As Valerie Ann Wilson tells it, 30 years ago she was unable to find a good travel agency that met her needs and expectations, so she decided to open a travel company on her own to deliver first-hand knowledge and dedicated service. That’s when she launched New York City-based Valerie Wilson Travel (VWT), which has grown from a three-person office to one of today's largest privately held, women-owned and family-managed travel agencies in the United States serving both business and leisure clients.

This year, to commemorate VWT's 30th anniversary, Valerie Ann Wilson, founder, chairman and CEO, along with her daughters, Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg and Kimberly Wilson Wetty , co-owners and co-presidents, have launched a new campaign for the agency highlighting its history and dedication to service. Under the new tagline “Every Legacy Has Its Journey, Every Journey Has Its Legacy,” VWT has reinforced its existing Power of Access tagline with a series of major programs to position the agency as an industry leader. 

“I am thrilled to celebrate the Valerie Wilson Travel legacy and our 30-year journey with our dedicated staff, associated agents, vast network of preferred partners and my daughters – Jennifer and Kimberly,” said Valerie Wilson. "The company was founded on the principles of integrity, trust and loyalty, and we are proud that every member of our team embraces these on a daily basis. We have created a legacy on this journey and I look forward to continuing the growth of our brand with all who have contributed to our three decades of success.”

In celebration of the company's 30-year milestone, Valerie Wilson Travel announces a number of other initiatives for 2012. These include a VWT Insider Access Blog, which has been launched with 30 memorable travel experiences and will update followers with tips, trends and special offers. As part of the company's ongoing vision to provide “Power Of Access,” the new Blog offers regular updates and upcoming news. In addition, Valerie, Jennifer and Kimberly will share insider knowledge on enchanting destinations and cutting edge business travel trends throughout the year.

VWT also launched a 30-Year Anniversary microsite and commemorative Journal, a downloadable booklet that is a tribute of the company's slegacy. Highlights include: "The Journey of Our Legacy Continues," a timeline with key milestones over the last 30 years; "Preferred Partner Accolades,” the top travel industry suppliers salute and tribute VWT in print and video segments; "Our Travel Management Services,” a section that outlines the company's areas of expertise and its differentiating services; "30 Years of Travel Moments,” highlights some of Valerie Wilson Travel team's "greatest travel moments"; Global Footprint, a special section dedicated to the company's dedication to philanthropy and ongoing commitment to social and environmental good; and “Industry Testimonials,” testimonials from the industry's leading brands

Valerie Ann Wilson also has published the second edition of her “Valerie Wilson's World…Top Hotels and Resorts,” published by Valerie Wilson Publications ($50). The book showcases her favorite 400 hotels and resorts around the world and includes her insights, descriptions and photographs. In addition, to celebrate American Heart Month in February, Valerie, a heart attack and bypass survivor, and a passionate supporter of the American Heart Association's initiative Go Red For Women, has donated $10,000 to the organization and will donate $10 per book sold during February and at specific Go Red For Women events in 2012.

Also as part of VWT’s 30^th anniversary, Valerie, Jennifer and Kimberly will host a series of "Travel Fest" client events in key cities throughout the United States where they have offices. Clients will interact with VWT’s leadership, management team members, local travel advisors, and its preferred partners. Finally VWT will introduce a new honeymoon portal and alliance later this year.