collette travel history

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About collette, a story of hard work and a passion for travel.

It was a time of great possibilities

Back in 1918, when Jack Collette started Collette Tours, World War I had just ended. The Red Sox had won the World Series and porterhouse steak was 54 cents per pound.

The first Collette tour to ever run was made up of a jitney bus of travelers that left Boston headed for Florida. This three-week adventure cost just $68.50! At that time few could have foreseen that nearly 100 years later, that same company would be taking guests to all seven continents.

From those humble beginnings, Collette began running tours throughout New England and into Canada. Then, in 1927, the company transferred its base of operations to the New England Transportation Company Terminal in Providence, Rhode Island.

It was meant to be

In 1945, Dan Sullivan Sr., who had come home from a wartime commission in the U.S. Army Counter Intelligence Division, started working for New England Transportation. Over the next 15 years, Dan and Jack Collette crossed paths often.

In 1962, looking to retire, Jack made a decision that changed the course of the company – he sold it to Dan and his brother-in-law, Arthur McWilliam.

A vision of the future

This move was not without risk. Dan had six kids at home. But he knew how to take the initiative. As his wife Alice, matriarch of the Sullivan family, says, “Dan absolutely had ambition, vision, and believed in himself.”

Travel takes off

The timing was perfect. The New York World’s Fair of 1964 was around the corner. Dan ended up taking his family to this historic event and it proved to be a turning point for the company.

There, in the shadow of the iconic Unisphere, Dan could see how the world was changing. More people than ever wanted to travel. It was the perfect time to introduce the concept of guided touring. In the coming years, Collette expanded to include tours across the United States and Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and South America.

Dan’s entrepreneurial spirit carried Collette into a new era, while always remaining true to the things he valued most – personal customer service, convenience and giving back.

Collette is about family

As his family grew, Dan’s children took on active roles in the company – in sales, tour development, marketing, tour guiding, and in its charitable arm. Working with a team of dedicated employees, they all stayed true to the original vision of expanding travel opportunities for everyone. That tradition continued as Dan’s eldest child, Dan Sullivan Jr., took the reins as President and CEO in 1990 and the company flourished.

The third generation of Sullivans entered the company in the early 2000s, and in 2018 Dan Sullivan Jr.’s daughter, Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, became President & Chief Customer Experience Officer. In 2023, after she successfully steered Collette through the global pandemic, Dan proudly turned the CEO role over to Jaclyn and transitioned to Executive Chairman of the Board. Mrs. Leibl-Cote is only the 4th CEO in the company’s history and its first female leader, making Collette one of the rare companies successfully transfer to the 3rd generation of leadership.

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Guided Travel

What to Know When Booking

Ever wanted to travel the world but were not sure how? Piecing together a comprehensive journey can be an overwhelming task given all the details with airlines, accommodations, transportation, meals, sightseeing and more. Leave behind the stress of planning and let Collette’s innovative tours make your travel dreams come true.

Your Collette tour includes your sightseeing, entertainment, admissions to museums and other venues, hotels, many meals featuring local specialties, and the services of a professional tour manager. From choosing the right hotels, to finding the perfect blend of must-see’s and off-the-beaten path inclusions, so many pieces come together to create an extraordinary travel experience. We seamlessly handle all the details – all you have to do is enjoy the adventure.

Sure, by using up a lot of your time and effort you would be able to put together what looks like a good trip. But do you really want to return home and discover that you missed something because you didn't know about it ahead of time? We encourage you to treat yourself to the freedom of touring. We plan ahead so you don’t have to worry about the details. 

Throughout its 98 years as a family-run operation, Collette has built a team of experts who are passionate about making travel a part of everyone’s life.

• Creating . Collette’s Product Managers circle the globe, designing every element of your travel experience. They do it all, so you can simply enjoy the adventure.
• Planning . The Collette team is always available to assist you. Whether it’s a request for more information, making a reservation, or finding ways to personalize your trip, we are waiting to help.
• Leading . Part tour guide, part confidant, part concierge, Collette’s Tour Managers are with you throughout your travel experience. It’s like traveling with a trusted friend.

Decisions about travel shouldn’t be taken lightly. So we have put together a short guide to point you in the right direction of experiencing the benefits of touring. Sometimes, it’s just great to be able to ask yourself a few questions in order to arrive at your destination. Of course, feel free to call us anytime with questions.

Start by making a list of factors that might help to weed out certain locations. Here are some questions to get you started:

• What is the first place that pops into your mind?
• Have you ever created a bucket list?
• Are there specific regions you enjoy frequenting because of weather?
• Are architecture and history more important than beaches and sun?
• What types of cuisine do you enjoy?

Have you considered what type of tour you’re looking for? Collette offers a variety of product lines and tour types.

Do you have only a few days, or do you have the opportunity to travel for months at a time? You might consider a trip closer to home if you only have a few days. Traveling to Australia and New Zealand takes a bit longer to get there, so you’ll want to take this into account.

Consider what dates work best in your schedule. Also think about the best time of year to visit a particular location. 

We look forward to showing you the world!

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Collette Restages Its First Tour from 1918

The Collette group on the Old Brick Road section of the Dixie Highway in Florida. From left to right: Melanie Peterson, Katie Rozenas, Jean Gagnon, Derek Moscarelli (Collette Tour Manager), Dan Sullivan, Jr (Collette CEO), and Tom Gagnon. Photo: Collette

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Collette reviews & ratings, it was a wonderful trip and experience.

It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary ...

we had an absolute wonderful time

My wife & I just returned from your National Parks tour and we had an absolute wonderful time. Great itinerary, tour director (Merrin) and driver (John). First c...

The best. I've worked with many travel companies, but now I only book my groups through Collette.

Had a river cruise booked for May 2020

Had a river cruise booked for May 2020 on the Danube but unfortunately because of Covid 19 it was cancelled. I had no issues in getting a full refund for my vacation...

our dream trip to Italy was canceled due to covid-19

Recently, our dream trip to Italy was canceled due to covid-19. Collette's superior customer service responded to my inquiry by message and phone call literally with...

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Editoral Review of Collette

With a history that goes back to 1918, their experience speaks for itself. They provide comprehensive, well-managed guided tours for travelers seeking an exploratory, comfortable travel experience.

Collette - Quick Facts

Founded in 1918

Group size: It varies. Collette offers private and customizable tours, as well as small groups of between 14-24 guests

Typical age range: 45+  

Average tour price: $2,996

Accommodation style: 4 star and above hotels and unique locations

Top regions: USA & Canada, Europe & UK

Commonly compared with Tauck and Trafalgar 

What Makes Collette Tours Stand Out?

• Flexibility & personalization
• Expert tour managers
• Easy booking process
• Private & Customizable tours
• Balances iconic must-sees with immersive cultural experiences

A long history in guided tourism means Collette knows every inch of guided travel. Take care of all the details like it’s second nature, and even though it's old hat every traveler is new and they dig into that. Collette recognizes that no two traveler is the same and approach each planning experience from a perspective of flexibility and personalization.

Their goal is to ease the hardship of planning and organizing for the traveler so you can fully enjoy the experience without worry or stress. At Collette, they know guided travel and have been successfully leading tours around the world to a growing, devoted customer base for nearly 100 years.

Collette tours are about letting you, the traveler, experience unbelievable, classic, and unique moments around the world.  

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Collette?

• Travelers aged 45+
• Moderately active travelers
• Upper budget range

Do you love the ease of mind that comes with having every detail taken care of when you travel? Details that allow you to relax and enjoy the special little moments of discovering the world; learning about new cultures, awe inspiring wildlife encounters, and leisurely meals highlighting local cuisine? Then you are ideally suited to Collette tours.

The Collette traveler is typically older, in the 50+ range. Travelers who enjoy the finer things, value a premium to luxury style of accommodation and transportation, yet have an adventurous spirit will love traveling with Collette.

Recent retirees and active seniors who are game for anything are the kind of traveler who relish a tour with Collette - check out this group in Costa Rica - taking part in Costa Rica's famous ziplines!

If you don't want to be encouraged to jump in and push your comfort zone a bit, you may find yourself out of step on a majority of Collette tours. They have several offerings though, so don't let that discourage you. 

Collette is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a comprehensive guided tour, with a lot of activity, and local experiences. These tours can involve extensive walking, sometimes over uneven surfaces, so a certain basic level of physical fitness is required.

Tours with Collette are classified by 5 basic physical levels, to help you find one best suited to you:

Level 1 - Mostly flat services and minimal walking. You should be comfortabe with climbing a few stairs, plus getting in and out of the coach 

Level 2 - Average physical ability is required such as long stairs and walks of a few hours. Some walks may be over uneven ground.

Level 3 - Slightly longer distances and more frequent walks can be expected. Expect stairs and some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones or nature trails.

Level 4 - Expect to be on your feet longer, including periods of standing and more extensive walking periods. These tours may also feature nighttime activities, so you'll be active for a longer period of time.

Level 5 - Very active travel. Expect adventure experiences and activities, early mornings and late nights. You can also expect to experience the elements so be ready for rain, wind, dust, what have you.

Free days are included in most Collette tours, giving travelers time to relax, take walks on the beach, or maybe do some shopping.

If you’re the kind of traveler for whom the a glass of champagne out in the blazing sun of the Australian outback, gazing at Uluru, sounds idyllic - then Collette would be perfect for you.

Top Destinations

Collette tours travel all around the world, to all 7 continents including Antarctica . They are well known for Central and South America, Australia, and Africa. They also offer an impressive variety of North America tours including several in the United States and Canada.

Travel styles include everything from river cruises to family tours to faith based tours.

Collette Travel Style

Collette promises the “trip of a lifetime” through exclusive outings, luxury touches, and appreciating the moments of anticipation before the world reveals itself. Their travel style is about discovering new cultures, embracing the explorer within -- in time for a cocktail at the end of the day.

They have 6 broad classifications for travel style: Classic, Explorations, Spotlights, River Cruise, Faith, and Impact Travel:

1. Classic Collette Tours - This is what they call their Flagship collection, group tours that make the postcard come to life. Visit all the must see sites, enjoy cultural experiences, all with a professional and knowledgeable guide, there to help make your travel as seamless as possible. Groups are on the larger side

2. Explorations - These tours are about going deeper, meeting locals, and getting off the beaten path. “Authenticity” is a big word for Collette Explorations. You’ll experience the destination in a smaller group, an average of 18 people, allowing for access to more local experiences not available to larger groups. Classic sites will also be included in your itinerary, but the focus is mostly on unique experiences.

3. Spotlights - Have a shorter amount of time and don’t want to miss anything? Collette Spotlight tours are designed to maximize your city stay or short getaway experience. These are primarily walking tours, packed with sightseeing, historical and cultural information, but with some downtime as well. Typically these tours are between 5-9 days.

4. River Cruise - A very popular mode of travel, particularly for 50+ travelers, river cruising is ideal for those seeking a leisurely vacation, unpacking only once, enjoying gliding by beautiful sites and participating in various guided shore excursions. Collette river cruises go around the world, including China, Egypt, and Europe.

5. Faith - For those travelers interested in visiting religious sites, Collette has a group of tours dedicated to faith based travel. Visit world famous icons and learn their ancient histories.

Collette Faith tours visit everything from grand churches to the humble beginnings of the three major world religions in the Holy Land. Tours are history based with an emphasis on finding deeper spiritual significance and meaning. They also have trips to the Oberammergau Passion Play .

6. Impact Travel - Being a responsible traveler is an important component on all Collette tours, however if you’re seeking to do more to give back, their Impact Tours are a great way to do so. Sightsee with a purpose as you assist with local initiatives, volunteering among the community, helping in classrooms, and protecting local wildlife.

Why Choose a Tour with Collette?

• Flexibility in planning
• Extensions available pre or post tour date
• Private airport transfer
• Expert planners 

If you are looking for an entertaining, fully escorted, active tour to explore new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences, Collette could be for you. They provide a dedicated guide, and handle all the details throughout the tour.

Free time is available on some days, but for the most part expect fairly full itineraries and a good amount of walking on their group tours. Some optional excursions are offered during the tour, so you can tailor your experience to a certain extent.

This is a great opportunity for meeting fellow travelers in a similar age range. Collette tours are open to everyone, but the majority of people on your tour will be older - in the 50+ range. Collette tours are ideal for travelers who want to have fun, enjoy the outdoors, and are open to new experiences.

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About the company.

True adventures go beyond incredible destinations or inclusive packages. Collette delivers a sense of possibility across all seven continents.

Since 1918, we have been sharing our love of travel. Today our worldwide travel collection features comprehensive land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group tours, family trips, garden holidays and more. With Collette, wake each morning on tour with a new experience in front of you, and when your head hits the pillow, you will know it has been an amazing day. Best of all - we seamlessly handle the details. All you have to do is enjoy the adventure.

Everyone at Collette believes travel is vital to a life well-lived and our executive team sets the tone. Drawing on a diverse set of skills that includes operations, sales, information technology, law and financial planning, they work across three offices to bring you the best experience possible.

There are so many benefits to letting someone else take on all the details that come with having The Perfect Trip. See why more and more travelers choose to Go Guided — and why they never go back.

5 Reasons to Go Guided:

Go Tour Managers!

On Day 1 of your trip, you’ll meet a friendly person who sure does know a lot about your tour and the destinations you’re visiting. This highly skilled professional is your tour manage and from the moment you meet this key player on your tour, you’ll know you’re in good hands. With their rich travel backgrounds, as well as their useful information about language, currency, and all things local, you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Go Culture!

Visiting a destination gives you a taste of the local culture. But imagine actually becoming part of that culture. Staying overnight in an Irish castle like Old-World royalty…feeling the cool waters of the Great Barrier Reef envelop you as you snorkel in its turquoise paradise…or rolling dough with an Italian chef to make the perfect pizza. It’s not just about all the iconic spots that will make for the best photos, it’s about diving into another world that makes for the best memories.

Go Product Team!

Our product experts are probably on the road right now — scoping out the best of our worldwide destinations. They go, take it all in, and find the moments they love best. Those are the moments they create for you. Those experiences and sights comprise each itinerary and make each one extra-special. Best of all, you don’t have to plan a thing. You just need to choose which itinerary best suits you.

Travel is social by nature. Guided travel is extra social. Meet a cast of characters: your fellow travelers, tour manager, driver, local guides and more. The social aspect of guided travel is one of the best parts! Many travelers on our tours have forged lasting friendships. Think of all the wonderful people waiting to meet you out in the world.

Go Worry-Free!

Your peace of mind is the most important thing to us. And that starts with our roundtrip home to airport sedan service. Forget taxis, airport fees, or public transportation. We will get you there...and back. And if for any reason you need to cancel your tour, you can do so — right up until the day before departure — and receive a full refund (thanks to our travel protection plan).

There are many ways to experience the world:

Among Collette’s worldwide collection of tours we offer a variety of guided travel choices. No matter where (or how) you want to go, Collette can take you there.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

From vibrant cities to remote villages, immerse yourself in other worlds. As part of a small group, enjoy accommodations chosen to capture the spirit of the destination, savor spectacular local cuisine, and take the time to explore on your own. Along the way Explorations sets the stage for the unexpected moments that make travel so special. With just 12-24 passengers, these are the personal adventures that today’s cultural explorers dream about.

Amazing Family Moments Included

Collette's Family tours bring travelers of all ages together to experience the world’s greatest destinations. There’s no better classroom than the world, no better education than taking a walk through history. Today’s parents — and grandparents — want to share the riches of travel with their children and grandchildren. Each tour in our family line is specially crafted with the best local experiences, iconic must-see's, family-oriented hotels and immersive cultural activities. Children ages 14 and under enjoy substantially discounted rates.

Collette's Cancel for Any Reason Travel Protection Plan

The Traveling Well Experience

Our commitment to your well-being and enjoyment.

There’s no denying that life and travel will likely look a little different for the foreseeable future, which is why we worked with our partners all over the world to create enhanced protective measures for our guests. These measures are intended to help safeguard guests’ health and well-being, while allowing for an enjoyable travel experience.  

From flexible booking to more open space on the coach and much more – all aspects of travel have been considered. This is  The Traveling Well Experience .

• Travel Protection Plan  – cancel for any reason up until 24 hours before departure, plus provides numerous on-tour protections
• More Physical Space  – on the coach, in restaurants, and more
• Wellness Protocols  – for partners like motor coach operators, hotels, restaurants, and airlines
• Enhanced Tour Manager Training  ­– our tour managers are destination experts and highly equipped to handle a variety of unexpected situations – including illnesses and emergencies

Before Your Tour

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver

Our Travel Protection Plan financially protects you in the event you need to cancel or move your trip to a different date. Learn more here

Pre-Tour Health Screenings

We will ask all travellers to complete a wellness declaration form before joining their tour.

Private Sedan Service

Your ride to and from the airport will be stocked with fresh water for every pickup and all surfaces will be disinfected daily and after every passenger.

Specific details will vary by airline, but standard operations typically include flight attendants wearing masks, sanitizing all surfaces between flights and physical distancing. For links to major airlines, head to the bottom of the page, or visit your airline’s website for specific information.

On Your Tour

Smaller Groups

Tours will operate with a number of empty seats to allow guests to space out for a more comfortable experience.

Your Tour Manager

We have employed new and enhanced hygiene & physical distancing protocols for tour managers. They are local experts and highly trained to handle a variety of unexpected situations — including illnesses and emergencies. They are also available 24/7 for guests throughout the tour should any situation arise.

Use of Face Coverings

Face coverings will be included with your pre-tour documents and will be required throughout many experiences on tour including the motor coach and air travel.

Motor Coach

All surfaces will be sanitized often, including regular cleaning of high-touch areas with disinfecting wipes. Hand sanitizer will be available at all times and drivers will wear protective gear when appropriate.

On-Tour Experiences

We work closely with our local partners to ensure adequate physical distancing during meals, experiences, and sightseeing. Guests may be rotated in smaller sub-groups when necessary.

On-Tour Insurance Coverages

When you purchase our Travel Protection Plan, you’ll have access to telehealth services should you need it, plus you’re covered on tour for emergency assistance, baggage loss, trip interruption, medical expenses, and more. Learn more here

Self-Screening

We will ask all travellers to monitor their health throughout their tour, with protocols in place in the event someone becomes ill.

Specific protocols will vary from destination to destination, hotel to hotel. Overall, rooms and areas like restaurants, fitness centres, etc. will be deep-cleaned regularly, with rooms disinfected thoroughly between guests. High-traffic areas like lobbies and elevators will be cleaned hourly.

After Your Tour

Post-Tour Survey

After you get home, you’ll be able to share your opinions of your tour experience, allowing us to constantly improve for the benefit of future guests.

Collette Trips & Specials

Combine two tours and save $300 per person

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top Collette Trip Categories

Collette company ranking by category, similar companies, associations, united states tour operators association.

USTOA is a nonprofit professional association representing the tour operator industry.Its members are made up of companies who provide services worldwide but who conduct business in the U.S.

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