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CALTRAVEL / MEMBER SPOTLIGHT / JANUARY 2021
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An Interview with Brittany DiBlasi, Sales Manager at aRes Travel Inc. and CalTravel Social Media Star
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BY SHANNON BROOKS, PRINCIPAL AT FORWØRD
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The latest subject of our Member Spotlight is Brittany DiBlasi, a rising star in California’s travel industry who consistently goes above-and-beyond the call of duty. Between her current role of Sales Manager at aRes Travel Inc and her volunteer work for CalTravel, Brittany’s determination, effervescent energy, and work ethic always shine through.
A few years ago, Brittany took the reins of the CalTravel’s social media committee.
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Even while juggling the endlessly stressful demands of her day job during the tumultuous early months of the pandemic’s tidal wave of cancellations, she remained dedicated to helping CalTravel connect with its members and industry community virtually. She didn’t just keep the platforms alive, she managed to advance the association’s social media program to make an even bigger impact. Brittany also serves on the Awards Committee for CalTravel Summit, and prior to that, she herself was a past recipient of CalTravel’s Emerging Leader Award.
Read on to learn more about what makes Brittany one to watch, and who and what have influenced her blossoming career.
How did your career in hospitality begin?
From a very early age, I passionately loved family vacations and travel. Interestingly, I was most excited about the hotel experience, from check-in through check-out. Yet, it wasn’t until I was already pursuing a degree in International Business that I realized I was majoring in the wrong field. A fellow student asked me to proofread a paper for her, which was on why she was studying hospitality. As I proofread her paper, I immediately felt like I had written that paper myself and was reminded that travel was my true passion. I decided to switch my focus and earn my degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management.
While I was studying, a new hotel opened near me and I knew I needed to work there. One day, I simply walked in with suit on and resume in hand and asked if I could speak with the GM about an interview. That’s the moment it all began. Since being hired at that Hilton Garden Inn, I’ve continued working in the industry in hotels, with DMOs, and now aRes Travel, who I’ve been with for the past four-and-a-half years.
Who are your role models?
In my personal life, most definitely my parents. They’ve stood by my side from day one and they’re my biggest fans. I’m so thankful to have been raised and guided by such selfless individuals. I owe so much of who I am to them.
Professionally, I’ve had several influential role models, from the Dean of Hospitality in college to the President/CEO’s I’ve reported to over the years. I am grateful for the skills they’ve helped me develop, the confidence they’ve instilled, and the kindness they’ve shown me.
As for a celebrity role model, I’m a huge fan of Samantha Brown and admire her passion for travel!
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
Being a recipient of the CalTravel 30 and Under Emerging Leader Award was one of the most exciting moments for me. I remember feeling so proud and humbled.
I am also proud of helping to pioneer an internship program between the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee and McKibbon Hospitality. In order to graduate from college, I was in need of an internship. Instead of using my hotel job, I wanted a unique experience where I could get a behind-the-scenes look at hotel management. After much persistence, I created an internship opportunity with McKibbon Hospitality and they took me on as their first-ever corporate intern. Once my internship was complete, I worked with my Dean and McKibbon to ensure that internship opportunity would be available to future students. That successful partnership exists to this day.
How has the pandemic changed how you approach work and/or life?
I’ve learned not to take the opportunity to meet in-person for granted. Luckily, technology is great and has allowed us to remain connected virtually better than ever before. However, nothing compares to seeing a friendly face in-person. Moving forward, I’ll cherish the opportunities I get to network a little bit more. Building connections and staying in touch frequently is key. Cherish every moment.
What are your passions outside of the travel industry?
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Travel, of course! If it’s not for work, it’s for pleasure. Whether it’s exploring my own backyard or road-tripping in a different state, I love being out and about; seeing and doing; tasting and indulging in local cuisine. Sightseeing and getting to know a place like a local are some of my favorite things. I also enjoy anything outdoors. Since moving to California, I love hiking, but being from Florida, I live and breathe the salt life. Being near the ocean is my happy place.
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What’s something you can share about yourself that might surprise people?
Even though I compose myself as a SoCal professional, I’m a country girl at heart. Growing up in the south, I love going off-road mudding, shooting, and being outdoors. I love country music, bluegrass, and camo, and have a deep love for southern food. My favorite phrase is “y’all.”
Once international travel has reopened, what’s the first place you want to travel to?
Paris, France!
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Have a suggestion for a future Member Spotlight? Submit it to bnewton@caltravel.org
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