TempoVIP CEO, The Dispatcher Publisher

Take a stroll with Danilo through Lisbon’s narrow, colorful alleyways of the old São Bento neighborhood. Sit with him in an unexpected, lush city garden. Journey through the capital’s history aboard the classic tram 28. All this is the perfect setting for the CEO of TempoVIP and publisher of The Dispatcher to unveil his Portuguese – or rather, Iberian – passions. He knows better than most where to go, what to discover, what to plan. The luxury travel industry holds no secrets for him, lucky us. And he never stops!

“2025 was epic! It was an amazing year for TempoVIP.” It’s all about being there, in the inner circle, sharing knowledge, inspiring others. “We participated in 28 trade shows, we organized 35 fun trips, countless dinners and cocktails parties… Thousands of connections with the trade industry and with our beloved travel advisory community were made! It was definitely an epic year!”. OK! But, what’s in the line for journeys in 2026, Danilo? Do guide us!

Here’s what’s coming: “Think central – and then look for genuine experiences in small satellite cities around the main hubs!”.

“For example, around Porto, make your way to precious places like Braga, Guimarães, Vila do Conde. That’s where you’ll find the very true essence of the Minho region. It’s the perfect blend of amazing countryside landscape, historical beacons, and oceanic beauty.”

What about Spain? “If in Madrid, you can’t miss nearby Segovia or Toledo, and their exciting cultural and heritage beat. If in Barcelona, nature treasures in the Penedès region are something else, and the Mediterranean beaches of Palamós are a must. Plus, this is a big area of excellent wine production. All of these will be a big hit next year.”

“The point is”, adds Danilo, “that 2026 is perfect for people looking forward to escape big crowds, find a good level of hospitality, and at the same time enjoy pure gastronomy and genuine wines. Portugal and Spain are supreme at that!”

In that sense, he underlines, small-big experiences do matter. “Look: the most important thing that happened to me recently in Portugal was being challenged by one of my friends to drive 300 miles just to try, so he said, the best codfish on Earth! It was, I can assure you, worth every single mile!”

We continue strolling with Danilo through the old streets of Lisbon, the capital of “saudade”, that peculiar, almost untranslatable Portuguese word for “longing”. Does a Brazilian like him feel it, specially one always on the move?

“I chose this country to be my home 20 years ago. What I most miss about Brazil, and specifically about my hometown, Salvador da Bahia, is the vibe and the fact that there is summer all year around. Fortunately, I have the chance to go there quite often, what makes my life much easier!”

In that case, sir, please, let us then end our pleasant conversation with your personal insight for next year!

“My vacation destination for 2026 is going to be Mallorca! I travel so much to so many different cities all over the world, that when I’m on holiday, I really do prefer to chill, reconnect with myself, with my family, and recharge the batteries for all the trips that are coming next. So, definitely, Mallorca is a great place for that.”

OK! Thank you for the tip! (But don’t worry, we will be on a great resort on the other side of the island…)