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Sandy Sun Travel
(815) 604-8496
Genoa, IL
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SliderMeet the Team

Sandy Sun Travel

Ron and Melissa Hargrove, Franchise Owners

Our six years in the Navy shaped us into adventurers—Ron sailed across the globe, while Melissa moved all over the country as a Navy wife. Those experiences sparked a love for travel that led to our cruising-focused YouTube channel in 2021 and, eventually, the launch of Sandy Sun Travel in 2023.

Today, we specialize in cruise and beach vacations, but we plan all kinds of travel! Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend escape, a family getaway, or a bucket-list adventure, we’re here to make it seamless and stress-free. Travel should be exciting and effortless, and we’re dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences.

But we’re more than just travel planners—we love connecting with our clients and making you feel like family. Your dream vacation isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey, and we’re honored to help you create it!

Dream Vacations Franchise since December 2023.

Wendy Stratton

Vacation Specialist

Wendy came on board in February of 2023, bringing with her a passion for travel and a commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. She specializes in cruises, beach retreats, European getaways, and road trip adventures, always designing vacations with a personal touch. Known for her attention to detail and dedication to excellence, Wendy takes pride in turning travel dreams into seamless, stress-free journeys. Whether you're seeking relaxation or exploration, she’s ready to help you plan the perfect escape.

Michaela Menzies

Vacation Specialist

Michaela joined our team in March 2025. Meet our daughter—one of our incredible travel advisors who brings heart, energy, and family spirit to everything she does.

As a dedicated wife, mom of three energetic boys, and passionate travel advisor, she specializes in creating unforgettable vacations tailored to families and couples. Whether you're dreaming of a relaxing escape or a thrilling adventure, she’s all about crafting personalized journeys that turn into lifelong memories.

She doesn’t just plan trips—she helps you write your next chapter, one destination at a time.

Annette Janke

Vacation Specialist

Annette joined our team in April 2025. She is a proud mom of 7, a U.S. Veteran, and an all-around travel enthusiast who calls the stunning Pacific Northwest home. She has a deep love for Disney and a soft spot for the Bahamas.

Annette brings that same energy and dedication to every vacation she plans. She’s all about making dreams come true, whether it's your first big getaway or your fiftieth. Her clients love how she listens, plans with heart, and handles every detail like it’s her own adventure.

When you work with Annette, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re gaining a partner who’s just as excited about your journey as you are.

Sandy Hargrove

Meet Sandy—the heart behind Sandy Sun Travel.

Yes, we love beaches and sunshine (who doesn’t?), and our name reflects that—but there’s a deeper story, too. Sandy was Ron’s mom and one of the inspirations behind our agency name Sandy Sun Travel (Get it- Sandy's son. We figured "Sandy's son and daughter-in-law Travel" was a bit too long). 

Sandy had a zest for life that was simply contagious, and she had the heart of an entrepreneur—always dreaming up fun business ideas and diving into them with joy and determination. Whether it was a new venture or a creative project, Sandy brought her signature energy and excitement to everything she touched.

We lost her in 2010, but we think she’d be tickled to know her name is now part of a travel agency helping others chase joy across the globe. This is our small way of honoring her big spirit and the legacy she left behind.