At the heart of the majestic Himalayas, a powerful story unfolded — one that blends sustainable tourism, youth empowerment, and visionary leadership. During the much-anticipated Himalayan Travel Mart 2025, all eyes turned to a familiar yet always inspiring figure: Andrew Jones of Sanctuary Resorts. But this time, it wasn’t just about luxury retreats or scenic destinations; it was something deeper. With passion in his voice and purpose in his mission, Andrew Jones spoke of bold ideas, heartfelt mentorship, and a future where hospitality transforms lives. What exactly drives this industry veteran to keep going? How is Sanctuary Resorts becoming a force for change? And why is he so committed to driving sustainable tourism and empowering young minds? The answers might surprise you. In this exclusive story, we uncover the unexpected truths and exciting visions Andrew revealed — ones that could reshape how we see travel forever. Keep reading — the journey has just begun.
A Life of Purpose and Hospitality: Andrew Jones Shares Wisdom at Himalayan Travel Mart 2025
At the heart of the bustling Himalayan Travel Mart 2025 in Kathmandu, Nepal, a meaningful conversation unfolded with Mr. Andrew Jones, Guardian of Sanctuary Resorts. In an exclusive interview with Isita, International Correspondent from Travel and Tour World, Mr. Jones reflected on his extensive career in hospitality, his enduring connection with Nepal, and his dedication to using tourism as a force for good. The fifth edition of the Himalayan Travel Mart welcomed leaders from across the tourism sector. Yet, few embody the spirit of sustainable and purposeful tourism like Andrew Jones. With over five decades of experience, Jones offered more than just industry insight—he shared a philosophy grounded in community, mentorship, and respect for culture.
A Journey Rooted in Family and Passion
Andrew Jones’s journey into hospitality began early. Growing up in England, his family ran small hotels. Hospitality, therefore, was not just a profession—it was a lifestyle. “I’ve always lived in the business,” he shared. With such deep roots, Jones naturally transitioned into a lifelong career in the industry. But it wasn’t until about 30 years ago that he found a deeper calling. He decided to align his professional work with community service. A Rotarian and philanthropist, he saw the opportunity to build a business that gave back. This vision gave birth to Sanctuary Resorts, a group of hospitality establishments dedicated not only to guest comfort but also to local community development. “Our goal was to create a profitable business that could also be a catalyst for community development,” said Jones.
Cultural Exchange and Global Hospitality
Having operated resorts in diverse countries including Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines, Jones is well-versed in the nuances of working with different cultures. He described his comfort in interacting with people of various backgrounds as second nature. “I’m used to working with people from all walks of life,” he said. This cultural dexterity is one of the many factors that make Sanctuary Resorts a success in multiple regions. Beyond comfort, Jones values these exchanges. Each interaction, he suggests, brings new learning and a chance to foster mutual respect, especially in an industry where guest satisfaction hinges on cultural sensitivity and service excellence.
Staying Informed Through Collaboration
In an ever-evolving sector like tourism, staying updated is critical. Jones relies on two key resources: PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association), of which he is a life member, and educational institutions like Polytechnic University and Hong Kong Metropolitan University. Through these academic collaborations, he stays informed about emerging trends, technologies, and the evolving expectations of travelers. Moreover, working with students and professors provides a glimpse into the future of the industry. “The young people are the future of our communities and our sector,” Jones emphasized.
A Mentor First, Always
Despite describing himself as semi-retired, Jones remains actively involved in the industry. A major part of this involvement is mentorship. Currently, he mentors four students—two from each of the aforementioned universities in Hong Kong. “Mentoring keeps me young,” he said, smiling. It’s clear that he takes great pride in nurturing the next generation. His mentorship isn’t limited to classroom advice; it extends to real-world exposure through events like the Himalayan Travel Mart.
A Familiar Face in Nepal
Jones’s connection to Nepal is strong and heartfelt. He expressed his joy in returning to the country for the Himalayan Travel Mart, praising the efforts of the Nepal Chapter of PATA. He highlighted how events like this not only foster business but also empower local students and volunteers. This year’s event stood out to him for the active participation of youth. “They’re guiding us to hotels and through the event,” he noted with admiration. For Jones, this enthusiasm reinforces the importance of investing in young talent.
Purposeful Tourism as a Global Solution
Throughout the interview, a recurring theme was “tourism as a force for good.” Jones believes that when operated with intent and awareness, tourism can uplift communities, preserve culture, and foster meaningful global relationships. He emphasized that hospitality must evolve beyond just luxury—it must contribute. “I believe that if we use tourism for good in the community, then we all lead better lives,” he stated. This perspective is particularly resonant in today’s climate, where sustainability and social responsibility are critical to travel’s future. Jones’s vision of aligning business success with social good presents a compelling model for others in the industry.
Final Thoughts
Andrew Jones’s reflections are not only a summary of his experience but a roadmap for the future of tourism. From running family hotels in England to mentoring future leaders in Asia, his journey is marked by purpose, generosity, and excellence. His message is clear: success in hospitality is not just about managing properties but about shaping communities, empowering people, and creating legacies. As the Himalayan Travel Mart 2025 continues to gather industry visionaries, voices like Andrew Jones’s offer both inspiration and direction. In a world rapidly rethinking travel’s impact, Andrew Jones reminds us that the real essence of tourism lies not in where we go, but in how we contribute.
