Mark Faldmo

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 for travel in my family.

While my grandmother initially had reservations about traveling to Hawaii, she quickly fell in love with the islands and was heartbroken to leave. As they departed Honolulu Harbor, a rainbow arched across the sky. The captain’s words, “If there is a rainbow, it means that you will return to Hawaii someday,” resonated deeply with her. From that moment, she yearned to return.

In 1963, she seized an opportunity to revisit Hawaii for the opening of the Polynesian Cultural Center with a group of neighbors. The trip was so successful that it led to numerous requests from other neighbors. This word-of-mouth demand gave birth to a flourishing tour company, offering trips not just to Hawaii but to destinations around the globe.

My father eventually took over this burgeoning travel enterprise, building it into one of the largest travel agencies in the western United States, before it was eventually sold. Travel being a vital part of our family’s DNA, we went on to establish several other travel companies over the years.

I’ve always been involved in the family business. From mowing lawns and sorting brochures to delivering airline tickets back when they were physical paper tickets, I’ve done it all. These experiences, combined with traveling extensively with my parents as a child, cultivated my passion for travel and exploration.

Throughout my career, I’ve embarked on some truly unique journeys that have left a lasting impression. Hawaii and the Pacific Islands hold a special place in my heart, but so do many other incredible destinations. With extensive experience in traveling to Hawaii, Mexico and Europe I’ve also explored the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, marveled at the stunning landscapes of Norway and Scandinavia, navigated the mysterious Amazon River, and stood in awe at the majestic Machu Picchu. My adventures also include a unique cruise to the Marquesas Islands aboard a vessel that is part container ship and part cruise ship, and expeditions to exotic destinations like Thailand, Fiji, and Tahiti. Beyond these, I’ve experienced unique river cruises and have had the pleasure of taking over 150 cruises.

Driven by a desire to help others explore the world, I founded Blue Planet Vacations. Our tagline, “Explore Your World,” encapsulates our mission. We believe that travel creates lifelong memories, fosters connections with family and friends, and builds an appreciation for diverse cultures and peoples.

Mark Faldmo