DSJHeader

Collette's 102nd Season: Dan J. Sullivan Jr., CEO

ACS
by Alyssa Smith

September 09, 2019

3 minute read

As we officially kick off our 102nd season, we’re sitting down with some of the people who truly know Collette and all the dedication, creativity, and innovation it takes to craft a lineup like the one slated for the 2020-2021 year. First on our list was Dan J. Sullivan Jr., our CEO and the leader at Collette’s helm for close to 50 years.

What's the most exciting part of your job – the thing that keeps you coming back day after day?

Being able to grow the business alongside employees who’ve grown and developed here at Collette is really exciting. Seeing their drive and commitment to build tours that allows our guests to fulfil their travel dreams is truly inspiring. I don’t think we’ve ever had such a strong team!

Why does travel matter to you?

Travel truly is the great educator, connecting you with new cultures, identities, and ways of life. I’ve met locals in places like Tokyo, Cairo, and Sydney, and I can tell you it’s an eye-opening experience. It’s the best way to get a true perspective of a destination.

What is a travel experience that stands out for you?

I have so many, but a more recent travel memory that comes to mind is when I travelled to New Zealand for the first time. I had been to Australia before, but New Zealand’s landscape is totally different and unexpected. I just remember driving through New Zealand’s Southern Alps in the Mt. Cook region and seeing snowy peaks and untouched wilderness all around me. It was breathtaking.

What tour or new destination are you most excited for in this new travel season and why?

I’m really excited about our tour to Southern France. It’s perfect for wine lovers and people who want to immerse themselves in Europe’s unspoiled countryside. The wineries of Bordeaux are some of the best in the world. Plus, the little French villages in Provence we visit will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

What does the 102nd season mean to you as a member of the Collette team?

The 102nd season reminds me of just how far we’ve come. As I look back on our journey and our successes and failures, I realize that this company – and this phenomenal team – is one that is always pushing the travel industry ahead. I’m so excited to see what this next century of travel has in store for us!

What do you want our guests to know about Collette and this new travel season?

We’re really excited about this new season and all that’s to come in 2020-2021. We want our guests to know that we’re listening to them and building in even more of those authentic, local experiences that they’ve been asking for. That’s what will continue to set us apart and what will make this new travel season so special.

Find out more about Collette's 102nd season here!

Share this post with your friends!