Blue Planet Vacations a Utah Travel Agency started with a genuine passion for travel and a desire to help others explore new places. We want to make it easy for anyone who longs to discover the world’s secrets. What sets us apart is our focus on listening to our clients’ dreams and interests. This understanding, paired with our advisors’ vast knowledge of destinations and years of travel experience, allows us to create trips that go above and beyond expectations, providing great value for our clients.
We see travel as a way to connect with different cultures and expand our understanding of the world. It can truly change how we see ourselves and our place in the universe. We believe that every journey should reveal the beauty around us while deepening our appreciation for life. So, if you are ready for a vacation that is thoughtfully designed just for you, we invite you to explore the world with Blue Planet Vacations!
Blue Planet Vacations is a full-service Utah travel agency based in Farmington, with an office in Layton. As a trusted Utah travel agency we also host the Inside Travel Talk Podcast, where we share industry insights, destination highlights, and practical tips to make your next adventure stress-free and memorable.
Our Story
by Mark Faldmo Owner Blue Planet Vacations
As a third generation travel professional travel is in my blood. The story of Blue Planet vacations starts in 1957, well before I was born. My grandfather was a construction worker and was asked to travel to Hawaii to help build what is now BYU Hawaii in Laie, Hawaii. My father often shares the memory of his 6th birthday when his family set sail from San Francisco to Honolulu on the SS Lauraline. This event was the first spark of the love of travel in my family.
Sailing away from Oahu on the SS Lauraline
Despite initial reservations, my grandmother soon fell in love with Hawaii and was reluctant to leave when the family’s adventure concluded. As they set sail back to San Francisco from Honolulu Harbor, a rainbow appeared over the water. The ship’s captain announced, “If there is a rainbow, it means that you will return to Hawaii someday.” My grandmother clung to that promise and yearned to return to Hawaii.
In 1963, my grandmother got her wish. She arranged for a group of neighbors to attend the opening of the Polynesian Cultural Center. This trip was so successful that it sparked widespread interest among other neighbors. By word of mouth, a thriving tour company was born, offering tours not only to Hawaii but to destinations worldwide.
My father eventually took over this travel business and built it into one of the largest travel agencies in the western United States before it was sold. Given that travel is in our DNA, we have since started several other travel companies including Columbus Travel where I was the Vice President of Marketing.
I have always been involved in the family business – starting with mowing lawns, sorting brochures, delivering airline tickets (back when airline tickets were physical paper tickets), and eventually working as a travel agent. Growing up, I had the incredible opportunity to travel the world with my parents, instilling in me a passion for travel and exploration.
In my career, I have had the pleasure of taking some truly unique trips, including a cruise to the Marquesas Islands on a ship that is part container and part cruise ship. I’ve also ventured to exotic destinations like Thailand, Fiji, and Tahiti, experienced unique river cruises, and taken over 150 cruises.
With a deep desire to help people explore the world, I founded Blue Planet Vacations a Utah Travel Agency. Our tagline, “Explore Your World,” embodies our mission. Travel creates lifelong memories, builds strong connections with our family and friends, and fosters an understanding of diverse cultures and people.
As a third-generation travel professional, travel is truly in my blood. The roots of my passion for travel stretch back long before I was born.
The story begins in 1957 with my grandfather, a construction worker who journeyed to Hawaii to help build what is now BYU Hawaii in Laie, Hawaii. My father often shares vivid memories of his 6th birthday when the family set sail from San Francisco to Honolulu on the SS Lauraline. This trip sparked a deep-seated love...
In 1995, I embarked on an unexpected journey at Mark Travel Corporation, starting with a part-time role that soon blossomed into a lifelong passion for uncovering the world's wonders. Fueled by a deep belief that travel doesn't just change scenery, but transforms perspectives and crafts unforgettable moments, I dove headfirst into the rich tapestry of cultures and destinations.
Specializing in leisure travel, I have turned my wanderlust into expertise spanning some of the...
My love affair with travel began in 1996 with my first cruise—an experience that ignited a passion powerful enough to chart the course of my career. It was a chance radio advertisement for an airline reservation position that opened the doors to the travel industry. After five years, I became a travel agent. I was turning dreams into journeys for countless clients. 25+ years later, I am continuing my dream at Blue Planet Vacations.
