At the beginning of the month, La Estancia welcomed a special group of visitors as 14 international business students spent the day learning more about the different experiences, operations, and ideas that shape life and hospitality in Las Catalinas.
Their visit began with a tour of La Estancia, where they had the opportunity to explore the property and visit the farm before continuing to Ponciana for a hands-on cooking class. The experience allowed the students to connect what they were studying with real examples of hospitality, local production, and the importance of creating memorable experiences through food and place.
Throughout the visit, the group also learned about the history of Hotel Santarena, its development over the years, and the growth it has experienced as part of Town. The conversation extended beyond the day-to-day operation of a hotel and explored many of the broader questions that businesses face as they grow within a community.
the topics discussed were environmental and sustainability certifications, as well as the economic, social, environmental, and community impact of a business. The students also had the opportunity to hear about some of the challenges that arise along the way, the lessons learned through experience, and the role sustainability can play in long-term decision-making.
Visits like this create a valuable opportunity to bring learning beyond the classroom, giving students a closer look at how businesses operate, adapt, and contribute to the places around them. For La Estancia and the teams who participated, it was also a meaningful chance to share their experience and welcome a new generation of professionals interested in building businesses with both purpose and perspective.