Taisto Bussid | Europe

Mari-Liis Luha is the heart behind our partnerships. With a background in hospitality, sales, and team management, she leads the sales department at Taisto Bussid with care, clarity, and purpose.

As the main point of contact for travel agencies, tour operators, and corporate clients, Mari-Liis ensures every collaboration is smooth, efficient, and built on trust. She combines over a decade of experience in customer-facing roles with a deep understanding of the travel and transport industry to find solutions that truly work – whether it’s a simple airport pickup or a full-scale tour across Europe.

Passionate about both people and logistics, she’s a natural at keeping both clients and our internal teams aligned. Her proactive approach and attention to detail have earned her long-term client relationships and a reputation for getting things done with a smile.

summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Mari-Liis Luha, the sales director of Taisto Bus Company in Estonia. They discuss Mari-Liis' journey in the tourism industry, her experiences growing up in Estonia during the Soviet era, and the significant changes in the country's economy and travel landscape. Mari-Liis shares insights into the evolution of travel, the importance of flexibility in the tourism business, and her passion for her job. The conversation also touches on the balance between work and family life, as well as advice for those looking to enter the tourism industry.

takeaways

• Mari-Liis Luha has been with Taisto Bus Company for nearly 25 years.
• Estonia has undergone significant economic transformation since gaining independence.
• Traveling by bus was popular in Estonia due to financial constraints on air travel.
• Cultural exchanges with Germany during her youth sparked Mari's interest in languages.
• Flexibility is crucial in the tourism industry due to changing client needs.
• Mari-Liis' passion for her job keeps her motivated after many years in the industry.
• The importance of education was instilled in Mari from a young age.
• Estonia is becoming increasingly advanced in digital citizenship and business.
• Traveling with children requires adapting to their needs and rhythms.
• The tourism industry is dynamic, with new challenges arising regularly.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Co-Founder
A’qto Cycling

Nancy De Losa is the Co-Founder of A’qto Italian Cycling Tours, a boutique cycling tour company offering immersive experiences in Italy. With a background in brand, marketing, and entrepreneurship, Nancy blends her deep connection to Italy with her passion for people and travel. Since launching A’qto Cycling Tours with her husband Damian Hancock in 2015, she has curated unforgettable experiences that combine cycling, cultural exploration, and authentic Italian hospitality. Fluent in Italian and deeply attuned to the country’s traditions, Nancy ensures every guest, whether cycling or not, enjoys an enriching, personal journey through Italy. She is also dedicated to personal growth, mentoring women, and living with intention.

Summary

In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Nancy De Losa, co-founder of AQTO, a boutique cycling and adventure tour company based in Italy. Nancy shares her journey from Australia to Italy, her deep connection to her Italian heritage, and the unique experiences AQTO offers, including cycling, kayaking, and hiking tours. The conversation explores the distinction between tourism and hospitality, the impact of overtourism, and the importance of creating meaningful connections with local communities. Nancy emphasizes the significance of group dynamics, managing different skill levels, and the flexibility of the non-riding partner program, making AQTO tours accessible to a wider audience. The episode concludes with Nancy's favorite places in Italy and insights into planning an adventure in this beautiful country.

Takeaways

• AQTO offers unique cycling and adventure tours in Italy.
• Nancy has a deep connection to Italy through her heritage.
• The distinction between tourism and hospitality is crucial.
• Overtourism is a concern, highlighting the need for adventure.
• Creating unique experiences is a core value of AQTO.
• Group dynamics play a significant role in the tour experience.
• Managing different skill levels is essential for cycling tours.
• The non-riding partner program allows flexibility for guests.
• Engaging with local communities enhances the travel experience.
• Italy offers diverse experiences that cater to various interests.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Matthew C. Johnson
President
Sustainable Ascents Foundation

Matthew is a self-described adventure traveler in search of a plot, a part-time endurance athlete, a mosh pit enthusiast and an accidental Fellow at the Royal Geographical Society.

summary
In this episode, Jason Elkins speaks with Matthew Johnson, president of the Sustainable Ascents Foundation, about the importance of sustainable tourism in climbing and how it can empower local communities. Matthew shares his personal journey from a free-range childhood to becoming an advocate for responsible climbing practices that benefit local economies. They discuss the disparities in privilege observed during climbing expeditions, particularly in Kilimanjaro, and how the foundation aims to create a model that ensures local communities are involved in tourism. The conversation also touches on new projects in Bolivia and the Caucasus region, emphasizing the need for community involvement and sustainable practices in tourism.

takeaways

• Sustainable tourism can empower local communities.
• Climbing development should prioritize local involvement.
• Cultural immersion enhances the travel experience.
• Tourism can create economic opportunities for locals.
• Community engagement is crucial for sustainable practices.
• The foundation aims to create a model for responsible tourism.
• Volunteers are essential for community projects.
• Cultural exchange enriches both travelers and locals.
• Sustainable tourism should avoid overwhelming local cultures.
• Future projects will focus on gradual, responsible growth.

Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.