Explore every episode of the podcast Stay In Good Company
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| S7. | E9. The Swag & Cataloochee Ranch | Great Smoky Mountains, NC | Annie Colquitt Shares A Timeless Thanksgiving Story Of Family And Friendship | 28 Nov 2024 | 00:56:09 | |
“And I would say for me, there's only a very small number of times where I really felt convicted that this is the path for me in life. This is the thing I'm supposed to do. And this was one of those moments where it just felt really clear. Getting to buy The Swag, it wasn't like it was a dream come true, because I don't think I had bold enough or big enough dreams to dream that. It was beyond a dream.” We’re in great company with Annie Colquitt, who along with her husband David, became stewards of both The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch, two mountaintop resorts bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, where they have continued a heritage of hospitality while elevating the comforts and cuisine of these intimate hideaways. Together, Annie and David dreamt of owning a modest family business together, but what they ended up with was so much more - sharing their passion for travel, their love for the outdoors, their talent for hospitality, their craft for luxury accommodations, and their commitment to the community - with guests from around the world. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Annie shares a humble and honest story of how these two Relais & Châteaux honored resorts came to be and how far she and her family are willing to go to ensure they stand strong for generations to come - no matter what other storms they may weather. Top Takeaways [3:25] From becoming best friends to falling in love, from raising their children to building a family business together, Annie and David’s story is a source of laughter and learning for us all. [6:40] A multigenerational friendship with the Matthews family, a memorable honeymoon and a handshake deal later, how Annie and David found themselves the new stewards of The Swag, “this was one of those moments where it just felt really clear, this is the path for me in life.” [15:15] With little experience and lots to learn, Annie and David found themselves presented with the opportunity to own their neighboring property, the Cataloochee Ranch, beloved by the Alexander family for generations, yet in search for a new vision. [19:05] The history of The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch can be seen, heard and felt throughout their winding halls, in the stories of returning guests and tenured staff, in the warm welcome of their timeless aesthetics. [22:40] The Swag experience is built atop a mountain summit on meaningful history, connected community, rejuvenating amenities and breathtaking scenery. [30:45] Cataloochee Ranch is an old frontier made new, mixing classic ranch fun with exceptional accommodations and cuisine, inspiring a sense of adventure across all generations. [39:15] In light of recent events, the devastation that Hurricane Helene left Western North Carolina in, Annie and David are a beacon of hope, giving over two million dollars to the recovery, restoration and rebuilding efforts of their surrounding community. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S7. | E8. Camp Wandawega | Elkhorn, Wisconsin | Tereasa Surratt’s American Getaway For Creatives To Gather Off Grid And Step Back In Time | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:47:29 | |
“It's not really the place that you're going, it's the stories that reveal themselves in the place that you're going. You're fascinated by the lives and the experiences that people had before you, because you're finding this connective tissue emotionally to another generation, another decade, another era.” We’re in great company with Tereasa Surratt, the Founder and Owner of Camp Wandawega, who was persuaded by her husband, David, twenty years ago to save this pocket of American history tucked away in the woods of Wisconsin, and they have been restoring it ever since as a getaway for the creative community. What was once an infamous lakeside property - living many lives over time as a brothel and speakeasy, a family resort, a Catholic retreat center and summer camp - was left to be condemned until David’s childhood nostalgia got the best of him. Today, Camp Wandawega has become a retreat for creatives to gather, a maker of goods that help us explore the great outdoors, and a place to step off the grid and back in time. In this episode, Tereasa shares how a passion for preservation and a humility for the never ending work to be done, turned into a Reveille attracting other likeminded creatives to seek inspiration from and memories made in nature. Top Takeaways [1:40] Tereasa and her husband, David, spent the last few decades living two lives - one as executives in Chicago’s advertising industry and the other restoring an abandoned camp in Wisconsin. After “burning the candle at both ends” they went all in on what would become Camp Wandawega. [5:55] Read or Listen to 100 years of a celebrated American Getaway, which has lived so many lives and worn so many layers - from a modest lakeside resort to a rambunctious brothel and speakeasy, from a family friendly Catholic retreat center to the timeless camp it has become today. [7:35] How Camp Wandawega fell into David and Tereasa’s hands…not by design, but by accident and by inheritance. [15:20] Close your eyes and imagine getting lost amidst the woods, strolling along the hiking paths from numerous cabins to a sprawling lakefront - as Tereasa visualizes a tour of Camp Wandawega - where the focus has been to preserve and restore, rather than trying to recreate and renovate. [20:15] Tereasa and David realized early on that everyone is looking for different experiences, coming with different expectations. Thus, taking pride in their no frills accommodations, they set out to create the Manifesto of Low Expectations, setting the humorous tone for making fun memories. [30:45] There are so many surprises in store during your Camp Wandawega stay, so be sure to pull out the drawers, open the cabinets, peek in closets, and immerse yourself as you discover an era gone by. [33:00] Snack and sip in good company - from the Canteen stocked with old fashioned packaged goods reminiscent of your childhood, to the Farm Stand showcasing the bounty of Wisconsin’s seasonal produce, to the curated picnic baskets and meals prepared by local chefs and bakers, growers and makers. Notable Mentions Chef John Manion of El Che & Brasero
Visit For Yourself Camp Wandawega Website | @campwandawega American Getaway Podcast | Wandawega Historical Society Wandawega Camp Store | CW Books Tereasa Surratt Website | Tereasa Surratt on Intro | |||
| S6. | E14. Hotel Marcel | New Haven, Connecticut | Bruce Becker Is Making History With America’s First 100% Electric Hotel Operating Free Of Fossil Fuels | 05 Sep 2024 | 00:48:31 | |
“It's sort of the same thing that happened with electric cars. Early on, the electric cars were seen as slower and less sophisticated. And now, the most beautiful Porsches, BMWs, Audis and Teslas, they're all electric. And so we're trying to do something similar for hotels to show that you can offer hospitality for the planet and actually offer better comfort and experience for your guests.” We’re in great company with Bruce Becker, the Owner, Architect and Developer of Hotel Marcel, a Brutalist-style architectural landmark reimagined for the eco-obsessed modern traveler, conceived as a dramatic gateway to New Haven with its Bauhaus-inspired design, artfully detailed interiors, and climate-first credo. Today, Hotel Marcel is making history as the country’s first 100% electric hotel operating free of fossil fuels - a true model for sustainability within the hospitality industry, deserving of its numerous awards, accolades and admirers. In this episode, Bruce shares how his humble approach, having never opened a hotel before, started with first principles and resulted in a beautiful beacon for other hotels to emulate, attracting sustainably-minded and artistically-driven guests to visit. Top Takeaways [1:45] “I always felt that architects' best work is often their own house or their mother's house.” says Bruce as he shares his story that led him to go beyond his architect and developer titles. [4:50] The story of Hotel Marcel begins in 1968 as a symbol of progress and hope for the city of New Haven and ends as a symbol of decline and abandonment…that is until Bruce discovered he could purchase it in 2019. [10:00] There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to the design and details of the hotel and Bruce gives us both a history and sustainability lesson as to why. [16:45] There are 2 principles when it comes to Hotel Marcel today - The Brutalist architecture and Bauhaus design of ‘less is more’ and the commitment to being free of fossil fuels and instead all-electric. [25:35] Dine in good company at BLDG, where Chef Megan is “blending architecture, cuisine, and cocktails together in perfect balance,” and seek art in good company with Bruce’s wife, artist Kraemer Sims Becker responsible for the creation and curation of the collections seen throughout. [33:30] When you come to New Haven, Connecticut there are three things you are bound to see - pizza, art and architecture. [38:40] Do you have a tendency of sleeping through your alarm? Hotel Marcel has a clever Climate Wake Up Call that is sure to get you thinking on your feet! Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| Ep. 1 Somewhere Inn | Ontario, Canada | Joel Greaves’ Re-Imagined Roadside Motel | 08 Dec 2022 | 00:42:34 | |
“There's no goals, there's no timelines, it's simply about following your nose and having an adventure and exploring.” We’re in great company with Joel Greaves, Co-Founder and CEO of Somewhere Inn Calabogie, a re-imagined roadside motel experience and escape to nature in the heart of the Ottawa Valley in Ontario, Canada. In 2021, Joel was inspired to follow in the footsteps of his entrepreneur role models, convincing his wife, Devon to join him in buying and renovating a roadside motel 4 hours from where they lived in Toronto. Together, along with the help from some longtime friends, they turned it into a boutique hotel inspired by and designed for the adventure seeking traveler. In this episode, Joel shares how a stay at Somewhere Inn fosters a close connection to the outdoors, oneself and each other, as well as a taste of what’s to come out of this nature-inspired hospitality brand. Top Takeaways
Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself
We're Feeling Social: | |||
| Welcome to the Stay In Good Company Podcast with Mollie Reese | 26 Nov 2022 | 00:02:24 | |
Welcome! If you find yourself looking for a slower way of life, of travels, of connecting to the people and the places around you, you’re in good company. Stay In Good Company is a podcast series sharing the stories of families behind independently owned and operated stays and experiences across the world. From the history of the places to the personal visions for the businesses. From the variety of experiences offered to the attention to details that make each stay truly unique. Stay In Good Company captures the fond memories and traditions, past advice and future excitement of these places. Introducing a global audience of mindful slow travelers to the welcoming hospitality of family raised and run homestays. We're Feeling Social: | |||
| S6. | E13. The Society Hotel | Pacific Northwest, USA | Jonathan And Jessie Call All Travelers, Wild Spirits And Creative Minds To Come Together To Explore Oregon And Washington | 29 Aug 2024 | 01:00:19 | |
“There's something we've always told people we aspire to, which was we wanted it to be a microcosm of the best of this region, right? So we travel a ton to this day and the food in the Pacific Northwest is unmatched. The coffee is unmatched. And we did the design ourselves, the architecture was there, the energy efficiency is unmatched. And so I do think that the things that our region is known for, which is mainly food and craft, it's a little bit of a microcosm of those values in the building.” We’re in great company with Jonathan Cohen & Jessie Burke, the husband and wife duo behind The Society Hotel, a collection of experience-focused boutique hotels built with unique reclaimed buildings in Portland, Oregon and Bingen, Washington, calling all travelers, wild spirits and creative minds to encounter a stay unlike any other. For world travelers looking to experience the intersection of the past, present and future Portland, The Society Hotel is tucked away in the historic neighborhood of Old Town Chinatown. For locals looking for a city escape, The Society Hotel Bingen, with surprises around every corner in its converted schoolhouse, is nestled within the Columbia River Gorge. In this episode, Jonathan and Jessie share how their career paths and personal travels took many twists and turns to bring them to where they are today - creating social spaces that encourage people from all walks of life to convene and connect. Top Takeaways [1:50] Jonathan & Jessie pursued many careers before finding their calling in creating The Society Hotel - from aerospace engineering to environmental education, from Olympic fencing to investment banking, from owning a solar energy business and a family-friendly coffee shop to finally building a business case for a hotel concept. [8:30] A real life “fake it till you make it” story is behind the beginnings of The Society Hotel and Jonathan & Jessie to this day are proud of the community they wrangled together behind their cause. [17:25] Jonathan saw Portland, Oregon as an up-and-coming place for young people to have a voice. Jessie saw Portland as too small a town…until she realized that it left open space for her to make an impact here. [21:50] How one of the first buildings in Portland’s historic port town built in 1881, was a safe haven for sailors, a time capsule of old newspapers, and in serious need of some TLC when Jessie discovered it. [38:00] Maya Angelo said it best, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” [40:25] The Society Hotel in Portland is often in transition, evolving with the same energy as the historic Chinatown and Japantown it is nestled in. It is also home to the best cup of coffee in America, according to Jonathan that is… [45:55] The Society Hotel in Bingen is unlike any other nature escape, picture a schoolhouse setting meets summer camp sleepover, with original chalkboards intact and s’mores over campfire included. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E12. Venissa & Casa Burano | Venice, Italy | Matteo Bisol Invites Us To Stay & Sip On His Family’s Prized Prosecco In His ‘Walled Vineyard’ Of The Venetian Lagoon | 22 Aug 2024 | 00:54:17 | |
“But then we realized that the best way to show this wine and the best place to show this wine was really in front of a vineyard. And my father lived his life traveling all over the world, bringing Prosecco to people, but in Venice, there's people who take planes from all over the world to come to visit Venice.” We’re in great company with Matteo Bisol of the famed Prosecco family, who have been leaders in this winemaking practice for 5 centuries, producing what is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after wines in the world through their “walled vineyard” in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon. After Matteo’s father discovered and restored this estate, Matteo stepped up to the table, inviting guests from around the world to stay, dine, sip and savor the charm of the canals, the colors of Burano, and the peacefulness of the estate, as if it were their own. In this episode, Matteo graciously shares with us his family’s secret garden, a place where travelers can sip one of the world’s finest wines, indulge in avant-garde dishes, and experience the authenticity and history of Venice. Top Takeaways [2:00] Matteo takes us back to his tasteful childhood - enjoying Sunday family lunches in the vineyards talking about wine with his grandfather, traveling throughout Italy and France with his father meeting other grape growers and winemakers, sipping some of the world’s finest wines since the early age of ten. [4:10] Since 1542, the Bisol family has been growing grapes and making wine in the UNESCO protected Prosecco Hills of Italy. They are the reason Prosecco is known around the world today as an easier to drink, more fruit forward alternative to Champagne. [7:40] How Gianluca stumbled across a dried up vineyard behind the garden walls of the oldest church in Venice, discovering centuries ago that wine was made in Venice with a grape variety, the Dorona, that can only be found in the Venetian Lagoon. [15:20] Sustainability has always been critical to life in the lagoon and today, Venissa offers a way for travelers to slow down, stay at, dine in, and learn from the practices that these farmers, fishermen, artisans and makers have been stewarding for centuries. [19:05] The Bisol’s invite travelers to experience the island of Burano - a fisherman village known for its colorful houses that reflect on the waters of the canals - in a way that is free from crowds of tourists, gimmicky souvenirs, and fake Italian food. [23:40] Listen to Matteo’s perspective on tourism in Venice…the good, the bad, and the ugly turned beautiful. [33:40] How the terroir of Venissa, “the walled vineyard that has withstood the salt and high flood waters for centuries” gives life to a wine with characteristics found nowhere else in the world. [40:35] Dine In Good Company at Ristorante Venissa, where a taste of ‘cucina ambientale’ is awarded both a Michelin Star and Green Michelin Star, or Osteria Contemporanea, where the flavors of the Venetian lagoon meet the creative cuisine of Venissa. [44:00] As the next generation, Matteo’s future brings him home to the Prosecco Hills where he is restoring an old winery to give travelers a taste of his innovative natural wine project MONBON. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E11. The Western & A-Frame Club | Colorado, USA | Adam Larkey And Zeppelin Development Are All About Placemaking From Wild-West Saloons To Mid-Century Ski Lodges | 15 Aug 2024 | 00:45:51 | |
“And really the ethos of the company has been about placemaking, has been about bringing people together doing projects in areas that have been underserved. And it was really a little bit less about what types of projects they were doing, but it was more about how they were doing it and what they were offering to the community.” We’re in great company with Adam Larkey, COO of family-owned Zeppelin Development, an award-winning Colorado-based neighborhood development company behind the sister properties in The Western, a recently restored landmark hotel in the historic district of Ouray and A-Frame Club, a collection of new mid-century modern cabins in Winter Park. Today, The Western serves as a homebase for leisure in the iconic mountain town of Ouray - surrounded by stunning landscapes and world-class outdoor recreation - where restored glamor meets modern luxury. And further north, A-Frame Club’s boutique hotel invites guests to savor a genuine escape from everything but what's in front of them - the great outdoors and a craft cocktail. In this episode, Adam sincerely shares his passion for seeing buildings not for their business potential, but for the people they host, and how his role in restoring neighborhoods across Colorado, is not just a privilege, but a responsibility. Top Takeaways [1:40] Adam shares a laugh over our mutual upbringing in Baltimore, Maryland where we fortunately missed out on the humorous “Ball’more” accent. [3:00] Adam has always been drawn to life on the water, but what drew him to Denver was instead the views of majestic mountains - especially the juxtaposition of being in shorts about town while seeing snow on the mountain tops. [4:40] How the family-owned Zeppelin Development has over 50 years of investing in the underserved and restoring the historic character of Denver neighborhoods - from the humble beginnings with an architectural bookstore and cafe to a landmark hotel and market hall. [9:35] Seeking projects that have a story behind them, being stewards of buildings that have history within them, led Adam and his team to look beyond Denver and out into the mountain towns of Ouray and Winter Park. [10:30] For those looking to return to the Golden Age of skiing, expect to experience mid-century modern decor and 70’s style onesies at the A-Frame Club. [13:00] And for those looking to return to the Wild West, step inside the saloon of The Western, where a “work hard, play hard” mentality now pairs with a state-of-the-art spa. [30:50] The future is nostalgic yet forward thinking - from a sunken living room lounge to pickleball and tetherball court, from a freshly planted orchard grove to a basement barbershop. [34:50] Adam’s mission in being an “urbanist” is ensuring that there is space for creatives, for artists like himself, to beautify a vibrant city without being priced out of living there - creating a sense of place where history builds on top of itself. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself
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| S6. | E10. Casa Lawa | Sicily, Italy | Lukas Lewandowski Welcomes Guests To Savor Local Terroir While Celebrating Global Influences | 08 Aug 2024 | 00:55:21 | |
“Some people who come and cook, they have never been to Italy or they have never been to Sicily. So it's also very interesting how people with little idea of the produce, are creating things with their heritage, with their memories, with their experience, with their creativity, how they approach the same tomato in a different way. And I must say that after two years, I’ve been blown away by so many people and what they create. How inspiring is that?” We’re in great company with Lukas Lewandowski the Founder & Creative Director of Casa Lawa, where he merges work and play, creating a community for artists and guests alike with a dynamic and unique stay, intentionally shaped by those who visit. Casa Lawa is a playground for creativity, entertaining, relaxing and reconnecting, situated at the doorstep of Mount Etna in Sicily. Redesigned in a former grape press made of lava stone, Lukas and his husband have transformed this vibrant space with delicious detail to accommodate their residency, kitchen and retreat while tending to their garden and orchard brimming with goodies. In this episode, Lukas shares his passion for Italy as a foreigner, his appreciation for the lifestyle found in Sicily, and the pride he shares in welcoming a global community who, like him, admires this sense of place while wanting to leave a lasting legacy. Top Takeaways [1:55] When Lukas looks back at his 5 year old self, growing up in the new capitalist Poland, he sees the same values he cherishes today - pride in his creativity, care for his land, appreciation for simple meals, and love felt around the table. [8:35] It was both the similarities and the differences between Italy and Poland that attracted Lukas and his husband to settle down in Sicily. [17:25] How Lukas stumbled across his long standing lavastone home, originally built in 1812 as a formerly operating grape press surrounded by its own small orchard and vineyard. [26:55] To stay at Casa Lawa is to experience intimate private space paired with dedicated attention. Like being welcomed to a friend’s dinner party, Lukas invites guests to feel seen and heard. [34:45] From residencies to retreats, workshops to events, Lukas is creating a stay that is shaped by those who visit - inviting guests to partake in some local and many globally inspired experiences - from baking to painting, fermenting to shaping. [42:15] Lukas has so much creativity in store, from a cookbook sharing a taste of the Casa Lawa community with the world to setting the table for future residencies, he is sure to leave a lasting impression through these collaborations. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E9. Hattvika Lodge | Lofoten, Norway | Kristian And Guri’s Reimagined Fisherman’s Village Welcomes Guests To Experience Sea And Mountain Adventures At Their Doorstep | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:43:15 | |
“And many want to go hiking, go surfing, go diving, go snowshoeing, go skiing. But they really want to be active. It's really about hitting the nerve of the guest. And there are so many different aspects of how they want to explore. We are more or less tailormade adventures for each and every guest coming in.” We’re in great company with Kristian Bøe and Guri Jentoft, the husband and wife duo behind Hattvika Lodge, where they are bringing a new sense of adventure to their fisherman’s village of Ballstad in the Lofoten islands of Norway, with the restoration and revitalization of ‘Rorbu’ cottages that have been in their family for 6 generations. With no prior hospitality background, only pure passion for their archipelago, Kristian and Guri now proudly host seaside accommodations where guests can feel the pulse of Lofoten’s charm and tradition while enjoying modern design and comfort. Pair that with Fangst, their fresh modern bistro and fine dining restaurant for guests to savor the arctic taste and authentic feel of Lofoten’s history presented on the plate. In this episode, Kristian and Guri share with our listeners, all about the beauty of Lofoten - with its spectacular nature and constantly changing weather - while ensuring guests it is the people of Hattvika Lodge who will make the experience truly exceptional. Top Takeaways [1:50] After traveling the world in their earlier careers, Kristian and Guri decided to return home to the Lofoten Islands. Now they travel theoretically through the conversations and connections made with their global guests who they welcome in their home away from home. [9:10] Without any hospitality experience, Kristian and Guri turned to what they know of Ballstad - the rich history, the changing seasons, the sense of adventure whether hiking or skiing, fishing or boating - to show guests their fisherman’s village. [12:30] Hear how Kristian and Guri share the stories of their iconic “rorbu” fisherman cottages dating back to the 1870’s as if the walls could talk. [17:50] The views of the harbor change with the seasons, with nothing but darkness and Northern Lights during the winter yet endless sunshine throughout the midsummer. [20:20] Just as guests can choose their own adventure, so too their accommodations from authentic seaside cabins and suites to minimalist and modern hillside standalone hotel rooms. [23:20] From scientific reports to stories of plastics found from the fishermen themselves, Hattvika Lodge has a heightened focus on and awareness of their waste management, given the ocean at their doorstep. [26:40] Dine In Good Company at Fangst, a fine dining restaurant which translates to ‘catch’ where they collaborate with local suppliers to curate a menu based solely on local ingredients and not air miles, ‘from sea to table.’ Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E8. Hotel HOY Paris | Paris, France | Charlotte Gomez de Orozco’s Internationally Curated And Wellness Inspired Meeting Place In The Heart Of The Most Romantic City | 25 Jul 2024 | 00:55:32 | |
“I'm supported by everything that I do, by my passion. And at the same time I'm learning every day to be patient with myself and to be nice with myself. Just to try to be here now. And when I come to HOY, that's what it's all about. So, maybe destiny gave me that name, or put it in front of me, just so that I could see every day that the only thing that matters is ‘today’ and it's now.” We’re in great company with Charlotte Gomez de Orozco, a visionary Franco-Mexican with a passion for hospitality, gastronomy and wellness - as expressed through her founding of Hotel HOY Paris. HOY is much more than a hotel, rather it is an holistic experience - curating and cultivating the power of the present moment, the art of living and eating well, and taking care of today for a better tomorrow. In this episode, as we celebrate the Olympic Games bringing together the talents of the world on the stage that is Paris, Charlotte welcomes us to stay in a place where these international influences are the heart and soul of HOY. There is no better day than “today,” to learn how friendly, nurturing and accessible hospitality can inspire new perspectives. Top Takeaways [1:50] Growing up, Charlotte’s family hotels were both her playground where she fell in love with her creative spirit and her school where she learned to have a passion for serving people. [6:50] How her first anxiety attack while owning and running her first wine bar, Le Gisou, was the tipping point that pushed Charlotte into the practice of yoga and meditation wholeheartedly. [11:05] The differences between her Mexican heritage and her Parisian sense of place inspired Charlotte to blend together international cuisine, culture and most importantly, team members turned family. [20:10] How Hotel HOY came to be a collection of Charlotte’s favorite things, bringing together a community of creatives in a space full of Feng Shui, the Chinese art of designing the details in an environment to achieve harmony and balance. [32:30] Hear why “HOY” stands for so much more than “today” in Spanish and “House Of Yoga” in English. [37:00] For experienced yogis, new yogis, and non yogis alike, there is so much to experience across the holistic wellness offerings of Hotel HOY. [40:30] What may look like a florist shop is much more, as it provides a home for artists to showcase their talents, share their story, and teach their craft. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E7. Collective Retreats | Across America | Peter Mack’s B-Corp Certified Luxury Retreats Invite Guests To ‘Travel For The Collective Good’ | 18 Jul 2024 | 00:45:14 | |
“We are here to connect people to nature and beautiful places in an effort to help build an army of guests and followers that want to preserve them. And so doing it right from the beginning was very important to me. Focusing on how to create guest room structures that have little to no impact on the land. Focusing on how to actually design physical and experiential aspects that connect the guests to nature.” We’re in great company with Peter Mack, Founder and CEO of Collective Retreats, the first and largest B-Corp certified experiential travel company redefining traditional hotels through a collection of unique luxury retreats in unexpected places. From Vail, Colorado to Governors Island, New York to Hill Country, Texas, travelers can find inspiration in every direction across Collective Retreats, experiencing considered exploration, fostering a deeper connection with the land, community and themselves. And with a new vision from Collective Retreats, The Conservatory Collective is a new cultivation of people and places, a curated portfolio of nature stays and experiences around the world where extraordinary accommodations are paired with exclusive benefits and perks. In this episode, as Collective Retreats celebrates 10 years of offering luxury outdoor hospitality, a decade of creating unforgettable experiences in breathtaking locations, Peter speaks to the excitement and exploration yet to come. Top Takeaways [2:00] Peter Mack has worn many hats throughout his hospitality childhood turned career, with dishwashing being his favorite. [3:10] “The hotel industry has evolved a lot, especially in the last several generations to be more about providing comforts that remove guests from the place and in ways, disconnect them.” Peter explains what went awry that caused him to create Collective Retreats. [5:15] Peter learned early on how to turn potential problems into joyous moments because “there's no such thing as a complaint when you've established trust.” [9:50] Making a difference has been ingrained in Collective Retreats since the beginning - from little-to-no-impact architecture to sustainable amenities, from immersive nature experiences to communal local cuisine. [12:09] Collective Retreats as a name is like an onion. It has a lot of layers that can be peeled back to explain the entirety of the experience. [14:25] Experience Collective Retreats by land, water or fireside - start the morning making coffee with a view, enjoy a boat ride around the harbor in New York City, wake for fly fishing at sunrise in Vail, sit around a campfire sipping bubbly in Hill Country. [25:20] Dine In Good Company with the Hearth & Harvest Open Fire Dinner Series where the local culinary talent knows a trick or two about how to bring out the flavor of the local ingredients. [31:00] “Travel For The Collective Good” starts with transparency, and Collective Retreats is proud to share their impact with the world. [36:15] Soon, travelers will be welcomed to retreat to Sonoma, California or Trojena, Saudi Arabia with more signature stays in serene settings to come. Notable Mentions Hamburger America by Chef George Motz New School American Cheese by Chef Eric Greenspan Members of The Conservatory Collective:
Visit For Yourself
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| S6. | E6. WonderInn | Across Norway | Jeremy And Erle Built Magnificent Yet Minimalist Accommodations In The Natural Wonders Of Norway | 11 Jul 2024 | 00:36:56 | |
“With slow travel I associate that you are not feeling that you need to be somewhere or to do something special. You take the time to feel the vibe of a place, you read a book, you take a short walk with your partner. The small things become the most important things and there's little focus on reaching a destination, to me. We discovered that in the campervan, living simplified.” We’re in great company with Jeremy & Erle, Founders and Owners of WonderInn, where they decided to build something together in the natural wonders of Norway based on their own worldly travels and common philosophy, “it is the real experiences and not the materialistic distractions that are important.” After many years traveling the world, living minimalistically in a campervan, they returned to Norway to create small architectural gems in different corners of the countryside - drawing guests back to nature and into inspiring and comfortable havens, they themselves have made home. In this episode, Jeremy & Erle happily share how if there is one thing they both enjoy more than traveling, it’s hosting - people who bring different backgrounds and stories to their little nooks of Norway. Top Takeaways [1:50] Listen to Jeremy & Erle’s love story and adventure tale that has taken them to experience much of the world with the help of a campervan. [7:05] How life in a campervan taught Jeremy & Erle to value simplicity and self sufficiency, giving them the confidence to build their next adventure together…a cabin. [8:00] “I had only one plan in my life, one thing for sure and that was that I would never live in Norway.”...so what changed? [10:50] Attention to the details came down to the wire as Jeremy & Erle worked day and night to welcome guests to WonderInn for the first time. [15:20] From a romantic getaway in a mirror cabin with a jacuzzi to a glamping dome with spectacular views, from a luxurious tiny house on wheels to a glass cabin with a stargazing roof for the best northern lights show, there’s so many ways to experience the sense of place. [19:00] For those who want a taste of the countryside, WonderInn Riverside provides a farmstay for guests to cozy up with pigs and ponies, alpacas and chickens, and much more. [20:30] And for those who need a city escape right outside of Oslo, WonderInn Delta is the perfect retreat into the privacy that the scenic nature surroundings provide. [21:30] But for the really adventurous seeking travels in the North of Norway, WonderInn Arctic is set amongst the fjords and mountains, with views of the Midnight Sun during the summer and Northern Lights during the winter. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E5. High Hampton | Cashiers, North Carolina | Scott & April Franqueza Craft A Culinary Community At One Of America’s Most Beloved Historic Hotels | 04 Jul 2024 | 00:54:24 | |
“If the walls could talk, they would probably say ‘Sit a spell, sit down, have a cocktail. Talk to your neighbor.’ One of the things that's really special that hasn't changed about High Hampton is the sense of ‘love your neighbor’. Get to know who's at the inn with you while you're here. Sit out in the lobby and play board games together. Walk the lake trail together. I think there's something really special about the people who are here, who come as strangers and leave as friends, and then continue to come back.” We’re in great company with Scott & April Franqueza, Executive Chef & Pastry Chef of the iconic High Hampton Estate. A part of the National Registry of Historic Places, this American treasure recently was thoughtfully restored by the Beall family behind Blackberry Farm, and is ready once again to welcome another century of guests. Before coming to Blue Ridge Mountains to create the culinary focused and craft filled landmark for the High Hampton community that they’ve curated today, Scott and April left accredited culinary careers in New York City in search for a slower way of life - a slower way of sourcing and cooking food. They found themselves in good company working with the Beall family for many years across Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain’s renowned dining destinations before saying “yes” to lead this new adventure. As we celebrate the Fourth of July, Scott and April surprise us with so many sweet stories and savory details in how they are making this celebrated destination and dedicated community their home. Top Takeaways [1:50] A glimpse into the fairytale storybook, or shall we say cookbook, that tells the love of a baker and a chef who met at the Culinary Institute of America in New York many moons ago. [7:05] April & Scott’s early culinary careers were humble and hungry. To steal a line from Frank Sinatra, “If you can make it there, you'll make it anywhere; it's up to you, New York, New York.” [10:30] At Blackberry Farm, the Beall Family welcomed April & Scott with southern charm to their sprawling farm in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, inviting them to take part in crafting their impeccable service and outstanding cuisine, as one of the most celebrated small luxury resorts in the world. [19:40] After several years of renovations, High Hampton reopened in 2021 with a sense of familiarity, a feeling of homecoming, a welcoming energy that was complimented with added and elevated amenities. [22:25] Discover modern luxuries and family traditions abound across the estate, snuggle up next to a roaring fireplace with a board game or lace up your tennis shoes for a round of pickleball, enjoy an afternoon of fresh air on the golf course or sneak into the wine cellar for a wine tasting. [28:30] Dine In Good Company Scott & April across an assortment of restaurants, from fine dining to casual lunches, quick bites that turn into grand gatherings, each featuring classic, regional cuisine, re-imagined for a new era of travelers. [35:00] How the team at High Hampton is cultivating future hospitality and culinary talent while also building small businesses through the relationships with their local community. [42:40] There’s always something to celebrate at High Hampton from 4th of July fireworks and summertime family movie nights to apple cider donuts after the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, from warm baked cookies with Mrs. Claus by the fireside to a Champagne and caviar toast at midnight on NYE. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S7. | E7. FLOHOM | East Coast, USA | Brian Meyer Is Raising The Tide For Immersive Waterfront Experiences With His Luxury Floating Homes | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:41:26 | |
“I'm an extreme version, but the water is my life. It's where I live. It's what I do to work out. It's where I go to think. So it solves pretty much all aspects of my life of what keeps me motivated, keeps me fit, keeps me well minded. And I think naturally, most people would say the water has some special power of connecting and making someone feel good.” We’re in great company with Brian Meyer, the Co-Founder and CEO of FLOHOM, a collection of immersive waterfront experiences for vacationers and staycationers alike to enjoy the comforts of elevated hospitality while docked in the lively harbors of Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington, DC. Whether you are seeking to submerge in relaxing and refreshing accommodations, or in search of a jumping off point for exploration and adventure, FLOHOM welcomes you aboard their floating homes and into their community of water-loving wanderers. In this episode, Brian shares how a life spent on the water embracing the change in tides, has led him to not only pursue his own dream of waterfront living, but to make this dream a reality for all those looking for our home away from shore. Top Takeaways [2:00] Brian was a fish out of water as a child growing up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland - always looking for a reason to waterski, wakeboard or surf - which led him to go to school in Hawaii where he was introduced to outrigger canoes - before returning home to start a community around paddleboarding, Capital SUP. [7:30] Recognizing the impact these social watersports had on the local community, Brian then started the Live Water Foundation to give Veterans, people with disabilities, and underserved youth a chance to enjoy this lifestyle, ensuring the local waterways were protected with clean water initiatives. [10:15] When Brian went to look for a waterfront home himself, he quickly learned his budget was well below the price for these types of properties, until he began to conceptualize FLOHOM with the mission to make waterfront living accessible, sustainable, and affordable. [20:00] A stay in a FLOHOM floating suite goes beyond the spacious views and luxurious amenities, with Voyager Guides and bespoke services for guests to experience all that these harbor towns have to offer right off the dock. [32:30] The future for FLOHOM is a lifestyle brand on the water, from privately owned floating suites to entire marina resorts to an international waterfront footprint. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E4. Violino d’Oro | Venice, Italy | Sara Maestrelli Dedicates Her Charming Venetian Hideaway To The Rich Cultural And Artistic Heritage Of Italian Craftsmanship | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:50:23 | |
“When I was a very young girl, I used to tell my mom that my dream as a grownup was to have breakfast in a hotel every morning, every day of the year. And that actually turned out to be true. But I didn't think I would work in the family business in the beginning. It was like a love story in the end. It's unexpected who you fall in love with and I think I fell in love with hospitality, and then here I am.” We’re in great company with Sara Maestrelli, the mysterious “Lady of the Palazzo,” and proud Owner of the recently opened Violino d’Oro, the latest jewel in her family’s collection of hotels, located near the historical Grand Canal in the charming city that is Venice. Violino d'Oro is an “Italian artisanal project, designed like a home”, highlighting the hospitality business Collezione EM that has been actively curated for over three decades by the female lineage of the talented Italian Florentine family. In this episode, Sara eloquently paints a picture with her words, showing how every corner of her boutique hotel is infused with Italian craftsmanship designed to outlast time and trend, with a more mindful and responsible approach to travel. Top Takeaways [1:45] Get to know a modern-day Renaissance Woman - from growing up between Florence and New York, studying Neuroscience and Philosophy in Milan and London, spending a gap year in Switzerland, and all the while building a community of artists and craftspeople. [5:20] Little did Sara’s grandfather know when he purchased the historical Grand Hotel Minerva in Florence, that he would inspire his daughter, Sara’s Aunt Elena, to build the family’s collection of hotels known today as Collezione EM. [8:10] “A collection is a collection of things that you love, that you pick up in time, that have a special place, and this is exactly what happened for Collezione EM. It's something that has been curated in time. Each hotel definitely has its own story. And when people ask me what ties them together, it's actually their differences, their individual identities.” [9:00] Learn about the slow curation of Collezione EM hotels over time, from their historical roots in Florence to how they summered in Forte dei Marmi amongst other Italians in search for understated luxury. [16:20] Sara learned very early on in the family business that it is not about the buildings, or the things inside the buildings, that make the hotels memorable. It is about the people there and the way they experience that sense of place that really makes the world of difference. [21:10] “When they ask us ‘Why Venice?’ We say, ‘Why not?’” Sara explains how Venice is the greatest work of art mankind has ever created, as she has experienced first hand, literally, in renovating three separate hotels into one, the Violino d’Oro that stands true today. [32:20] Just as Venice is complicated, intricate and intense, so it was in curating the design and details of Violino d’Oro to celebrate its craftsmanship and artistry throughout its 600 years of history. [38:00] Expect to Dine In Good Company at Il Piccolo, where guests can indulge in the symphony of Venetian flavors from breakfast in bed to cicchetti and spritz at aperitivo. [41:30] When guests stay at such a place as Violino d’Oro, they have the unique opportunity to meet the local makers, explore their shops, purchase their products, because of their relationship with the Maestrelli’s. [43:10] And the family collection continues with their next hidden gem in Pensione America, opening in Forte dei Marmi in 2025. Notable Mentions Carlo Scarpa, Italian Architect & Designer La Bienalle Di Venezia Cultural Exhibition Firenze: Forte dei Marmi Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E3. Treehotel | Lapland, Sweden | Jonas & Hannah Olsson Host A Landscape Hotel Where Nature And Imagination Run Wild | 20 Jun 2024 | 00:53:31 | |
“When I go to a standard hotel, it's the inside that counts 100%. It's the services, the room, the food and everything. But at Treehotel, the outside is as important as the inside. Because it's an experience. And I often talk to different architects about the ‘outside room’, how important it is. This walk from the guest house up to the room, that's an experience and you have to make sure that our guests feel safe, that they feel they're on the right track, that they feel a wow factor.” We’re in great company with Jonas & Hannah Olsson, the husband & wife duo behind Treehotel, the landscape hotel where nature and imagination run wild. Where they invite guests to stay in unique and memorable treerooms with contemporary Scandinavian and sustainable design in the unspoiled nature of Swedish Lapland. While Jonas & Hannah were first guests of Treehotel themselves, they became good friends with the founders Kent & Britta Lindvall, falling in love with the sense of place, the curiosity and creativity it provoked, and the potential for all that it could become. In this episode, The Olsson’s invite us on an adventure in nature of the Norrland forest, offer a relaxing break in their one-of-a-kind treerooms, and share a tasteful spread at their locally and sustainably sourced restaurant, making magical memories along the way. Top Takeaways [2:00] Jonas and Hannah were heads down in their real estate business and never dreamed of owning their own hotel, they left that to their family, owners of Icehotel and a few others in the city of Umeå. [5:10] Advice for being partners in business and in life. What it is like raising a family of 6 kids when you have the flexibility of working 24/7 but the ability to choose what you spend your time on. [7:20] Treehotel originally came to be in 2010, brought to life by Kent and Britta Lindvall…along with a campfire circle of creative architects on a fishing trip and a napkin sketch with a simple pen stroke that would become their logo. [15:00] The most memorable day back in 2019 for the Olsson’s included a family vacation, a birthday, a proposal and a signed contract sealing their next adventure together. [20:35] There are so many ways to tailor your Treehotel experience to enjoy the most authentic Swedish Lapland from season to season. [24:00] With each tree room designed by a different architect, creativity and sustainability is around every corner as far as the eye can see in the secluded setting that hosts Treehotel. [33:45] Dine In Good Company “soil to table” style, where the Olsson’s share the highest quality food of the current season and the creative simplicity of local produce from their northern pantry right outside their door. [43:00] A facelift for a deeper nature-focused first impression and more is in store for the future of Treehotel. [47:15] Jonas and Hannah take pride in their Swedish roots, from enjoying “Fika” breaks featuring sweet treats throughout the day to searching for Northern Lights in the dark sky that lasts all winter long. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E2. PAN Hytter | Oslo, Norway | Kristian And Christine’s Multi-Award Winning Treetop Cabins Pair Pioneering Architecture With Stunning And Secluded Norwegian Nature | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:46:27 | |
“The journey starts there, into the forest. And that's just breathtaking. You're driving on this road, it's just you. You go through this forest land and then suddenly this black building out of nowhere just stands there, waits for you. It's a huge contrast. I think it's fun. It's challenging. It's evoking something in you when you don't expect something like that just standing there. Because it's actually out of this world in terms of the view of it when you arrive.” We’re in great company with Kristian and Christine, Founders and Owners of PAN Hytter, where they’ve built treetop cabins and restored a cafe on their 3rd generation farm outside of Oslo, Norway, inviting guests who want to experience the quiet of the forest, exciting activities, and extraordinary animal life combined with modern architecture and design. After following their own careers, personal passions, and pursuing life with a taste for adventure, Kristian asked Christine a simple and naive question - if she would return to his family farm to build upon it - and thus PAN was born. In this episode, Kristian and Christine share their playful purpose behind all that they have created and curated in PAN, their multi-award winning and pioneering architecture they pair with this stunning sense of place in Finnskogen, Norway, no matter the season. Top Takeaways [1:55] Both Kristian and Christine come from families with a passion for international travel and adventure, from traveling America’s Wild West to working for the Rockefellers, from Olympic Alpine Skiing to pursuing drama school. [8:45] The plan was never to move back to Kristian’s family farm. Kristian enjoyed his music-filled urban life but was looking for a new perspective. Christine had her sights set on NYC or LA until she was asked, “Do you want to take over a farm with me?” and the rest is history! [15:25] “PAN” stands for so much more than it looks - from its mythology roots as the god of the forest to the playfulness of Peter Pan, from the panoramic views to the capital letter “A” for the A-frame cabins. [19:50] The journey begins on the edge of the forest…into the woods to find PAN you go! You cannot miss the treetop cabins as their black facade, big bright windows, warm interiors and cozy fabrics contrast yet compliment the green nature surrounding them. [23:45] Sustainability goes beyond being energy efficient and off grid. It is rooted in generations of stewarding this land, showing guests all that is there, and what all we could lose if we don’t play our part. [26:30] Expect to Dine In Good Company at Café Søstuen2280, where Christine and Kristian share with guests a taste of local, organic and homemade dishes, produce and products out of a colorful renovated old log house. [29:30] From adventures on the river to wolf safaris, from horse drawn sleigh rides to a treetop climbing park, from skiing and snowshoeing to fishing and biking, from relaxing spa treatments to “gapahuk” social cabins, there is something for everyone through all the seasons [32:20] “PAN is like my third child,” but like all children, you have to let them grow. How wellness and more is in store for the future of PAN, from outdoor wood fired hot tubs to saunas and spa products to international investors and destinations. [36:45] You may have heard of Japanese “shinrin yoku” or “forest bathing” but have you heard of the Norwegian “friluftsliv” philosophy of “connecting to nature by being in nature”? Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S6. | E1. Appellation | Healdsburg, California | Christopher Hunsberger’s New Hotel Concept Is Curating Community And Culture Through Culinary And Craft Experiences | 06 Jun 2024 | 01:08:07 | |
“When I'm traveling to a place where I look around, I can tell this is a popular place. This is a place that people like to go to, to hang out and to meet others. It feels like this place that I'm now coming to for the second or third time. That's really important to us, truly embracing community, becoming a place that's a gathering place for the community so that if you're there as an out-of-town guest, you're really feeling like a local. This is a place that locals want to be.” We’re in great company with Christopher Hunsberger, Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer of Appellation, where he brings together a new generation of hoteliers and culinarians, locals and travelers alike - to tell an innovative yet timeless tale in the world of hospitality, through the shared language of food, embracing what it means to be authentically local, nurturing community and culture through culinary and craft experiences. More than 20 years ago, Christopher and his Co-Founder, Chef Charlie Palmer started working on their first hotel project together. Nearly five dozen hotels, 20 Michelin stars, and multiple James Beard Awards later, they decided to start a truly new type of hospitality company. One where culinary excellence, access to world-class artisans, and a sense of place aren’t just part of the guest experience, they are the guest experience. As we celebrate the start of Season 6, Christopher gives us a taste of how Appellation is gathering the best artisans, growers and makers from across their future destinations, preparing to deliver exceptional and innovative guest experiences born of their distinct regions. Top Takeaways [2:00] With a childhood immersed in the world of hospitality, Christopher continues to find great inspiration from his mother, while having spent his entire career building what would become Four Seasons, Christopher attributes much of his success to the culture of the people. [7:00] Little did Charlie Palmer and Christopher Hunsberger know when they first met 20 years ago, how far they would come, what awards would be given, what new opportunities would arise, and what they would create in collaboration today. [10:00] How Appellation is going beyond creating a “sense of place” by being students of the destination and being a part of the fabric of that community through their F&B experiences in “Crafted,” where they both source from and serve the local community. [16:10] Appellation means “to give name to a place,” and while this was not the first name Christopher and Charlie came up with, it was the one that took hold for all they stood to create. [19:55] Expect a departure from your typical hotel experience when you arrive at an Appellation hotel, as they bring “the heart of the house forward” through interior design, experiential events and local interactions. [23:50] The focus on food extends beyond the lobby, from rooftop greenspaces and bars to event exhibition kitchens, from interactive outdoor cooking spaces to sprawling garden beds and orchards, from seasonal herb-based spa treatments to elevated pantries featuring fresh and local refreshments. [33:05] Sustainability and stewardship are at the core of Appellation’s business beliefs, exchanging profit for prosperity when it comes to their social responsibility. [37:40] Christopher shares his steadfast opinion on and prediction of how technology plays a pivotal role in the world of hospitality to “let people be people.” [44:50] Appellation will first take root in California and Idaho, extending into other terroirs in time. [51:50] How Christopher hopes to “think global, act local” by gaining access and building relationships with Appellation’s global community, empowering his team to have candor when sharing their personal favorites and interests with guests. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S5. | E15. Thyme | Cotswolds, England | Caryn & Milly Hibbert Share Their Family Story In Curating & Conserving ‘A Village Within A Village’ In The English Countryside | 16 May 2024 | 00:55:17 | |
“And while Thyme has changed a lot over the years and as a place, it has grown and built into something much bigger, the ethos is absolutely the same. It's all about slowing down and connecting to the land. And it's also very much an extension of our home. Those are the two things that give the experience here and the place here a fundamental difference. We want people to come and there's a sense of familiarity and a sense of homeliness.” We’re in great company with Caryn and Milly Hibbert, the mother & daughter duo behind Thyme - a collection of restored, historic buildings nestled in the Cotswolds of England, where they took time to make Thyme. A family story where a passion for the land, food and entertaining merges with a love of nature, beauty and conservation. Over the years, the Hibbert family has delicately and diligently brought to life the charm and character that can only be experienced in a “village within a village” - inviting guests to rest and reconnect in the English country idyll that they have the great fortune of calling home. In this final episode of Season 5, we hear the passion present and the laughter linger, as both Caryn and Milly speak to the organic and timeless growth of Thyme and all that is to come - from a family who likes to “color in” their lives with the things they love. Top Takeaways [2:00] Like mother, like daughter, both Caryn and Milly grew up with a love for and respect of nature. Yet it took time away - in different careers, across different cities - before the Cotswolds called them home. [10:25] Thyme, in its humble beginnings with untouched land, rundown buildings and ruined barns, was founded amongst generations of the Hibbert family, on principles meant to keep their sense of place “as pure as possible,” only adding to and never subtracting from the beauty that was innate. [16:40] It has and always will be a family affair at Thyme, with Caryn as the Founder and Creative Director, her daughter Milly by her steadfast side as the General Manager, and her son Charlie as the Head Chef with a heightened attention to all of the senses. [22:40] Today, Thyme is comprised of 31 bedrooms dispersed across its houses and cottages, the Ox Barn restaurant, the Baa Bar, the Swan pub, Cookery School, Meadow Spa, Bertioli Boutiques, and the Tithe Barn event and exhibition space. [24:45] Through a “Calendar of Happenings” the Hibbert’s have opened their estate to travelers and locals alike, offering a variety of experiences, classes, workshops and events - from cookery and floristry, to soap making and painting, all under the direction of masterful experts in their field. [32:00] Dining In Good Company with Chef Charlie Hibbert is a sensorial yet simplistic experience as his innovative expertise is “more about what he left off the plate that allows the main ingredients to sing.” [39:25] It only makes sense, given Caryn and Milly’s nurturing approach to nature, that they would come together to create Thyme’s sister brand Bertioli where they design simple, beautiful products for everyday living, that inspire a connection to the land and nourish both people and planet. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S5. | E14. Life & Times | California & Washington | Mike French’s Restoration Of The Pioneertown Motel & Captain Whidbey Are Deeply Driven By Community, Culture & History | 09 May 2024 | 00:34:56 | |
“And my brother saw an opportunity with the Pioneertown Motel, which was just behind Pappy and Harriet's. It was not in the best shape, but it was next to this amazing event venue, and situated in this incredibly rich historical context that hadn't been fully exposed or told or explored, at least in the past from our perspective.” We’re in great company with Mike French, Co-Founder and Partner at Life & Times - a creative design and development company passionate about detail-rich, contextually responsive, culturally driven and responsible placemaking - as realized through their restoration projects in Pioneertown Motel in California and Captain Whidbey in Washington, with a few other community projects on their culture map. Pioneertown Motel, originally made famous as a backdrop for the world’s best Westerns, today offers a step back in time lodging experience at the nexus of deep nature and quality entertainment. Captain Whidbey is the gateway to beautiful and rugged wilderness, fostering a sense of romance, a longing for adventure and a communion with the natural world. In this episode, Mike shares how his creative career and open mindset led him to join together with family and friends to create Life & Times, preserving history, ingrained in community, and driven by culture. Top Takeaways [3:00] It was a family affair from the beginning for Mike and his brother Matt - and with a little persistence provided by their mom, they found themselves in a new world of hospitality. [6:30] How the narrative changed and created what would become Life & Times - certainly not a traditional company by the books, but one that is ingrained in every aspect of the community. [8:25] The history of Pioneertown - built in 1946 by the likes of Hollywood actors, Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, as a working movie set to film all of the iconic Western films - transpired into a community of creatives living and working in the film industry. [12:00] The common thread woven throughout Life & Times is an “exercise in looking into the past, finding these special moments in history, trying to evoke the best of those moments and those feelings and those eras for each venue.” [14:20] Life & Times and other locals alike are breathing new life into the High Desert with cherished culinary classics, a reimagined release of the original Pioneertown Gazette, and the historic Post Office acting as a curated shop of local makers, artisans and brands. [24:10] Why Captain Whidbey on Whidbey Island, just outside of Seattle, Washington, is “the gateway to beautiful and rugged wild, fostering a sense of romance, a longing for adventure and a communion with the natural world.” [25:35] Expect to Dine In Good Company with freshly caught mussels right from within view of The Restaurant while you sip on local Washington wine. [27:50] How a Japanese Onsen experience, seeing the reverence for bathing culture there, inspired Mike to bring more holistic wellness experiences to the future of Captain Whidbey, beginning with the conception of a spa. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself
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| S5. | E13. Casa Delphine | San Miguel de Allende, Mexico | Amanda Keidan Invites Travelers Into The Prettiest Little Award-Winning Hotel In Mexico’s Most Charming And Festive City | 02 May 2024 | 00:46:15 | |
“There's so many celebrations in the city of San Miguel and parades and holidays. I literally never know what I'm going to come across when I turn a corner. And that is really inspiring and invigorating for me. Especially because I lived in the States for so many years and things became too predictable. I would without hesitation say that there's not a lot of predictability here for good and for bad. It is always changing, it is challenging and it is really wonderful and keeps you on your feet.” We’re in great company with Amanda Keidan, Owner, Curator and Designer of Casa Delphine, an eco-conscious and design-focused, small luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Shortly after opening, Casa Delphine was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the best in Mexico, “a petite hotel in the heart of the old city that signals the next wave of creatives coming through and moving in.” Amanda is a testament to that creativity, having spent her career building Keidan Jewelry, creating one-of-a-kind heirloom jewelry and handmade collections, before falling in love with the sense of place and the people that make up San Miguel de Allende, wanting to add her signature touch to this vibrant community. In this episode, Amanda invites travelers to come to relax, stay to be inspired, and leave satiated by the sights, sounds, scents and flavors of Mexico’s most charming and festive city. Top Takeaways [2:00] Amanda lived much of her life coast to coast, from NYC to LA - traveling much of the world before she first came across San Miguel de Allende back in 2017 and decided like many who visit, that she did not want to leave. [5:10] After finding a 5-bedroom house for sale in the heart of the city, dreaming of the ways she could redesign and recreate the space, it was the encouragement of friends who saw the creative spark in Amanda, telling her to “go for it.” [13:40] Life in San Miguel is full of village charm - seeing familiar faces on the cobblestone streets, saying hello to strangers sitting next to you in the café, stumbling across the most talented artisans still making things by hand. [16:10] Expect to experience the most jaw-dropping, delicious places when staying at Casa Delphine as Amanda and her team take great pride in curating the best and the brightest recommendations around town. [18:50] Amanda brings out a feminine personality, with French and Moroccan elements to accompany the grand architecture of the home - full of cacti-filled open courtyards, geometric windows letting in lots of natural sunlight and curved brick ceilings of dramatic heights. [27:40] Dine In Good Company at Casa Delphine in a setting you’ve never experienced before - joining in one of their famed “Tarot Dinners” where strangers gather together around a communal table, share a multi-course dinner prepared by a locally acclaimed chef, and participate in a tarot reading which invites the most sincere conversations. [32:34] There’s so much to see, sip and savor in and around San Miguel de Allende, including a specialty secret drink found on a local ranch called “Parajete” or “Cowboy Coffee.” [42:40] “Dia De Los Muertos” or the “Day Of The Dead” is one of the most iconic holidays to experience the culture of San Miguel as the entire city comes out in costume to celebrate this festival of life. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S5. | E12. Calamigos Ranch | Malibu, California | The Next Generation Of The Gerson Family Has An Innovative Yet Nostalgic Approach To Their ‘Business Of Making Memories’ | 25 Apr 2024 | 00:42:14 | |
“Everything from the little snacks that we bring in or the cookies we deliver at night, the Calamigos wine that we curate - it's creating these little moments for you. We try to overindulge you, so you want or need for nothing, right? But really what we want you to experience is the 300 acres. We give you a map and we want you to explore, get lost. Have an experience - climb to the top of the ranch where you can see the ocean, the vineyards from ranches next door, all the way into the valley. It's so magical.” We’re in great company with Garrett Gerson, 4th Generation Owner & Co-CEO of Calamigos Ranch, perched above the quaint city of Malibu, California amidst majestic mountains and dramatic elevations. Here the Gerson family invites guests to a different time - an all-but-forgotten lifestyle of quiet elegance and unparalleled natural beauty. What started as a family dedicated to nurturing and preserving this land over 80 years ago, transformed into a unique opportunity for them to invite, immerse and expose guests to an untouched, and elegantly rustic lifestyle, now known for being Malibu’s premier location for wellness, community and celebration. In this episode, Garrett shares stories of trials and triumphs, innovation and restoration, family and friends who over the years have created the extraordinary - turning moments into memories for locals and travelers alike. Top Takeaways [1:50] From purchasing the original 10 acres back in 1947 to now stewarding over 300 acres across the working ranch, one thing has remained the same across generations, “come as my brother, come as my friend” as was given by the Chumash name ‘Calamigos’. [3:10] Learning from the wise words of their grandfather, Garrett and his brother have come to realize since their childhood upbringing on the ranch that “the more high-tech things get, the more high touch the experience needs to be.” [10:10] How the Gerson family sees setbacks - such as the devastating fires that destroyed much of the ranch in the 1970’s and again in the early 2020’s, before being hit again by the global pandemic - as opportunities for reinvention, reinvestment, and renewal of the Calamigos commitment to its guests and community. [19:00] Whether you visit with family or friends, for team building or to celebrate love, there is so much to see, sip and savor around the ranch and overlooking the views of Malibu coast. [23:45] Dine In Good Company with Chinese-inspired and iconic American dishes and drinks, fresh from the local land, makers and purveyors, yet rooted in childhood home-cooked memories. [26:00] The Gerson’s family motto around wellness is not about the medicine you have to take, but rather the lifestyle you live immersed in nature, and how the healthier you are, the longer you get to live and be here to enjoy it. [27:45] How Calamigos Ranch is creating a family-focused membership club unlike many stereotypical vacation or country clubs - by being high-touch, high-experience, being with each other, immersed in nature, and making memories along the way. Visit For Yourself | |||
| S5. | E11. Fogo Island Inn | Newfoundland, Canada | Experience Island Hospitality At Its Friendliest And Finest At One Of The Four Corners Of The Earth | 18 Apr 2024 | 00:44:23 | |
“Every detail was important, so we'd ask ourselves, ‘Where did that come from? Did we make it here? Did we create it here? Did we grow it here? How can we keep our money in this place? How can we keep reinvesting in this economy, keep growing this economy, creating jobs so that money stays here? And if we can't make it ourselves, then how do we learn?’” We’re in great company with Amanda Decker Penton, who not only is an active member of Shorefast, working to ensure a resilient economic future for her native Fogo Island in Newfoundland, Canada, but she does so as Managing Director of Fogo Island Inn. Built ten years ago to showcase Fogo Island’s predisposition towards exceptional hospitality rooted in the natural and cultural assets of this place, Fogo Island Inn is a pioneer of regenerative travel and contemporary outport Newfoundland design. In this episode, Amanda’s genuine pride for her hometown, passion for her family and friends, persistence in preserving this sense of place, and perspective on how other global communities can learn from this wholistic approach - is like the light beaming from a lighthouse on the shore, leading us all to experience a better world. Top Takeaways [1:50] As a 10th generation Fogo Islander of fisher people, it was never a matter of if… it was always a question of when and how Amanda would return home. [6:00] How an artist residency program became the catalyst for building community economies in a sustainable fashion, in service of nature and culture, people and place, through what would become Shorefast. [9:50] “Many luxury properties have a charitable foundation. Our charitable foundation has a luxury inn.” [19:45] It is a journey to get to Fogo Island Inn, whether by land, air, sea or likely a combination of the three, but that is all part of the experience coming upon this special sense of place. [21:50] Fogo Island Inn is there to welcome you in with amenities abound to keep you entertained and yet they encourage you to get out to explore nature and meet the locals. [23:20] How the design of a desk chair, backed by hundreds of years of boat making craftsmanship, is a statement piece that tells the story of the intentionality of the inn’s interior design which is at once radically contemporary and resolutely traditional. [30:36] When dining in good company on Fogo Island, expect to savor the freshest seafood in the world from cod to crab, shrimp to scallops, lobster to ground fish - while pairing your meal with wine from other traditional fish trading partners - supporting small villages across Portugal, Spain and France. [33:10] Soon guests of Fogo Island Inn can experience a night stay “on an island off an island”, in an original settlement dating back 500 years ago yet perfectly preserved, where the only inhabitants are a colony of puffins. [37:10] There are seven seasons on Fogo Island - Winter, Pack Ice Season, Spring, Trap Bird Season, Summer, Berry Season, Fall - and so many ways to explore the progression of those seasons through the sights, sounds, smells, touches and tastes during your stay. Visit For Yourself
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| S5. | E10. Burnside Organic Farm | Margaret River, Australia | Enjoy Luxurious Agritourism At Lara & Jamie McCall’s Elegantly Curated Organic Farm Stay & Winery | 11 Apr 2024 | 00:47:21 | |
“And winemaking philosophy really is that the good wines are made in the vineyard. So if your grapes are healthy and ripened to the right state, then the winemaking process becomes quite simple. You only really need to interfere when your grapes aren't that good. We are blessed to be in Margaret River, which climatically, it's a winemaker's dream.” We’re in great company with Lara and Jamie McCall, the husband and wife duo behind Burnside Organic Farm, who over the past 25 years along with their three sons, have created and curated a luxury farm stay and winery in the Margaret River Region of Australia, where guests can enjoy genuine “agritourism,” organic wine, friendly farm animals and immersive nature experiences. While the McCall’s pursued numerous career paths before coming across their land, they made an early decision to start and stay organic as they watched their young sons play in the same dirt that would grow their food. Over the following years, they naively, passionately and patiently worked with nature as a teacher to nurture their farm into the bountiful and self-sustaining ecosystem that it is today. In this episode, Lara and Jamie invite our listeners and their guests alike - to hear their story, step onto their land, and taste their harvest - inspiring others to produce their own food, sharing their ideas about resilience for future sustainable living, encouraging all to take these memories and create their own stories. Top Takeaways [1:40] Lara & Jamie McCall’s lives took many tangents before settling down on their farm. From sailing ships to being a journalist for the local newspaper, from being a stockbroker to running a family business making furniture, there are many twists and turns to this tale. [11:40] The early days raising a young family of 3 boys on a farm meant many hands made lighter but sometimes messier work. Today, their sons have returned with specific passions and areas of expertise to continue to build upon the family business. [14:30] Jamie shares how the Margaret River region of Western Australia, with its mild Mediterranean like climate, lends to a very naturally immersive architectural style using timber and rammed earth. [18:10] There’s so much to see, smell and savor as you roam the farm finding vineyards, an avocado orchard, a caper plantation, beehives, a market garden, and numerous farm animals that play their role in tending to the land. [22:00] The decision to start and always stay organic was a personal one, which came with a great need for further education and support from the small but collaborative organic farming community. [32:40] Burnside Organic Farm is the perfect starting point on the Organic & Biodynamic Wine Trail where guests can take a taste of the classics in Cabernet and Chardonnay, and alternatives in Zinfandel and Vermentino. Notable Mentions
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| S7. | E6. Folly Collection | Southwest & Northeast USA | Hillary Flur Is Crafting A Harmony Between Nature And Space With Zero Compromises To The Guest Experience | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:36:34 | |
“We want people to take away a new perception of ‘off-grid living’ and what that means. So when you first think of off-grid, especially when I did it, I was like, ‘Okay, off grid. You're roughing it. Is there going to be hot water? You don't know. Is there a toilet? You don't know.’ And so we wanted to make it have zero compromises in terms of what you're experiencing.” We’re in great company with Hillary Flur, the Co-Founder of Folly Collection. Tucked away and surrounded by endless vistas, these architecturally designed spaces scattered across the US seamlessly blend into the surrounding environment, creating a harmony between nature and space, where every detail is designed to enhance our well-being. From the remote lands of Joshua Tree and Mojave Desert in California, to the lush farms of Long Island in New York, Folly Collection’s innovative off-grid systems are aesthetically captivating, environmentally responsible, and at the forefront of technological advancement. In this episode, Hillary shares how a childhood friendship with architectural designer, Malek Alqadi, turned into a creative business partnership, and how a search for a sustainable and sincere place to stay during personal travels, turned into a passion pioneering an optimistic future for hospitality. Top Takeaways [1:50] How Hillary’s early career in customer service brought her to recognize her love of making people happy, of solving their problems, of making them feel heard. [4:30] The Folly Collection’s humble beginnings started when childhood best friends turned business partners, sleeping on each other’s couches, going on road trips to the desert to find affordable land, and dreaming of all they could build together. [9:10] Travel to the vast deserts and verdant landscapes of Folly Joshua Tree and Folly Mojave Desert to find yourself lost in the dark skies full of stars. [14:25] Seasonal pop-up destinations are in store for Folly, starting with the serenity that can be found on New York’s Long Island sound. [18:50] Folly Collection is certainly living up to its name, as ‘Folly’ in architecture is described as a whimsical structure built to serve as a conversation piece, lending interest to a view and experience. [23:55] What is the Folly Collection signature recipe you ask? A delicate balance of serene landscape complimented with sustainable architecture, minimalist aesthetics, and tech enabled amenities. [25:10] To form a collection, one must be deeply connected to their local community. And Hillary is doing exactly that - nurturing bespoke experiences, baked goods, destination dining and wellness treatments to share with her guests. [27:00] Folly’s future is full of more experiential elements, a wishlist of secluded locations, and a tech ecosystem that is designed to reduce friction and increase immersion. Notable Mentions
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| S5. | E9. Candela | Tulum, Mexico | Rodrigo López Vazquez Is Creating Regenerative Residencies And Mindful Traveler Communities In Mexico’s Premier Destinations | 04 Apr 2024 | 00:52:00 | |
“Candela, which means ‘candle’, is also a measurement of light. We want it to be that light in the sense of - How would this light guide us and what would this light mean to us? And how can we create this new path of development and learn throughout the process to be more sustainable, to design with respect, to integrate into nature, to learn how to respect what's already there and be inspired by what’s already in place?” As we welcome in Earth Month, celebrating our planet and taking action to protect it, we’re in good company with Rodrigo López Vazquez, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Candela, a new luxury residential and rental community development concept regenerating some of Mexico’s most desirable destinations - starting with a nature escape in Tulum and a cultural city stay in Valladolid. With distinctive architecture, sustainable initiatives, community integration, bespoke amenities, creative dining experiences, artisan boutiques and proprietary wellness offerings, Candela aspires to leave its guests and its surrounding townscapes better than they were before. In this episode, Rodrigo shares how Candela pays homage to the local history, culture and landscape, honoring long-standing traditions unique to the location to cultivate an experience that is at once relevant to modern life and stands the test of time. Top Takeaways [1:50] How an upbringing and entrepreneurial career in Puebla - a gastronomically focused UNESCO World Heritage City - inspired Rodrigo and his friends to seek out other culturally significant cities, with a perspective of sustainable living and preservation of heritage. [7:40] In creating Candela, Rodrigo and his carefully curated team of architects and interior designers wanted guests to feel as though you are arriving to an archeological site - where nature and architecture blend together in a way that makes you unsure of what was there first. [11:50] The meaning behind the name Candela, is integrated as far as the eye can see with beams of natural light, candles tucked throughout, and warm indirect light creating a space that is relaxing and restorative. [16:30] The importance of using the same materials and building practices as the Mayans used in building the Pyramids and local villages - from the rock foundation to the Chukum stucco to the tropical wood. [20:45] Experience a “true taste of Tulum” when dining in good company at Candela - from the Cochinita Pibil prepared by Cocineras to the Omakase Bar featuring a Japanese fusion using Mayan Riviera ingredients, from Barro de Cobre’s authentic production of mezcal to the circular composting of any food waste courtesy of some resident worms. [31:50] Tulum is a place where trends are created - across architecture, gastronomy, hospitality, fashion, barefoot luxury - and Rodrigo believes “regenerative design” is the next big thing to come out of this innovative city, a form of “systemic acupuncture” as he explains. [41:10] What started as a day trip to a nearby artisanal town in search for candles, will soon turn into the next Candelda community in the “pueblo magico” of Valladolid. Notable Mentions
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| S5. | E8. Big Picture Farm | Townshend, Vermont | Come For The Farmstead Caramels & Cheeses & Stay For The Goat Snuggles At Louisa Conrad’s Agritourism Destination | 28 Mar 2024 | 00:34:51 | |
“One of the things you learn when farming is that it's really hard to leave because someone has to be there all the time. So, in our first decade here we were always hosting people no matter what. And we came to really love that and became good at it. Feeding a crowd was really easy. You have this bounty of food - milk and cheese and vegetables and apples and honey - just so much bounty that it's sad not to share it. You want to bring people in.” We’re in great company with Louisa Conrad, who with her husband Lucas Farrell, both artists by trade, started a small hillside goat dairy and farmstead confectionery and creamery located in southern Vermont, which over the years has produced award-winning goat milk caramels and farmstead cheeses. Today, they blend their artistic craft and storytelling creativity with their passion for their place and products, inviting guests to stay and experience their Animal-Welfare-Approved farmstead firsthand, cozying up to 40 happy and healthy goats and other furry farm friends. In this episode, Louisa shares how her love for seasonal sweets goes beyond the tasty treats themselves - nurturing the land and animals that provide this bounty and being the welcoming host who shares them with her worldly guests. Top Takeaways [1:55] Having grown up in Paris, surrounded by some of the world’s best cheese, little did Louisa know her career as an artist and teacher would turn into a confectionery and cheesemaker… [3:30] What started as a side hustle - staying on a farm, tending to the sheep, and selling goat milk caramels at the farmer’s market - turned into multiple phases of purchasing the farm and building a family business. [13:05] Stay on Big Picture Farm and listen to a soundtrack of roosters crowing, goats bleating, barn cats meowing, dogs barking, and frogs croaking from dawn to dusk. [15:10] Why the story behind the name Big Picture Farm is a picture worth a thousand words. [18:00] A day in the life of tending to goats has moments of excitement and ease…and a steady sweet smell of award winning and sustainably made, caramel cooking in the distance. [23:25] Whether you’re coming for a family reunion or a couple’s getaway weekend, there's a quiet place for you to stay, sip a cocktail, and smile at some friendly goats. [31:25] From sea salt vanilla to golden milk latte flavored caramels, from fresh chevre cheese to goat cheese soufflés, from warm crepes to goat nog around the holidays, Louisa is always crafting up something creative with goat milk. Notable Mentions Nearby small ski towns to visit in Vermont:
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| S5. | E7. Seminary Hill | Catskills, New York | Susan Manning & Doug Doetsch Celebrate Heritage & Hospitality With Their Proudly Local & Intently Sustainable Orchard & Cidery | 21 Mar 2024 | 00:47:47 | |
“This is a moment of grace in our lives. People have come to visit us and we're going to share these people and these stories and whatever this time brings. Then they'd get up, say their goodbyes and my grandparents would go back to work. But at Seminary Hill what I wanted to do was make that sense of leisure and openness available to guests, whether they're coming to Seminary Hill to drink cider or to have a meal or to see friends.” We’re in great company with Susan Manning and Doug Doetsch, owners of Seminary Hill in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains in New York. Here they have created, curated and stewarded a boutique hotel, restaurant and private event space to coincide with their proudly local and intently sustainable, orchard and cidery - inviting parched guests and passersby alike to experience the agricultural heritage of their land. With five generations of family members tending to this land and hosting travelers passing through, Doug and Susan returned to commemorate and reinvigorate this sense of place - but with a creative and collaborative twist. Recruiting community members and instilling regenerative practices to create the World’s First Passive House-Certified Cidery for all to savor - whether during a stay or simply passing through. In this episode, Susan and Doug give us a sweet taste of why Condé Nast Traveler has coined Seminary Hill as “James Fenimore Cooper’s America with a dash of Tuscany.” Top Takeaways [1:50] Back in the mid 1800s apple orchards were not planted for city folk to go apple picking or for that perfect Thanksgiving apple pie. They were for making cider…the cheapest form of alcohol and a drink safer than water. [10:25] While Susan and Doug pursued careers in Chicago, they were called home to the Catskills to steward their family’s land as it was in a “pre consumer culture” and yet to gentrify the town, curating a community of creatives with innovative ideas. [13:10] Hospitality at Seminary Hill is a simple, timeless and selfless act of inviting passersby to sit on a porch in a rocking chair, having a conversation with a cold drink in hand. [16:15] Seminary Hill is the world’s first “Passive House-Certified Cidery.” What makes it “Passive House” you ask? [23:10] Stay in good company at the Boarding House on the National Registry of Historic Places and dine in good company at the Tasting Room overlooking the Seminary Hill orchard, savoring the smells, sights, and sounds of 60 varieties of apple trees and their entire holistic ecosystem. [45:00] Over the years, planting trees and putting them to bed has become a sort of “barn raising” tradition for the family and friends of Seminary Hill. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself
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| S5. | E6. Dunmore House | West Cork, Ireland | Peter Barrett’s Recipe For Irish Hospitality Includes A Warm Welcome, Strong Family Roots, And Fresh Irish Food | 14 Mar 2024 | 00:37:44 | |
“It was fantastic to open my eyes to the differences in hospitality, the differences of properties - meeting other cultures, foods, everything. But having been there and having worked abroad, I think the main pillars remained with me from Irish hospitality - good food, good welcome and doing everything you can for your guests.” We’re in lucky company with Peter Barrett, 4th Generation Owner and General Manager of Dunmore House, an award-winning, 4-star hotel on the Clonakilty Bay shores of West Cork, Ireland. Many changes have unfolded over the years since his great-grandparents came across this coastal farm in 1934, however, the one thing that has not changed is “family welcoming family”. Having recently returned home from global studies and luxury hospitality experiences, Peter shares his excitement in continuing his family legacy, reciting the Irish Proverb “Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin,” as for him and the ways in which he treats his guests, “there’s no place like home.” Today, as many like me celebrate their Irish Heritage, and many more celebrate an excuse to drink a smooth pint of Guinness, Peter and I banter about what makes Irish hospitality recognizable around the world, how the vista views from Dunmore House are unmatched, and why travelers should not pass up new Irish cuisine. Sláinte! Top Takeaways [1:40] A story that spans across numerous generations started as a working farm shortly after the Irish War of Independence, slowly turning into a community gathering spot for wedding breakfasts, growing into a proper hotel in the 1960s, of which the Dunmore House stands true to today. [10:00] Peter shares the fortune he sees in his hospitality upbringing and how his time away from home - studying in Switzerland and working in Hong Kong, Thailand and the United States - gave him a fresh perspective and newfound appreciation for Irish hospitality. [15:00] Expect to stay in a setting that is a “home away from home” - with familiar characters that will treat you as family, warmth felt from the welcome to the wood fireplace, food that will fill your stomach and your soul. [17:30] Everything from the amenities in the rooms to the produce picked from the gardens is proudly Irish. Peter explains how there is a sense of sustainability and stewardship that comes with owning a property and being a part of a community for many generations. [21:50] Dine In Good Company at Dunmore House, experiencing “a sense of place by the sea using the finest resources from West and County Cork” at the Michelin Guide recommended Adrift Restaurant, and other casual and alfresco dining destinations. [25:25] There’s adventure abound around Clonakilty Bay, whether you choose to walk the beaches, go for a sea swim or kayak, seek out humpback whales off the coastline or meander through town stopping in magical and musical pubs. Notable Mentions
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| S5. | E5. Farmhouse Inn | Sonoma, California | Siblings Joe & Catherine Bartolomei Returned Home To Welcome Guests To An Inspired Wellness Escape in Wine Country | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:50:01 | |
“We had this huge family. We always came together. There was lots of love. There was lots of support. And really lots of great food. And I think it really instilled in us that fundamental love of entertaining and breaking bread together - of camaraderie, storytelling, conversation - all the things that happen around the table.” We’re in great company with Joe and Catherine Bartolomei, the brother and sister duo who returned to their family’s farmland to renovate and restore their piece of Sonoma wine country into a boutique luxury hotel, spa and dining offering with a strong sense of place. Nestled in the Russian River Valley of California, among gently rolling hills and stunning majestic vistas, Joe and Catherine welcome guests from all over the world to an inspired escape, creating meaningful experiences in a setting most sublime. In this episode, Joe and Catherine take us all on a trip down memory lane, strolling past Sonoma’s recent agricultural revolution, stopping in the shops, farms and vineyards of lifelong friends, and inviting us to sip on some of the best wines the region has to offer. Top Takeaways [1:45] Growing up in Sonoma Country, it looked a bit different than it does today - before finding its place on the world of wine map. As such, Joe and Catherine looked for every reason to leave their multi generational Italian family farmland and pave their own paths, until something changed their minds. [6:10] What started with replanting the family vineyard in 1997, led to a change in mindset for a new generation in Sonoma wine country…farming was “cool again” and Joe and Catherine felt inspired to share this heritage with the world. [17:45] A day in the life of a Farmhouse Inn guest is full of friendly faces, comfortable accommodations, farm raised products, local recommendations, and a glass of wine…or two. [20:30] Every room is designed for intimacy - with yourself and with your loved ones - inviting you to do things you don’t typically take the time to do - like soaking in a bathtub or sitting by the fireplace. [24:10] It’s not just “farm to table” at Farmhouse Inn, it's “farm to spa table” for guests looking to pair wellness with their wine - with treatments including seasonal and local ingredients in their remedies. [27:15] What happens when two fifth-generation Sonoma farmers, a haute-cuisine experienced executive chef, a world-class maitre d’ and a team of sommeliers conspire? [33:20] When Farmhouse Inn guests visit the Winery and Artisan Partners’ vineyards and tasting rooms, galleries and shops, they’re welcomed like family. Hear how these curated experiences are authentically intentional. [38:15] The future of Farmhouse Inn comes with cocktail bars, pairings, classes and tastings, and a nostalgic yet new stay experience in a “summer camp” setting. [40:20] In all their spare time, Joe works with the tourism industry to share why Sonoma is “the best wine country in the world” and Catherine ensures there will be affordable housing and livable wages for locals to stay and steward this special sense of place. Notable Mentions
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| S5. | E4. Brae | Victoria, Australia | Chef Dan Hunter’s Innovative And Sustainable Approach To Authentic Australian Cuisine And Hospitality | 29 Feb 2024 | 00:51:49 | |
“Brae is funny in the sense that it's a very small farm if you're a farmer, it's an enormous farm if you're a restaurateur. We're super proud of everything that we produce and we do so in a way that's very holistic and very clean. They all have serious value to us and they turn into products which are very valuable in the sense that they're made with care, they're high quality, they're organic and so, we love those things.” We’re in great company with Chef Dan Hunter, Founder and Owner of Brae, a restaurant, organic farm and boutique accommodation nestled in the hillside of the Otways hinterland in Australia. Here, Chef Dan, his family and friends have stewarded this landscape and refined an innovative approach to sustainable and ethical production, to offer a unique Australian cuisine built around an immense respect for nature, place and seasonality. In this episode, Chef Dan brings us on a reminiscing journey as Brae celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary. Hear how he recalls how his Australian upbringing rooted in nature paired with his world travels experiencing cooking at the source instead of in cities, inspired him to bring that approach to hospitality back home, but with a taste that is unique to Brae and their sense of place. Well deserving of their recently awarded 3 Star certification by The Sustainable Restaurant Association and long-held 3 Hats by Australia's Good Food Guide, among numerous other accolades and recognitions - we’ll raise our glasses to that! Top Takeaways [1:50] With no particular interest in food growing up, yet with an intrinsic love of nature as many Australians do, it was not until Chef Dan and his wife Jules moved to a small town in Spain where he saw the importance of regionality in his cooking, something he felt the fine dining scene in Australia was missing. [9:45] What started as a circle drawn on a map and a checklist of criteria, brought Chef Dan to the Otways hinterland in Victoria - an area which attracts international guests for its coastal landmarks, scenic walks and waterfalls, and at once dinosaur-inhabited rainforests. [21:00] “It’s pretty nice to be able to produce enough product for ourselves and to give some to friends, but to work on projects where you can eat the property, drink the property…” Chef Dan explains what guests can see, sip and savor on his working farm. [26:25] Even with “farm to table” restaurants taking over cities, we’re quite removed from the source of our local agricultural practices and thus Chef Dan has many creative ways to transparently share his land with his guests. [36:10] How the 6 suites at Brae mimic Chef Dan’s attention to detail in his cooking - from the vinyl record player and cozy sitting area to the organic skincare beside the bathtub, from the stars seen through the skylight to the self-serve martini bar. [45:35] Can a single salad really be made with 60 different ingredients rotating every single day? Hear how no two plates, no two bites, will ever be the same. Notable Mentions
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| S5. | E3. Silent Living | Portugal | João Rodrigues Is Crafting A Local And Sustainable Recipe For Guests To Experience Home Away From Home | 22 Feb 2024 | 00:57:06 | |
“So this idea of memory, it's very interesting because when you enter a specific space, when you get to a specific location, it's this idea that the house should bring you back to this long term memory. Giving you this feeling of comfort and of confidence as well because you've known this place for a long time.” We’re in great company with João Rodrigues, Founder and Owner of Silent Living - a lifestyle of happiness and fulfillment that he pursues through a curated collection of stays around Portugal. What began as family residencies - gathering places for friends, family and travelers - has since opened for global guests to stay and experience these happy memories, moments of connection to the land, and genuine Portuguese hospitality. What some may say is serendipity, and with admittedly no grand plan, João has slowly built over time a collection of five homes, a fifth generation farm, and fine dining restaurant, across the most fruitful regions of Portugal - Alentejo, Comporta and Lisbon - listening to the needs of his guests, local community and natural landscapes, throughout every step of the way. In this episode, João shares personal passions and inspirational stories that make up the ingredients in his recipe for how to experience a home away from home at Silent Living. Top Takeaways [1:55] João shares how living a life surrounded by a close knit family, yet taking to the skies as a pilot for TAP Airlines, has given him a great global perspective on where he wants to leave his legacy for this world and his children. [6:00] Portuguese hospitality, while not unique to João and his family, is something they embrace fully at Silent Living - whether through a tour of the house or a friendly introduction to the chef and the housekeeper, he wants his worldly guests to feel at home. [9:15] How João came to organically collect his houses across Alentejo, Comporta and Lisbon in Portugal, with multi-generational ties to these places, personal connections to the locals, dedicated attention to the history, and a desire to be authentic in each design aesthetic. [17:00] Silent Living is a recipe that was inspired by guests and made with ingredients of Home, Local, Simplicity, Family, Nature, Material, Atmosphere, and most importantly for João, Memory. [32:30] Practicing holistic management and regenerative agriculture at Herdade no Tiempo, not only provides products and produce to Lisbon’s fine dining restaurant Ceia - but together through a creative tasting menu they raise awareness of climate change, offering a new taste of living in harmony with nature. [43:00] The future for Silent Living goes beyond singular houses, a farm, and a restaurant, looking to build a small village for sustainably minded locals and visitors alike. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S5. | E2. Kabn Company | Loch Fyne, Scotland | Amber Pledge & Charlie Teale’s Boutique Retreat & Wild Dining Creates The Perfect Romantic Nature Escape | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:39:30 | |
“It's an incredibly, emotive experience I think, to just watch your food being cooked over fire. We've been cooking over fire for thousands of years as humans, and in some respects, it just gives you that atavistic feel and it's very basic. But at the same time, to do it to the standard that our chef is doing it to is extremely skillful.” We’re in great company with Amber Pledge, who with her husband Charlie, recently founded Kabn Company, Scotland’s first luxury, regenerative, social hospitality brand designed to connect guests to their surroundings, blending Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian contemporary design, starting in Loch Fyne with plans to expand across the UK. Inspired by their own worldly travels, passion for sustainability, and fascination with gastronomy, Amber and Charlie invite guests to look beyond the stunning design of their cabins, to experience the bounty of authentic experiences the west coast of Scotland has to offer, starting with Wild Kabn Kitchen where they create unforgettable wild culinary experiences through their partnership with Michelin-trained Chef William Hamer. As we celebrate this season of love, Amber shares a beautiful and honest story of self-realization, life partnership, passion for hosting people and our place on this planet. Top Takeaways [1:40] From a career traveling the world as a corporate lawyer, ignoring her inner entrepreneurial spirit to hold a stable job, what inspired her to finally take the leap to create Kabn Company. [5:10] Amber and Charlie’s love story is one filled with passion for travel, food, nature, and experiencing life to its fullest - from time spent in Japanese ryokans to the remote corners of Bhutan, from African safari adventures to finding the coast of Scotland. [11:30] For anyone who fancies a rustic yet romantic dinner date while a private Michelin-trained chef prepares hyperlocal produce with a hint of wild meat over an open fire, Wild Kabn Kitchen is “one of the most beautiful restaurants in Scotland” according to Condé Nast. [17:20] Sustainability and transparency can be seen around every corner of the cabins, from the “Shou Sugi Ban” charred larch siding to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, from the Duvet Hog linens made of recycled plastic water bottles to the cabinets containing organic herbs and spices. [26:30] Guests can experience authentic Scottish countryside experiences with local community craftspeople and “Kabn Ambassadors” - from whiskey tasting to foraging, from yoga and meditation to wild swimming. [30:20] What’s to come for Kabn Company and Wild Kabn Kitchen - from cookouts on the loch shore to communal gathering spaces, from a physical restaurant to a new property and beyond. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S5. | E1. Five Acres | Phillip Island, Australia | A Stunning View Into Katie & Rom Lamaro’s Private Sanctuary Hidden Away Along Rolling Coastal Farmland | 08 Feb 2024 | 00:37:51 | |
“There was so much thought that went into the textures, the finishes, the views, everything. We'd wake up in the middle of the night and ask, what do you think about that? And we'd both be awake thinking about all these ideas. So there was so much love and care that went into it from both of us.” We’re in great company with Katie & Rom Lamaro, the husband and wife duo who picked up their family and settled into what was at the time, a rundown “Five Acre” patch of property on Phillip Island in Australia, having since transformed it into a picturesque and functioning micro-farm welcoming guests from all over the world with luxury coastal accommodations. After leaving careers in hospitality to live a slower way of life living on the coast - hosting friends, growing a garden, learning carpentry - quickly made Katie & Rom crave more. Five Acres more, in fact - upon which they’ve built cabins, a guesthouse and community gathering space, for all to savor their labor of love. As we welcome in our Fifth Season with our first episode featuring a family halfway around the world, Katie & Rom share with us what we all seek out in our travels - local food, sustainable practices, beautiful views, and great hospitality. Top Takeaways [1:35] While both Katie and Rom pursued separate careers in hospitality, they both had personal desires to not only tend to guests - but to nature, its produce and other living creatures, as well. [6:05] How a romantic turn of events in Katie and Rom’s love story led them to create a slower lifestyle on Phillip Island away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. [7:40] What most would overlook as a rundown piece of wasted land, Katie and Rom saw as an opportunity to build their dream homestead. [9:25] There are plenty of chores to keep this family of 5 busy as they steward their Five Acres - from picking the fruit, to feeding the chickens, to pickling the vegetables. [13:05] Five Acres is a micro-farm full of flavor with an orchard of fruit and nut trees, extensive vegetable gardens, honey-producing beehives, and “family pets” that roam the land. [21:50] A stay in one of Five Acres three cabins or guesthouse comes equipped with a view everywhere you look - from the bed, to the bathtub, to the shower skylight - so guests can watch the highland cows grazing in the fields by day and take in the expansive starry sky by night. [25:20] “We love to indulge in the local food, it’s really for us, what traveling is all about.” and thus Katie & Rom curate a grazing board and gin cocktail to welcome every guest. [27:45] There’s so much Phillip Island has to offer, including nature park attractions, the world-famous penguin parade, wineries, coastal walks and a stunning array of beaches. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| Special Episode | Chatting In Good Company With Other Travel Podcast Hosts | 01 Feb 2024 | 01:05:23 | |
We’re taking a moment to transition between our seasons - to pause and reflect on so many places visited, memories made, communities changed - to share the stories of the people I’ve met and made friends with around the world, mindful travelers like you and me. These guests have so much credibility and creativity in their own rights, building their own travel and hospitality focused podcasts and communities, sharing their adventures and areas of expertise with their own audiences. In this episode, we’re in great company with…
Listen in as they delve into their stories to see what may inspire our own future travels! Guest Highlights: [1:00] Chris Kretzer @nomadicfoodist Facebook | Instagram | TikTok Notable Mentions: [20:50] Kit Parks Active Travel Adventures Website | Instagram | Pinterest ATA Facebook Page | Facebook Group Notable Mentions:
[33:00] Adam Cousins TRIPOLOGY: The Travel Podcast @tripologypodcast Instagram | TikTok Notable Mentions: | |||
| S7. | E5. Volcanoes Safaris | Rwanda & Uganda | Praveen Moman Is Pioneering Ecotourism And Conservation Experiences Beginning With Great Apes And Inspiring The World | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:50:00 | |
“So it's a very special experience because you're suddenly connecting to a species which you feel you know. The gorilla looks at you and you look at them and there's a very strong rapport. A kind of connection saying, ‘Haven't we seen each other before?’” We’re in great company with Praveen Moman, the pioneer in Great Ape tourism, celebrating the 25th Anniversary of his conservation and ecotourism brand, Volcanoes Safaris, where he has been at the forefront of reviving the post-conflict Uganda and Rwanda - centered around his five luxury lodges and safari experiences near the threatened gorilla and chimpanzee populations. A ‘visionary conservationist’ with numerous awards and recognitions, Praveen followed in his family’s footsteps - first pitching a tent in the wild and now 25 years later, developing lodges that are sensitive to local culture and aesthetics, and connected to the local community and conservation projects. In this episode, Praveen shares his personal love for his homeland, his professional admiration for Dian Fossey and Jane Goodall, and Volcanoes Safaris’ commitment to the protection of these safari experiences for generations to come. Top Takeaways [1:40] Praveen Moman’s childhood was unlike most yet instrumental to the man he is today. Listen as he shares his appreciation for his British education, Indian heritage and East African environment. [10:10] First impressions are lasting impressions - especially when it comes to your first encounter with a gorilla, as Praveen learned many years ago. [15:00] To understand the positive impact Volcanoes Safaris has on the gorilla population, local economy and broader ecosystem, one must first understand the history of human interaction with the Great Ape - from initial discovery to respected research to conservation tourism - and how this model could be replicated across other destinations at risk of over-tourism. [30:30] What started as temporary tents turned into luxury lodge accommodations, built in an instinctual way with local materials melded in a way that showed the ingenuity of the minds of their local makers. [31:50] With 3 lodges near the mountain gorilla parks (Virunga Lodge in Rwanda, Bwindi Lodge and Mount Gahinga Lodge in Uganda) and 2 lodges focused on the chimpanzees (Kyambura Gorge Lodge and Kibale Lodge in Uganda) - each lodge is delicately balanced with what the local cuisines, cultures and traditions are, with what is palatable to an international guest. [45:30] With 98% of our DNA identical to that of gorillas, we have a duty to ensure their survival alongside ours. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| Special Episode | Chatting In Good Company With Other Hospitality Podcast Hosts | 25 Jan 2024 | 00:58:15 | |
We’re taking a moment to transition between our seasons - to pause and reflect on so many places visited, memories made, communities changed - to share the stories of the people I’ve met and made friends with around the world, mindful travelers like you and me. These guests have so much credibility and creativity in their own rights, building their own travel and hospitality focused podcasts and communities, sharing their adventures and areas of expertise with their own audiences. In this episode, we’re in great company with…
Listen in as they delve into their stories to see what may inspire our own future travels! Guest Highlights: [1:00] Wil Slickers Hospitality.FM Website | LinkedIn Personal: LinkedIn Notable Mentions:
[16:10] Zach Busekrus Behind The Stays Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn Personal: LinkedIn | X @zboozee Notable Mentions:
[38:10] Josiah Mackenzie Hospitality Daily Website | LinkedIn | Instagram Personal: LinkedIn Notable Mentions:
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| S4. | E15. Onera | Fredericksburg, Texas | Co-Founder Ben Wolff’s Treehouse Landscape Hotel In The Texas Hill Country Offers An Architecturally Stunning Secluded Escape | 18 Jan 2024 | 00:46:20 | |
“My life story and career has had a lot of twists and turns. I think just starting super young,I knew I wanted to create something, to build something, to ultimately to start a business and be an entrepreneur. It just took me a long while to figure out what that was and what the thing was that I truly loved and was passionate about. All of the different aspects of my path have influenced and led to what's become Onera and a true passion for building very unique experiential and landscape hotels.” We’re in great company with Ben Wolff, Co-Founder and Developer of Onera, a treehouse landscape hotel in the Texas Hill Country. Offering a secluded, luxe, nature escape with nearly a dozen architecturally stunning glamping accommodations, Onera evokes a sense of wonder everywhere you look. Perfectly positioned just outside of the charming town of Fredericksburg, Ben and his team have curated an assortment of local recommendations and on property experiences, so guests can enjoy a sense of adventure or settle into a serene stay. In this episode, Ben shares how a series of events sparked an idea in his innate entrepreneurial mind, and how that idea has become a movement that is redefining experiential hospitality through landscape resorts, boutique hotels, and luxury retreats, starting with Onera. Top Takeaways [1:55] While Ben always had an entrepreneurial mindset, it took a career full of twists and turns, a global pandemic, a wedding day realization and a cross-country roadtrip to set his path towards creating Onera. [9:00] How Ben found a white space in the nature seeking hospitality market and what led him to fill that gap starting in Texas Hill Country. [15:20] A few words come to mind when Ben shares what he wants his guests to experience with Onera…Inspired. Enchanted. A Dream. An Oasis. [20:40] Staying at Onera comes with a dip in their signature cedar tubs, a view of deer, wild turkeys and the occasional armadillo, a communal gathering space amidst old oak trees, and curated experiences from dinner with a private chef to an in-room couple’s massage. [24:00] Take your pick from this collection of architecturally stunning accommodations - ranging from glamping to a bungalow, a dome to a stilt house, a treehouse to tiny homes - each unique in their design and experience. [31:15] There’s so much to see, sip and savor in and around the charming town of Fredericksburg, from its Hill Country wineries to its German culture and cuisine, from endless fields of wildflowers to shops full of antique finds. [33:50] A sneak peak into where Ben is taking Onera next, this time with even more focus on sustainability and sunset views. And if that’s not keeping him busy enough, Oasi is concepting a tropical fruit tree boutique hotel, what sounds like a delicious stay! Notable Mentions
Fredericksburg Shops & Restaurants:
Texas Hill Country Activities: Visit For Yourself
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| S4. | E14. SingleThread Farms | Sonoma, California | Stay, Sip & Savor A 3 Michelin & Green Michelin Star Experience At Kyle & Katina Connaughton’s Wine Country Farm, Restaurant & Inn | 11 Jan 2024 | 01:02:49 | |
“There's so many craftspeople and artisans up here. Everyone up here has a shared appreciation for seasonality and the quality of ingredients and that sort of lifestyle. And then visitors are coming to be a part of that. So we were really drawn to what a unique location that was, to not separate the agricultural side from the experiential side.” We’re in great company with Kyle & Katina Connaughton, the husband and wife duo behind SingleThread Farms, a bespoke hospitality experience earning 3 Michelin Stars and a Green Michelin Star for their farm, restaurant and inn in the center of Sonoma Wine Country. Here they work and live in harmony, Katina as the Head Farmer and Kyle as the Head Chef, to provide locally curated and crafted produce and products, one of the world’s best fine dining destinations and wine programs, paired with intimate accommodations to accompany it all. In this episode, Kyle & Katina celebrate the story of their life - their young love, dedication to family, worldly travels, love of nature, passion for creativity, and collaboration with community - painting an optimistic outlook for a world inspired by a stronger sense of seasonality and locality. Top Takeaways [2:00] How a story of young love transpired into a life of worldly travels, the pursuit of culinary and agricultural passions, the raising of a family and the eventual return home. [5:40] Kyle and Katina both found their “Ikigai,” Japanese for “your reason for being” while living in a small fishing village in Hokkaido, which has sparked great influence in their artisan collaborations, menu inspiration, seasonal purveyors and natural sense of place. [13:10] Why the Connaughton’s did not want to follow the trend and open a farm to table restaurant in a big city, instead opting to bring people directly to the source that is Sonoma Wine Country. [17:30] SingleThread both tells the story of the seamless past, present and future experiences that shape the farm, restaurant and inn and of all of the strong fibers of community members who weave together this narrative. [21:20] How Katina’s farm brings biodiversity to wine country - supplying vegetables, fruit, herbs, flowers, honey, and olive oil to Kyle’s kitchen - while inviting guests to experience this bounty through her Farm Store’s fresh produce, florals and pantry line staples, CSA boxes, workshops and field walks. [25:00] A peek into the kitchen of a 3 Michelin Star restaurant, where Kyle and his team get creative with each dish showcasing the best of what is in season, being sure to support their entire community of farmers, to nourish their own team and their community in need. [39:30] A stay at the inn is meant to feel like you’re a friend visiting the Connaughton’s home. From a nourishing breakfast to endless snacks and an intimate dinner, Kyle and Katina take great care in the attention they give their guests. [56:30] As SingleThread Farms continues to grow and flourish, guests can expect to get their hands dirty with more experiences and to have a new place to stay with an expansion of the inn under renovation. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S4. | E13. Entre Cielos | Mendoza, Argentina | Enjoy A Taste of Mendoza’s Luxury Resort For Sipping, Spa And Solitude, With Owner Cecile Adam | 04 Jan 2024 | 00:48:46 | |
“So my passion for wine got deeper. I was fascinated about the whole production here in the new world, because the new world is different. You see the people and the tourism and the wineries with huge passion. Everybody loves to talk about the wine they produce because they put their whole soul in it. And if you do a wine tasting maybe in France or in Italy, it's different, they have a different kind of manner to show what they are doing. In Mendoza, you will really be blown away about the generosity of all the wineries. So gastronomy, hospitality and wine is for me a really perfect match.” We’re in great company with Cecile Adam, Owner of Entre Cielos, Mendoza’s luxury resort for sipping, spa and solitude, where guests can savor playful yet holistic experiences set in the captivating Malbec vineyards overlooking the snow capped Andes of central west Argentina. Although she originally hails from Switzerland, Cecile left behind a career in teaching and human resources, taking a sabbatical of sorts to travel with friends, when she fell in love with Argentina and its wine culture. Today she now owns and operates one of the best hotels in one of the largest wine regions in Latin America. In this episode, Cecile expresses a refreshing spirit of risk-taking and joy-seeking adventure, which led her to create this retreat for travelers like herself - untethered by tradition and in tune with nature - which she continues to raise her glass to today. Top Takeaways [2:00] How a Swiss educator traveled the world on sabbatical, learned entrepreneurial endeavors from her father, and united her friends to go on an adventure with her which culminated in opening a wine and wellness resort in Argentina. [10:00] The best of both worlds. How Cecile brings a participative management and strategic business approach to her Argentinian team, while they show her the generous heart of Argentine culture. [14:50] While it was not love at first sight, Cecile soon found a home amongst the green oasis of Mendoza with its Andes Mountain lined skyline and clear blue skies. [18:45] As you come upon Entre Cielos, you will be greeted by a glass of wine and a stroll through sprawling vineyards and gardens abound. [22:25] Relax and reconnect in good company amidst the splendor of Latin America’s first and only authentic traditional hamam, with ancient Turkish rituals of cleansing and relaxation - healing the body, mind and soul by harnessing the restorative qualities of wine through exclusive grape-based treatments. [26:15] How Entre Cielos honors and invites guests to taste the rich history and tradition of the land and region of Mendoza, known as the birthplace of the Malbec grape. [35:00] Dine in good company with an outdoor barbecue experience and evening entertainment, traditional of an Argentinian "Asado." [40:00] "Having the ability and the privilege to create spaces and environments that people can also create their own meaningful life for themselves," inspires Cecile to empower her team which then transcends to her guests. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S4. | E12. Storied Collection | United Kingdom & Ireland | Founder Michael Goldin Tells The Stories Of The Finest Historic Castle And Estate Hotel Collection | 28 Dec 2023 | 00:37:39 | |
“It's a lot different than going to a museum. You can't touch anything in a museum, you are there for an hour and you probably get bored if you're like me. The cool thing about a lot of our houses - I think 10 out of 12 are owned by the original families and many of them live on site - so there’s a good chance that you're going to get to meet Lord and Lady Howard, or The Earl of Sandwich or The Duke of Buccleuch, right? They're cool people, they've got an incredible story to tell themselves and how they grew up running around this palatial estate and the thousands of acres that they're on.” We’re in great company with Michael Goldin, Founder and COO of Storied Collection, where he and his international community are building the finest historic castle and estate hotel collection in Europe, granting guests access to unique stays and experiences that will leave lasting memories and a deeper knowledge of history. Coming from a storied career in hospitality himself, it took a personal trip to his ancestral home in Scotland, for Michael to experience the potential for curating a collection of the most quintessential historic accommodations across the United Kingdom and Ireland, with France and Italy joining his collection in this next chapter. As we ring in the New Year - reflecting on the end of one chapter and the start of another in our own lives - this episode shares the significance of storytelling as a means of traveling through time, visiting places where these stories come to life and where history creates memories for years to come. Top Takeaways [3:00] How Michael took some criticism and turned it into a challenge, took a trip to a castle that turned out to be his ancestral home and sparked the beginning chapter of Storied Collection. [9:50] A passion for history, genealogy and ancestry, paired with a passion for hospitality. [13:10] If the walls could talk then they would share specific snapshots in time of notable family members, infamous guests, and the events that ensued - just as Storied Collection captures today. [15:20] Whether you choose to stay at an estate for a retreat or a castle for a family reunion, there are many "country pursuits" to keep you entertained - from a game of golf to whiskey tasting, falconry to fishing, foraging to rewilding. [21:20] Interested to hear if you are related to any of the Storied Collection estates? If any of your ancestors lived in a castle that you can now stay at? [25:40] How these castles and estates spread throughout Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales all played their part in their communities' heritage and history and how they continue to share and honor that culture today. [29:30] Gastronomy seekers and culinary travelers get excited...the next chapter of Storied Collection could take place in France and Italy. [31:55] "Where history creates memories," how guests can live a day in the life of aristocrats without a stuffy experience being in a museum or reading from a textbook. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S4. | E11. Kølpin Hotels | Copenhagen, Denmark | From Dancing In The Danish Royal Ballet To Choreographing The Guest Experience With Founder Alexander Kølpin | 21 Dec 2023 | 00:38:45 | |
“What is essential is the hosting, is how you meet your guests, like having a dinner party. Either you set up the date, you buy the food and serve it, or you take days in preparing how the flowers are going to be, how the music is going to sound. Seeing that whole little journey of senses and touch points. And that for me is completely the same as staging a production in a theater.” As we celebrate the festivities of the holidays with family and friends, we’re in great company with Alexander Kølpin, Founder, Owner and Creative Director of Kølpin Hotels, a collection of 3 bespoke boutique hotels in and near Copenhagen, Denmark, where he choreographs a musicality amongst his team and his guests while the hotels themselves, with their history, artistry and ambiance serve as the perfect backdrop for their experience. Helenekilde Badehotel, a historic gem and Tisvildeleje Strandhotel, a romantic gem, are both nestled along the beautiful Danish coastline in Tisvilde, encompassing a rich history filled with charm and elegance at what were once private residences. Hotel Sanders, an award winning, intimate and bespoke luxury hotel, stands with poise and grace in the historic part of Copenhagen. In this episode, Alexander showcases how his past experience in the performing arts transcended into his passion for staging experiences for his guests, his audience as he sees it, and how each moment of their stay is similar to an act in a show, ending in an anticipatory grand finale. Top Takeaways [1:45] Surrounded by creativity from an early age, Alexander Kølpin became infatuated with dancing ballet over playing ball. Given his natural talent, he studied at the Royal Danish Ballet School which transpired into a storied career as classical ballet dancer, theater director, producer & performer, and film & documentary actor & choreographer. [5:20] How Alexander’s past creative experience in the performing arts transferred across different mediums into the musicality of the hospitality experience he provides today. [10:00] Why Alexander approaches the design of his hotels with a “high end yet low key” aesthetic and atmosphere - to pay homage to their original intent as homes, inviting people to come as guests and leave as friends. [12:50] As if writing a ballet, play or movie script, Kølpin Hotels follows a dramaturgical technique when crafting the guest journey following Acts 1, 2 and 3 to build the story. [17:30] Entering Hotel Sanders is like stepping into a theater. Guests will always remain center stage, but the scenography and carefully curated interiors are the elegant and exquisite backdrop for their experience. [21:00] A hidden gem in the historic center of Copenhagen neighboring the Royal Theater and Royal Family’s residences, where guests can take a dip in the canal or stroll the neighborhood’s cobbled lanes to find countless quality restaurants, contemporary art galleries, museums, and world class shopping. [23:00] Coined the “Hampton’s of Copenhagen”, Denmark's coastal and charming town, Tisvilde, is home to Kølpin Hotel’s sister properties in Helenekilde Badehotel and Tisvildeleje Strandhotel. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S4. | E10. The Lodge at Blue Sky | Park City, Utah | Owners Barb & Mike Phillips Invite Guests To Experience Luxury With Wild Abandon This Holiday Season | 14 Dec 2023 | 00:50:17 | |
“We are 100% organic. It’s amazing what these women do, they do it all by hand. There's no machinery. It’s all muscle and all hard work, and the guests love to see that. They see what that produces and the value in doing it the way that we do it. I think a lot of people take that home with them. That's an experience that really can transform the way you do things when you learn where your food comes from.” We’re in great company with Barb Phillips, Owner of The Lodge at Blue Sky, a member of the Auberge Resorts Collection, where she and her husband Mike transformed their working ranch outside of Park City, Utah into a luxury nature retreat, wanting to share the peace of their land with the world, deciding to invite guests along their adventure. Set on 3,500 private acres surrounded by dramatic soaring peaks, high alpine fields, lush elk-dotted hillsides and a spring-fed creek, the intimate resort invites guests to reconnect with the natural environment in understated elegance, with organic architecture and cuisine that showcases the majesty of the land. In this episode, Barb shares how her whirlwind of worldly travels and career experiences left her in the hands, or should we say, hooves, of a neglected horse named Gracie, and how this chance connection led to her calling in creating The Saving Gracie Foundation and Gracie’s Farm, the spirit behind The Lodge at Blue Sky. Top Takeaways [1:45] Barb Phillips blissfully shares memorable life lessons of how things didn’t go to plan but instead happened organically, and with that how a bit of naiveté and perseverance got her through. [6:40] The story of a “Horse Thief,” her connection with a young horse named Gracie, and the series of events that changed their futures for good. [15:00] Cowboys and whiskey…what could be more Wild West? That’s exactly what the Phillips thought as they invited High West Distillery to build out their business on their property. [21:30] No matter where you stay at the lodge, if you look out your window or soak in your patio view, there’s a chance your neighbors could be mountain lions, deer, moose, oh my! [24:30] Some of the most bountiful flavors and favorite guest experiences are curated at Gracie’s Farm where a female-led team of ‘FarmHers’ cultivate deep, profound connections with the land, animals and people of Blue Sky. [33:30] Take your pick or try them all - from horseback riding to a 1800’s tavern to planting seeds and harvesting vegetables, from hiking with a biologist in search of elk to snowshoeing, skiing, and dogsledding through fresh fallen snow, from culinary and charcuterie classes to craft cocktail, wine and honey tastings. [37:10] It’s a winter wonderland at The Lodge at Blue Sky with horse drawn carriages, a cozy yurt dining experience amidst the snow, exclusive helicopter access to back country skiing, and a private hideaway on the slopes at Park City. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S4. | E9. Haweswater Hotel | Cumbria, England | Owner Steve O’Sullivan Invites You To Travel Back In Time To Celebrate Timeless Decor, Natural Surroundings, And Tasteful Dishes | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:40:12 | |
“You can look in your bedroom and it looks old fashioned, yes there might be a TV and a kettle, but fundamentally, you feel like you’re stepping back in time. We really want you to come and feel relaxed, almost as if you are in a different age. People will come and say it's like stepping into an Agatha Christie novel, and that to me is a sign of success.” We’re in great company with Steve O’Sullivan, Owner of the Haweswater Hotel, an Art Deco hotel he happened upon and meticulously restored to its former grandeur. Reminiscent of the 30’s rich textures and vivid textures, the Haweswater embodies a design defying the passage of time. Here, guests can experience this unique and characterful hotel in an extraordinarily secluded spot, set amidst a stunning haven for wildlife in the Lake District of Cumbria, England. All are welcome to go for a short stroll or pack a picnic for a long hike, sit by the fireplace sipping on a craft cocktail or savor the regional flavors refined by renowned chef Mark Greenaway. In this episode, as we begin to celebrate the festive season, Steve tells of the hotel’s storied past, how his team brings it to life today, and how he is invested in seeing it so for generations to come. Top Takeaways [1:40] From studying at Cambridge to spending a career in consulting, Steve saw a lot of similarities in his business experience that he wanted to invest in his next project - the “wounded animal” that was the Haweswater Hotel. [5:15] “You know how Google works, you try to find something and it tries to sell you something. In this case it tried to sell me a hotel.” Was it a mistake or meant to be? [6:40] Steve shares the history of the storied halls of the Haweswater Hotel over the past 90 years since its inception in 1937, a magnificent piece of Art-Deco Architecture for its time as part of the Haweswater Dam project enacted during the global depression. [13:20] What exactly is Art Deco design? “We look back on it with nostalgia, but at that time it was futuristic. A time of travel, of reinvention.” [15:50] Why staying at the Haweswater Hotel is a cross between a scene from Snow White and a visit to your slightly wealthy relative’s house. [20:45] Expect to Dine In Good Company in the English countryside - from an expertly crafted and refined tasting menu upon arrival to the hearty comfort food perfect after a long day’s hike. [32:10] The Spirit of Christmas is very much alive at the Haweswater Hotel - with the classical Christmas jazz playing as guests cozy up by the fireside with a glass of mulled wine or a plate of mince pie. Notable Mentions
Visit For Yourself | |||
| S4. | E8. La Fortuna Atitlán | Lake Atitlán, Guatemala | Stay Off Grid At One Of The Most Picture Perfect Hotels In The World With Owners Steve & Kat | 30 Nov 2023 | 00:37:21 | |
“In general, when you live in the United States and in Canada, I think to some degree we take for granted how we’re brought up with education around the environment. And I’d say the thing that we’re most proud of is that, in us building this way, has also created in the community an understanding for environmental practices which I don’t know were necessarily there before.” We’re in great company with Steve & Kat, Founders & Owners of La Fortuna Atitlán, one of Tripadvisor’s “Most Picture Perfect Hotels In The World,” located on the stunning shores of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. Since their own worldly travels and adventures seeking out this corner of paradise, Steve & Kat have spent the past 13+ years building by hand and with the support of their local community, an intimate and family friendly “nano boutique hotel,” where guests can relax in the lush jungle, soak in a wood burning jacuzzi, and enjoy one of the most spectacular lakes in the world while experiencing what it is like to live 100% off the grid. In this episode, we learn how a Canadian and American fell in love with each other, this sense of place and its people, and the dream to share it with guests from around the world. While the journey may not have been picture perfect, the experience they paint for guests certainly is. Top Takeaways [1:50] The story of how Steve, originally from Phoenix, Arizona and Kat, originally from Toronto, Canada met while traveling in Costa Rica - falling in love with each other and the dream of building a boutique hotel based on their shared knowledge of environmental protection and experience in the Latin American tourism industry. [6:00] How a young Steve and Kat spent their first two years of married life separated - Steve building La Fortuna Atitlán by himself with his bare hands in the remote wilderness of Guatemala, and Kat back in Toronto keeping business moving and the vision alive from afar. [11:40] The journey to reach La Fortuna Atitlán is worth the soothing boat ride, serene volcano views, and mystery into the hidden design of the boutique hotel itself. [13:25] Beyond their retro VW Bus placed precariously at the shoreline, Steve and Kat left their piece of jungle untouched - a 5 acre playground to explore with only 5 bungalows, all entirely off the grid, delicately set throughout. [16:20] How the impacts of their eco-hotel went beyond their intent to protect the natural environment - instilling these eco-friendly practices into their local community, with this mindful tourism driving better education and nutrition as well. [19:30] There’s something for everyone - individuals, couples, families and groups - to do, to learn, to explore, or simply to rest and enjoy around the property and the neighboring lakeside towns. [25:00] What to expect to sip on and savor while at La Fortuna Atitlán - from fresh ground coffee grown on their own finca to internationally inspired dishes created by local culinary school chefs, from a refreshing welcome drink to cocktails crafted with local rums and mezcals. Notable Mentions
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| S4. | E7. Santani Wellness | Kandy, Sri Lanka | The First & Only Luxury Wellness Resort ‘In Harmony With’ Human Sustainability & Wellbeing With Founder Vickum Nawagamuwage | 16 Nov 2023 | 01:03:43 | |
“We created a wellness paradigm that is very different from the first wellness establishments - from a yoga studio, to a wellness resort, to apps - and created a holistic approach that makes scientific sense, that makes common sense. That actually makes people understand the reality of what we are in today, rather than worry about the symptoms that they are feeling.” We’re in great company with Vickum Nawagamuwage, Founder of Santani Wellness in the serene Kandy setting of his native Sri Lanka. Here, he’s created the first and only award winning luxury wellness resort to focus on ‘human sustainability’ - where he believes that protecting the world means protecting you as a human being, and of course his guest first - providing wellbeing through every sense of the experience for body, mind and soul. Having traveled the world as a consultant, exploring his own career induced chronic stress healing journey, he found a global demand and newfound mission to address the modern mental health pandemic - starting with the ancient practices, sense of place, and welcoming hospitality of Sri Lanka. In this episode, Vickum graciously shares his own personal story, the research and evolutionary realization that he has pursued, how his guests can learn about and discover this path to wellness for themselves, and where he hopes to take this practice next. Top Takeaways [1:45] Born and raised in Sri Lanka, Vickum left to pursue a career of chasing higher education and climbing the corporate ladder in the US, where like so many others, he experienced for the first time the incredible stresses exerted on the mind and body from the struggle of modern day living. [6:15] And yet stress itself is not the enemy, it is what drives us. Vickum shares how his recent revelation about the evolution of human nature led him to realize the disparity with how we manage it today. [11:00] It used to be about survival of the fittest and thus it was most important to feed our bodies. Now, without that physical stress to survive, it is about how we train our minds to evolve, and yet we neglect to feed our minds with the necessary information and relaxation it needs. [21:30] What a shift from a curative health care system to a preventative one could look like, how Santani Wellness is leading this holistic approach to making fit not only our bodies, but our minds and spirits too, and why Sri Lanka is the perfect place to start. [29:05] A day in the life of a guest at Santani Wellness is completely customized to the individual - from the morning energizing yoga, to the meals, excursions, activities and treatments, from the evening calming yoga, to every experience and conversation in between. [32:10] How Vickum originally found this 116 acre tea plantation and pristine forest that had the “natural energy” he was looking for to evoke those feelings in guests, and how the resort’s “architecture of silence” allows nature to speak for itself to guests. [38:40] Expect to indulge in gourmet wellness cuisine following the Ayurveda philosophy of ‘Rasa Haya’ which translates to ‘six tastes', where the emphasis is on taste based nutrition balancing sweet, sour, salty, pungent (spicy), bitter and astringent (drying). [56:15] Beyond building two other locations - Kirana, a Santani Villa in Bentota and Sama, a Santani Retreat in Kosgoda - Vickum explains where he is taking the concept of Santani Wellness next. Notable Mentions Visit For Yourself | |||
| S7. | E4. Sol y Luna | Urubamba, Peru | Petit Miribel Is Creating A Bright Future For Travelers To And The Children Of The Sacred Valley | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:47:16 | |
“They have to find their own path. So maybe they go back home and then they start to be a bit more conscious about where they live. Maybe they realize that, ‘Oh, there's an amazing foundation in my village or in my town,’ and they start to support that foundation. And that's perfect. You know, our seeds of love make them a bit more human.” We’re in great company with Petit Miribel, the Founder and Owner of Sol y Luna, a luxury hotel nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas at the foothills of Machu Picchu in Peru, where the rich Andean culture and local community impact is authentic in every encounter. Sol y Luna is much more than its Relais & Châteaux distinction, its profits wholly finance the Sol y Luna Foundation which pursues inclusion and equality through education for the children of the Sacred Valley along with sustainable work opportunities for local families. In this episode, Petit sheds light on the serendipitous series of events that led her to the Sacred Valley and how once there, she felt it was her responsibility to leave her mark on future generations of children and travelers alike. Top Takeaways [2:00] After living a privileged upbringing in France, Petit was quick to recognize that much of the world was not as fortunate. After asking herself why, she recognized she had the resources to change that. [5:10] The story of how Petit found herself in Peru starts with a friendly reminder to us all, “In life, there is a path that you have to follow and that path leads you to where you belong and you have to be very respectful of not rushing into everything.” [7:47] Walking around the Sacred Valley of the Inca’s was like taking a step back in time, and not in a nostalgic way, as Petit and her husband uncovered the poverty the local schools and community hospitals were faced with in this tourist town. [11:30] The Sol y Luna Hotel was not designed with the creature comforts of home…instead Petit intentionally curated and created so much more for travelers to immerse in. [16:30] To Dine In Good Company at Sol y Luna, one does not have to go far to find the freshest ingredients in the market - gathered from the jungle or caught in the sea, and now even high-altitude craft wine is the talk of the town. [20:00] At the foothills of Machu Picchu, there are boundless expeditions to enjoy - from tandem paraglides to cycling courses, from horseback rides between remote villages to kayaks under snow capped peaks - but the next generation of Sol y Luna is taking us off the beaten path to experience so much more. [26:30] As the Sol y Luna foundation celebrates its 25th Anniversary, Petit shares how it has grown over time just as the children it touches, to consist of the Sol y Luna School, Paqari for special needs support, the Sol y Luna Home, and Roots & Wings for further education. [36:40] As Petit’s son and daughter come of age, they have much in store for the future of both the foundation and the hotel - bringing big hearts, different perspectives and fresh ideas. Notable Mentions
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| S4. | E6. Craveiral Farmhouse by Belong | Alentejo, Portugal | Chief Dream Officer Pedro Franca Pinto Is Creating A Circular Economy Starting With A Countryside Estate | 09 Nov 2023 | 00:37:15 | |
“At the time I knew I was going to be a father, I started thinking to myself what I really wanted to give as an example and a legacy. Not in a material perspective, but in terms of what I wanted to do with my life. Having kids increased that intergenerational perspective. I changed from a short term vision to a long term vision.” We’re in great company with Pedro Franca Pinto, Chief Dream Officer of Belong, a multifaceted business model where he hopes to create a sense of community and circular economy connecting agriculture and culinary experiences to hospitality and the natural environment, which he first envisioned and invented with his concept Craveiral Farmhouse, a countryside estate in Alentejo, Portugal. After starting his career as a Lisbon lawyer, Pedro had bigger dreams for future generations, wanting to impart a positive impact with the world around them, valuing a symbiotic relationship with nature above all else. Once Pedro swapped his city office for what land he could afford on the unspoiled Alentejo coast, he dove into the unfamiliar hospitality industry full of passion, purpose and curiosity. In this episode, Pedro shares how he brought Craveiral Farmhouse to life, between luxury and sustainability, between the connection to nature and the comfort of modern life. While this is his first realization of Belong, he shares much more about all that it can become. Top Takeaways [1:50] Pedro shares his life changing moment. From following his parent’s wishes in pursuing a career as a lawyer in Lisbon to becoming a parent himself and pursuing a lifestyle of positive impact that will leave a legacy. [6:30] Set alongside one of the “best coasts in Europe,” why Pedro chose the region of Alentejo to build Craveiral Farmhouse - from the unspoiled land to the circular conditions needed to support the local community. [11:45] How creating a resort with restaurants and a working farm is not the end goal, rather a means to regenerate the region through a circular economy. [17:00] Guests can expect to experience a sense of freedom and authentic countryside life - from picking strawberries, to petting goats, to finding the chickens’ eggs - while enjoying the comfort of modern amenities. [21:30] “Belong, Giving Shape To Meaning” goes beyond a sense of place to stay. We learn about how the other pillars of growing & tasting, nature, experience and school all play a part in this world Pedro is bringing to life. [27:00] Pedro explains what a future schooling system could look like where children don’t specialize in a certain career path, but rather learn to innovate and collaborate across a multitude of skill sets. [29:40] Belong will continue to expand with new properties focused on adult wellness, gastronomy paired with local wineries, and a farm to skincare product line. Notable Mentions
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| S4. | E5. Dexamenes | Peloponnese, Greece | Imagineer Nikos Karaflos Transformed A Seaside Abandoned Wine Factory Into A Conscious Luxury Resort | 02 Nov 2023 | 00:47:44 | |
“After almost one century, repurposing the building was also very significant for the people, especially the older ones, that used to remember the place from their childhood as a working factory, in its full glory. It was like reviving history in a different way with a different use.” We’re in great company with Nikos Karaflos, Imagineer of Dexamenes, a well deserved title for someone who took his previous studies, professional background and worldly travels, and created a new-generation, award-winning, conscious-luxury resort that focuses on hospitality as an experience through art, wine, nature and local culture. Inspired by his homeland in the western Peloponnese region of Greece, Nikos took a 1920’s abandoned wine factory along one of the most unspoiled stretches of coastline, and transformed it into a platform of hospitality, cultural activity and conscious wellbeing. In this episode, Nikos shares the significance of this project to his family’s past, his personal passions, and the hopes and dreams he has for his children and the generations to come that will sustain this sense of place. Top Takeaways [1:30] Nikos explains how a multifaceted career - having studied engineering, worked in architecture and now transforming hospitality, has led him to the title of “Imagineer.” [5:10] It takes one thing to design a hotel, it’s another to run it - as Nikos learned how to create a space and experience for guests’ physical needs, intellectual needs, needs to learn more about the region, the culture, the history. [7:30] How an abandoned wine factory came into the hands of the Karaflos family and what a childhood of studying the property’s history in school and playing on its sandy beaches, inspired a sense of mystery and intrigue for Nikos to one day preserve. [10:30] From the black currants or “raisins” trade era, to the need to convert the excess supply of grapes into wine, this century old wine factory stands as a landmark of this region’s agricultural past and present. [18:30] Ever wonder what it is like to stay in a wine tank with the light from the sand and sea pouring through the steel cutout door and the rich color of the grapes still staining the walls? [23:20] Nikos found a trusted team in K-Studio, a local yet world renowned architecture firm, whose restoration of the buildings themselves made sure to reduce and reuse materials in their intentional interior design and landscaping, bringing in nothing artificial to the sense of place. [31:15] What happens when you go beyond local cuisine and wine pairings, into the world of gastronomy curated with contemporary art and performance art? An immersive experience that you can only be a part of at Dexamenes. [36:10] With Ancient Olympia just down the road, local winery tours of Mercouri Estate and Brintziki Estate, shopping at the open air farmer’s market, and Greek mythology focused hikes through Folio Oak Forest, there is much to explore around western Peloponnese. Visit For Yourself | |||