Wendi Merten
White Bear Lake, Minnesota Travel Agent
Travel by Wendi, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
Email MeAlaska, Mexico, United States
Emerald Lake, Alaska
Five years ago, I embarked on a journey to turn my love for travel into a business that could enrich my retirement years. With no contacts in the travel industry and an endless desire to learn, I devoted myself to mastering the role of a travel agent.The first two years were both challenging and invaluable, filled with growth and learning. I met other travel agents who became not just colleagues but dear friends.
Today, my business operates under a guiding principle—Helping Friends Travel One Trip at a Time. I work exclusively with friends, family, and their referrals, ensuring that each trip I curate receives the personalized attention it deserves.What sets me apart is my fee-free approach and the time I invest in crafting your perfect journey. Unlike online travel agencies that offer a generic experience, I diligently research quality hotels, optimal flights, and safe locations to provide a customized, unforgettable travel experience for you.
The year 2023 has been my best yet, marked by a roster of repeat clients and new referrals who have now become good friends. My vision of success goes beyond bookings; I also advise clients on how to maximize their travel points for trips they book themselves. Some of the exciting trips for my friends have been Alaska, Mexico, Ireland and Switzerland!
This ever-changing industry fuels my lifelong passion for learning.To everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey, thank you. Your trust and support have been the foundation of a business that fills me with pride and passion.---Let me know if there are any more adjustments you'd like to make.
My Areas of Expertise
SUPPLIER PARTNERS
CERTIFICATES & AWARDS
Amazing group trip
Reviewed By Vera - Apple valley Mn | Traveled to Las Vegas ~ Nevada ~ USA
Easy to work with
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
17 of 24 people found this review helpful
The most awesome time
Reviewed By Missy - Riviera Mya | Traveled to Mexico
She was helpful and efficient and found the best deal for us! She was wonderful to work with snd look forward to working with her again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
13 of 20 people found this review helpful
Great fishing trip
Reviewed By Jim - Key West, Islamorada , Miami | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
very knowledgeable on travel. pleasant experience had our itinerary all laid out for us with numbers and addresses, great job!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
The best trip ever
Reviewed By Heidi - Golden Valley | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
Very pleasant , friendly, easy to work with.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
11 of 18 people found this review helpful
Excellent trip!
Reviewed By Hunter’s - Roberts, Wisconsin | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
This is our 2nd trip through Wendi. Last year we went to Cancun. Wendi recommended we try Puerto Vallarta. She was right, we loved it!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Amazing vacation!
Reviewed By Hunters - Roberts, Wisconsin | Traveled to Cancun ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Wendi was wonderful at helping us plan our long weekend away! She was great at easing my travel anxiety.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 11 people found this review helpful
Best 30th birthday ever!
Reviewed By Emmy - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to Las Vegas ~ Nevada ~ USA
Wendi was such a pleasure to work with. She was patient and helpful. She made sure to look for the best deal for our buck and desires in Vegas! She even reached out during my trip to make sure everything was to my expectations! She goes over and beyond!I will 100% go through her next vacation!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 11 people found this review helpful
Good times!
Reviewed By KP - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to Las Vegas ~ Nevada ~ USA
Wendi was great to work with. She did a fantastic job ensuring we received everything and more we hoped for on this vacation at the best price. We will certainly use Wendi again and I will recommend her to friends and family!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 11 people found this review helpful
We had a great trip with no travel issues.
Reviewed By Denn - Roberts, WI | Traveled to Puerto Rico ~ USA
Awesome experience. Wendi covers all details very thoroughly.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Best Travel Agent Ever!!!
Reviewed By Shendy's - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to Caribbean
We worked with Wendi Merten from Travel Now in New Richmond, WI and I HIGHLY recommend using Wendi! She is Amazing! Wendi goes above and beyond in researching the planning part of your trip, the booking of your trip, and all the details in-between! She is very detailed and open to work with other resources to research different places and compare different options. She is very professional and very prompt in her communication. I would Highly recommend her for any traveling plans that you have - from something as simple as a long weekend to extensive plans. You would not be disappointed in any way with hiring Wendi Merten for all of your traveling needs! Bon Voyage!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 14 people found this review helpful
Mexico and will be going to Alaska
Reviewed By Judy - River Falls | Traveled to Mexico
Wendi has helped us with many travel question and also set up many trips for us.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
14 of 26 people found this review helpful
A Honeymoon in Paradise!
Reviewed By Cortney - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to Aruba ~ Caribbean
Wendi is great! We weren’t sure we’re to go on our honeymoon - just somewhere tropical & oceanfront. She handled the rest! Thanks to Wendi were very prepared for our Aruba trip, even with COVID regulations! We spent our honeymoon on the beautiful island of Aruba & had the best time! I highly recommend Wendi & will only use her for our trips in the future! We will never forget our Honeymoon in Paradise!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
5 of 9 people found this review helpful
Trip of a lifetime to visit my country of origin
Reviewed By Jim - Saint Paul, Minnesota | Traveled to Cuba ~ Caribbean
Wendi's extensive research found a tour that met my expectations for destination and affordability . She effectively represented my interests in negotiations with the tour company I selected over an unanticipated visa issue created by a company administrative oversight. A successful outcome was achieved for me with the company agreeing to make adjustments to fit my schedule with no additional cost to me.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
12 of 23 people found this review helpful
Bahamas Cruise
Reviewed By Michelle L - White Bear Lake, MN | Traveled to Bahamas ~ Caribbean
Wendi was great to work with. She was there for us from start to finish. It was nice to know we had someone to call if we had any problems.
8 of 15 people found this review helpful
4 Years Late Honeymoon
Reviewed By Lobster Red - Hudson, WI | Traveled to Turks and Caicos Islands ~ Caribbean
Wendi was very knowledgeable and gave great advice to us as we were looking for a sunny and warm place to visit on our four years late honeymoon. She was very patient and continued to pull many price compares on multiple locations and hotels for us, as my husband is not able to narrow his search very fast! She got us a great deal and everything went very smoothly from booking all the way through our vacation.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
5 of 9 people found this review helpful
Awesome Golf Trip With The Boys
Reviewed By Scott S - Vadnais Heights, Minnesota | Traveled to Biloxi ~ Mississippi ~ USA
Wendi took care of us from beginning to end. She even checked on us during to make sure there were no issues. Will definitely be using her again and would refer to a friend or family member in a heartbeat.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
BEST TRIP EVER!!
Reviewed By Jen & Chris - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
Wendi planned our very first trip out of the country. She made everything easy and not as scary as we thought it would be.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Bucket List Trip of a Lifetime!
Reviewed By Tina - Moose Lake, MN | Traveled to Kauai Island ~ Hawaii ~ USA
Wendi was amazing! She had lots of suggestions, answered my million questions with patience, helped us keep everything in order, and checked in to make sure all was well throughout the process (even during the trip). She was very responsive if things came up (they always do!) and I felt like we had a true advocate to make sure we got the best out of our trip for our large group of 8. I am already thinking about our next bucket list trip and Wendi will be my go to for sure!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Trip of a lifetime! Spectacular!
Reviewed By SJWhite - Anoka, MN | Traveled to Switzerland ~ Europe
OUTSTANDING!! Wendi is the BEST! She dedicated so much time putting the trip together of all the areas/activities we wanted to see/do. Got us the best deals. She packaged it all in a nice booklet with a daily calendar! Included all our flight info, vouchers, hotels, train passes, schedule of events, app info, tips, etc. We didn't have to do a thing except go and enjoy! Trip of a lifetime thanks to Wendi! She's so professional, thorough and kind!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Very helpful my first trip to Vegas
Reviewed By MTH - Fargo, ND | Traveled to Las Vegas ~ Nevada ~ USA
Great
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
A once in a life time trip
Reviewed By Alaska 2023 - Anchorage, Seward, Talkeetna, and Denali | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
Wendi is so nice and helpful!!! She goes above and beyond and always with a smile!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
We had a fantastic trip!
Reviewed By Amie - Lakeville, Minnesota | Traveled to Ireland ~ Europe
Wendi is fully committed to helping make travel a complete success. We came to her not knowing exactly what we wanted in a trip. Wendi listened, was very helpful with ideas, and then when we were ready she made our perfect itinerary into reality. Our itinerary was fast paced, covering the whole of Ireland, with lots of hotels to book, and guided daytrips. Her attention to detail was flawless! Wendi is very knowledgeable, and she set us up for complete success. Everything was perfect, and we truly enjoyed the trip. We look forward to working with Wendi again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Wonderful Relational Trip
Reviewed By Sam - Osceola, Wisconsin | Traveled to Cancun ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
Wendi was so knowledgeable and easy to work with. It made the travel arrangements so easy.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Vegas, here we come!
Reviewed By JewelW - MN | Traveled to Las Vegas ~ Nevada ~ USA
Wendi was fantastic! She was patient, helpful and kind
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Special anniversary trip!
Reviewed By Best Friend - Wausau, WI | Traveled to Turks and Caicos Islands ~ Caribbean
This was our 30th anniversary trip and Wendi made it seamless. She coordinated everything including the hotels before our trip which included parking at the hotel while we were on our cruise. She is very responsive as well.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Puerto Vallarta
Reviewed By Judy - River Falls, WI | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
She set us up with a wonderful vacation.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Great Trip! First Time in FL!
Reviewed By Lisa - Chisago City, MN | Traveled to Clearwater Beach ~ Florida ~ USA
Wendi was absolutely amazing to work with and made everything seamless. There were 9 of us on our trip which can be difficult to plan and coordinate but Wendi made it all happen. She was extremely helpful with everything, flights, hotel, attractions, shopping, etc. She checked in during our trip to ensure everything was going smooth as well. Wendi is the absolute BEST!! Thank you so much for everything!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Wendi Saved Us!
Reviewed By Brittani - Eau Claire, WI | Traveled to Denver ~ Colorado ~ USA
On February 13th I was in Denver and my flight got cancelled at the last minute and I needed to be home for classes on February 14th. I thought to get ahold of Wendi because I wasn’t finding any affordable flights that would get me home in time. Wendi immediately began searching airlines and got on the phone with me to help me through the booking process as there were only a few seats left. She’s a life saver and because of her I was able to get back to Wisconsin last night and home in time for my classes.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Wendi Merten responded:
thank you Brittani
thank you Brittani
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Best trip - mother-daughter vacation
Reviewed By Sharon - Hugo, Minnesota | Traveled to Nashville ~ Tennessee ~ USA
Effortless, discussed our needs and wants out of travel vacation and she provided excellent customer service with a personal touch.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 12 people found this review helpful
Spring Break 2020 in January 2021
Reviewed By Brittani - Roberts, Wisconsin | Traveled to Texas ~ USA
Wendi is the sweetest and she did a lot to ensure we would be able to make our trip happen.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
5 of 10 people found this review helpful
Best girls trip!
Reviewed By Maura - Eau Claire, WI | Traveled to Texas ~ USA
Wendi was great! She helped make our travels much smoother. She went above and beyond for the best experience! We are thankful to have her help through this crazy COVID vacation.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 14 people found this review helpful
Marine graduation
Reviewed By Meat man - New Richmond Wi | Traveled to San Diego ~ California ~ USA
Very quick to respond to questions and our trip was planned to perfection!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
14 of 29 people found this review helpful
Dream trip - Bucket list - We got spoiled - Gorgeo
Reviewed By Jane & David - Stillwater, MN | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
Wendi LISTENS to the needs of the client. She planned exactly what we needed when traveling with a disability. Perfect planning from the timing of flights, seamless transportation, accommodations aboard ship, excursions, priority everything - made for a very enjoyable trip
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
4 of 9 people found this review helpful
Family trip- we made wonderful memories!
Reviewed By EP - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to Caribbean Sea ~ At Sea ~ At Sea
Wendi was wonderful to work with, she really listened to what our family was interested in and worked to find a destination that worked for us all! She truly cared that we had a perfect family vacation, that all ages enjoyed! ??
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
9 of 19 people found this review helpful
Wendi is the best!!
Reviewed By JessicaH - New Richmond | Traveled to Las Vegas ~ Nevada ~ USA
I’ve worked with Wendi a few times for booking vacations and she’s always amazing! She does a lot of traveling so she can recommend all the best places to stay and things to do. Whether it’s a long distance vacation or a quick weekend getaway, Wendi will find the best deals and make sure that you have a great time. I recommend her to everyone!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
6 of 14 people found this review helpful
Trip of a lifetime
Reviewed By Laurie M. - New Richmond, WI | Traveled to California ~ USA
I was overwhelmed at the thought of planning a trip to a location I had never been to, but Wendi took the time to understand our preferences and created a trip that was absolutely perfect for us. We flew into Sacramento, rented a SUV, and traveled from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe. She planned everything down to the last detail and provided us with an itinerary that included who she confirmed the reservations with, etc. While we were on the trip, we were interested in making a last minute change. Wendi made the calls and was able to make it happen for us. I couldn't be more grateful for her help, as she helped create an amazing vacation which allowed us to make memories and spend time as a family. Priceless!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
9 of 20 people found this review helpful
Very true
Reviewed By Fayette - Coon Rapids, Mn | Traveled to Breckenridge ~ Colorado ~ USA
I can not say enough about Wendi! You can tell she wants you to have the best vacation possible. She is very thorough & reliable. She went above and beyond to make my husband and I’s first vacation trip absolutely amazing. Thank you Wendi!!! I highly recommend!!!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
5 of 12 people found this review helpful
Awesome trip to San Fran
Reviewed By David/Jane - Hugo, MN | Traveled to San Francisco ~ California ~ USA
Wendi met with us and listened to all that we wanted to do in San Francisco. Since our travels also needed to be handicapped accessible, Wendi took the time to pick the best flight times, room accommodations, and tours that would accommodate a handicapped scooter. San Francisco was celebrating Fleet Week, so the entertainment was non stop. She did the research needed to make sure we had a worry free vacation. Although we can't give her credit for the weather being 75 and sunny, it made the trip absolutely perfect.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 16 people found this review helpful
A fantastic trip with family and friends.
Reviewed By Carol - Johnston | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
Wendi was the best travel agent I have ever worked with. She was very responsive to my many questions and had answers before I would ask the questions. I rate her 10 stars out of 5.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
3 of 9 people found this review helpful
Great Trip GREAT Time
Reviewed By Colleen - Blaine | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta ~ Jalisco ~ Mexico
Organized, Fun, gives what your promised...
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
7 of 17 people found this review helpful
Best trip ever
Reviewed By Zach - Star Prairie, Wi | Traveled to Breckenridge ~ Colorado ~ USA
Best travel agent out there. Had an amazing experience on a trip with friends to Breckenridge, Colorado! Would recommend to everyone 10/10!!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
8 of 24 people found this review helpful