At Connections Luxury 2025 in Barcelona, David Benitez, founder of Cocoa Human2Human, shared his innovative approach to integrating luxury travel with sustainability and community engagement. His company focuses on creating enriching connections between people, destinations, and cultures, all while minimizing the negative impacts of tourism on the environment. Cocoa Human2Human’s mission is clear: to provide luxurious travel experiences that are mindful of their carbon footprint and benefit local communities.
Sustainable Luxury with a Focus on Human Connection
Benitez discussed how Cocoa Human2Human has revolutionized the luxury travel sector by emphasizing responsible tourism practices. The company prioritizes sustainable approaches, particularly in reducing CO2 emissions and involving local communities in the tourism process. According to Benitez, Cocoa Human2Human is not just about high-end services but also about crafting experiences that benefit both travelers and the destination. “It’s about bringing people together, making meaningful connections, and doing it responsibly towards the communities we visit,” Benitez explained.
The founder highlighted how tourism often comes with unintended environmental consequences, but with the right practices, it can also create positive change. At Connections Luxury, Benitez found a network of like-minded professionals eager to collaborate on promoting sustainable tourism that values human interaction and community development.
Fostering Genuine Human-to-Human Connections
One of the standout features of Cocoa Human2Human is its emphasis on human connections. Unlike typical luxury travel companies that focus on material experiences, Cocoa Human2Human’s mission is to facilitate deep, authentic connections between individuals. “We’re in the business of human-to-human exchanges that foster mutual understanding and respect,” says Benitez. The company organizes events across Europe and Latin America that blend business meetings with cultural exchanges and social activities, encouraging shared values among participants.
These experiences aren’t limited to business but extend to personal connections, creating an environment that encourages mutual respect and understanding. This philosophy has shaped the successful events organized by Cocoa Human2Human, including those in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America.
Sustainable Events with Local Impact
In 2024, Cocoa Human2Human hosted two significant events in Spain—one in Costa Brava and the other in Costa del Sol. These events were designed not only to provide luxury experiences but also to consider their impact on local communities. Participants had the chance to engage in business-to-business meetings, attend congresses, and support local initiatives. Benitez emphasizes that local businesses play a crucial role in making these events successful and that the entire experience benefits the community, businesses, and travelers alike.
Expanding Global Reach with a Focus on Latin America
Looking to the future, Benitez is excited about expanding Cocoa Human2Human’s reach, particularly in Latin America. With its shared cultural and linguistic ties to Spain and Portugal, Latin America is poised to become a key market for purpose-driven luxury tourism. Benitez plans to organize more events in the region, fostering connections between Spain, Portugal, and Latin America while ensuring the sustainable practices Cocoa Human2Human advocates are embraced.
“We’re already planning for 2025 and beyond,” says Benitez. “The growth opportunities in Latin America are vast, and by linking Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, we can create a market that speaks the same cultural and tourist language while benefiting from sustainable tourism.”
David Benitez’s vision for Cocoa Human2Human goes beyond luxury travel—it’s about reshaping the way the industry operates by prioritizing human connections, sustainability, and community engagement. As the travel industry evolves, Cocoa Human2Human’s focus on purpose-driven tourism is setting a new standard, proving that luxury and sustainability can work hand in hand. With upcoming events in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, the company is on track to continue making a lasting positive impact on both the planet and the communities it serves.