It has been said that the world is a book and he who doesn’t travel only reads one page. If true, Travel Incorporated in Moorhead is a library of fun and adventure. It is the oldest travel agency in the Moorhead/Fargo area under the same ownership.
Owner and operator Jill Baldwin launched her entrepreneurship on Center Avenue in 1985. Travel Inc. arrived in its present location at 10 South 4th Street in 2005. Just as many of first-time business ventures happen, it was by almost by chance that Baldwin entered into the business world. After considering both the risks and rewards associated with self-employment, the travel industry seemed like a viable and interesting option. However, as an elementary teacher with seven years of experience, she was already well versed in explaining the wonders of the world to second and third graders. Working with adults who wished to explore the world was a natural step in her desire to help others expand their worldview and experience the entire world book and not just one page. Over the years, her clients have had the advantage of her expertise and desire to not only educate them, but also prepare them for adventures. They are grateful that she made the move from the classroom to the travel business.
Baldwin shares her business success with her husband, Jerry, who is a physician specializing in the field of pathology. As expected, he lists travel as an important experience in his life. They are the proud parents of two boys, ages 34 and 38. Son Mike is an investment banker and son Jack is a dentist. In her down time, she enjoys volunteering at the Plains Art Museum, The Rourke Art Gallery Museum, and with the Junior League of Fargo-Moorhead.
Baldwin noted that the world of travel has been evolving constantly over the years. Many had predicted that travel agents’ days were numbered with the widespread accessibility of the internet. The internet has surely brought about numerous challenges, but also benefits for the industry. However, as with many other industries, technology and competition makes us stronger, she added.
Why use a travel agent when the internet can provide the information at your fingertips? Unless you have unlimited time in your schedule, be prepared, because the internet won’t call you back and won’t wait on hold with an airline or hotel so you don’t have to. Nor will the internet adjust your plans due to unexpected developments or act as your “mission control” for all facets of your cruise vacation – before, during, and after.
Perhaps you’re not sure where you want to go. If you don’t travel often and you are planning a special event like a honeymoon, anniversary vacation, or family reunion trip, you may want professional advice to ensure that it is a meaningful experience. Reading online reviews of a specific resort or city can take lots of time and effort. Travel Inc. can help steer you toward what you’re looking for such as family friendly, a beach town or perhaps a non-touristy location.
If you’re planning to travel somewhere internationally and you’ve never been before, it might be a good idea to go through a travel agent. When you use Travel Inc. to book international or domestic travel, you’ll be able to ask questions and get the right answers, says Baldwin. Her agency will gather all the information you’ll need to make sure you’re traveling safely. In today’s’ world, safety and time is indeed worth its price.
10 South 4th Street
Moorhead, MN 56560
(218) 236-8383
