The DMC will begin accepting travel inquiries when operations begin on December 01, 2024, leveraging Castro and Rabinor’s combined experience to create something truly special for Brazil’s luxury travel market. “Brazil has immense potential with its vast wildlife, adventure, and cultural travel opportunities. The importance of the Amazon, Pantanal, and overall biodiversity can’t be understated and offer a perfect opportunity to maximize unforgettable travel experiences and positive impact for our guests, partners, team and host communities,” says Rabinor.
With over 20 years in the tourism industry, Castro has spent the last decade based in Rio de Janeiro, where he’s recognized for his expertise in luxury inbound travel and innovative high-end experiences. Throughout his career, he has worked in over 25 countries – leading expeditions with tour operators, organizing sustainable tourism conferences with international associations, and implementing nonprofit conservation projects. Having explored more than 76 destinations worldwide, he now brings his expertise in sustainable, luxury travel to this new venture as co-founder and partner at Journey Brazil. Named a Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist for 2023 and 2024, Castro is known for crafting transformative, complex itineraries that connect travelers with the world’s most unique destinations.
Castro’s journey in the tourism industry began with a deep-rooted passion for conservation and adventure, influenced by his upbringing between Brazil and the United States, and solidified by a life-changing nine-month expedition across Africa with his father. Reflecting on his new partnership with Journey Mexico and Journey Costa Rica, Castro said, “With Journey, my mission is to connect travelers with the heart of Brazil in a way that’s both transformative and sustainable. The best travel experiences foster personal growth and a deep connection with the natural world, and I’m thrilled to bring this vision to life.” On collaborating with Zachary Rabinor, he added, “Zach and I share a common vision: to redefine luxury travel through innovation and impeccable service. Together, we’re committed to creating deeply immersive experiences that showcase the best of Brazil, all while upholding the highest standards of operational excellence.”
Journey Mexico has long been recognized for designing tailor-made itineraries with expert service and in-country support, while Journey Costa Rica’s highly successful first year of operations has positioned it as a leader in Costa Rica’s luxury travel scene. Rabinor said “We know how powerful and vital it is to have the right person on the ground to lead. With Mika, we had a unique opportunity to partner with one of Brazil’s leaders in luxury travel and more importantly a kindred spirit that shares our same values and vision of positive impact, seamless service, and innovation. We’re honored and privileged to welcome Mika to the Journey family and together play a leading role in Brazil’s luxury travel evolution.”
In line with Journey Mexico and Journey Costa Rica, Journey Brazil will launch operations with a Responsible Travel Fee (RTF), which requests a set contribution from travelers per trip. 100% of proceeds from the RTF will be directly donated to hand-selected non-profit organizations that have a tangible impact on Brazil’s natural world, cultural heritage and local communities.
Tags: Zachary Rabinor, Journey, Mikael Castro Brazil