Collette, a renowned tour operator, recently hosted a sales meeting in Morocco, followed by an excursion to a stunning hotel nestled in the Atlas Mountains. Despite expectations of a few hours of travel, the journey took much longer, resulting in their arrival at 6 p.m. The team had planned to explore the hotel and enjoy scenic mountain hikes; however, they faced the prospect of cutting short their experience to reach Fez the next day.
Thanks to quick thinking from Paul Vieira, the Senior Global Contracting Manager for Portugal, Spain, France, and Morocco, the team managed to adjust their schedule. They decided to spend one less night in Fez and an additional night in the mountains, enhancing their itinerary for a more memorable experience at the Bin El Oudaine hotel.
“This flexibility is a hallmark of Collette’s approach to touring,” Vieira noted. The company prioritizes customer feedback through regular surveys, ensuring that all elements of their travels meet high standards. “If something doesn’t meet our criteria, we change it immediately,” he emphasized during a recent lunch event in downtown Toronto.
On-the-Ground Insights Shape Travel Experiences
Collette’s product buying and design team operates directly within the destinations they serve. “I’m based in Portugal, which allows us to assess hotels and experiences firsthand, rather than relying solely on online reviews,” Vieira stated. By engaging in live evaluations, the team tailors offerings to ensure that travelers have access to unique experiences that align with their expectations.
“For instance, we organize charming goat farm visits in southern France, coupled with local wine and bread. Add in a truffle hunt with a chef, and you have a truly unforgettable day,” Vieira shared.
Understanding Travel Trends: “Revenge Travel” is Alive
Contrary to reports suggesting that “revenge travel” has faded, Vieira argues that interest remains high, particularly in Europe. Demand persists, making it challenging for tour operators to find willing partners. “Our clients seek authentic dining experiences, enriched by local culture rather than standard restaurant fare,” he explained.
Collette’s innovative strategy includes promoting travel during off-peak seasons to mitigate overcrowding at popular destinations. “We’re focusing on ‘smart season’ travel—visiting places in the low season, requiring less effort to navigate the crowds,” he suggested. For instance, encouraging trips to the south of Spain in months like November or March provides a more relaxed experience at attractions such as the Alhambra.
By extending overnight stays in less-frequented cities like Cordoba, Collette offers unique experiences that many travelers might overlook. Instead of following the traditional tourist crowd to the Mezquita, Collette takes guests there later in the day to appreciate its beauty under the enchanting evening light.
Premium All-Inclusive Travel Experiences
Collette strives to deliver a premium experience by minimizing one-night stays, allowing travelers to connect more deeply with each destination. “We position ourselves as a four-star superior operator, ensuring an inclusive tour without compromising on quality or affordability,” Vieira stated.
Offering travelers rich cultural experiences, Collette’s diverse itineraries include visits to renowned sites like the Sagrada Familia and the Alhambra, alongside immersive opportunities like home-hosted dinners and artisan workshops. Recently, Collette announced a new “Portugal Old World Charms” tour in response to a surge in interest—45% more travelers visited Portugal last year alone.
Connecting Through Small Group Explorations
Collette’s small group offerings, known as Collette Explorations, are increasingly popular. One standout tour, “Flavours of Portugal and Spain,” showcases regions from Lisbon to the Basque Country, providing participants with insights into local cuisine and culture.
In conclusion, Collette continues to adapt and innovate in the ever-evolving travel landscape, ensuring that customers enjoy unique and enriching experiences across a variety of destinations.
For further details on upcoming travel options, visit Collette’s official website to discover diverse global itineraries and exclusive experiences.
