4 minute read
Luca Franco: The Ambassador of Adventure
Luca Franco, CEO and founder of Luxury Frontiers, will join us once again in Mauritius in 2024 and is a loyal supporter of the event. It's been a busy six months for the company, which was been involved in a number of exciting new projects, as well as winning several industry awards.
WHAT HAVE WE BEEN UP TO AT LUXURY FRONTIERS SINCE WE LAST SPOKE IN MONTENEGRO IN MAY 2023?
Since May 2023, Luxury Frontiers has been making incredible strides. We’ve successfully secured new investments that have positioned us for an exciting phase of growth and innovation. Luxury Frontiers 3.0 is on the horizon, and we can’t wait to reveal more about our fully vertically integrated ecosystem and future plans. We started working on new projects with Six Senses in Napa Valley, USA, with Oberoi in Nepal. The recognition we’ve received, like the Hospitality Design Award and AHEAD Americas award for Naviva, has been truly heartwarming. We’ve also been honored with the Radical Innovation Award for the second time, thanks to The Turtle Bungalow. Additionally, we’re thrilled to have been selected as finalists at the World Architecture Festival. It’s been a journey filled with excitement since May.
WHICH RECENT PROJECTS HAVE BEEN ESPECIALLY EXCITING FOR THE LUXURY FRONTIERS TEAM?
Wilderness Usawa Serengeti - This project allows guests to witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration up close and personal. The mobile tents offer a 360-degree view of the Serengeti, making guests feel like they’re sleeping on the open plains. It’s a truly exceptional way to experience nature.
Madwaleni River Lodge - This project in the Babanango Game Reserve showcases our commitment to sustainability and community development. It’s not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about restoring ecosystems, providing employment opportunities, and honoring the local culture. We’re proud of the positive impact this project has had on the environment and the community.
WHAT TRENDS DO YOU SEE EMERGING IN THE CURRENT MARKET, AND HOW IS LUXURY FRONTIERS ADAPTING TO THEM?
In the current market, we’re observing several trends:
The rapid growth of the adventure travel market, which is expected to reach $4.6 trillion by 2032.
The adventure and safari segments remain strong in the luxury market, commanding over 40% of the total market share.
Capital markets and hospitality brands are increasingly investing in experiential, outdoor, and wellness-focused offerings.
In terms of design, we’re witnessing trends like mobile architecture and modular construction, which resonate with our commitment to innovation and adaptability. Sustainability is a cornerstone of our work, and we’re proud to be part of the shift towards environmentally responsible accommodations.
TELL US ABOUT THE TURTLE BUNGALOW PROJECT AND ITS POTENTIAL IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY.
The Turtle Bungalow project is something very close to our hearts. It was born out of a desire to create a unique and immersive marketing tool for a resort and residential development in The Bahamas. Inspired by the island’s sea turtles, we designed a self-sustaining, mobile room that reflects the development’s intent. It offers a whole new way for resorts to market themselves, providing guests with a genuine taste of what’s to come in a truly immersive way.
HOW DO SMALL NETWORKING EVENTS LIKE ECO RESORT NETWORK BENEFIT THE INDUSTRY, AND WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?
I see myself as an ambassador for the Eco Resort Summit and Eco Resort Network and networking events like these offer a fantastic opportunity for industry professionals to come together, learn from one another, and inspire positive change. These gatherings create a sense of community within the industry, where we can all share our knowledge and experiences.
WHY IS AFRICA IMPORTANT TO THE SECTOR IN TERMS OF SETTING STANDARDS FOR RESORTS AND SUSTAINABILITY?
Africa’s historical role in ecotourism and experiential travel is a source of inspiration for the entire industry. Africa has always set high standards for resorts and sustainability, and its commitment to preserving the environment and supporting local communities is an example. The continent’s unique landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage provide a platform for pioneering sustainable tourism practices. Africa’s influence in this regard is invaluable, which is something we all can learn from and aspire to.
