Community Highlights: Meet Iris Martin of Surreal Journeys Travel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Iris Martin. 

Hi Iris, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
After decades of working in Corporate America, I left it all behind in 2006 and decided to step out on faith and stay home with my preemie twins when they came home from the hospital. To provide for my family, I opened up my own home daycare center. Once my kids were in elementary school, I went back to school and received my bachelor’s then Master’s Degree while working several flexible part-time jobs and starting an event planning business, a mobile bartender business, and then Surreal Journeys Travel, LLC. Soon after starting that venture, my business took off, and I was able to leave all of my part-time jobs and side businesses to focus solely on my growing Travel agency. 

Never would I have thought when I was as a homeless high school dropout and teen mom that life could be this amazing. I am literally living beyond my wildest dreams, and now own one of the most respected and top-rated Travel Agencies in the world. Despite all of my accomplishments, my biggest accomplishments are my five amazing children and handsome grandsons. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nothing has been easy or smooth for me. I’ve been on my own since I was 16 years old. I’ve raised 5 children alone, been in homeless shelters, struggled with depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. In addition, since I have been an entrepreneur for almost 17 years, I don’t have medical insurance. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
I am a travel agent with a passion for making dream vacations reality. With almost a decade of experience in the travel industry, and as the founder of Surreal Journeys Travel, I have assisted countless clients in planning memorable vacations. Whether they’re seeking an adventurous getaway, a culture-filled educational trip, or a relaxing beach vacation, I am confident that I can create an experience rather than putting together just a vacation package. My specialty is escorted group travel. I personally curate international group trips every Month and host clients on these adventures. 

My reputation as a travel expert is largely due to my high standards and attention to detail. From sourcing the best flight deals to recommending the most luxurious accommodations and experiences, I leave no stone unturned when it comes to planning the perfect vacation. Also, my extensive network of industry contacts gives me access to insider knowledge that can elevate any travel experience. 

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love the many options for fun, food, and entertainment that Raleigh offers. I also like that people are so kind here. I haven’t found anything that I dislike about Raleigh yet 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.surrealjourneystravels.com
• Instagram: @surrealjourneystravel
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2123879384565865/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT
• Other: https://www.facebook.com/surrealjourneystravel?mibextid=ZbWKwL