A brief Coffee Table Chat  With Our Co-Founder & CEO One-on-One with Jesús Parrilla Why Experiential Hospitality Chose Memphis, TN as Its Headquarters When you think about hospitality powerhouses, cities like New York, Miami, or Los Angeles might come to mind. But Memphis? It might not be the first name on the list—until you take a closer look. In this candid conversation, Jesús Parrilla, a global hospitality leader with deep roots in Spain, Costa Rica, Chile, and beyond, reveals why Experiential Hospitality chose Memphis, Tennessee, as its headquarters. More than just a business decision, it was a move shaped by opportunity, connectivity, and culture—a city where resilience and authenticity aren’t just buzzwords, but a way of life. From Memphis’ entrepreneurial ecosystem and logistics powerhouse status to its unexpected outdoor adventure access, Jesús shares why this city is not just a place to work—it’s a place to build, to create, and to thrive. Let’s dive in. 1. Jesús, you’ve lived in so many places over the years—Spain, California, Texas, Tennessee, Florida, Chile, Costa Rica—and have spent considerable time in Argentina and Mexico. With such a global perspective, why Memphis? When we set out to build Experiential Hospitality, we weren’t just looking for a place to plant a corporate flag—we were looking for a home, a city that resonated with our ethos, our passion, and our mission. Memphis stood out immediately. First, it’s a city of opportunity. Memphis has an extraordinary business ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurs with ambition. Here, you don’t just survive; you thrive. The cost of living is remarkably lower than in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami, allowing us to reinvest in our people, in our innovation, in our future. And let’s talk about the tax environment, no state income tax on wages, and one of the lowest state and local tax burdens in the country. That means people keep more of what they earn, and that’s powerful. It’s no surprise Realtor.com ranked Memphis 3rd on the list of where millennials are most likely to buy homes. This is a city where you can build a life, not just a career. But beyond the economics, Memphis is a city of resilience, of soul, of raw, undeniable energy. It has grit. It has character. It has heart. And when you’re building a company centered on authentic experiences, connection, and culture, you want to be in a place that embodies those things every single day. 2. You could have chosen any U.S. city to be close to investors. Why Memphis? Strategic connectivity is everything. We are in the business of crafting travel experiences that redefine hospitality—we need to be in a place that gives us immediate access to the world. From Memphis, I can be in New York in 2.5 hours, Chicago in 1.5, Miami in 2, Dallas in 1.5, Atlanta in 1. It’s seamless. It allows us to engage with investors, travel partners, and media without sacrificing the advantages of operating in a city with lower costs and a high quality of life. And let’s not forget Memphis’ powerhouse logistics infrastructure—this is the global headquarters of FedEx! The ability to move goods, people, and ideas quickly is an absolute game-changer for any industry, and we’re right in the epicenter of that. 3. What personal connections do you have to Memphis? My relationship with Memphis goes back decades. I earned my graduate degree here. I lived here. I worked here. And it shaped me. Early in my career, I was at Dobbs International Services, which later became Gategroup. That company had an extraordinary culture of service. It was more than just a business—it was a philosophy, a commitment to something greater than transactions. It transformed my understanding of service into something sacred. And beyond business, the people of Memphis left a mark on me. This city is filled with some of the most genuine, welcoming, and fiercely loyal people I have ever encountered. There’s a warmth here that you don’t find in many places. It’s real. It’s deep. It’s the essence of hospitality itself. 4. Some people might not immediately associate Memphis with hospitality. Why do you think it’s a great fit for Experiential Hospitality? Let’s not forget—Memphis is where Holiday Inn was founded, one of the most revolutionary hospitality brands of all time. Hospitality is in this city’s DNA. The University of Memphis has a strong hospitality program, training the next generation of leaders in this industry. And I believe that through my ties to the university, we can be part of shaping a new wave of outdoor hospitality pioneers. But beyond traditional hospitality, Memphis is a city that knows how to create experiences—through its music, its food, its storytelling. It’s not a place that just “hosts” people; it moves them. It changes them. And that’s exactly what we aim to do with Experiential Hospitality. 5. How does Memphis’ location support the company’s vision? Memphis gives us access. Not just to cities and investors, but to nature, to history, to cultural depth. People don’t always realize this, but Memphis is a gateway to some of the most incredible outdoor destinations in the country. And for a company like ours, which is built on adventure, nature, and cultural immersion, that’s invaluable. Within a short drive, you can reach: The Ozarks (Arkansas & Missouri): A breathtaking haven for hiking, canoeing, and true outdoor adventure. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The most-visited national park in the U.S., a stunning, wild landscape. The Natchez Trace Parkway: A historic and scenic drive through Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. The Appalachian Trail (Tennessee section): One of the most legendary long-distance trails in the world. Big River Trail & Mississippi River Parks: Right here in Memphis, offering outdoor recreation along the majestic riverfront. We are in the perfect place to inspire and be inspired. 6. Would you say Memphis gives Experiential Hospitality a strategic advantage? Without question. Memphis is not just where we’re headquartered—it’s where we’re rooted. The business advantages are undeniable: lower costs,

A brief Coffee Table Chat: beyond trends One-on-One with Jesús Parrilla In a world where hospitality often follows fleeting trends, Jesús Parrilla invites us to pause and rethink. Through this insightful conversation, he challenges the industry to move beyond rebranding old ideas and embrace bold, transformative initiatives that prioritize sustainability, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. Join us as he explores how courage, responsibility, and regeneration can redefine the future of travel, creating a genuine force for good. 1. Every January, the industry predicts trends for the year ahead, often rebranding familiar ideas. How do you believe the hospitality world can move beyond recycled concepts to embrace truly innovative ideas that drive meaningful social and environmental change? The industry must stop chasing the ephemeral allure of what’s marketable and instead embrace the timeless call of what is necessary. Innovation doesn’t arise from recycling the comfortable but from confronting the uncomfortable truths about our impact on the world. To move forward, we must look inward and question the habits we’ve normalized, the stories we’ve commodified, and the spaces we’ve altered. Actual progress lies in creating ideas that don’t merely align with trends but challenge them, that don’t bend to demand but build toward a more profound and more conscientious harmony with the earth and its people. Real change whispers; it doesn’t shout. 2. What would it take for the industry to shift its focus from forecasting consumer desires to setting an agenda for progress—one that prioritizes sustainability, cultural preservation, and community empowerment over superficial trends? It would take courage—tons of courage to lead, not follow; to educate, not just entertain; to illuminate paths that may be less traveled but infinitely more meaningful. The agenda we need cannot be written in the language of convenience or only profit but in the dialect of responsibility and reverence. It’s about turning our gaze from the fleeting to the enduring, from the surface to the roots. When we prioritize the stories of the land and the hands that nurture it, when we empower voices that have been overlooked, we not only set a new agenda but inspire a movement that redefines the essence of travel. 3. If we used this time of year not to project trends but to spark a movement, what bold initiatives or disruptive ideas would you introduce to challenge the status quo and make the industry a genuine force for good? I would propose a year where we silence the noise of consumerism and amplify the song of regeneration—a collective effort to restore what has been taken, to heal what has been hurt. Imagine an industry-wide pledge: for every room built, a forest planted; for every meal served, a culture celebrated; for every footprint left, a legacy of care engraved. The challenge is not to be louder but to be clearer, more intentional, and more daring. A true movement is not an announcement; it’s a quiet, unstoppable wave that reshapes the shoreline, leaving it stronger than it was before.

A brief Coffee Table Chat: Leadership insights inspiration One-on-One with Julieta Chan In this interview, we explore the sources of inspiration, valuable advice, and essential team qualities from the perspective of a seasoned business professional. Drawing from personal experiences and mentorship, our interviewee shares insights on leadership, problem-solving, and building strong teams in various professional settings. 1. DO YOU HAVE ANY BUSINESS LEADERS THAT PROVIDE A SOURCE OF INSIPIRATION? I find inspiration in business leaders and leaders from all walks of life—whether on a basketball court, in a boardroom, in a classroom, or at home. Leadership is a vital skill for both professional and personal success. In the business sector, I’ve been fortunate to work with exceptional mentors who’ve shaped my path. Katherine Carter, the young GM at Hotel Presidente in San José, Costa Rica, was the first. Alongside CEO Daniel Mikowski, they transformed the hotel into a sustainable property, always believing in me and supporting my ideas. Their approach taught me the power of clear vision, strong processes, and great teamwork—reminding me that meaningful change is possible when driven by purpose. At Cayuga Collection, Hans Pfister and María José Castro showed me the value of conscious leadership, emphasizing genuine care for the people we work with. This was a game-changer. Meanwhile, Felipe Artiñano and Ofer Ketter at Origen Escapes encouraged me to break mental barriers and tap into my creative side. Today, I am learning from three remarkable mentors: Jesús Parrilla and Juan Breiding. Their vast experience has inspired me not only with their knowledge but also with their humility, kindness, and honesty—values I hope to uphold as part of my own legacy. 2. WHAT ELSE DO YOU ENJOY DOING? WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT ADVICE YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN IN A JOB? I’ve received many valuable lessons from my mentors, but one that stands out is from Daniel Mikowski: “Be resourceful.” It’s a reminder to navigate challenges creatively and persistently, seeking solutions even when resources seem limited. This advice has fueled my problem-solving approach and strengthened my ability to build cohesive teams. Another valuable lesson came from Felipe Artiñano, who posed the question, “Who is the client, you or someone else?” This question challenged me to design experiences and itineraries for the ultra-luxury market with empathy, considering the client’s needs without imposing my own biases. Finally, I’ve come to understand the importance of knowing my place in my professional journey. Sometimes, I need to follow the lead, while other times, I need to lead the team. Trusting my leader and being prepared to offer constructive feedback has been crucial. Learning this has allowed me to be more resilient, empathetic, and less reactive in different positions within the company. 3. WHAT PERSONAL QUALITY DO YOU VALUE MOST IN YOUR TEAM? Integrity is the quality I value most. I admire people who show up as their true selves, communicate honestly, and build genuine connections. Integrity fosters trust, which is the foundation of a strong team. People with integrity own their mistakes, take responsibility for their actions, and lead transparently. They provide constructive feedback that helps others grow and maintain a respectful, open environment. This kind of authenticity and accountability is something I truly appreciate in a team.

A brief Coffee Table with Jesús parrilla Navigating Leadership with Integrity: A Journey of Resilience, Autonomy, and Purpose. In this edition of Coffee Table, we sit down with Jesús Parrilla, a leader whose career is shaped by resilience, integrity, and purpose. With a commitment to ethical leadership, Jesús shares insights that highlight the importance of fostering a culture of trust, empowering teams, and staying clear of office politics. His approach champions resilience, autonomy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, offering a refreshing perspective on what it means to lead with heart. 1. Do you have any business leaders that provide a source of inspiration? “Inspiration” is a word that resonates differently for each individual. For me, it’s not found in the loud, glitzy stories of overnight successes or those who have built sprawling empires without a struggle. True inspiration stems from the quiet, powerful stories of those who started from nothing, who fought with tenacity and grit to carve out a place for themselves in a world that often tries to keep them out. I’m drawn to the individual who began as a clerk in a purchasing department and, through sheer determination, ended up leading the company. These are the self-made leaders who embody resilience and purpose—those who weren’t born into privilege but clawed their way up, fueled by relentless drive and an unyielding commitment to excellence. These are the people who lead not with ego but with integrity, nurturing talent without bias and staying true to their values. Their stories are constant reminders that greatness isn’t a stroke of luck or a gift bestowed upon the few; it’s earned. It’s earned through sweat, failure, persistence, and the belief that perseverance is transformative. These are the leaders who inspire me to stay grounded, to push harder, and to never lose sight of what really matters—leading with purpose and a sense of duty to those who come after you. 2. What’s the most important advice you have been given in a job? Early in my career, I had a mentor—Donna Coles—who gave me advice that has become one of the most valuable lessons in my professional life: “Stay away from gossip and office politics.” At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the depth of her words. But as I have moved through various roles and companies, I have come to realize just how destructive these forces can be. Gossip is a silent cultural poison. It eats away at trust, undermines collaboration, and creates divisions where none should exist. It’s a seed that, if left unchecked, can grow into a toxic work environment, dragging down even the most well-intentioned teams. In every leadership role I have taken on, I have been adamant about creating a Gossip-Free Workplace Policy. But this isn’t just about banning idle talk—it’s about fostering an environment of transparency and mutual respect. It’s about cultivating a culture where communication is open, where people feel heard, and where decisions are made in the light, not behind closed doors. When gossip and office politics are eliminated, what remains is a foundation of trust, a space where ideas flourish, and where collaboration isn’t just encouraged—it’s inevitable. Leadership, for me, is about setting that standard, about ensuring that our teams focus their energy on building something great, not tearing each other down. 3. What personal quality do you value most in your team? If I had to choose one quality above all else, it would be resilience. Life, business, projects—they are all riddled with setbacks, obstacles, and moments that test your resolve. Resilience is what allows a team to not only withstand the pressure but to rise stronger in the face of it. It’s about seeing challenges as opportunities, about finding creative solutions when everything feels like it’s falling apart. Resilience is the heartbeat of every great team—it’s the quiet strength that powers you through the hardest days, and it’s the fire that keeps you pushing toward the goal, no matter how distant it might seem. Alongside resilience, autonomy is crucial. I firmly believe in empowering people to own their roles, to take initiative, and to feel the freedom to make decisions without constant oversight. Autonomy isn’t about leaving people to figure it out on their own; it’s about building a culture of trust where everyone knows they have the tools, support, and confidence to lead within their space. When people are trusted to steer their own ship, they tend to rise to the occasion. Autonomy fosters accountability, creativity, and a sense of ownership that makes a company thrive. In both resilience and autonomy, there’s a shared theme: empowerment. Teams that are empowered to think for themselves, to weather storms, and to act with conviction are the ones that ultimately change the game. They’re the ones who don’t just survive—they thrive. And that’s the kind of team I want to lead.

A brief Coffee Table Chat: STIRRING PASSIONS: EXPLORING LIFE BEYOND WORK One-on-One with Julieta Chan In this discussion, we explore how a lifelong passion for sports has shapeda commitment to personal and professional growth. From running as achild to playing basketball on a scholarship, the love for physical activitycontinues today with a disciplined gym routine. Paired with a deepinterest in empathic communication, this journey shows how physicalwellness and thoughtful connection can foster authentic leadership andteamwork in all areas of life. 1. WHAT PERSONAL INTERESTS DO YOU HAVE? I have always had a lot of interests in life, and they have changed depending on where I am, what I am doing, and what opportunities come my way. However, one thing that has been a constant in my life is my love for sports and exercise. Growing up in the 80s and 90s as a hyperactive kid, my mom’s strategy for managing my energy was to send me running whenever I started to “misbehave” in class or elsewhere. So, running became my first love. Later in school and high school, I developed a passion for volleyball, and for 20 years, my main sport was basketball. This passion allowed me to receive a scholarship in business, make lifelong friends, and develop discipline and teamwork ethic. While I no longer play basketball, I go to the gym five times a week to lift weights, and it has been my primary interest for almost four years. 2. WHAT ELSE DO YOU ENJOY DOING? I enjoy continuous learning, and at the moment, I am focused on empathic communication. I am taking a course to thoroughly understand the methodology of nonviolent communication. My goal is to become proficient in facilitating and managing groups using this approach, both professionally and personally. 3. HOW DO YOUR PERSONAL INTERESTS INFLUENCE YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE? I believe that sports and communication are key to creating authentic relationships, fostering mutual growth, and developing genuine leadership. Engaging in sports allows me to be more in tune with my body, understand how it feels and reacts to external stimuli, and be more compassionate towards myself and others. It also helps me learn from my mistakes and work towards common goals.

A brief Coffee Table Chat: STIRRINGPASSIONS: EXPLORING LIFE BEYOND WORK One-on-One with Jesús Parrilla Join us for a conversation with Jesús Parrilla as he shares how his personal passions—football, nature, wine, and cooking—shape his professional approach to leadership and hospitality. From his lifelong loyalty to Sevilla FC to his love for storytelling through wine and food, Jesús reveals how life beyond work fuels his creativity and commitment to sustainable travel experiences. 1. WHAT PERSONAL INTERESTS 1. DO YOU HAVE? I have several personal interests, but football—what I affectionately call “the suffering game” because for 30+ years I have followed from another continent— is one of my earliest passions. My childhood is filled with memories of the crowd’s roar, a sea of red and white flags, and the comforting presence of my father and older brother as we watched Sevilla FC battle it out on the pitch, week in and week out. Just as my father did with his father and siblings, supporting Sevilla, the resilient underdog, is more than just a pastime for our family—it’s a way of life. Owning a few shares in the club has only deepened that connection. For me, being a one-club person isn’t just about loyalty; it’s about a lifelong commitment that has profoundly bound our family together. Beyond football, I find solace, inspiration, and gratitude in long-distance walks through nature. There’s a regenerative power in those quiet moments when the rhythm of my steps and the sound of my heartbeat bring peace, spark creativity, and offer clarity like nothing else. Walking through the wild, I feel a deep connection to the world, to my thoughts, and to the boundless potential of what could be. 2. WHAT ELSE DO YOU ENJOY DOING? Food and wine aren’t just pleasures for me; they’re passions that resonate deeply with the soul. I have a particular affinity for complex, structured wines and a special appreciation for the robust, earthy notes of Chilean wines, especially those from the Apalta region. There’s something profoundly satisfying about the alchemy of flavors in a well-crafted wine—how it tells the story of the land, its people, the sun, the rain, and the hands that nurtured it. Cooking is another joy of mine, a creative and therapeutic outlet where I blend influences from the places I’ve called home—Southern Spain, Texas, Tennessee, and Chile. My culinary style, if I were to describe it as such, is deeply rooted in soulful food—the kind that’s slow-cooked, comforting, and rich in flavor, yet not overwhelming. It’s deeply satisfying and replenishing. Each dish I prepare is a tribute to these diverse regions and to the people I’ve met along the way—a celebration of the cultures and traditions that have shaped both my palate and my life. 3. HOW DO YOUR PERSONAL INTERESTS INFLUENCE YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE? My personal interests have deeply shaped my professional life in meaningful ways. From football, I’ve learned the value of resilience and loyalty. Supporting Sevilla FC as an underdog has taught me that true commitment comes from standing by something through both triumphs and setbacks, unlike those who follow only when success is guaranteed. This rebellious spirit of the underdog and steadfast dedication inform my approach to leadership and innovation. My love for nature has inspired my work in outdoor hospitality. The deep appreciation I have for the natural world drives my commitment to preserving and celebrating it through immersive, sustainable travel experiences. This passion for nature influences how I design and manage outdoor projects, ensuring that they respect and enhance the environment. Wine has offered me insights into the importance of storytelling and culture in hospitality. Learning about different wine regions and their histories has shown me how a well-curated wine selection can foster meaningful connections and great conversations, enriching the guest experience. In cooking, I have gained a profound respect for local cultures and traditions. My culinary experiences have deepened my gratitude for the diverse people and places that have shaped my life. This respect for cultural heritage and the joy of sharing meals with others inform my approach to hospitality, emphasizing the importance of honoring and celebrating local traditions. Together, these experiences drive my social commitment and understanding of the importance of sharing and fostering harmonious coexistence. They remind me that personal growth and professional success are intertwined with a deep appreciation for the world and the people around us.

A brief Coffee Table Chat on His Journey in Sustainability One-on-One with Jesús Parrilla In this special edition, we bring you an insightful and engaging interview with our CEO, Jesús Parrilla. Through a series of thought-provoking questions, Jesús shares his personal and professional views on sustainability. Discover what sustainability means to him, how he integrates sustainable practices into his daily routine, and his perspective on the most significant challenges facing the travel and hospitality industry in its quest for sustainability. Join us as we delve into these critical topics and gain valuable insights from a leader committed to making a positive impact. 1. What does sustainability mean to you? To me, the concept of sustainability has evolved over the years. It started with tangible initiatives like recycling and has grown to encompass more intangible ones related to social justice. I now understand that sustainability requires a holistic, 360- degree approach. It involves regeneration, conservation, rewilding, and addressing climate change, as well as social action, equality, and good citizenship. Over the years, I have had the honor of managing and operating hotel and tourism companies in some of the world’s most naturally beautiful and culturally vibrant destinations. This hands-on experience has provided me with a broad, sensitive, and sensible perspective on sustainability, community involvement, and the impact of tourism development in pristine destinations. Sustainability also aligns deeply with my personal values of respect for nature and humanity. I believe in the power of innovation to drive sustainable solutions and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to address emerging environmental and social challenges. Furthermore, I recognize that sustainability is not just a goal but a arduous journey that requires ongoing commitment and collaboration across all sectors of society. This awareness of the fragility of our planet and its inhabitants motivates me to advocate for and implement sustainable practices in both my personal and professional life. 2. How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your daily routine at work and in your personal life? I am consistent in incorporating sustainable practices both in my personal and professional life. Practicing sustainable initiatives at home complements my efforts at work. In my personal life, I engage in activities such as recycling, responsible food consumption, minimizing energy and water use, waste management and composting, and reforestation. Additionally, I follow a regenerative framework by supporting biodiversity in my garden and restoring natural habitats in my community whenever possible. I am also involved in social causes like supporting food banks and strive to live in harmony and respect with my neighbors and the broader community. At work, I believe every business must consider its environmental footprint and integrate sustainable practices into daily administrative and operational processes. This includes adopting energy-efficient technologies, reducing waste, sourcing materials responsibly, and promoting a regenerative approach to business that aims to leave the environment in a better state than we found it. By fostering a culture of sustainability among employees and stakeholders, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to follow suit. 3. In your view, what is the most significant challenge that travel and hospitality businesses encounter when striving to become more sustainable, and how do you suggest they overcome it? I believe the biggest challenge lies in the lack of commitment from investors, owners, and top management, along with a misunderstanding of the importance of adopting responsible business practices that ensure the long-term viability of their operations and the ecosystems they operate in. Additionally, there is often a misunderstanding of the short-term financial costs associated with becoming sustainable. Many fail to see that these initial investments can lead to substantial long-term savings and benefits, including enhanced brand reputation and customer loyalty. For those not naturally inclined towards sustainability or unaware of its importance, market intervention is key—whether driven by customer demands, financial markets, or government legislation. Ideally, businesses should voluntarily adopt sustainable practices rather than be compelled by legislation. By educating stakeholders about the long-term financial benefits and positive environmental impacts, we can encourage a proactive approach and commitment to sustainability. Download PDF version

Coffee Table Chat on Her Journey in Sustainability One-on-One with Julieta Chan Julieta Chan, a passionate advocate for sustainability in Costa Rica’s tourism industry, has seamlessly integrated eco-friendly practices into her professional and personal life. Her work and lifestyle reflect a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. Join us as we chat with Julieta about her inspiring journey and the values that drive her dedication to sustainability. 1. What does sustainability mean to you within the travel and hospitality industry, and how do you define it in both your professional and personal life? Sustainability has been the cornerstone of my career in the tourism industry. In Costa Rica, sustainability has been the guiding strategy for over 30 years. It’s a model I was raised in and has been part of my lifestyle since childhood. I have always been inspired by the idea that one can work in nature, educate others about environmental protection, and make a living doing something impactful and enjoyable. Professionally, sustainability has profoundly shaped my career. My first job in the hospitality industry, as a Housekeeping Manager, involved creating a recycling program for a 100-room urban hotel in downtown San Jose. To make this initiative viable, I needed to collect enough recyclable materials to attract a recycling truck and ensure profitability for both parties. This led to the “Block Project,” which unified block Volume 2| Number 2 Date: August 2024 “Sustainability has been the cornerstone of my career in the tourism industry. In Costa Rica, sustainability has been the guiding strategy for over 30 years.” One-on-One with Julieta Chan: A brief Coffee Table Chat on Her Journey in Sustainability 2 leaders, hotels, restaurants, and stores around us to participate in a recycling route. This project resulted in the first commercial recycling line in San Jose and earned me a scholarship in International Marketing. Later, I led the municipality’s recycling program for over three years. Sustainability is also a core value in my household. My family has had an organic compost project and recycling program for over ten years, and we are currently working on creating a garden sanctuary for bees and hummingbirds. Additionally, we carefully choose where to shop, supporting local farmers and restaurants with ethical practices. 2. How do you incorporate sustainability into your trips, and what practices do you follow to ensure your travels are environmentally friendly? In my personal travels, I follow several guidelines to ensure sustainability: 1. Travel Off-Season: I visit destinations during their low seasons to avoid crowds and support businesses when they need it most. 2. Choose Sustainable Accommodations: I select lodges and experiences that practice sustainability, verified by certifications and reviews. 3. Diverse Stays: I stay in different lodges to distribute my spending across various local families. 4. Eat Local: I dine at local restaurants to connect with the community and culture, ensuring my spending supports the local economy. 5. Offset Emissions: I compensate for my flight and land transportation emissions whenever possible. 6. Volunteer: I include volunteering experiences in my itinerary, supporting causes close to my heart and enhancing my connection to the places I visit. These principles also guide my work as a regenerative experience designer. 3. In your view, what is the most significant challenge that travel and hospitality businesses encounter when striving to become more sustainable, and how do you suggest they overcome it? The most significant challenge for travel and hospitality businesses in becoming more sustainable is balancing public and private interests through constructive dialogue with communities, developers, and local authorities. Having served as a board member of the Tourism Institute of Costa Rica for over six years and working in the private sector, I see a need for a collaborative effort to foster a sustainable industry. Creating a constant check-in with stakeholders is essential to maintain and protect what is important socially, culturally, and environmentally for communities. For developers, this approach fosters better relationships, more loyal employees, and an enhanced reputation. Local authorities can develop plans with a shared vision, allocate funds effectively, and hold themselves accountable. This effort requires leadership and a regenerative development perspective. Decision-making and KPI evaluations must adopt a longterm outlook. Developing regenerative leaders who can facilitate constructive dialogue, attract the right investors, and engage committed communities is crucial. These leaders must transcend personal interests to lead effectively and sustainably. Download pdf version

A Brief Coffee Table Chat on His Journey in Travel and Exploration A one-on-one with CEO Jesús Parrilla What was your biggest early influence that sparked your desire to travel? Growing up in a rural area, my childhood was a canvas painted with the vivid hues of nature. The oak forests, rivers, and hills surrounding my home were my playground, nurturing a deep-seated connection to the natural world. But it wasn’t just the local landscapes and simple way of living that captivated me. From an early age, I was entranced by the grand tales of exploration and scientific discovery from the 1800s and 1900s. The epic accounts of Alexander von Humboldt traversing the Americas, Charles Darwin’s transformative journey on the Beagle, Roald Amundsen’s icy conquest of the South Pole, Ernest Shackleton’s harrowing Antarctic expeditions, and Thor Heyerdahl’s daring Kon-Tiki voyage fired my imagination and planted the seeds of wanderlust in my soul. These legendary voyages were more than just stories to me; they were a call to adventure. They whispered of far-off lands and cultures waiting to be discovered, of challenges to be met with courage and curiosity. In my late teens, driven by this insatiable curiosity and a yearning for discovery, I embarked on my own journey. This adventure led me to the Americas, a journey that, even after three decades, I can only describe as a homesickness detour for places I had never known but felt an inexplicable emotional connection to. After completing my university studies, I found myself ensnared in the corporate world of America. It was a life that, although successful by many standards, felt 2 increasingly detached from the simplicity and authenticity that had once defined me. My childhood fascination with nature and exploration seemed a distant memory, overshadowed by the relentless grind of the corporate world. What was the most important turning point in your professional travel career? The turning point in my professional travel career came serendipitously. I was fortunate to land a position with an adventure travel company, a role that reignited the dormant passion within me. This opportunity was more than just a job; it was a reconnection with my roots, a rekindling of the flame that had been lit by the explorers of old. Through this work, I found myself traveling to places that felt like a homecoming to parts of my soul that I had forgotten. It was as if I was finally answering the call that had been with me since those early days in the countryside, fulfilling a destiny that had always been mine. In this role, I rediscovered the joy and simplicity of exploring new terrains, the thrill of stepping into the unknown, and the profound satisfaction of connecting with different cultures and environments. It was a return to the essence of who I was, a journey back to the passion that had been my guide since childhood. How has your approach to travel and exploration evolved over the years? Over the years, my approach to travel and exploration has evolved into what I can best describe as a form of modern nomadism. Nomadism is about time and space. It’s about an intimate understanding of the environment, maintaining ecological balance, and managing natural resources wisely. It demands a studious approach, mobility, agility, and flexibility. It’s about carrying only the essentials and what truly matters. My travel philosophy has grown to perceive the world as a constantly evolving entity, requiring a profound sense of respect for relationships, family, heritage, traditions, history, culture, environment, consumption, possessions, accommodation, and life itself. In my earlier years, travel was primarily about the thrill of discovery and adventure. I sought out new landscapes and cultures with a sense of curiosity and excitement. However, as I gained more experience, my travels became more intentional and reflective. I began to see nomadic living not just as a means to explore new places, but as a way to deeply connect with the natural and cultural environment. This approach emphasizes the ability to travel, adapt, change, and embrace new living conditions and externalities with ease, ingenuity, vibrancy, and humbleness. Adopting a nomadic approach to travel is now about paying respect to nature and providing a rational response to environmental conditions. This respect and rationality are what have enabled ancestral communities to safeguard their cultures and survive for centuries. My journeys are no longer just about moving from one place to another but embodying a way of life that honors the world in all its complexity and beauty. Understanding that the world is everchanging has become central to my travels. Embracing each new experience with a commendable attitude towards every aspect of existence not only enriches my own life but also contributes to the preservation and appreciation of the diverse cultures and environments that make our world so extraordinary.   Download pdf version