The Leap Between Impossible and Done
As Hindus around the world celebrate Navratri, we spend nine nights reflecting on the many forms of the Divine and the qualities they awaken within us: courage, devotion, wisdom, perseverance, and faith. It is a fitting time to revisit one of the most enduring stories in our tradition, a story that has inspired generations not because of where it takes place, but because of what it asks of us. It is the story of a leap.
According to the Ramayana, Lord Hanuman stood on the shores of what is known today as Sri Lanka with a mission that appeared impossible. Sita had been found. Lord Rama needed to know she was alive. Between problem and solution stood an ocean. The distance was immense. The task was daunting. Yet Hanuman jumped. Whether one views the story through the lens of faith, mythology, history, or symbolism, its lesson remains remarkably relevant.
Most people remember the leap because of its scale.
I remember it because of the moment that must have preceded it. Before every great act of courage comes a moment of uncertainty. Every meaningful journey contains a moment when the gap ahead appears larger than our abilities. The entrepreneur wonders whether their idea can leave the world better than they found it. The explorer questions the route. The parent worries about the decision. The student doubts their capability. The traveler contemplates the road less taken. There is always a shoreline. There is always an ocean. And there is always a reason not to jump.
Today, traveling between Sri Lanka and India can be measured in miles and hours. Hanuman’s journey is measured differently. It is measured in courage. Because the story was never really about crossing water. It was about crossing doubt.
One of the most fascinating details of Hanuman’s story is that he initially forgot the extent of his own powers. It took others around him to remind him of who he was and what he was capable of accomplishing. Only then did he embrace his purpose and launch himself into the unknown. To me, that may be the most important part of the story.
The greatest barrier was not the distance. It was self-belief. How many times have we encountered people with extraordinary talent who underestimate themselves? How often have organizations, communities, and even entire nations focused so intensely on their limitations that they lose sight of their strengths? Sometimes we do not need new skills. We do not need new opportunities. We simply need a better memory of who we already are.
That, to me, is one of the central lessons of Navratri.
The festival is not merely a celebration of divine power. It is a reminder that courage, resilience, and purpose are available to all of us. The victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, conviction over fear, and possibility over doubt. Hanuman’s leap across the sea reflects the very same truth from a different chapter of our spiritual heritage.
Both stories ultimately ask the same question: What would happen if we stopped underestimating ourselves? As Hanuman’s journey continued, he encountered distractions, temptations, and obstacles designed to prevent him from reaching his destination. Yet none of them changed the mission. His purpose remained clear. His destination remained clear. His commitment remained clear. Perhaps that is why these stories have endured for thousands of years. They are not really about demons, oceans, or distant kingdoms. They are about us.
Every Navratri invites us to confront the obstacles in our own lives. Some are external. Many are internal. Fear. Doubt. Insecurity. Hesitation. The quiet voice that whispers, maybe this is beyond me. Hanuman heard that voice. Durga conquered that voice. And every year, Navratri challenges us to do the same. Twice a year, I embark on a 9 day fast, in observance of these 9 days. No matter where I am, it comes to a stop and I return home.
As these sacred days of Navratri unfold, perhaps the lesson is not to admire Hanuman’s leap from afar, but to identify the ocean standing before us. A challenge we have postponed because the distance seems too great.
Somewhere, right now, each of us is standing on a shoreline of our own. And perhaps that is why this story continues to resonate across centuries.
On behalf of my family, I send the brightest wishes to my brothers and sisters observing the 9 days of Navratri.
At the WTTC Global Summit in Malta, a phrase kept surfacing throughout conversations, presentations, and hallway discussions: Future Reset.
I like that phrase.
Not because it suggests we need to tear everything down and rebuild from scratch. Quite the opposite. A reset is not a beginning. It is a moment of reflection. A pause. An opportunity to evaluate what is working, what is no longer serving us, and what future we are actively choosing to create.
Travel has always been a force for transformation. Today, it is also one of the world’s most powerful economic engines.
One statistic shared during the opening session particularly stood out. Over the last five years, one out of every three jobs created globally came from travel and tourism. Think about that for a moment. At a time when conversations are increasingly focused on artificial intelligence, automation, and workforce disruption, our industry is projected to create roughly 89 million new jobs over the next decade.
That reality changes the conversation.
Rather than asking whether technology will replace people, perhaps the better question is: How do we use technology to make travel better for people?
That challenge was at the heart of many discussions in Malta.
One Traveler. One Identity. One Journey.
Anyone who travels regularly understands the friction that still exists in the system.
We prove who we are at check-in. Then again at security. Then at immigration. Then at boarding.
The traveler has become accustomed to standing in lines.
Yet the technology now exists to rethink the entire experience.
One of the summit’s priorities centered on creating a truly seamless journey through digital identity, biometrics, and AI-powered systems. The vision is straightforward: one traveler, one identity, one journey.
Importantly, the conversation was not about sacrificing security for convenience. It was about delivering both.
The best travel experiences are often the ones we barely notice. They simply flow.
Growth Must Be Managed, Not Chased
Another topic that received significant attention was destination management.
For decades, success was measured by arrival numbers. More visitors meant more growth.
Today, we know the equation is more complicated.
The goal can no longer be growth for growth’s sake. Growth must benefit residents, preserve culture, protect natural assets, and improve the visitor experience simultaneously.
Some destinations are wrestling with over-tourism. Others are seeking ways to attract new investment and visitation. Both challenges require thoughtful planning and collaboration.
The future belongs to destinations that understand balance.
Sustainability Is No Longer Optional
There was a time when sustainability sat on the side of the conversation.
Those days are over.
The discussions in Malta reflected a clear understanding that environmental stewardship, community well-being, and economic prosperity are interconnected.
This is something we have believed at Big Five for many years. Travel has the power to protect wildlife, preserve cultures, create economic opportunity, and build understanding across borders. But only when growth occurs responsibly.
The challenge moving forward is simple to articulate and much harder to execute: Continue growing while simultaneously reducing our footprint.
That is the assignment before all of us.
Technology Without Responsibility Is Not Progress
Artificial intelligence was a recurring theme throughout the summit.
Predictably so.
Every industry is asking similar questions. How do we deploy these tools? What opportunities do they create? What risks must be managed?
What impressed me was the focus on responsible adoption.
Technology should enhance the human experience, not diminish it.
Travel, after all, remains a profoundly human endeavor. We travel to connect. We travel to learn. We travel to be transformed by cultures, landscapes, and perspectives different from our own.
No algorithm can replace that.
The winners in the next decade will be organizations that successfully blend technological capability with human connection.
Preparing for the Unexpected
If recent years have taught our industry anything, it is that disruption is inevitable.
Whether the challenge is health-related, environmental, geopolitical, or economic, preparedness matters.
One of the summit’s eight priorities focused on crisis readiness and recovery.
The question is no longer whether a crisis will occur.
The question is whether organizations, destinations, and governments are prepared when it does.
Resilience is becoming just as important as innovation.
The Power of Partnership
Perhaps the most important takeaway from Malta was also the simplest.
None of these priorities can be achieved alone.
Governments cannot solve them independently.
Private industry cannot solve them independently.
True progress requires collaboration.
This is where organizations like WTTC play a vital role. By bringing together public and private stakeholders, sharing research, measuring impact, and creating common objectives, they help transform ideas into action.
And action is what matters now.
The summit concluded with a challenge to industry leaders: move beyond discussion. Invest. Innovate. Develop talent. Implement solutions.
In other words, lead.
Looking Toward 2030
One of the most encouraging aspects of the summit was the presence of more than 100 young participants representing 40 countries.
As I watched these future leaders engage with today’s decision-makers, I was reminded that our industry has always been multi-generational. We inherit it from those before us, and we have a responsibility to strengthen it for those who come next.
The future reset is not really about technology.
It is not about biometrics. It is not even about growth.
It is about making deliberate choices today that create a stronger travel ecosystem tomorrow.
Change is powerful. It always has been. The question is whether we simply react to change or whether we help shape it.
Leaving Malta, I am convinced our industry has both the opportunity and the responsibility to do the latter.
And that journey has already begun.
My colleague Gisela, is currently in Colombia. Her adventure started with some drama, however you wouldn’t believe me if I told you what happened. I’ll let Gisela explain.
Enjoy her words and video.
Colombia’s Caribbean Coast: The Journey Beyond Tayrona
Tayrona National Park was supposed to be the story.
With its jungle-covered mountains tumbling into the Caribbean Sea, Colombia’s most celebrated national park draws travelers from around the world. It was meant to be the centerpiece of my journey along the country’s northern coast.
Then, just before I arrived, the park closed.
Fortunately, Colombia has a way of rewarding travelers who embrace the unexpected.
What followed was not the journey I had planned, but perhaps a more revealing one. It led through fishing communities built above the water, conversations with artisans preserving generations-old traditions, encounters with Indigenous wisdom, and a coastal region quietly redefining itself through sustainability and conservation.
Life Between Lagoon and Sea
The detour began aboard a small boat crossing the vast waterways of the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta.
This is a world shaped by water. Mangrove forests stretch across the horizon. Fishing boats move between communities. The rhythm feels slower here, dictated less by schedules and more by nature itself.
Along the way, we met José, a blue crab fisherman whose family has worked these waters for generations.
As we drifted beside his boat, he explained not only how he catches crab, but how community life continues to operate much as it has for decades. Trust still carries value. Neighbors exchange goods. Payments are sometimes made days later. Relationships often matter more than transactions.
For visitors, it offers a glimpse into a way of life increasingly rare in the modern world.
Nueva Venecia: A Community Floating on the Water
Then came Nueva Venecia.
The village appears almost unexpectedly from the lagoon. Homes stand on stilts above the water. Boats replace cars. Wooden walkways connect families, schools, shops, and gathering places.
Yet what makes Nueva Venecia remarkable is not its architecture.
It is the fact that this is not a living museum or a carefully curated attraction. It is a thriving community that continues to evolve in harmony with the ecosystem that surrounds it.
Children navigate the waterways with ease. Fishermen repair nets outside their homes. Families gather in shaded spaces overlooking the lagoon.
Life unfolds not despite the water, but because of it.
Around Yolanda’s Table
One of the most memorable moments came not on the lagoon but around a lunch table.
Yolanda welcomed us into her home and prepared a traditional meal of fried fish, coconut rice, and patacones.
Like many of the best travel experiences, it was not the food alone that stood out. It was the conversation.
Stories about family, daily life, and community flowed as naturally as the meal itself. In a region celebrated for its landscapes, it was a reminder that people often leave the deepest impression.
Nearby, artisan Edrulfo continues another important tradition, transforming locally harvested junco into handcrafted works that reflect the cultural heritage of the wetlands.
The pieces are beautiful.
The knowledge behind them is even more valuable.
Where Ancient History Still Feels Present
Further east, the journey led to Tayronaka.
Ancient stone terraces hidden among the forest reveal traces of the Tayrona civilization that once flourished throughout this region.
Yet history here feels far from distant.
Later, while floating down the Don Diego River toward the Caribbean, we met a Mamo, one of the spiritual leaders who safeguard ancestral knowledge within the Sierra Nevada.
The conversation unfolded where river, jungle, mountains, and sea converge.
It was impossible not to recognize how deeply connected the region’s Indigenous communities remain to the landscapes that have sustained them for centuries.
Barranquilla’s Reinvention
The journey continued in Barranquilla, a city many travelers know only in passing.
What I discovered was a destination actively transforming itself.
Along the Magdalena River, former industrial spaces have given way to public parks, gathering spaces, and waterfront promenades. Areas once overlooked are becoming centers of community life.
The same commitment can be seen at Mallorquín, where restoration efforts have revitalized an ecosystem at the meeting point of river and sea.
Today, visitors can explore the wetlands, paddle through the waterways, and witness a remarkable example of environmental recovery.
It is proof that conservation is not only about protecting the wild places that remain, but also restoring those nearly lost.
The Artisans of Usiacurí
The final stop was Usiacurí.
Colorful streets and murals offer an immediate welcome, but the true story lies within the workshops scattered throughout town.
Generations of artisans have preserved the tradition of weaving Iraca palm into hats, jewelry, bags, and decorative pieces that have become synonymous with the community.
Sitting alongside local craftspeople, I quickly learned something every visitor discovers: what appears effortless is anything but.
Each piece represents countless hours of practice, patience, and craftsmanship.
The result is not simply a souvenir.
It is a tradition carried forward by hand.
The Story Beyond the Itinerary
I arrived in Colombia expecting Tayrona National Park to define this journey.
Instead, the most memorable moments happened beyond its borders.
They were found beside fishermen’s boats in the Ciénaga Grande. Around Yolanda’s table in Nueva Venecia. Along the Don Diego River. In the workshops of Usiacurí and the restored wetlands of Barranquilla.
Tayrona may have closed its gates.
The Caribbean coast opened countless others.
Welcome back to a journey within. As we go through our year of discovery, we are honored to continue Mahen’s Alphabet of Emotional Intelligence. First launched last January of 2025, this series remains a vital part of Mahen’s enduring legacy, exploring the inner landscapes that shape how we experience the world. Join us as we continue our trek through the alphabet, uncovering the emotional tools that continue to enrich our travels and our lives.
T: Transformation: Embrace personal growth and change.
Transformation through personal growth and change is a powerful journey. Embracing it means being open to new experiences, learning from challenges, and continuously evolving. It often starts with self-awareness, where we recognize areas in our life that need improvement or adjustment. This could involve adopting new habits, letting go of limiting beliefs, or finding new perspectives. Transformation is a profound process of change, often involving the shift from one state to another, whether on a personal, group, or even global level. It reflects growth, adaptation, and evolution—both inwardly and outwardly
The key is to welcome change with a positive mindset. Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but with patience and persistence, each small step contributes to a more fulfilling and enriched version of ourself. Growth is an ongoing process, and embracing it brings resilience, wisdom, and a deeper sense of purpose. Transformation often begins within, requiring self-reflection, a desire to grow, and sometimes, overcoming challenges. Personal Transformation involves shedding old habits, beliefs, and attitudes that no longer serve us.
Let’s see about Health Transformation: Someone might embrace change by adopting a healthier lifestyle—starting an exercise routine, changing our diet, or addressing mental health issues like stress or anxiety. Over time, these small changes lead to better physical and emotional well-being.
Transformation through personal growth is not a one-time event; it’s a lifelong process. As we continue to grow, we realize there is always room for more learning, new experiences, and deeper self-awareness. This journey is powerful because it ultimately leads us to a place where we are more aligned with our authentic self, living with purpose, resilience, and inner peace.
Transformation is not just about changing what we do but evolving who we are — into someone who understands their value, embraces change, and thrives through life’s inevitable challenges. These small changes can lead to a richer, more fulfilled life. Transformation is deeply interconnected with human experience, spirituality, and the quest for meaning, making it a powerful topic to inspire and motivate others.
“Transformation literally means going beyond our form.” — Wayne Dyer
Stay tuned for letter U
This is your reminder that we are now just 90 days away from the start of the holiday travel season. There is still some last-minute holiday availability out there for your procrastinating travelers. Ask about it. And please let them know we’re thinking of them. In fact, we’ve derived a scientific formula to help identify where they are in their planning journey.
Introducing the ProcrastiWatch.
It seems that while some travelers may be running late on planning their year-end travel, they are always right on time for their favorite hobby, sporting event, or seasonal indulgence. So let’s combine the two.
365 Days Out
The spa weekends are booked as a mea culpa to the family for missing out on holiday travel this year. It’s also the perfect time to start talking about next year’s festive season.
120 Days Out
Final exams are approaching. The kids are stressed. The parents are stressed. The dog is probably stressed. Thoughts of getting away are elevated. Feed the urge.
90 Days Out
Pumpkin spice returns to Starbucks. It’s my birthday month. It’s not too late yet, but we’re becoming concerned. Holiday travel is still salvageable, but the runway is getting shorter.
60 Days Out
Halloween prep is underway. Baseball playoffs are heating up. College football is in full swing. NFL standings suddenly become very important. Holiday travel is on the to-do list. Tailgating is above it.
Nothing gets done. (Thanksgiving prep is already underway in Canada.)
30 Days Out
The NFL and college football are entering crunch time. The NBA season has tipped off. Thanksgiving prep is underway in the United States. The family asks, “So what are we doing for the holidays?” At this point, the procrastinator wakes up, laughs nervously, and begins quietly panicking. We can still help. But wow, this is getting last minute.
3 Days Before Departure
See Step 1.
Enjoy the video. 90 days left, go Gators
One of the reasons Big Five is ahead of the product curve, is our constant exploration. So far in 2026, team members have been in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Egypt, Japan, Kenya (twice), Uganda, India, and even Panama. Coming up, we have team members going to Colombia, Egypt again, Ecuador, and Peru. Speaking of Peru, which is Big Five’s top destination globally, we have 3 visits this year, by three separate team members.
Guess what? None of us are going to Machu Picchu.
At all.
Not even heading to Cusco!
We have a three part dispatch planned for Peru, from three separate perspectives. Below is part I, written by my colleague Susie, who found herself glamping in the Nor Yauyos Conchas Reserve. If you never heard of that part of Peru… we know. That’s why Susie was there.
Enjoy her dispatch and video.
“This was a much-anticipated trip, years in the making. Having traveled to Peru several times, I wanted this journey to be different – to go beyond “Peru 101” – the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. I wanted to experience a side of the country where I wasn’t rubbing shoulders with other travelers. I was looking for something deeper and more personal, where the pace was slower, the landscapes more expansive, and there was time to pause and truly take them in without crowds competing for the same view. I wanted to engage with local communities rather than follow a line of visitors, and experience Peru in a way that felt less like checking off the highlights and more like uncovering something for myself. That desire took me well beyond the familiar tourist route, from Lima’s Barranco neighborhood to the remote cloud forests of Chachapoyas and, ultimately, the dramatic landscapes and welcoming communities of the Nor Yauyos Conchas Reserve. Along the way, I discovered that some of Peru’s most rewarding experiences are found far from its most famous sites. Void of tourists, there was time to slow down, notice the small details, connect with people, and appreciate the remarkable sense of place. And perhaps most surprisingly, traveling beyond Peru’s most iconic sites made a country I thought I knew feel entirely new.
I began my journey in Barranco, Lima’s bohemian neighborhood and one of the city’s most characterful areas. Colorful, creative, and full of personality, Barranco blends colonial architecture with contemporary art, independent boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. There is a wonderfully relaxed rhythm to the neighborhood, with locals lingering over coffee, artists and designers showcasing their work, and beautifully weathered buildings adding to its unmistakable sense of place. Hotel B, a restored Belle Époque mansion, captures the essence of Barranco. Artistic, relaxed, historic and just a little unconventional, it is much more connected to the personality of Lima than a classic luxury hotel.
And then there’s the food – which is, of course, a WOW! Peru has earned its reputation as the culinary capital of South America, and Lima is at the heart of it all. While the city is home to celebrated restaurants such as Maido, named the World’s Best Restaurant in 2025 and notoriously difficult to book, I found myself drawn to the smaller, more personal places that offer a different perspective on Lima’s food scene. Fernandini, also in Barranco, is one of those gems. Chef Rodrigo Fernandini draws on Peru’s rich culinary heritage while giving traditional flavors a contemporary interpretation, with ingredients representing the country’s coast, Andes, and Amazon. It is a wonderful example of how Lima’s culinary scene continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in Peru.
Another highlight was Horneando Ando, an intimate, closed-door restaurant that serves flavorful Peruvian cuisine in a warm, home-like setting. There’s nothing pretentious about it – the food is comforting, the hospitality is personal, and owners Kleiber and Mannie are right there in the kitchen. The experience feels genuine and unhurried, offering a wonderful taste of local Lima that you simply don’t get at the city’s more high-profile gastronomic destinations.
It was then off to Amazonas to explore Chachapoyas, one of Peru’s most intriguing and lesser-visited destinations, tucked away in the cloud forests of the Andes. Known as the gateway to the ancient Chachapoya civilization, which flourished centuries before the Inca, the region is a fascinating combination of dramatic mountain scenery, mist-shrouded cloud forests, archaeological treasures, and spectacular waterfalls. My deep dive into the Chachapoya began at the Leymebamba museum showcasing the archaeological treasures discovered in the surrounding cloud forests. The museum is particularly known for its collection of mummies and funerary objects, including more than 200 mummified individuals recovered from the nearby Laguna de los Cóndores. I explored Kuelap, an extraordinary pre-Inca fortress perched high above the Utcubamba Valley as well as hiked to the nearby Gocta Waterfall that plunges through lush Andean forest. The region is also home to the mysterious Karajía sarcophagi, impressive funerary figures carved high into the cliffs.
Another part of the appeal is the opportunity to stay in places that are as connected to the destination as the experiences themselves.
During my time in the region, I spent two nights at Rangra Wasi, a beautiful eco-lodge just outside Leymebamba. A true labor of love for owners Alvaro and Patricia, they transformed a once-overgrown slope of land into a thriving ecosystem of gardens and native plants. Birding is a real highlight here, with the surrounding habitat attracting a wonderful variety of species. What makes Rangra Wasi so special is the personal touch – it feels more like staying in someone’s home rather than a hotel. It’s peaceful, wonderfully remote, and exactly the place to linger a little longer.
Gocta Natura offered a different setting but created much the same sense of connection. Located in the countryside near Gocta Waterfall, the lodge is surrounded by mountains and open landscapes, making it an ideal place to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. The real heart of Gocta Natura, however, is its owner, Rocío. Her connection to the land, support of the local communities, and pride in what she has created are evident throughout the property, and her warm hospitality makes a stay here feel especially genuine. This is not about luxury in the traditional sense. It is about simplicity, comfort, beautiful surroundings, and complete immersion in the landscape.
And just when I thought the journey couldn’t take me somewhere any more unexpected, I flew back to Lima and took to the roads on a six-hour 4WD drive to the Nor Yauyos Conchas Reserve. The drive was not for the faint of heart. Much of the route is unpaved, with narrow, one-lane roads winding along steep mountainsides and around sharp bends. At times, it feels as though there is barely enough room for two vehicles to pass, adding a little excitement to the journey. Very few travelers make their way to the Nor Yauyos Conchas Reserve. In fact, according to official 2025 figures, only about 1,200 international visitors visited the reserve that year. To put that into perspective, Machu Picchu receives roughly the same number of visitors in just three hours!
Tucked into the highlands south of Lima, the reserve was the perfect way to end my Peruvian adventure and another reminder of just how much there is to discover beyond the country’s most well-known destinations. After the archaeological wonders and cloud forests of Chachapoyas, the reserve offered something completely different – dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, turquoise rivers, cascading waterfalls, and small villages seemingly tucked into the mountainsides. But what stayed with me most was the strong sense of community. Communities such as Laraos come together to build houses, till the land, share their bounties, and break bread at the end of the day. This sense of community is also part of what makes traveling through Nor Yauyos Conchas so rewarding. Rather than just passing through a beautiful landscape, you have opportunities to meet the people who live here, learn about their traditions, and see how closely their lives remain tied to the mountains, rivers, and agricultural lands around them.
My base was Huaycana Glamping, which was an experience in itself. Set in the spectacular landscape of the reserve, the property offers a wonderfully different way to experience this remote corner of Peru. While Huancaya is a popular escape for travelers from Lima and other parts of Peru, drawn by its impressive waterfalls and striking turquoise lagoons, it remains relatively unknown to international travelers. The accommodations at Huaycana Glamping are simple but comfortable, allowing the surrounding landscape to take center stage. Waking up to sweeping mountain views and open skies, with the sounds of nature replacing the noise of everyday life, was a pretty wonderful way to start each day. A visit to the nearby community of Huancaya added another dimension to the experience, connecting the destination and its people.
The communities of Laraos and Huancaya are both small, with approximately 100–200 residents in each, and roughly 30% are involved in tourism. This makes the impact of each visit especially meaningful. Tourism allows residents to share their traditions and keep them alive – from agricultural activities and traditional pachamancas to music and other community experiences. Rather than simply observing, travelers have the opportunity to experience these traditions firsthand and gain a genuine glimpse into everyday life.
That was one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey through Peru. From the creative energy of Barranco and the ancient history of Chachapoyas to the remote landscapes of Nor Yauyos Conchas, each destination revealed a different side of a country I thought I knew.
After several trips to Peru, I came home with a renewed appreciation for how much there is still to explore and a reminder that the places farthest from the traditional tourist trail can often leave the deepest impression.
Normally, this week would be a static message about the long weekend. However, the Spirit of Big Five Foundation has been involved with key members of our community in Colombia to bring much needed relief to the area of Choco, Colombia, hardest hit by the recent earthquake. Aid has been very slow here, and as of this writing, the power has been cut off as well. This was after heavy rains earlier in the week caused flooding that prevented help from being deployed earlier.
This week also coincides with the next letter in my late father’s alphabet of emotional intelligence. S for surrender, which is pretty appropriate considering the topic.
Colombia has a way of staying with you. After 44 visits and running in-country operations since 2006, it stops being a destination on an itinerary. It becomes family.
When an earthquake hits, places like Quibdó—tucked deep along the rivers of Chocó—are too easily overlooked once initial headlines fade. The tremors tore through the town, and Doña Anna’s community center took a heavy hit: a collapsed roof section and destroyed cooking stoves.
Instead of waiting around for outside permission to rebuild, Doña Anna gathered her women’s cooperative and fired up whatever makeshift flame they could find. Working through rolling blackouts, they started cooking hot meals around the clock to feed frontline recovery volunteers and neighbors who had lost everything. That isn’t just resilience; that is pure grit.
Backing Anna through The Spirit of Big Five Foundation, alongside our longtime project partner Brian Johnston of Via Cocina in Medellín, was pure instinct. The local neighborhood around Via Cocina pulled together immediately, loading an overland truck with the unglamorous essentials of survival: construction bricks, commercial cooking burners, utility water tanks, and staple food supplies.
Then Chocó reminded everyone that nature writes the schedule. Right after the truck arrived, a massive storm flash-flooded Quibdó, submerging cars to their windshields and stalling deployment. But the water drained, the team pivoted, and the cargo moved through. Brian touched down in Quibdó on Tuesday, met at the airport by Sharon, ready to get to work alongside Sharon, Andrea, Mari, and Doña Anna.
In Chocó, plans are living things. You stay flexible, look out for one another, and move to the rhythm of the community. On Wednesday, the team spent the day at Doña Anna’s center tackling the project’s single biggest bottleneck: sourcing and hiring trusted local masons and builders. By day’s end, the crew was locked in, the debris was being cleared, and the truckload of bricks, tanks, and burners was staged to rebuild the roof and restore the kitchen.
Here is what the blueprint looks like on the ground for the rest of the week:
True impact is never about wiring a check from an air-conditioned office and calling it philanthropy. It is about showing up where it matters, listening to the local leaders who actually run the ground game, and getting your hands dirty with bricks, burners, and an apron.
Huge respect to Brian, Sharon, Andrea, Mari, and the entire Medellín community for turning solidarity into immediate, tangible action. Once the dust settles on this week’s work, we will know what phase two demands.
Because when a place is family, you don’t look away.
Mahen’s Next Letter
S – Surrender: Finding Strength in Letting Go
Autumn, with its fading leaves and rich colors, symbolizes the beauty of Surrender. Unlike the freshness of spring or the pride of summer, autumn teaches us the wisdom, the Surrender. It knows the limits of life and embraces them with grace.
Surrendering isn’t about giving up; it’s a conscious decision to release the need to control every outcome. It’s about realizing that while effort is essential, the final result is often out of our hands. Surrender asks us to trust the process—whether it’s in relationships, careers, or life’s challenges.
Surrender brings peace. When we release the need to manage every detail, we free ourselves from anxiety. Life flows naturally when we accept that not everything is in our hands, and that’s perfectly fine.
Surrender invites possibilities. By letting go of rigid expectations, we open the door to outcomes that might be even better than what we envisioned. Sometimes, the universe has plans far greater than what we could have imagined. Surrender doesn’t mean weakness—it’s a way to embrace life with openness and trust.
Surrendering is a way of making space for those blessings to unfold. When we Surrender, we acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers, and that’s when we allow a higher power, intuition, or the universe to guide us. This trust cultivates resilience and inner strength.
In the end, Surrender is about aligning with the flow of life, accepting the present moment fully, and letting go of resistance. It’s not about inaction but about releasing what’s out of our control. Through Surrender, we invite the possibility of living a life more beautiful than we ever dreamed.
Surrender to what is, let go of what was, and have faith in what will be.” — Sonia Ricotti
My colleague Colin has been busy exploring South and Southern Africa on an inspection adventure. As a former safari guide with decades of experience in the field, Colin takes us beyond marketing and evaluates a property through the lens of guest experience, guiding quality, and sense of place. Below is his Third Dispatch, from the Ngamo Concession, Zambezi National Park, and Victoria Falls, in Zimbabwe.
“From the Winelands, I made my way north to Victoria Falls, a destination that many travelers visit for the famous waterfall but often leave talking about so much more. What struck me during this visit was how diverse the experiences can be. Within a relatively small area, you can combine wildlife, river adventures, luxury lodges, and one of the natural wonders of the world.
The property that stood out most to me was Matetsi Victoria Falls.
I arrived late in the evening and departed early the next morning, so I did not have much opportunity to photograph the rooms. What I did experience, however, left a lasting impression. Dinner was served in a beautiful bush setting beneath the stars, creating the kind of atmosphere that reminds you why a safari is about much more than just wildlife sightings.
Matetsi’s location is one of its greatest strengths. Set within a private reserve along the Zambezi River, the property offers the feeling of being deep in the wilderness while still allowing guests easy access to Victoria Falls. Being closer to Botswana also puts it in an area known for productive wildlife viewing. The guides were excellent, the safari vehicles first class, and the service throughout was seamless. For travelers who want the best of both worlds, meaningful game viewing alongside a visit to the Falls, Matetsi delivers an experience that is difficult to beat.
Another property I visited was The Elephant Camp.
One of the highlights here is the opportunity for guests to enjoy the elephant interaction experiences for which the camp has become well known. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the elevated setting provides wonderful views across the surrounding landscape.
What I liked most was how easy it is to combine all the activities around Victoria Falls from here. Guests can spend the morning exploring the Falls, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, and return to a peaceful lodge environment in the evening. For travelers looking to experience everything the destination has to offer, The Elephant Camp provides an excellent base.
A little further along the Zambezi is Old Drift Lodge.
This is one of those properties that captures the spirit of the river beautifully. Positioned within the Zambezi National Park, guests wake up surrounded by nature while remaining close enough to enjoy all the classic Victoria Falls excursions.
The rooms are thoughtfully designed and blend naturally into the environment, while the location allows visitors to combine safari activities with time at the Falls. As someone who has spent a lifetime traveling to wildlife destinations, I particularly enjoy places that allow guests to experience multiple sides of a destination without having to compromise.
Perhaps the property that surprised me most was Mpala Jena.
Getting there is part of the adventure. The journey begins with a speedboat transfer up the Zambezi River, weaving through channels and navigating rapids. By the time you arrive, there is already a sense that you have left the bustle of town behind and entered a much more remote corner of the river.
The camp itself is elegant, intimate, and beautifully positioned along the banks of the Zambezi. Although I only stopped for lunch rather than spending the night, the warmth of the staff made an immediate impression. Everyone I met was welcoming, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the property.
The food was excellent, the atmosphere relaxed, and the river setting creates a wonderful sense of tranquility. For families and groups traveling together, the private villas offer an outstanding option and make the property particularly appealing for multi-generational travel.
Back in Victoria Falls town, I also had the opportunity to visit Palm River Hotel.
This property occupies a unique niche, allowing guests to stay right on the banks of the Zambezi while remaining close to the attractions, restaurants, and energy of Victoria Falls itself.
The hotel is exceptionally well maintained and offers a relaxed riverside atmosphere. During my visit, I spent some time getting to know the general manager and was impressed by his hands-on involvement and enthusiasm for the guest experience. It is always encouraging to see that level of personal commitment, as it often sets the tone for the entire property.
One of the standout experiences here is the evening barbecue along the riverbank. As the sun begins to set over the Zambezi and the sounds of the river take over, it creates one of those simple but memorable African moments that guests tend to remember long after their journey has ended.
From Victoria Falls, I continued toward Hwange National Park and the Ngamo Concession, an area renowned for its impressive wildlife and conservation efforts.
Hwange remains one of southern Africa’s great safari destinations. The landscapes feel vast and untamed, and throughout my visit there was always the sense that something could appear around the next bend in the road. Large elephant herds, productive waterholes, and excellent guiding combine to create the kind of safari experience that keeps drawing visitors back year after year.
I spent time learning more about the Bomani and Camelthorn camps, both operated by Imvelo Safari Lodges in the wildlife-rich Ngamo area. What makes these camps particularly interesting is that they offer far more than traditional game drives.
One of the signature experiences is the famous Elephant Express, a uniquely Zimbabwean adventure that transports guests through the heart of the concession by rail. Guests can also take part in rhino tracking experiences and visit community projects supported by Imvelo’s long-standing conservation initiatives. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of both the wildlife and the people who share the landscape.
As someone who spent many years guiding in India, I have always believed that some of the most memorable wildlife experiences happen when guests gain a deeper appreciation for the story behind a destination. Wildlife sightings are always exciting, but understanding the conservation work, meeting the people involved, and seeing firsthand how tourism supports local communities often leaves the greatest impression.
As I continued through Hwange, I found myself reflecting on just how fortunate I’ve been to spend much of my career exploring some of the world’s great wildlife destinations. While my guiding years were spent in India, they taught me lessons that have stayed with me wherever I travel: slow down, pay attention to the details, and remember that the best wildlife experiences are rarely just about the wildlife.
Whether you’re tracking a tiger through the forests of Ranthambore or watching elephants gather around a waterhole in Hwange, the anticipation is often as rewarding as the sighting itself. It is the sounds of the bush, the changing light, the stories shared by local guides, and the sense of connection to a landscape that create lasting memories.
Returning to southern Africa always reminds me why the region remains one of the world’s premier safari destinations. I’ve visited many times over the years, yet every journey seems to reveal something new. Sometimes it is a remarkable wildlife encounter. Other times it is meeting a passionate guide, hearing about a successful conservation initiative, or simply discovering a fresh perspective on a place I thought I knew well.
What stood out during this visit was how naturally Victoria Falls and Hwange complement one another. Victoria Falls delivers one of the continent’s most spectacular natural wonders, while Hwange offers the kind of authentic safari experience that has drawn travelers to Africa for generations. Together they showcase the incredible diversity of the region, from the power of the Zambezi River to the vast wilderness and wildlife of Zimbabwe’s largest national park.
The camps and lodges I visited each offered their own perspective on these landscapes, but the common thread was the quality of the people behind them. Great guides, attentive staff, dedicated conservationists, and passionate managers all contribute to experiences that go far beyond simply providing a place to stay.
After decades of travel, I’ve come to appreciate that the destinations I remember most are not necessarily those with the biggest wildlife sightings or the most luxurious accommodations. They are the places that leave you with a sense of connection: to the landscape, to the wildlife, and to the people who call these remarkable places home. This journey through Victoria Falls and Hwange was a wonderful reminder of exactly that.”
My colleague Colin has been busy exploring South Africa and parts of Southern Africa on an inspection adventure. As a former safari guide with decades of experience in the field, Colin takes us beyond marketing and evaluates a property through the lens of guest experience, guiding quality, and sense of place. Below is his second dispatch, now from the Western Cape.
“After Pilanesberg, I arrived in Cape Town late in the evening and spent the next several days visiting a number of hotels throughout the city and surrounding Winelands. As is often the case, some properties didn’t quite live up to expectations, but a few stood out for all the right reasons.
One of the first hotels worth mentioning is The Winchester, part of the V&A Collection, located in the upscale seaside neighborhood of Sea Point. Its location is one of its biggest strengths. With ocean views directly across from the Sea Point Promenade, guests have easy access to one of Cape Town’s most popular places for walking, running, or simply watching the Atlantic Ocean roll in. It is a solid option for clients looking for a stylish stay outside the busy V&A Waterfront area.
My personal favorite in Cape Town, however, is Mount Nelson. The property has always carried a strong reputation, but experiencing it firsthand reminded me why it remains such an iconic hotel. The grounds are beautiful, the rooms are elegant without feeling overdone, and the setting beneath Table Mountain is hard to beat. More importantly, the service feels genuine and effortless. If I were choosing a hotel for myself in Cape Town, this would be it.
Moving into the Winelands, two properties stood above the rest.
Leeu Estates, located just outside Franschhoek, delivers exactly what many guests imagine when they picture South African wine country. The estate feels private and tranquil, yet it’s only a short drive from town. The rooms are excellent, the service is polished, and the surrounding vineyards and mountains create the kind of scenery that makes guests slow down and stay a little longer.
A short drive away, near Stellenbosch, is Delaire Graff Estate. This is luxury done right. The rooms are exceptional, the views across the vineyards and mountain ranges are spectacular, and every aspect of the guest experience feels well thought out. It is one of those properties I would book without hesitation. Simply put, it delivers on every level.
For more active travelers, Babylonstoren offers something completely different. Set on a vast working wine estate, it encourages guests to get out and explore. Each accommodation unit includes bicycles, making it easy to ride through the vineyards, orchards, gardens, and around the property’s lakes. There are walking trails, farm experiences, wine tastings, and enough activities to keep even the most energetic guests occupied. It’s also an excellent option for multi-generational families thanks to its larger villa accommodations. Located about 15 to 20 minutes from Franschhoek, it offers a unique blend of luxury and outdoor living.
From the Winelands, I continued on to Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, another property that falls firmly into the “sell with confidence” category. Everything here operates at an exceptionally high level. Owner Michael Lutzeyer remains actively involved in the property, and that attention to detail is evident throughout the guest experience. The staff are outstanding, the activities are varied and meaningful, and the overall atmosphere feels both luxurious and authentic. One of Grootbos’s greatest advantages is its location overlooking Walker Bay, one of the world’s best places for land-based whale watching. Between now and October, guests have the opportunity to witness Southern Right whales gathering in the bay, often visible directly from the property. Combined with the reserve’s natural beauty and exceptional hospitality, it becomes a destination in its own right rather than simply another lodge on an itinerary.”
Stay tuned for Part III with Colin, from the interior of Zimbabwe, beyond the falls.
Our hearts go out to all those affected by this morning’s earthquake in the impacted regions of Colombia, particularly Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and the Eje Cafetero.
We are closely monitoring the situation on the ground and, out of an abundance of caution, have already redirected itineraries away from the affected areas. While assessments continue, much of the country remains unaffected and is operating normally.
Like so many times before, the resilience of the Colombian people is nothing short of extraordinary. Humanitarian efforts are now being organized and mobilized as authorities and local communities assess the needs in the impacted regions.
Thankfully, all of our team members have checked in safe, including our newest team member based in Cali. All current and immediately upcoming guests have been accounted for and contacted.
Big Five Tours & Expeditions has been committed to Colombia since we helped lead the way in 2006. For two decades, Colombia has been part of our nucleus, and I have personally visited more than 40 times during that period.
This is a country that has given so much to so many, and today we stand with our team, our partners, our friends, and our family throughout Colombia. To them I say:
“Este país está en mi corazón. Expresamos nuestro apoyo, solidaridad y empatía con el pueblo colombiano.”
Our Foundation is mobilizing to provide assistance in the most direct and meaningful way possible as needs become clearer in the days ahead.
#SomosUno #Colombia
Well it’s that time of year again. Our Annual Travel Week gag video. I have to admit, this was the first year that I have not seen the final video, only my scenes. That means, this is a premier for me too. I hope you laugh as hard as I do….
Everyone is tight lipped about the final edit. I tried to get more details from the team however I just heard my colleagues Jessica and Brenda on our team giggling and telling me I am going to love this video. From what I understand, it’s the best one yet.
See you in Vegas!
My colleague Colin is currently in South Africa on an inspection trip before heading into Zimbabwe to explore a concession that remains largely under the radar. As a former safari guide with decades of experience in the field, Colin has a unique ability to look beyond marketing and evaluate a property through the lens of guest experience, guiding quality, and sense of place. Below is his first dispatch from the road.
“I’ve spent the last several days inspecting properties across South Africa, and a few stood out immediately. There are a handful of camps in Africa that operate at a different level. The clear standout for me in Madikwe was Molori. Having visited numerous camps throughout my career, Molori is among those rare properties where everything simply comes together. The service, guiding, dining, and overall guest experience reminded me of some of the continent’s most respected brands. There is a quiet confidence to the operation that doesn’t need to announce itself. It simply delivers. What also impressed me was the quality of the game viewing in this section of the reserve. During a previous stay near the eastern boundary, my experience was noticeably different. Here, wildlife encounters felt more consistent and reinforced something I’ve long believed: where a camp sits within a reserve can be every bit as important as the camp itself. I had the opportunity to experience one of Molori’s larger villas, but what struck me most was that the standard suites lose none of the charm. They are beautifully designed, intimate without feeling small, and provide every comfort without crossing into excess.
In a completely different setting, I spent time at RockFig. What stood out immediately was the feeling that this wasn’t a place designed to impress you, it was designed to make you comfortable. Rather than shaping every moment of the day around a traditional hospitality model, RockFig allows guests to settle into their own rhythm. There is a residential quality to the property that creates an immediate sense of ease. The accommodations feel less like hotel rooms and more like spaces you could happily inhabit for an extended stay. Thoughtful design, generous living areas, and fully equipped pantries contribute to that feeling, but it’s more than the physical space. There is an authenticity to the experience that feels increasingly rare. For travelers who appreciate having the freedom to decide how they spend their time, RockFig offers something genuinely refreshing. Nothing feels overly choreographed or curated. The experience is relaxed, comfortable, and grounded, allowing guests to connect with their surroundings at their own pace. After spending weeks moving between camps and lodges, I found that sense of independence particularly appealing.
Back in Johannesburg, I stayed at Four Seasons Westcliff. Part of the reason for the visit was simple: I wanted to make sure the Four Seasons benchmark was still firmly in place. It was reassuring to find that nothing was out of place. The service was exceptional, the team genuinely engaged, and the property delivered that rare combination of polish and warmth that defines truly great hospitality.
An added bonus was spending time with the General Manager, who will soon be relocating to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest in Rwanda. As is often the case in travel, relationships matter. Building connections with people who share a commitment to exceptional guest experiences ultimately benefits our travelers as much as it benefits us.
Stay tuned for my next stop.”
What’s your favorite part of a theater production? Is it the monologue, or the encore? For me, it’s the second act. The story is really unfolding, and the scene actors are really in a rhythm.
Right now, the herds have reached the northern Serengeti, with the first major waves beginning to cross into Kenya’s Masai Mara. Millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, are massing along the Mara River, creating the scenes that wildlife enthusiasts dream about – an endless column of animals, clouds of dust, and the constant tension of a river crossing where survival is never guaranteed.
Big Five guides currently on safari, along with our friends at Serengeti Bushtops, have been sharing footage from the field. These aren’t polished 8K documentaries or carefully edited television specials. They’re mobile phone videos captured by enthusiasts like you and me. Somehow, that makes them even more compelling. The scale, the noise, and the uncertainty come through unfiltered.
But the migration is about far more than the wildebeest. It is a moving feast for Africa’s predators, and it’s not just the big cats or the crocodiles waiting in the river. Spotted hyenas shadow the herds, constantly looking for opportunities, often hunting for themselves rather than scavenging. Yet what fascinates me most is that there are no single behaviors that explain the migration. Nothing operates in isolation; everything works together as a concert.
Zebras possess remarkable memories for routes and water sources. Wildebeest are better at detecting fresh grazing. Separately, these animals have little in common. Together, they form one of nature’s most successful partnerships. What appears to be chaos from a distance is actually cooperation on an immense scale. One broad brushstroke across the East African plains – or one broad stripe, in this case.
The long rains have passed. The second act is underway.
What was your favorite roller coaster growing up? Mine was one called Shockwave, and it was the first coaster I ever encountered where you were harnessed in and standing up, not sitting. At the time, and we are talking about the early 90s in rural New Jersey, this was the greatest thing since slice bread.
I bring this up because the last six months have felt like a roller coaster to many. Whether its geopolitical events, elections in countries that we knew would be contentious, another disease outbreak, or something personal, the road has not been smooth. Yet, the desire for families to travel has not slowed down. The world keeps turning. Every roller coaster is full of inclines and declines, turns and loops. However they flatten out at some point. And, for some inexplicable reason, when the ride is over, we want to get back in line and ride again!
The same can be said of family travel. With everything going on, and what seems like a full schedule for our children, it’s hard to imagine that there are 120 days left before the holiday travel period truly opens. The team here took a very proactive approach and has been checking where holiday space still exists. In some cases, we were surprised it was even there. Therefore, we are going to keep a list ready of space that is open and each country, which we will keep updated. When your clients are ready, the most updated information is ready.
And don’t worry about last minute requests, our team loves the adrenaline. I believe it keeps them young.
Enjoy the video.
As I enjoyed lunch, a cascading water wall flowed effortlessly down a nearby glass façade. Its gentle movement created a serene, Zen-like sound.
This was at the Four Seasons Bogota, and the year was 2016. We were having lunch with the ministers of sustainability, discussing the amazing initiatives the administration was undertaking. Chief among the projects, was the buy-in from indigenous communities in the further reaches of the country, areas, that to this point, were off limits. Then it happened. The ministers looked at their phone and abruptly stood up. “We have to go,” one said.
Before I could ask, the other volunteered that they are making their final offer for the now famous FARC peace treaty, later that afternoon. I knew this was in the works for some time, however there was low hope of this to succeed, and it was their last offer. After I had lunch, joined by some amazing advisor partners, we headed back to our rooms, taking the afternoon to acclimate to Bogota’s altitude.
I flipped through the channels that evening, wondering what mind-numbing program I was going to watch. My inability to sit still was at an all-time high, I couldn’t just stop on one channel. I had to go through all of them, multiple times, stopping on each just long enough to find it boring before moving on. I wasn’t quite sure what I was looking for. It’s a habit that drives my family crazy. Then it happened. BBC Breaking News, along with their theme music, which I find very cool by the way. The peace treaty was signed!
There were the two ministers I had just had lunch with a few hours earlier, announcing the news. The next morning, we cancelled all the planned tours and walked through the streets of La Candelaria, asking all the street vendors and graffiti artist their thoughts, knowing the topic would be very polarizing. It was a stop, backwards for some, forward for some, but it was a step, in a moment where doing nothing wasn’t an option. I knew at that point, that Colombia, my second home, would never be the same. New areas were going to open up, areas that were inaccessible before. I knew the 2017 educational was going to be one of the most emotional, because we were going to head to the other side of the Magdalena River. And boy was it, more so I think for the Colombians with us, proud that their nation was finally on the progress path.
Fast forward, to today, I beam with pride again as the AmaWaterways’ vessels finally are sailing on the Magdelena, showcasing the river and coastal areas we passed through nearly 10 years before. We knew we had to find ways to support them. Beyond our ground team offering advice to theirs on logistics around the river, we knew we wanted to help AMA be successful, because they were not going to alone. They were going to be the first, just like we were when we opened in Colombia in 2006.
Our team put together this amazing program that fits in perfectly before or after a cruise on the Magdalena, no matter whether you start or end in Cartagena or Barranquilla.
Big Five Tours – Colombia Through Local Eyes
So once that cruise is confirmed, take a look at this program and as they say… plug and play .
For Part III of our Japan dispatch, Tatiana went even further off the beaten path. You can read her notes form her time on the Kumano Kodo Here.
However for this portion, she went south, to the Japan she once knew, as Tatiana put it. This is Unzen and Aso, the Japan nobody ever sees. This is #bigfivin.
“Japan remains one of the most visited places in the world, and for good reason. It offers an extraordinary blend of food, culture, history, nature, temples, and safety. Yet all of this beauty comes with a price: the most iconic destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone are now overwhelmingly crowded. Rivers of people flow through every site, every train, every street, not only locals, but Western travelers and visitors from all across Asia. At times, it feels as if the magic is being swallowed by the sheer volume of tourism.
Last month, during yet another visit to Japan, I found myself longing for the Japan I once knew, the quiet moments, the gentle encounters, the feeling of being a foreigner in a place where everything felt new and special. And then, unexpectedly, I discovered that Japan again.
I traveled to Unzen, in Nagasaki Prefecture, and Aso, in Kumamoto, both in the Kyushu region. Nagasaki often carries a heavy place in the world’s memory, but few people know the hidden gem that lies beyond that history: a land of hot springs, active volcanoes, and a deep, unpolished authenticity. You know you have stepped off the beaten path when you realize you are the only Western-looking person on the plane.
In Unzen, the volcano has long been revered as a protective deity, a source of healing hot springs, fertile soil, and rich tradition. It was Japan’s first designated national park, and its lush nature still draws those seeking peace. Here, I met a group of young entrepreneurs and professionals who had left their high-powered lives in Tokyo in search of something quieter. They now live from the land, cultivating strawberries, plums, pears, and grapes. They traded the skyline of concrete towers for the ocean, the forest, and the tranquility of a life in the country.
What touched me most were the countless conversations I shared with locals, despite the fact that I don’t speak Japanese and they didn’t speak English. They were humble, regal in their simplicity, balanced, respectful. We spoke with our hands, our eyes, our gestures, and our smiles. Because they are not overwhelmed by foreign visitors, they were genuinely curious about me. They wanted to connect. They even wanted to take photos together.
I remember walking toward the Temple of Eyesight, where locals come to pray for better vision. At the top, I met Morah, a local farmer who volunteers to keep the temple clean. He offered me oranges and potatoes for our dinner, a gesture so pure and generous it stayed with me. That evening, we used his potatoes at a small traditional eatery beside the Unzen Jigoku steaming vents. The restaurant cooks everything using the natural geothermal steam rising from the volcanic ground, a method that has shaped Unzen’s culinary culture for generations. Food is steamed at around 100°C, preserving moisture and enhancing natural sweetness. No oil, no heavy seasoning, just clean, honest flavors from a region rich in organic farms.
Here, you can kayak at sunset on calm waters, then end your day lying on a tatami mat, watching the starry sky while wrapped in the warm embrace of the volcano.
After a short local ferry ride, I arrived in Aso, home to one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. You can stand at the edge of the Nakadake crater, visit rural villages like Teno nestled inside an ancient caldera, and wander through wide-open landscapes shaped by fire and time. This is a place made for cycling, hiking, and breathing deeply.
Agriculture is the heartbeat of Aso. Each year, farmers burn the fields to restore minerals to the soil, allowing new grasses to grow and feed the cattle, a continuous cycle of destruction and renewal, where nature is reborn again and again.
You can enjoy a private tasting of organic tea with a woman who harvests every leaf herself, creating delicate blends that reflect the land. And you can visit Aso-jinja, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, with nearly 2,000 years of history. It is dedicated to the Aso deity lineage, believed to protect and shape this volcanic world.
In these places, Unzen and Aso, I found the Japan I had been missing. A Japan of quiet beauty, genuine encounters, and landscapes that breathe with ancient life. Here, far from the crowds, Japan feels intimate again. Here is where the land, the people, and the traveler meet with open hearts.”
The Kumano Kodo is one of the most sacred walks in Japan, one that Big Five had to pause when Japan reopened after the borders post pandemic. We did so because there are only a few guides that are truly knowledgeable about the importance of this trail. My colleague Tatiana wrote what I think to be her best dispatch ever in this section. She had just lost her mom right before departing for this trip, and it was here that the true power of the Kumano Kodo was unveiled.
Enjoy.
“I embarked on this adventure to hike the Kumano Kodo with mixed feelings. Part of me was driven by my exploring spirit, always eager to see the world, while another part carried the weight of my mother’s recent passing. She was the one who taught me about the world and encouraged me to discover it. I grew up listening to her countless stories of traveling through Europe with her sister and aunt in the 1950’s, a time when going abroad was rare in Chile, where she was born. She remembered every detail, and her stories were so vivid that I never tired of hearing them or reliving them in my imagination. They sparked in me a desire to see those places with my own eyes. She opened a door to travel that I never want to close.
I can still hear my mother’s words: “Always take advantage of any opportunity to travel,” and “Let the money suffer,” she used to say, “because seeing the world will enrich you in so many ways. Every time you travel, you will change, your mind will expand, your acceptance and understanding of others will grow, and so will you.” She was absolutely right. Her advice is what led me to pursue a career in the travel industry, beginning with my first job as a guide in Ecuador. And last month, when I found myself doubting whether I should go to Japan, I could hear her voice encouraging me to go, reminding me that she would be with me.
The Kumano Kodo, together with the Camino de Santiago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I walked the Camino eight years ago, so when the chance arose to experience the Kumano Kodo this year, I didn’t hesitate. At first, our planning was purely exploratory, as we wanted to re-introduce the hike into our programs since we stopped offering it after Covid. I had no idea that the purpose of this hike would shift so profoundly, drawing me into something far more personal.
For over 1,000 years, pilgrims have walked these mountains. The region’s sacred peaks were once seen as otherworldly, places connected to death, the afterlife, and spiritual renewal. People come here for many reasons: to seek rebirth, to deepen their awareness, to transform, or simply to be close to nature.
Every evening, we stayed in small onsens, sleeping on tatami mats on the floor. I was convinced my back wouldn’t survive several nights like that, but to my surprise, I didn’t have a single ache. I’m starting to think the Japanese are onto something with these tatami mats. One night, we stayed in an old temple where monks still practice and train. At dawn, we witnessed a fire ceremony led by the monks, burning small pieces of wood while praying for the well‑being of loved ones, their chanting echoing through the hall. I learned about the Shinto practice of worshipping mountains (as it is the home of the divine), the arrival of Buddhism in Japan from China and the fusion of both faiths.
Every day, I felt as if I were dining in a Michelin‑star restaurant, each meal somehow better than the last. The sashimi melted in my mouth, and the combinations of flavors and ingredients were constant, joyful surprises. I tried everything, sometimes with reluctancy, and now I find myself longing for it all. Meals arrived on multiple tiny plates, offering a different texture and taste: lightly seasoned vegetables, fish, sweet fish, cucumbers, pickles, rice, seaweed, tofu, miso soup, all perfectly balanced and proportioned. Nothing was heavy, everything felt just right. We even visited a fish market in Ise, where people from across Japan come in the morning for fresh sashimi, and much of the tuna sold in Tokyo’s famous fish market comes from there.
Along the way, we visited many shrines and temples, but three sacred sites left the deepest impression:
This seven‑day, forty‑mile hike took us through cedar and cypress forests. Some days were easier, with flat stretches, others required tough ascents and careful descents. Most days we enjoyed beautiful sunlight, but we also proved our endurance through rain, and at times heavy rain. Along the trail, we found many Jizō statues, placed to guide and safeguard hikers. They remind you that you are not walking alone, and I definitely wasn’t. The moment I needed a push, there was a Jizō blessing my journey.
One day, we passed an area with fourteen stone poem monuments erected about thirty years ago by the Kumanogawa villagers. The poems are a mixture of old and new, multilayered in meaning, and difficult to translate because of their nuances. Our guide chose one poem to translate. No one knew about my recent loss, yet when I heard it, it felt like a vivid message from my mother. It read: “My deceased mother reminds me: every step on Kumotori is a walk for the repose of the dead.”
It means that your walk on Kumano is not just a hike, it is a sacred act, a way of honoring the dead, especially your mother. I knew in that moment that these words were meant for me, and that taking this hike was no coincidence. I needed it, and it arrived in my life with a kind of quiet precision, at exactly the right time. Every step became a personal prayer for me, and every breath helped me cherish many memories of my mother and me. The trail ended, but the conversation with my mother continues in every step I take from here.”
Since 2003, my team and I have repeatedly visited Japan with one goal. How to get beyond the typical Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto circuit. That move was amplified during the pandemic as it led to the current guide shortage that causes stop sells regularly in Japan. Well, what better way to understand the new class of guides entering Japan then by sending a former guide back to Japan, to see things from a different perspective. My colleague Tatiana started in Kyoto and Osaka, skipping the tourism center of Tokyo and Hakone on purpose. This is the first of a three-part dispatch sharing her observations.
Stay tuned and enjoy the video.
Japan is now in everyone’s conversations and on everyone’s list of favorite places to visit. Each traveler has a different reason for going: food, temples, safety, culture, nature, or simply the feeling of being somewhere beautifully different.
I visited Japan last month to meet with our guide team, walked the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, and discovered new and unique areas beyond the traditional triangle of Tokyo, Kyoto/Osaka, and Hakone.
Today, I would like to talk about Japanese culture and some of the guides who impressed me. I will share the other two topics in the next dispatches.
As a former guide myself, I believe the role of a guide is crucial. A guide can shape not only your trip, but also how you perceive the country you’re visiting. No matter how much you prepare for your trip, how many books you read, how many people you talk to, how many videos you watch before, your experience in a country will always be uniquely yours. How you perceive the people, what you notice, and what you carry home in your memories and in your heart will be yours alone.
There is never just one perception, one opinion, or one way to tell a story. And we must also consider ourselves: what we bring into a country, how we interact with locals, how open we are to the moment.
Japanese people, in general, are very polite. They use gentle, respectful language, speak in soft tones, and choose their words carefully. Respect is a core cultural value, and you see it immediately in the way they bow. They are quiet, mindful of personal space, and deeply considerate.
I met many guides, but these wonderful women made a lasting impact on me. In Japanese culture, there is a phrase: “one time, one meeting” (ichigo ichie). Ichigo ichie is the idea that every encounter, even a brief one, is unique and will never happen in the same way again. This is exactly what I felt with every person I met. I will carry ichigo ichie with me because it invites us to treat the present as something precious, not casual. It asks us to leave behind the preconceptions we often carry. It’s an invitation to slow down and give your full attention to the person in front of you. Presence becomes a form of respect. It becomes sacred. These small interactions transform the everyday into something meaningful. And the people who share those moments with you, even briefly, help shape your story.
I walked the streets of Kyoto with Fumiyo, a retired schoolteacher and grandmother, who shared Japan’s culture and history intertwined with stories of her childhood. She grew up in a world shaped by post‑war rebuilding, traditional village life, and the beginnings of modern Japan, a childhood very different from what we see today. She told me about running through rice fields, catching beetles, playing hide‑and‑seek in bamboo groves, and swimming in rivers. She lived in a small wooden house, slept on tatami mats, and taught me the beauty of minimalism. She grew up with a strong sense of hope. She learned to prepare miso soup, pickles, rice, and grilled fish from her mother, and she still eats the same breakfast every day. She grew up listening to the radio, long before television arrived, and she loved hearing her grandmother’s stories. It’s no surprise she inherited her storytelling skills.
She also spoke about wa (harmony) and how important it has been in her life. Harmony is the idea that life works best when people move gently with one another, with respect and balance, another foundation of Japanese culture.
And wa brings me to my encounter with Katherine, a young American woman who fell in love with Japanese culture during her university days in New Mexico. After taking two semesters of Japanese, she decided to leave her life in the U.S. and move to Japan ten years ago, a quietly transformative experience she is still living. Her life has been shaped by curiosity, courage, and a deep love for place, just as harmony teaches.
Coming from New Mexico, she grew up with big skies and open landscapes. In Kyoto, she found a different kind of wilderness: cedar forests, mountain temples, and narrow trails lined with stone statues. We hiked the old samurai trail (near Nara), the path warriors once took to visit the town where swords were made. Another gifted storyteller, she transported me to that era with every step. She shared her struggles and successes with Japanese and with keigo (the respectful language). But every day she improves, because every new word she learns opens another door into the culture she loves so much.
Being close to nature with her, she taught me about yūgen, a profound, mysterious sense of beauty, not the beauty you see, but the beauty you feel, for instance, the moon behind clouds, distant mountains, a quiet temple at dusk. It’s the emotion that lives in the unseen.
Then, there was Migen, a woman in her 40’s who traveled the world and chose to settle in a small town outside Kyoto because the city taught her to listen to silence, to see what your eyes can’t, and to slow down. She told me that in all the other countries she visited, she never understood yūgen, not until she walked through the narrow alleys in Kyoto at sunrise, when the day is just beginning, or when she looked closely at the delicate craftsmanship of a temple roof. She felt moved but couldn’t explain why. Kyoto was the first place where her heart finally unclenched. It was there that she met an older Japanese woman by chance in a tea shop. She was drawn to her kindness and quiet strength and soon realized this was the mother she didn’t know she needed. Her Japanese mother became her anchor. Their bond was also yūgen, not loud affection, but a quiet, profound connection.
Throughout my time in Japan, I felt a wholehearted hospitality what the Japanese call omotenashi, serving others with sincerity, without expecting anything in return. It’s why Japanese service feels so warm and effortless.
I am bowing to you.
May 16 took on a different meaning for me in 2004. Until then, it was simply my father’s birthday. But that year, it became something more, something lasting. It became a tradition rooted in the values of our founder, a man whose life was guided by a single, unwavering purpose: to serve others without expectation.
What began as a personal moment has grown into a collective one. Each year on this day, we organize a movement across the many destinations we call home—a coming together of our teams, our partners, and our extended community. Last year, on what we now call Mahen’s Day of Service, we helped feed more than 2,000 people in just three hours, across 10 countries. It was powerful not because of the numbers, but because of what it represented: shared intention, shared action, and a reminder that impact doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to begin.
This year, our focus turns to something deeply needed and often quietly carried—children’s mental health.
We are proud to be spending the day with Tykes & Teens Children’s Mental Health in Stuart, Florida, an organization doing vital, hands-on work for young people in our community. For over three decades, they have provided affordable, high-quality behavioral and mental health services for infants, children, and adolescents across Florida’s Treasure Coast. Their approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, meeting each child where they are, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. It’s the kind of work that changes lives in ways you don’t always see, but always feel.
Beyond Florida, this effort reached far and wide. Teams in 12 countries committed to supporting projects within their own communities, all centered on youth mental health. Different places, different approaches, but one common thread: showing up when it matters. Mahen always said, “You cannot clap with one hand.”
While 12 countries joined us on May 16, the truth is this was never about a single day. The opportunity to serve isn’t confined to a date on the calendar.
I encourage you to explore the Tykes and Teens website to see their mission in action, or donate browse their Amazon Wishlist to see how you can make a difference.
We invite you to be part of it, wherever you are. Find a children’s mental health cause near you. Give your time. Lend your voice.
Show up in whatever way you can, today or any day.
Leadership reveals itself most clearly in moments of pressure, not comfort. It was a privilege to engage with fellow global leaders at the World Travel & Tourism Council on the Suez Canal in Egypt, aboard the Crystal Serenity. The focus wasn’t on growth for growth’s sake, rather on what leadership requires during periods of sustained disruption. Hearing from former President Calderón of Mexico, former President Macri of Argentina, and getting to meet President El‑Sisi of Egypt offered perspectives shaped not by theory, but by consequence. Different countries. Different circumstances.
Yet two moments stayed with me. The first centered on the widening gap between the workforce our industry needs and the structures we’ve failed to modernize. Without fundamental change, an estimated 43 million travel and tourism roles may remain unfilled over the next decade. This is not a future problem, rather a leadership problem, failing in real time. If our industry supports nearly 10% of the global workforce, then our responsibility extends beyond efficiency. The integration of AI must move in lockstep with policies that reflect equity, inclusion, and long‑term social impact.
The second moment was deeply human. Before his presidency, President Macri was abducted, beaten, and held captive for 14 days, a story I heard him tell some years earlier at a different gathering. He shared the experience without drama, but its weight was unmistakable. President Macri used it as a reminder of how quickly power dissolves, saying in a moment, you are reduced to nothing. What he said next is what never gets old. “We must never forget who gave us power, and more importantly, why they gave it to us.”
That lesson belongs to no party or ideology. It speaks to leadership itself, and to the humility required to wield it responsibly.
There is no video this week, rather a photo I will cherish for a while.
