Conquering the World One Memory at a Time
Picture yourself savouring an exquisite Bordeaux on a private balcony, with the Mediterranean's glittering waves as your backdrop. Luxuriate in the personalized attention aboard a grand train, the plush feel of leather as you drive down the Amalfi Coast, or the supple touch of silk sheets in a Parisian hotel. Every detail adds another level of indulgence to your rich, luxurious story.
Picture a private concert under a moonlit sky at a secluded beach, with the ocean playing a gentle rhythm just for you. Envision a candle-lit dinner in a historic courtyard, offering a symphony of flavors that resonate with your heart's unspoken understanding. The shared moments, like holding hands amid the timeless beauty of the cobblestone lanes or basking in a sunrise tailormade for two, orchestrate the melody of true luxury.
Recline on the sundeck of your river cruise, watching the panorama of history unfold before you—from quaint villages to grand cathedrals. Each day, a fresh canvas of experiences awaits, merging the rustic with the grand, all viewed from the comfort of your floating haven. As evening descends, the river mirrors twinkling distant towns, each mooring revealing new stories and a dance with culture and history.
What you can expect in 3 easy steps
We will work with you to design the perfect trip based on your travel style and budget. We will design a memorable trip with a stress-free experience and memories to last a life time.
Step 1
Consultation
In order for Valerie and team to find the perfect fit for your trip, we want to get to know you with a conversation. We want to know more about what you like and value to match you for the perfect trip. Fill out this simple online form and then let's chat.
Step 2
Travel design
After you determine we are a good fit, and planning fee has been processed. You will receive a personalized itinerary based on your individual wants and needs.
Step 3
Start packing
Once all of the details are finalized all you need to do is start packing. We will provide packing and destination guides a few weeks prior to travel.
MEET THE TEAM
Valerie Baker-Wynn-Owner/Agent
It's special when your passion aligns with your profession, right? Well, that's the story of Valerie.
Windblown Travel was born from Valerie's knack for crafting epic trips and her deep love for exploring. As a specialist in everything from story-telling cruises to romantic escapes and picturesque river trips, she's more than just your regular travel agent.
Her real skill lies in bringing together travel enthusiasts through curated tours and cruises. Plus, her quick action can beat any travel hiccup, ensuring your adventures are as smooth as can be.
Fancy a luxurious cruise experience? Valerie’s profound knowledge of the best lines and resorts will match you to your perfect, customized journey. Her passion for Ireland's emerald allure, Europe's serene river cruises, Mexico's charms and luxury cruises aligns closely with like-minded globetrotters.
So, ready for journeys that feel like home with a dash of thrill? With Valerie and Windblown Travel, your travel dreams are one conversation away. Pack up and leave the rest to her. Step into your next travel chapter filled with breathtaking sunsets, alluring skylines, and unforgettable stories.
Michele Subia
Your Disney specialist
You can reach Michele at Michele@windblowntravel.com
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
Multiple Trips
I’ve now had 5 trips planned out and handled by Valerie at Windblown Travel. All I can say is that I am so grateful that I saved myself the frustration and heartache of creating my own plans and booking them all. Valerie is great about giving recommendations and steering you to things that are worth your money. Big bang for my bucks. She helped navigate a couple problems we had traveling and made them right. Super attentive and made sure we had a great time. Definitely will only be booking with her! Amazing!
Kelly M. - Indiana
Alaska Cruise Tour
Pure perfection! Valerie was the first travel agent we've engaged with for a trip and we could not have been more pleased. From the initial land/cruise tour booking to excursion choices to onboard experiences, she was there every step of the way keeping us informed and answering questions. (Valerie has the patience of a Saint when it comes to answering questions, and I had plenty!) She is not only professional, but friendly and compassionate to your needs. I was able to witness this first-hand when a family member in our party had a medical emergency. Her immediate response and communication between Princess and the family was not only impressive, but very reassuring to everyone involved. Overall, an excellent experience. Can't wait to book our next trip with her! Thank you, Valerie!
Judee S- Florida
Only Agent we will use
Valerie is the only agent I will use. She has planned a couple trips for us and has been available at the drop of a hat no matter the time. She helps every step of the way and makes traveling effortless. Even when problems arise outside of her control, she handles them with ease and professionalism. Our last trip some who booked outside of her group tried to take advantage of her services, and even that she handled with grace and tried to help even though she didn't need to. I would recommend to anyone needing excellent travel assistance to book with Val!
Emilie B- Michigan
In the News:
Small Business Showcase:
Small Business virtual Magazine
Spotlight on Valerie Baker-Wynn: The Heartbeat of Windblown Travel
Eleni Owens
Spotlight on Valerie Baker-Wynn: The Heartbeat of Windblown Travel
From Passion to Profession
Building a Business from the Ground Up
Launching a travel business requires more than a love for travel; it demands dedication, continuous learning, and formal training. Valerie stands out in the industry due to her extensive certifications and training. She holds certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and the Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) from the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), along with accreditations from CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association).
Valerie’s commitment to excellence and personalized service has earned her a loyal client base, with numerous five-star reviews attesting to her expertise and client care. “Booking vacations online can be tricky because you can’t always speak to a human being without sitting on hold for hours,” she says. “When booking with me, I’m the one who will sit on hold for you.” She emphasizes the importance of professional training and continuous education to differentiate herself from less qualified agents in the field. She warns anyone interested in a career in travel planning to do their research. Many companies promise excellent training but don’t deliver on that promise.
Adapting and Thriving Through Challenges
As a business owner, Valerie faces many challenges, but the COVID-19 pandemic may be the most significant one. For years, the travel industry was completely decimated. Many travel agencies shut down, but Valerie’s adaptability and knowledge allowed her to pivot from cruise bookings, which were largely halted, to all-inclusive resorts, particularly in Mexico. Her prior experience in this area enabled her to continue serving her clients effectively during the pandemic. Even those who canceled their travel plans during shutdowns returned for Valerie’s expertise when restrictions were lifted.
Valerie also stresses the importance of legal and operational infrastructure for any aspiring entrepreneur. Over the last two years, she has fortified her business with legal terms and conditions, service fees, professional liability insurance, and automated processes. These measures provide an extra layer of security and streamline operations, allowing Valerie to focus more on her clients.
Windblown Travel offers a broad spectrum of travel services, but Valerie has particular expertise in river cruises, high-end luxury cruises, and all-inclusive romantic getaways. She is passionate about river cruising, describing it as a leisurely way to explore multiple cities and countries without the hassle of unpacking at each destination. Her favorite destinations include the scenic landscapes of Ireland and the historical richness of Budapest.
Valerie’s ability to plan complex group trips is another hallmark of her service. Whether it’s organizing river cruises for multiple cabins or coordinating extensive land tours, she handles every detail to ensure a seamless experience for her clients. Her group travel planning spans diverse destinations, from Arctic expeditions to cultural tours of Europe.
Personal Touches and Client Care
What truly sets Valerie apart is her commitment to personalized service. She ensures direct communication with her clients, offering tips and insights from her own travel experiences and leveraging a network of fellow travel agents to provide the best recommendations. Her approach includes thorough consultations to understand her clients’ needs and preferences, making each trip a tailor-made experience.
Valerie’s dedication extends to handling the logistical headaches that come with travel planning. She takes on the burden of dealing with cancellations, airline issues, and other challenges, ensuring her clients can focus on enjoying their travels without stress. This level of care and attention has fostered deep trust and long-term relationships with her clients, many of whom return for multiple bookings.
Valerie’s vision for the future of Windblown Travel includes expanding into more high-end, inclusive travel experiences such as world cruises and luxury land tours. She aims to offer more intimate, high-quality tours that provide unique experiences, ensuring her clients receive personal attention and access to exclusive locations.
Final Thoughts
Valerie Baker-Wynn exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and knowledgeable travel professional. Her journey from an impromptu travel planner to the owner of a successful travel agency showcases her resilience, expertise, and unwavering commitment to her clients. For those seeking a travel advisor who goes above and beyond, Valerie and Windblown Travel offer an unparalleled experience.
For more information, you can visit her website at Windblown Travel, join her private Facebook group “The Travel Society with Valerie,” or contact her directly via email at valerie@windblowntravel.com.
Eleni Owens