We recently connected with Andrew Hallfrisch and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Andrew thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Much of my professional journey has been dedicated to business and leadership, spanning throughout my entire life. Surprisingly, I first stepped into a leadership role at the age of 17, thanks to someone who believed in me and my potential for success. Over the years, I had the privilege of leading large teams across diverse industries, embarking on numerous exciting adventures that propelled my career forward.

You might be wondering how this connects with my passion for travel – well, there are intriguing parallels between the two. My earliest travel experience was at the age of 11, when I visited Disney World like most kids. It sparked a fascination with exploring new places. Though there were gaps in my travel opportunities for some time, around 15 years ago, I began traveling more frequently. I have since had the incredible opportunity to explore almost 25% of the European Union, various Caribbean islands, and numerous other fascinating destinations. Unofficially, I have always assisted friends and family with travel arrangements, leveraging credit card points and sharing travel-related ideas. This deepened my passion for the travel world, and my desire to explore continued to grow.

Around 3.5 years ago, I decided to establish my travel business officially, intending it to be a fun side project. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the amazing clients I met during this process, which led me to realize the potential for turning this into a serious and fulfilling business endeavor.

Andrew, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

You know, I’m originally from the picturesque landscapes of Northern Minnesota, but about five years back, I made my way to the bustling and vibrant Twin Cities. Now, I’ve had quite the journey in the business world, and boy, have I been blessed with some fantastic travel opportunities too. That’s why creating this company felt like the perfect way to blend my two passions seamlessly.

As a true-blooded Minnesotan, I totally get the need to escape the frigid winters and head somewhere warm and tropical. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of helping countless folks explore breathtaking destinations around the globe, where they can unwind, soak up the sun, and let their worries drift away.

And let me tell you, Europe has my heart. The history, the diverse cultures, the delicious food – it’s an enchanting blend that never fails to captivate me. I’ve been fortunate enough to explore almost a quarter of the European Union, and my curiosity only grows with each trip. Sharing those amazing experiences with my clients feels like sharing a part of my soul with them.

But you know what’s really got me hooked? Cruising! There’s something magical about gliding across the open waters, exploring different ports, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Having sailed on numerous cruise lines, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement every time I help someone embark on their own dream cruise adventure.

Now, when it comes to my brand, I’m all about providing my clients with an experience they’ll treasure forever. I noticed that the travel industry often relied on outdated practices and tech, and I knew I could do better. So, I put my heart into creating a modern, convenient approach that takes care of all the little details. From a handy mobile app with their entire itinerary to virtual meetings, I want my clients to feel pampered and cared for every step of the way.

And here’s something cool – I recently added a Lost Baggage Assistance service to take away some of the stress if, heaven forbid, their bags get lost or stolen. It’s the small things that count, right?

As for the name “Northstar Travel Company,” it’s not just some random choice. It’s a nod to my roots in Minnesota, the beloved Northstar State. Just like the Northstar guides lost travelers, I’m here to guide my clients to the most extraordinary and unforgettable travel experiences.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

I initially started this business as a small side project simply because I loved it and had a genuine desire to assist people in their travel endeavors. Little did I know what incredible opportunities lay ahead. To get the word out, I made sure to be present at as many local events organized by the chamber of commerce and other community gatherings. Sharing my brand and story with as many people as possible became a top priority. It wasn’t an overnight success, but with persistence and some advertising, I managed to steadily grow my business to a point where I felt incredibly proud. Now, I am fortunate enough to dedicate myself to this passion full time, helping as many people as I can achieve their travel dreams.

One thing I wholeheartedly believe in is the power of Brand and Reputation. It’s not always easy, and it may not be the cheapest route, but sticking to your core business principles and doing the right thing in the long run always pays off. I’ve seen how building a solid brand and maintaining a trustworthy reputation can make all the difference in a competitive market.

So, it has been quite the journey – from a small side project driven by passion to a thriving full-time endeavor, all thanks to persistence, determination, and a strong commitment to building a reputable brand. I’m excited to continue this adventure, serving and supporting travelers every step of the way.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

For me, the cornerstone of business has always been putting Customers first. I firmly believe that the brands standing the test of time are the ones that prioritize their clients’ needs and satisfaction. Throughout this journey, I’ve had the incredible fortune of meeting so many amazing clients whom I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know personally.

You know what’s really heartwarming? The power of Word of Mouth and referrals in growing my business. I feel so grateful for those clients who share their positive experiences with others and trust me to help their friends, family, and co-workers embark on their own unforgettable journeys. It’s truly an honor to be entrusted with such important travel plans and to be a part of creating beautiful memories for people. This has become one of the best sources of new clients for me.

My ultimate goal is to be more than just a one-time travel advisor. I aim to be a lifelong partner for my clients, someone they can turn to time and time again for all their travel needs. Building that lasting relationship and being their go-to travel advisor for life is something I hold dear to my heart. With this commitment to exceptional service and customer care,

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.northstartravelco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northstartravelco
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northstartravelco
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/northstartravelco
• Other: [email protected]