendship That Defies Age and Time

For over two decades, Ellie Hamby and Dr. Sandy Hazelip have shared a bond that has only grown stronger with time. Now 84 years old, the two women from Texas have proven that age is not a barrier to adventure. Their journey together began as a simple dream of traveling the world, but it has evolved into an inspiring story of friendship, resilience, and courage.

The Roots of a Lifelong Friendship

Their friendship was born on a medical mission trip in Zambia, where Hamby and her late husband were directors, and Hazelip was one of the physicians. Over the years, their connection deepened when both became widows. When Hazelip received an opportunity to open a clinic near Hamby’s home, she made a unique offer: “If you will give me a bed for two nights a week, I will take you out to eat.” That arrangement began 20 years ago and laid the foundation for a lifelong friendship.

Through late-night conversations and shared experiences, they found comfort in each other’s company. These moments helped them navigate the challenges of widowhood and build a bond that would eventually lead to their greatest adventure yet.

A Dream Realized

At the age of 79, the two friends decided to turn their dream into reality: to travel the world together. However, due to the challenges posed by the global pandemic, they couldn’t begin their journey until they were 81. Their goal was to complete a around-the-world trip in 80 days, which they successfully did in 80 consecutive days.

Their travels have taken them nearly everywhere, including all seven continents, most of the world's wonders, and almost 50 countries. But for Hamby and Hazelip, the highlights of their journey aren’t just about the places they’ve seen—they’re about the people they’ve met along the way.

Exciting Moments and Unforgettable Experiences

Their adventures have included thrilling experiences such as a journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway and a trip to the Middle East in 2011, where they found themselves in the Syrian desert during the start of a war. These moments have added depth and excitement to their travels, making each destination even more meaningful.

What started as a personal quest turned into something much bigger when a TikTok video showcasing their journey received over 6 million views. This unexpected attention has led to them being recognized in airports and gaining a following across social media platforms.

An Inspiring Message for All Ages

Now that their story has reached a wide audience, Hamby and Hazelip are using their platform to inspire others. They believe that no matter your age, it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Their message is clear: “Get up out of your easy chair, step out of your comfort zone, make a plan and live.”

To further share their experiences, the duo recently published a book titled Here We Go—Lessons for Living Fearlessly From Two Traveling Nanas. The book serves as a guide for living fully, regardless of age, and emphasizes the importance of friendship, love, and embracing the world with an open heart.

Lessons in Living Fearlessly

Hazelip explains that the purpose of their book is to show the world that it’s never too late to pursue your passions. “We realized the world needed to hear our message of friendship,” she said. “Living fearlessly and fully, loving those who cross our paths, and opening our hearts to this big, wonderful world.”

Their journey is a testament to the power of friendship and the impact that a single decision can have on your life. By taking a leap of faith, they have not only fulfilled their own dreams but have also inspired countless others to do the same.

A Journey That Continues

As they continue to explore the world, Hamby and Hazelip remain committed to sharing their experiences and encouraging others to live boldly. Their story reminds us that adventure is not limited by age, and that the best moments in life often come from stepping outside of our comfort zones.