Rocco Bova

After participating in many conferences in México, I realized there was a lack of a dedicated forum for hoteliers. There are many conferences and events for suppliers and investors, but nothing specifically designed for hoteliers to learn about best practices, leading companies, and successful industry leaders. So one day, together with my partners, we decided to create this unique event.

We are still in the middle of a storm caused by past events and the current geopolitical situation. Not only México, but the entire global industry is going through a difficult moment that is creating stress for investors and operational challenges. Precisely for this reason, the Mexican Hospitality Summit is an opportunity to learn from the best and discover ways to solve, or at least alleviate, current challenges.

I had visited many times, both personally and professionally, and I realized that Los Cabos has something very special. Beyond its natural beauty, there is a sense of balance that is difficult to find elsewhere. It is a territory with unique landscapes, a different pace of life, and a community deeply connected to its surroundings.

Over time, I understood that it is not only an extraordinary place to work, but also to live. The closeness to nature, the way people relate to the land, and the awareness of the importance of protecting it make Baja California Sur feel like home. Living here also implies responsibility—but one that is gladly embraced when you truly understand the value of what you have.

Rather than focusing on specific achievements, I value the processes. Professionally, dedicating my career to understanding and developing tourism from a strategic and responsible perspective.

On a human level, working with people and teams who contributed different perspectives and learnings, and with whom strong, long-term projects were built. Personally, being a father, continuing to learn, and maintaining a critical and curious mindset about what I do.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

We have intentionally involved both national and international companies to identify the best strategies that are working today. Sharing these with participants will help address the challenges that the changes of recent years have created for the industry. International operators bring a global perspective, while local operators have a better understanding of the local context. Together, we can drive transformation and find better solutions.

We are still facing the dilemma of whether or not technology should replace certain aspects of hospitality. Personally, I believe that—especially in luxury hospitality—the personal touch is much more effective than bots or AI. However, it will certainly be an interesting topic for debate.

We are expecting around 300 participants from across México, along with more than 50 world-class speakers representing the best hospitality companies.

The event will take place at the Fiesta Americana Hotel in Mérida and will include an interactive lunch, a closing cocktail, and several coffee breaks. Those with an All Access badge will also be able to participate in the welcome dinner and the closing lunch.

We suggest participants arrive one day before the event and depart one day after. Mérida offers so much to explore, including incredible gastronomy and cultural experiences. During their stay, attendees can also visit internationally recognized hotels such as Chablé Yucatán, ranked amongst the world’s 50 Best for the second year and awarded two Michelin Keys, as well as boutique hotels like Hotel Cigno, Hotel Sureño, Hotel Kunuk, and Mansión Xodó, among others.

Quite successful, we are already planning to replicate the event twice a year in México and eventually expand internationally by 2028 to destinations such as Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Argentina.