Spotlight: Journeys Unlimited Travel
by Nora m. Davis (HBCA)—March 2009
Judy Cilla, Journeys Unlimited Travel
Frigid winds. Ice. Snow. Biting cold. I’m tired of this winter weather—and I know I’m not alone. It was time to think “warmer climes” so I headed to Journeys Unlimited Travel—a travel agency conveniently located at 903 1st Street North in Hopkins.
I asked owner Judy Cilla the most frequent travel request these cold days and with a smile she replied—“Get me out of here! Our customers are tired of the cold and are booking warm destinations including Mexico, and the Caribbean. And cruises remain a popular choice.”
Judy’s love of travel led to her decision to open Journeys Unlimited Travel as a home-based business in 1994. When the need for more space became apparent—Judy moved the business to Hopkins in 1998, and has been at her current location on 1st Street North since 2003.
Journeys Unlimited Travel is a small, independent travel agency dedicated to providing personalized, professional service to their customers. Services range from booking airline tickets (not everyone is comfortable booking tickets online)—to customizing a tour for that “trip of a lifetime.” “We fit the trip to the person, not the person to the trip,” Judy emphasized. Most of her customers are repeat customers—or referrals from satisfied customers. And even though they are a small agency, their prices are very competitive because Journeys Unlimited Travel is an independent contractor affiliated with a Travel Leaders Agency. This affiliation provides the same buying power of large agencies without losing the personalized service of a small agency.
I asked Judy how the travel business has changed over the years. She explained there had been several changes. When the airlines stopped paying commissions on tickets, travel agencies that specialized in booking airline tickets did not survive. Other changes included 9/11 and most recently, the economic downturn. But people will continue to travel. “We’re seeing more Family Trips—where an entire family will participate. A wonderful way to make lifetime memories” she commented.
When asked about new travel trends, Judy talked about River Cruises in Europe. Imagine a trip down the Danube, from Budapest to Prague. With stops along the way to learn the history at each stop, enjoy the sights and scenery, and return to the comfort of the ship each evening. Much easier than changing lodging every few days. And what about other trips? Alaskan Cruises remain popular, as do Mediterranean cruises, Italy specifically, and Europe in general.
Before leaving I did ask Judy about her favorite place. Her reply? “Wherever I am!” So wherever your travel dreams take you—Napa Valley for a wine tour perhaps? Rail trip across Canada? Or a trip to historic Boston?—give Judy a call at 952-930-9417, or visit their website at www.journeysunlimited1.com. It will be the trip of a lifetime.
