Winter 2025

Seasoned travel expert and Classic Vacations CEO Melissa Krueger is working with CSUMB to share her knowledge with the next generation of hospitality executives. Photo: Joshua Rose Photography F or an August article on California’s best small towns, Travel + Leisure gathered Carmel visitor tips from global tourism leader Melissa Krueger. The Classic Vacations CEO has lived locally for 20 years. “I’ve traveled the world to places 10-year-old me could never have imagined,” she says. “Carmel will always be my favorite place on earth.” Krueger has partnered with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, California Hotel & Lodging Association Hospitality Foundation, and other groups while guiding Classic Vacations, a luxury travel company that’s supported travel advisors since 1978. And lately, she’s been working with Cal State Monterey Bay’s Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management program. Krueger appreciates the fresh energy that students bring to the travel industry. She also enjoys empowering young professionals to launch meaningful careers right at home. “Good places to travel are great places to live,” she says. In her own career, Krueger has embraced the opportunity to build major brands while raising three daughters as part of a close-knit Carmel community. Two of her current employees are Carmel High School graduates pursuing their own dreams. “For me, leadership isn’t just about scale,” Krueger says. “It’s about impact, and ensuring that the next generation has the opportunity to thrive right where it started.” For more information about Krueger and Classic Vacations, visit www.classicvacations.com. Travel CEO Teaches Local Students Global Lessons B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S SHORT CUTS BUSINESS 90 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 5