We had the pleasure of interviewing Renata Nevidal, founder of Kultur Travel and a visionary in luxury travel experiences. Renata shares insights into her entrepreneurial journey, her passion for creating unique travel adventures, and the inspiration behind the Hedonistic Wine Cruise and other exclusive offerings.

How would you describe your journey into entrepreneurship, from initial ideas to founding the boutique agency Kultur Travel?

I established Kultur Travel, a boutique agency, two years ago with a vision to craft unique luxury experiences for individual guests. The genesis of our flagship offering, the Hedonistic Wine Cruise, stemmed from my profound passions for the sea, wine, gastronomy, and cultural heritage. This exclusive cruise is tailored to provide an intimate encounter with island life during the serene spring and autumn seasons, away from tourist crowds. Our guests relish premium indigenous varieties and homemade specialties, accompanied by locals sharing in the experience aboard our vessel.

My venture into entrepreneurship commenced spontaneously in 2006 when I was invited to co-own and lead the agency Event. Seizing the opportunity, I departed from my role as an economic advisor at the British Embassy to pursue my longstanding aspiration within the tourism sector. The event, distinguished as a destination management specialist, spearheaded innovative programs rooted in cultural heritage, revolutionizing incentive travel for multinational corporations. Subsequently, the amalgamation of Globtour Zagreb and Event birthed Globtour Event, where I assumed a managerial role overseeing the M.I.C.E. department. Our endeavors culminated in orchestrating large-scale incentive projects, international congresses, and bespoke events, including the privatization of ferries, trains, and castles. While the agencies now operate under top-tier management, I have transitioned to a more advisory capacity.

Your agency curates various travel experiences, including hedonistic wine cruises. What inspires your creation of such memorable journeys for travelers?

Throughout nearly two decades in the industry, I've come to redefine luxury beyond opulent accommodations, emphasizing authentic destination experiences steeped in natural and cultural heritage. True luxury encompasses savoring a meal prepared from age-old family recipes by a local host, encountering genuine hospitality, and indulging in wines exclusive to their terroir. My inspiration stems from fostering connections with untouched landscapes, venerable winemakers, and young enthusiasts preserving familial legacies amidst modern challenges.

Can you recount some standout memories or moments from the hedonistic wine cruises?

Memorable instances often arise when winemakers regale us with tales of perseverance and passion, sharing anecdotes of near mishaps salvaged into exceptional vintages. Witnessing spontaneous recitals of poetry and impromptu serenades from our hosts adds an enchanting dimension to our journeys. Additionally, uncovering historical documents amidst UNESCO-listed vineyards or engaging in cultural exchanges with local communities evokes a profound sense of connection and discovery.

Could you elaborate on the Hedonist Ladies Only Yacht Adventure? What can travelers anticipate?

A luxurious yacht, a sparkling welcome, a light lunch, and a wine and food pairing workshop. After a short break, we mix local ingredients from nearby islands with our hands to create natural cosmetics. Then, we taste selected Brač wines and enjoy local specialties. The next morning, we exercise before breakfast, relax with music therapy, and massage to the sounds of waves and the scent of pine. We awaken our senses with a walk through the Mediterranean garden Fjori Fora, enjoy the scent of essential oils, and create our own combination. A light walk leads us to the beautiful olive grove Seca Eva Marija, where Eva expertly guides us through olive oil tasting, and Marija presents wines and spices from the local garden. For those who love classic premium wines, there's the Tomić winery, and for those ready to try something different, there are the biodynamic wines of the unique Duboković winery. I designed this program specifically for women who work a lot and don't have time for long vacations so they can recharge their energy in three days. With a combination of exercise, music therapy, massages, and treatments, as well as workshops on natural cosmetics and essential oils, everyone will find something for themselves.

What sets the Hedonist Ladies Only Yacht Adventure apart from other luxury cruise offerings?

Our exclusive program distinguishes itself through its focus on women-centric experiences, fostering a supportive environment for personal growth and networking. With ample space aboard our yacht, travelers can indulge in solitude or socialize with like-minded individuals, ensuring a bespoke journey tailored to their preferences. Furthermore, the option for private group bookings underscores our commitment to personalized service and exclusivity.

Are there plans to expand or introduce similar exclusive programs in the future?

For October 14th-19th, we're preparing the first luxury cabin charter on our hedonistic wine program, which we're organizing for the first time on the exclusive mini cruiser Alfa Mario, transformed into a mega yacht with only 16 cabins, a home theater, sauna, gym. We're also planning themed cruises for TB mindfulness, yoga, and wine, which are just some of the programs we're preparing. Independently and in collaboration with Globtour Event, we're also preparing special programs for individual trips to the most famous wine regions worldwide. And for our guests, we'll gladly privatize boats and castles.

Lastly, could you share your personal insights on these transformative journeys?

As an advocate for incentive travel, I endeavor to curate experiences that transcend conventional tourism, offering guests unparalleled access to local artisans and cultural luminaries. Our excursions afford fleeting yet profound encounters with winemakers who embody a profound dedication to their craft, fostering enduring connections with guests. Through these journeys, we celebrate the interplay of tradition, innovation, and human connection, enriching the lives of both travelers and hosts alike.

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