A visionary (Italian) approach to travel storytelling in KSA

In a world with a renewed passion for exploring new lands, Andrea Vannucci of Sporting Vacanze stands as an ambassador of authentic travel experiences. He has steered the Italian tour operator from its foundation in 1999 to its current status as a leading provider of luxurious escapades, especially to the idyllic islands of the Maldives. However, it is the Saudi Arabian sands and cities that have recently captured Vannucci’s imagination.

Vannucci’s venture into Saudi Arabia is driven by a narrative as rich as the destination itself. “I love to tell the product. I love to tell what I’ve seen with my eyes,” he says, emphasising the power of personal storytelling in his business approach. Sporting Vacanze, under Vannucci’s direction, prides itself on creating journeys that are not just holidays but tapestries of memories, woven with threads of indigenous authenticity and modern luxury.

The General Manager’s passion for the country is palpable, and he speaks of it with the fondness of a photographer sharing his favourite subject. “As soon as I arrive in Al Balad, Jeddah, I become crazy. I don’t know where to shoot because there are so many things,” he recounts, conveying the plethora of visual stories waiting to be told through his lens. The accolade of having his photography showcased in Milan, as part of a Saudi village exhibit, is a professional highlight and personal triumph for Vannucci.

Andrea Vannucci (second from left) participating in the Saudi roundtable @ ITB Berlin 2024

Sporting Vacanze’s strategy encompasses the promotion of Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning motorsport events, skillfully blending the excitement of the races with the cultural tapestry of the kingdom. “You can stay in the Shangri-La in Jeddah and watch the Formula One race… and in the morning, enjoy the old city, which is a fantastic place,” Vannucci suggests, highlighting the unique synergy between sports enthusiasm and cultural exploration that they aim to sell to both direct clients and through travel agents.

This Italian perspective brings a fresh lens to Saudi tourism, focusing on deep-rooted storytelling and impactful visuals to capture the essence of a destination. Vannucci’s approach sets a benchmark for the industry, as he prioritises the narrative carried back by travellers to their native lands. In a market that is continuously evolving, the focus remains on delivering an exceptional experience, where every nuance of the journey is meticulously crafted.

Sporting Vacanze has etched its mark on the Italian travel industry, not just through its destination knowledge but through its unwavering commitment to safety, reliability, and personalisation. Recognised as a “Top Producer” for three consecutive years, the company has established its credentials as a purveyor of fine travel experiences, a testimony to Vannucci’s leadership and vision.

At the heart of Sporting Vacanze’s philosophy is a dedication to rediscovering the most genuine essence of destinations. Whether it’s the pristine waters of the Maldives, the vibrant cityscapes of the UAE, or the historical grandeur of Saudi Arabia, each journey is an invitation to experience luxury intertwined with authenticity, delivered with impeccable service.

Vannucci’s narrative and the company’s ethos resonate well with high-end travel advisors seeking unique, enriched travel options for their clientele. With a robust network across Italy and a passion for capturing the true spirit of the destinations, Sporting Vacanze stands as a beacon for those who seek to travel beyond the ordinary, in search of memories that will last a lifetime.

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