Tourism must not only be about movement but about meaning. These are the values that Latin Trails and Illa Experience Hotel uphold and strive for, while creating value to everything travelers do in their itinerary. The NESTS program was born out of the idea to build a form of tourism centered in advocating for education, an Ecuadorian cultural renaissance, and providing opportunities for communities. Latin Trails and Illa’s commitment to this idea is further exemplified with their longstanding collaboration with artisans in San Marcos.
NESTS: Investing in the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders
NESTS is a program that trains and mentors young people who crave taking on the world of culinary arts. Candidates are chosen from rural and underprivileged parts all over Ecuador. Participants that take part in NESTS make their way to the capital of Ecuador, Quito, and learn alongside Chef Juan Carlos Donoso, the founder of Ines restaurant at Illa Experience Hotel. The program helps young chefs master hospitality practices and gain culinary experience to promote their own creations.
The program started in 2023. It received its name after the ideal of cultivating young talent just like a nest, likewise the program takes place on the highest part of the hotel which mimics a nest. A meticulous selection process ensures candidates are judged not only on their abilities when it comes to cooking but also on their character, resilience, teamwork, and most of all Passion which is one of the most important parts of being a chef.
The candidates that are chosen will arrive in Quito to train. Throughout their stay they will have accommodation, meals, and a salary. Furthermore, they will take part in a daily routine that provides both practical and academic tasks. NEST interns must show genuine interest in improving each day.
Once interns graduate, they are encouraged to take what they learned to their communities. Part of the NEST initiative allows participants to apply for an initial seed investment to launch their own projects. All of this strives toward the passing on of knowledge, skills, and practices throughout Ecuadorian Culture.
After a brief halt in 2024, operations have resumed in 2025. NESTS proudly presents 23-year-old Anthony Cox as the new intern for the coming phase of the project. His pursuit of greatness and profound commitment make him ideal for the program.
Revitalizing San Marcos: Community Partnerships That Matter
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is filled with history and traditions. Amongst its most beautiful neighborhoods, San Marcos stands out because of its vibrant streets, rich culture, and distinguished artisans. When Illa Experience Hotel opened its doors it took into account the responsibility of promoting San Marcos to all guests. By collaborating with local artisans, Illa introduced a new model of tourism focused on cultural immersion. Travelers were encouraged to engage directly with San Marcos’s artisans, gaining meaningful insight into Ecuador’s rich heritage. This approach ensured that tourism revenue supported the very artisans who preserve local traditions.
The craftsmanship found in the streets of San Marcos is truly exceptional. In collaboration with Illa Experience Hotel, travelers can take part in enriching, hands-on experiences—ranging from weaving toquilla straw hats to crafting traditional desserts like pot ice cream. These initiatives are central to Illa Experience Hotel’s mission: by promoting local culture through the very artisans who embody Ecuadorian traditions, visitors gain an authentic glimpse into the essence that defines Ecuadorian identity.
A key part of the initiative is directing tourism revenue to the artisans who partner with the hotel. From January 2024 to the present, participating artisan families have earned over $14,000 in direct income through these collaborations. Currently, nine families are actively working with the hotel, offering travelers a range of cultural experiences. Since its opening, Latin Trails and Illa Experience Hotel have proudly supported more than 40 families through this program.
Beyond the economic impact, the initiative has had a deeper effect on the San Marcos neighborhood—bringing it into the spotlight as a destination in its own right. With its vibrant traditions and charm, San Marcos is undeniably worthy of exploration. Whether sipping coffee at a local café, wandering through its colorful streets, or discovering treasures in neighborhood galleries, visitors are immersed in a place rich in history, culture, and authenticity.
Artisans have a unique collaboration with Illa Experience Hotel and are happy to share their testimonials.
More Than a Program—A Philosophy
The NESTS program and the collaboration with artisans in San Marcos are truly distinctive. Latin Trails and Illa Experience Hotel work hand in hand, not as a charitable effort, but as a reflection of the core values on which the hotel was founded. Through NESTS, Chef Juan Carlos mentors interns with hands-on, real-time experience in hospitality service. Meanwhile, the hotel’s partnership with artisans goes far beyond economics; these artisans are woven into the very identity of Illa, sharing their stories, culture, and traditions with every guest.
At Latin Trails and Illa Experience Hotel we have taken a new approach. We believe tourism should give more than it takes. This is why we want to give back and advocate for resurgence where it uplifts communities, honors heritage, and empowers people to lead their own futures.
Come Experience Regenerative Tourism Firsthand
Latin Trails and Illa Experience Hotel make a formal invitation for all to visit Ecuador looking to experience it in a new way, to find the essence of the people who populate it and the culture we all share. Come to Quito, la carita de dios, and take part in a movement to promote tourism that gives back, uplifts, and looks into the future.