Carolina Bellina of Hyatt Inclusive Collection delves into her 28-year career in the travel industry
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been in the travel industry?
I was born in Montreal but moved to the Dominican Republic as a child, where I grew up and discovered my passion for travel and hospitality. I later earned a degree in advertising with a specialization in marketing, but my heart has always belonged in the world of tourism; which led me to begin my career in 1997 with Occidental Hotels, initially focusing on the local market in the Dominican Republic.
From there, my career quickly evolved with several promotions within the company, ultimately leading to the senior director role. Early on, I was promoted to sales manager for the Canadian market, where I discovered a deep passion for negotiating contracts and managing guarantees with major Canadian tour operators.
In 2019, I joined AMResorts and relocated to Toronto, where I now proudly call home. This role allowed me not only to work closely with tour operators but also to engage directly with travel advisors – an incredibly rewarding part of the business. Building meaningful relationships with so many dedicated tourism professionals has truly enriched my journey.
When Hyatt acquired AMResorts, it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter; one filled with learning, growth, and the privilege of being part of a globally respected brand with strong values and a clear vision. I have now been in the hospitality industry for 28 years, including the last six with what is now the Hyatt Inclusive Collection.
What’s a typical day in the life of your role?
There is really no such thing as a “typical” day in this industry – and that is exactly what I love about it. Each day brings something new: challenges, opportunities, fast-paced decision-making, and collaboration across different teams and markets.
My mornings usually begin by checking emails and overnight updates, reviewing sales reports, scanning market performance, looking closely at competitive pricing, and tour operator dashboards. I will typically have quick check-ins or calls with my team across Canada to align on priorities, review advisor engagement goals, discuss lead generation, and identify opportunities to support hotel performance.
Throughout the day, I join cross-functional meetings, sometimes with our corporate teams to align on promotional strategies or new launches, or with our international teams to ensure Canada’s needs are represented. I also meet virtually or in person with key partners, working on strategies to grow business across different niche segments.
I spend time analyzing Salesforce data and internal dashboards to track booking trends and advisor performance. Depending on the day, I may coach team members, conduct one-on-ones, performance reviews, or prepare reports and presentations for leadership, celebrating wins, flagging risks, and proposing growth strategies.
Of course, the fun part is when I am on the road, visiting properties, hosting events or VIP FAMs, attending client events, or joining networking receptions. No two days are alike, and that is what keeps this role so exciting and fulfilling.
This year the Inclusive Collection won an Agents’ Choice Award for the first time. Why do you think the brand is resonating with Canadian travel advisors?
We are incredibly proud that the Inclusive Collection won an Agents’ Choice Award this year, it’s a true reflection of the trust and connection we have built with Canadian travel advisors. I believe the Inclusive Collection is resonating for a few key reasons.
First, the Inclusive Collection brings together an elevated all-inclusive experience with the strength, consistency, and global reputation of Hyatt. Advisors know their clients will receive exceptional service, quality accommodations, and thoughtful amenities across all our brands – from family-friendly fun at Dreams Resorts & Spas to adults-only romantic getaways at Secrets Resorts & Spa, luxury escapes at Impression by Secrets, and vibrant, chic celebrations at Breathless Resorts & Spas or the new Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts.
Second, we have made it a priority to truly listen and engage with the advisor community in Canada. Whether it is through trainings, incentive programs, familiarization trips, or one-on-one support, we have worked hard to build authentic relationships and show advisors that we are here to help them grow their business.
Third, the diversity of our portfolio means there is something for every client – whether they are looking for luxury, wellness, romance, family-friendly, or group travel – making it easier for advisors to find the right fit. Combine that with a consistent booking experience and the backing of World of Hyatt, and it becomes a brand that advisors feel confident recommending again and again.
But lastly, and most importantly, we have an incredible team in Canada that works tirelessly to stay in front of advisors. They are the heart of our business. Alongside them, our on-property teams go above and beyond to ensure that what we promise is not only delivered but exceeded. It is that dedication on all fronts that makes our brand truly stand out.
What’s new and exciting with the Inclusive Collection this year and beyond? Which resorts are you looking forward to seeing in person?
The Inclusive Collection continues its thoughtful expansion across key Caribbean destinations, introducing new properties that each deliver unique experiences and culturally immersive opportunities – and I am very much looking forward to visiting these new properties in 2025.
Most recently, Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa debuted as the first Secrets Resort & Spa on the island, alongside Secrets Baby Beach Aruba, marking the brand’s inaugural presence in Aruba. Later in Summer 2025, the Inclusive Collection will grow its footprint in the Dominican Republic with the opening of Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa and Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa along the stunning Playa Esmeralda coast, offering tailored options for both adults-only and family-friendly travel. In October, the portfolio will welcome Secrets Mirabel Resort & Spa in Cancun.
Every year you recognize top producing travel advisors with a special in-destination event. What should agents know about how they can be a part of the action?
Confidant Connect Live, our annual in-destination event, is a standout celebration that recognizes the passion, expertise and achievements of top-producing travel advisors who champion the Inclusive Collection. This experience is more than just a reward; it’s a powerful opportunity for advisors to hear from Inclusive Collection leaders, connect with other travel advisors, deepen their knowledge, and walk away inspired and empowered.
Advisors hoping to be part of the action should register their Inclusive Collection bookings through Confidant Collective. If you haven’t joined yet, we strongly encourage you to sign up – it’s the official advisor portal for the Inclusive Collection. Not only does it provide access to essential tools and resources, but it’s also how we track and recognize advisor production for event eligibility.
The event itself is truly special. Attendees enjoy exclusive access to Inclusive Collection executives, dynamic panel discussions on trends and business growth strategies, and an immersive itinerary that highlights the very best of our resorts. From gourmet dining to unique cultural touchpoints and curated property experiences, the trip is designed to celebrate your success while inspiring your future.
Do you work from home or the office? If from home, how do you maintain a good work/life balance?
I work primarily from home, and while that offers great flexibility, maintaining a healthy work/life balance requires intention and discipline, especially in an industry as dynamic and fast-paced as tourism and hospitality.
For me, the key is creating structure in my day. I start early, prioritize what needs to be tackled first, and make sure to set clear boundaries where possible. I also make time to step away from my screen, whether it is a quick walk, lunch with my family, or time with my dog. Those moments help reset and recharge.
That said, the nature of my role means I am often traveling, attending events, or on calls across different time zones. So, I have learned that balance doesn’t always mean equal time every day, rather, it is about being present and giving your best – whether you are at your desk, on the road, or at home with loved ones.
At the end of the day, I love what I do, and when you are passionate about your work, balance becomes about finding joy and purpose on both the personal and professional sides.
Can you share some insights into the resorts or destinations that are selling well for Canadian travellers? Are you noticing any other trends based on agent bookings or demand?
We are seeing exceptionally strong demand from Canadian travellers, especially in sun destinations, with Punta Cana still topping the list, particularly for guests from Quebec. Cancún is just as strong, especially among travellers from Western Canada and Ontario. Early pace for 2026 bookings is very healthy, with double-digit growth compared to the same time last year.
We are also seeing increased interest in seasonal and emerging destinations like Curaçao, St. Lucia and Aruba, which are quickly gaining traction among advisors and travellers looking for something fresh yet dependable. These destinations offer a mix of authenticity, culture, and high-quality resort experiences that resonate well with the Canadian market.
What’s something that a lot of people may not know about you?
Something a lot of people may not know about me is that I am a certified chef and an artist at heart. I have a deep love for the culinary arts and find joy in creating beautiful, flavourful dishes. Outside of work, I also love to paint. It’s my way of unwinding and expressing creativity in a completely different medium. Whether it is in the kitchen or with a brush, I’ve always believed that creativity fuels passion, and that carries over into everything I do, including my career in hospitality.
If you had to sing karaoke tonight, which song would you pick?
That’s a tough one, mainly because I am a terrible singer! But if I had to pick, I would go with something fun that gets everyone singing along, like “Dancing Queen” by ABBA.
When it comes to flying, are you on team window or aisle? Carry-on or checked bag?
I am definitely team aisle; easy access and a bit more freedom to move around. As for packing, I am usually team carry-on. But if I am traveling for more than a week or heading to an event with a different themed night every night, then I will check a bag, no question. You just can’t fit all those outfits into a carry-on, no matter how efficient you are!
Do you have anything to add?
Our travel advisors truly are at the heart of our success. For any advisors who are looking to elevate their business and stay ahead in today’s competitive market, now is the time to join Confidant Collective and become a Hyatt Inclusive Collection specialist. We have an exciting pipeline of resorts and are deeply committed to helping you sell smarter. There’s no better team to work with – or time to start working with us.
