The Origins
of a Passionate Pursuit
Brodner Travel Nation was born from generations of alpine adventure and a deep-rooted love for the Austrian Alps. What started as a family tradition has grown into a mission to share the magic of Kitzbühel with discerning travelers around the world.
We believe travel should be immersive, personalized, and unforgettable — which is why we bring a legacy of local knowledge, thoughtful planning, and passion to every itinerary we craft.
Our Story
A Legacy born
on a Pair of Skis
By chance—or perhaps by destiny—I am the third child in my family. The youngest of three brothers, I was born into a unique position that shaped much of who I am today. With a seven-year gap between me and my next older brother, I found myself spending a great deal of time with my grandmother. And she, in many ways, became the bridge to a remarkable legacy that would eventually lead me to Kitzbühel, Austria.
My grandmother was an extraordinary woman. Born in England, she had a life marked by bold decisions and adventurous turns. She was married twice—both times to Austrians. Her first husband, my biological grandfather, took her to Maracaibo, Venezuela in 1934, where he worked in the shipping industry. After his untimely passing, she returned to Vienna with my mother to live with her mother-in-law. But even before all that, during her early years in England, she was part of an elite circle—one of the personal secretaries to Winston Churchill before World War II. That alone speaks volumes about her intelligence, charisma, and presence in pivotal moments of history.
Later, while back in Vienna, she met the man who would become her second husband—my grandfather, though not by blood, very much by heart and legacy. They were both employed by Shell Oil and originally planned to move to Australia. But given her familiarity with Venezuela, they chose instead to settle in Caracas. That decision would shape the generations that followed.
Here’s where the story takes a turn that binds our family to Kitzbühel forever. My grandfather’s aunt owned a charming house in Kitzbühel, Austria. By the time they returned to Europe, she was struggling financially. My grandfather struck a heartfelt deal: he would cover her living expenses for the rest of her life, and in return, the house would become his upon her passing. That house became our family’s anchor in the Alps. My grandparents began living a dual life—half the year in Caracas, the other half in Kitzbühel. Naturally, as a child, I would spend all my summer and winter holidays in Kitzbühel, skiing, hiking, and falling in love with the rhythm of Alpine life. These were the formative years that gave rise to my deep appreciation for the mountains, the culture, and the unique spirit of this region.
the origins
of a Passionate Pursuit
At Born on a pair of skis, we handle every detail, ensuring a luxury experience from start to finish. Our mission is to provide unparalleled service that allows you to fully enjoy the magic of Kitzbühel, no matter the season. Whether you’re here to conquer the slopes or unwind with a round of golf and a scenic hike, we deliver a tailor-made adventure that exceeds all expectations.
