In this episode, Katya Bauval, the Corporate Commercial Executive Director of Vila Vita Parc in Portugal, shares the story behind one of Europe’s most distinctive resort destinations. Katya explains how the property has grown from a 60-room hotel into a wider collection of luxury villas, vineyards, and estates. She also discusses shifting travel demand, the rise of the U.S. market, and why authenticity, provenance, and private-use experiences matter more than ever. Key Topics: Katya Bauval’s background across the UK, US, France, Portugal, and luxury hospitality brands including Starwood and BelmondHow Villa Vita Parc began in 1992 as a clifftop resort in Porches, Algarve, and expanded over three decadesWhy the property describes itself as more of a “resort village” than a hotelThe role of food, wine, and provenance in shaping the guest experienceHow Villa Vita Parc serves families, couples, golfers, foodies, weddings, and multi-generational groupsWhy guests increasingly want depth, personalization, and a true sense of placeHow travel advisors and buyers remain central to the business through fam trips, trade events, and direct relationship-buildingThe hidden strength of the resort’s culinary program and the importance of its own estates in the Alentejo and DouroA standout private villa experience that surprises high-profile guestsHow American travelers differ from UK and German visitors in length of stay and style of travelWhat’s next: Lobby and wine cellar renovations, plus a new nine-bedroom vineyard estate joining the Villa Vita CollectionChapters: 00:00 - Katya Bauval introduces her role and international hospitality background00:46 - How a love of tourism led her into hotel business02:16 - Villa Vita Parc’s origin story and growth since 199203:39 - A “resort village” built around gardens, beach access, restaurants, and wine05:20 - Why guests now want place, wellness, and personalization over generic luxury06:27 - How Villa Vita Parc works with travel advisors and buyers07:30 - The insider story: food, wine, and produce from the brand’s own land08:41 - A secret private villa and the power of word-of-mouth10:05 - Multi-generational travel, kids clubs, and the rise of experiential demand11:12 - How the American market went from negligible to number one12:24 - Core source markets across Europe and the US13:04 - Why U.S. guests stay longer once they realize how much there is to do14:25 - Journeys events, fam meets, and building stronger trade relationships15:43 - The best way for buyers to connect with Villa Vita Parc17:08 - Katya’s undiscovered gem: the Azores17:59 - Favorite hotel: La Mamounia in Marrakesh18:50 - Favorite city: Istanbul19:33 - Perfect vacation: time with the right people, plus Tarifa’s relaxed coastal vibe22:20 - What’s next: renovations and a new vineyard estate joining the Villa Vita Collection23:19 - Launch timing and how the new estate will be brought to market
