We had the good fortune of connecting with Valerie Méndez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valerie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Coming from a background full of travel, both of my parents working with the airlines for over 30 years, I have always known that I absolutely love traveling. After college, I knew that a job that would keep me from traveling whenever I wanted was not for me. Therefore, I decided to create a travel blog. I love sharing my experiences, thoughts, and ideas when it comes to all things travel. So, while doing some soul searching after losing my job due to COVID-19, I knew exactly what to do. I was going to help people travel and see the world, full time. I knew, and still know, traveling is not as accessible like some people make it out to seem. Whether if it’s financial hardships, anxiety, fear, or lack of time, there are many people that haven’t traveled or experienced the world due to lack of resources to conquer or overcome these restrictions. I decided to create a travel business that catered to everyone, no matter your situation. On top of having my travel blog, travel services were now going to be offered at different prices ranges that could cater to many travelers. However, I didn’t want to be your typical “travel agency.” I wanted to be your modern and accesible one-stop shop for all things travel. Through The Wander and Travel, I want to give you free reviews, tips, advice, etc. and I also want to give you top-tier travel planning at an affordable price. I truly believe that luxury does not equal cost. Everyone should experience being a VIP more than once, and coming from a customer service background, I knew the first step at achieving that. And that is by making every single experience personal, exceptional, and memorable. This is why The Wander and Travel focuses on affordable luxury travel for the modern traveler.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Wander and Travel is a Latina-owned travel business. It is not your typical travel agency as we offer more than just booking services. We cater to a wide variety of modern travelers that want to experience luxury at an affordable price. From pre-made itineraries to a fun blog, we are here to feed your travel bug. We are LGBTQIA+ friendly and make sure we take this into consideration when planning your vacation. This business took years to create and we are still perfecting it! I wanted this to feel like the “Nordstroms” of travel agencies. From the lux looking logo to perfecting font combos, this took a lot of work and effort that I am extremely proud of. I absolute believe the details are what make the big picture sparkle.

However, it was difficult to not fall into the headspace of “Why am I doing this? I don’t have anything new to contribute to this space.” Imposter syndrome is something people do not necessarily tell you about when you decide to open a new business. Especially in today’s world where social media is so prevalent and critical to a business. Comparing yourself to others that have found success in the same field as you can be both motivating and detrimental. Having a strong support system is what kept me from staying in that headspace before launching The Wander and Travel and, most importantly, after launching it. Reminding yourself that you do in fact have something to contribute to this space because there is no one else like you. People gravitate towards personalities when it comes to small businesses. Finding the perfect balance between showcasing your business and showcasing yourself is essential to any business owner.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
OMG! This is what I live for, literally!! First off, you can’t go to Dallas without going to Pluckers. I dream of those wings every day and night. I am a huge fan of museums and I am convinced Dallas has some of the best ones. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is one of my all time favorite museums to go to. Their Expanding Universe exhibit and Lydia Hills Gems exhibit are breathtaking and so much fun. After, you can go across the street to the Dallas Aquarium. I could spend hours in there. They are hands on with conservations all around the world which makes the visit that much special. Finish off with some Torchy’s tacos or Lockhart Smokehouse at Texas Live for some fantastic Texas BBQ.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My whole travel career is dedicated to both of my parents, Rebecca Espada and Carlos Méndez. They both met at the Luis Muñoz Marin Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico and their love for each other is fully present in my love and passion for travel. My earliest memories of life were getting out of school and waiting at the gate for them to get out of work. And, to entertain ourselves, my brother and I would just sit and watch the airplanes land and take off. Both of them would take us on trips constantly. I mean, to the point where my first time on a plane, I was a month old. Not sure how safe that was, but frankly, I can’t blame them. In 2008, we had to move to Miami from Puerto Rico due to the economic crash. Unfortunately, my dad then passed away in 2010 while working on a flight in the Miami International Airport. Shortly after, we moved to Texas where the DFW Airport became my second home there. My mom was and still is the anchor that holds me down each and everyday. Without her devoted support in everything I do and unconditional love, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She is the hardest worker I have ever known and her dedication seeps through everything she does. I always joke around with her and say “When I grow up, I want to be just like you.” Little does she know, it is not a joke, but a dream to be achieved. She is the greatest human in this world and I love her more than anything in this universe. I owe her everything and more.

In addition, my partner that has supported me in everything I have ever done and lifted me up each time I wanted to give up. Without him, I wouldn’t have been able to kick start this business full time. Him and his passion for travel have inspired me in ways no one ever has, not just in my business but in my life. I cannot wait to experience the world together for the rest of our lives.

Website: thewanderandtravel.com

Instagram: @thewanderandtravel.com

Facebook: The Wander and Travel

Other: TikTok: @thewanderandtravel

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