Julián Guerrero
Our Chief Strategy Officer joins WhereNext after serving as former Colombian Vice-Minister of Tourism, and Vice President of Tourism for ProColombia. He is a keen sailor and traveler with a love for the outdoors and nature; he brings 20+ years of experience and a creative perspective borne out of a lifetime of curiosity, fascinating studies, vocations, and global adventures.
*In December 2022, Julian assumed DAI's Chief of Party role for USAID Colombia Destination Nature Activity. He is no longer affiliated with WhereNext.
Tell us about yourself.
I am curious and love to explore the world and its diversity based on the belief that we are “one with nature.” I also happen to be a lawyer with a master’s degree in international relations. I´ve lived in Colombia, the USA, England, The Netherlands, France, South Africa and Tanzania. I have a passion for sailing, photography, film-making, and insects.
Tell us about your most memorable travel experience.
A walking safari in Tanzania, experiencing the fragility of our species before magnificent wild creatures.
Dead or alive, who would you like to join you on an adventure?
My dream travel companion is Alexander Von Humboldt, the paradigmatic “naturalist” who invented the word “Cosmos” and changed the way we view nature as an interconnected living being. Despite being a scientist, he advocated the need to approach the natural world not just rationally but with your feelings.
One of Julian’s travel essentials is a net for catching insects.
Julian is also a passionate sailor.
What are your travel equipment essentials?
I like to travel as light and simple as possible. My essentials are a pocket knife, binoculars, and a net for catching insects.
When did you feel happiest?
Not once, but many times. When I see my sons, Simón and Tomás, dead tired, filthy, and amazed after a day outdoors connecting with nature.
Who taught you your biggest life lesson, and what was it?
Books! They've taught me about the divine within the human being despite our cosmic insignificance.
You can teleport to any restaurant on Earth: where do you go, and what do you order?
Picnicking at Jardin des Luxembourg with wine, baguette, and cheeses from Nicole Barthélemy fromagerie at Rue de Grenelle.
Tell us about the most adventurous food you’ve ever eaten.
Street food in Beijing, insects, rats, and who knows what.
Drink of choice?
Sake
Where do you feel most at home?
At my family's farm, where I grew up.
Julian is also passionate about wildlife and he is a certified Nature Guide.
Learn more about our sustainable tourism consultancy HERE.
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