My Story. My Mission.
Journeys of Discovery
“Ted is a true professional. He’s multi-lingual, extremely knowledgeable, has great connections, and loves what he does.”
I got into the travel business with a purpose: facilitating personal growth through travel. This means connecting my clients with new people, places, and cultures in ways that are enriching and create new perspectives on the world. I’ve always believed that travel is a path to truly understanding our place in the world and becoming the best versions of ourselves.
My Story
Hi. My name is Ted Bowling and I own Kilometer One Travel. Although launched just four years ago, this project has deep roots. I’ve been traveling and living around the world for over 35 years.
It all goes back to 1986 when I met my Spanish wife-to-be during a semester abroad. I was so fortunate to be able to discover Spain as both a tourist and a family member. Those personal connections make all the difference, and I strive to replicate that personal touch for my clients. The world comes to life through the people that you meet and the relationships that you form and keep. Since 1986, I’ve visited Europe over 60 times, and lived or traveled in over 30 countries.
I am proud to have served in the US Army for over a decade, living in and traveling throughout Latin America. Subsequently, I was able to continue serving my country as Program Management Professional (PMP®) in the defense industry.
I hold a Masters Degree in Latin American and Iberian Studies, as well as degrees in International Relations and Geographic Information Systems. I am thrilled to be able to integrate and apply many of the skills I have learned over the course of my life in my role as a business owner and travel professional.
I live with my amazing wife Susana and crazy cat Paco in Stow, Ohio. When I’m not planning travel, I am usually out on a photography expedition. In addition to travel photography, I love taking photos of dogs.
Thanks again for checking in here! Please let me know how I can help you plan your next journey! Cheers!
Remembering Hector (1931-2019)
I owe so much to my father-in-law Hector. He was always ready to show me something new. He had lived through the Spanish Civil War and the ensuing decades of hardship but it hadn’t hardened him. He seemed to have friends everywhere we went—and we really did go everywhere, as we crisscrossed Spain on our dozens of expeditions. Hector was the navigator, and I was the driver. Our adventures took us from the yacht harbor in Marbella to sheep ranches in Teruel. I will always miss him when I step off the plane in Madrid.
Photography
Almost all of the photography on this site is my own. Photography is one of the ways through which I connect with the places I visit. If you want to learn more about travel photography, check out my blog and follow me on Facebook!
KILOMETER ONE GIVES BACK
We are proud to support the critical mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeast Ohio to enhance the health care experience for families and children through comfort, care and supportive services. Learn more here.
Serving my country has been the greatest honor of my life. As a small business owner, I continue to live by the values instilled in all members of the US Armed Forces. Please join me in supporting Veteran Owned Businesses whenever possible.