derek moscarelli

Collette's Season 102nd Season: Derek Moscarelli, Regional Destination Manager

ACS
by Alyssa Smith

September 23, 2019

3 minute read

As we officially kick off our 102nd season, we’re sitting down with some of the people who truly know our tourism company and all the dedication, creativity, and innovation it takes to craft a lineup like the one slated for the 2020-2021 year. Next up is Derek Moscarelli, Regional Destination Manager.

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

I like the variety and the unpredictability. Every day is a new day and with that comes the opportunity to make it a great day for our guests. These are people on vacation and they are looking to have a good time and they are trusting in you that you are the one who is going to deliver on that and when you do; it is a wonderful and fulfilling feeling.

Why does travel matter to you?

Travel is a way to step out of your comfort zone and break up your daily routine. It is essential to feel connected to other places and other cultures. You can read the books and watch the videos but there is no substitute to be in a place and see it from the inside out, and not the outside looking in.

What is your favourite travel memory?

There are a few that immediately come to mind. When I was riding a camel at the Great Pyramids of Giza, I had that amazing feeling of “wow, how did I get here?” I have had that same feeling while walking on the Great Wall of China and scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef. I mean, these are places you only read and learn about in school, and to actually get to see and have these experiences will last with me forever. More recently, seeing the Total Solar Eclipse of 2017 in Jackson Hole, Wyoming on a perfect day is right up there.

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

I am most excited about our new Painted Canyons of the West tour which is a brand-new tour out west in the National Parks region. This tour will visit all 5 of Utah’s National Parks and has been designed to allow lots of exploration time at each one, and really looks like a winner.

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

Collette is the only company I know, the only company I have ever worked for. I was hired right out of college and have now been here for more than half of my life. I feel extremely fortunate to be part of a team and a company that is still going strong after all these years in an industry that is constantly changing, and here we are still growing and expanding.

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

That we listen and we are constantly looking to improve upon their overall experience. That we are innovative and coming up with new ideas and concepts and trying to elevate our game in the industry.

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

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