Get to Know John Navarro

Name: John Navarro
Occupation: Travel Experiences Developer
Years in the travel industry: 14 years
Years with Destination America: 2020 – Present

Most of my career has been with DA or one our sister brands. I have been fortunate to be given opportunities to grow and learn different sides of the business. I started on the Reservations team for our Contiki and Trafalgar brands before moving to Operations, including a few seasons on the road as a Trip Director. I was also a Regional Sales Manager overseas for one of our sister brands.

What do you do now?

Travel Experience Development in the Eastern United States and Eastern Canada. I help curate trips to make sure what our guests are seeing, and experiencing is relevant, exciting, and authentic to the region.

What is your favorite part about working in travel?

I sincerely believe in the transformative power that travel and new experiences can have on people. I know it has had a profound impact on me. I think those of us fortunate to work in the industry understand and appreciate that, especially over the last couple of years. There is a collective passion we all share, and it is very rewarding to see that ‘ah hah’ moment happen – whether with our guests or people just getting started in the industry.

The team is full of people with diverse backgrounds who represent many cultures from around the world. Makes for great conversations and a workplace culture that appreciates a healthy work-life balance.

In your own words, what makes the Eastern US and Canada so special?

I think the diversity of experiences and landscapes offer something for everyone. The region offers iconic major cities, charming small towns, National Parks, sports culture, amazing wine regions, and different historical perspectives that shape the region’s culture. Although distance between each notable location is relatively short, no two places are the same. Cape Cod has such a different feel than the Eastern Townships of Canada!

The guest experience is always at the forefront of mind, so I think there’s tremendous value in the peace of mind you get knowing that experiences and all aspects of trip planning have been carefully curated. We’re always looking for diverse ways to bring our destinations to life. Not only will you visit amazing places, but you will also hear the stories and meet the people who shape them.

What are you going to explore next?

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are two islands I can’t wait to explore. I’m also looking forward to being back in Quebec City!

LATEST ARTICLES