As a frequent traveler and adventure seeker, I am always on the lookout for destinations that are unique and unconventional. Traveling is more than just exploring new locales—it’s about experiencing the sights, sounds and, most importantly, the people who make every destination special. Recently, I discovered a unique property that piqued my interest and truly exemplifies the spirit of progress and empowerment we seek in travel—the Sandbourne Santa Monica.
A new era for Sandbourne Santa Monica
The Sandbourne Santa Monica is a celebrated hotel located on the glamorous Main Street in Santa Monica, California. What sets this hotel apart, though, is its recently announced female-led leadership team. This marks a significant stride towards diversity and inclusion in the hospitality industry—an industry traditionally dominated by male leadership.
Leading the team is General Manager Amanda Parsons, a seasoned professional with two decades of experience in an industry where she has, more often than not, been one of the few women in the room. Parsons, alongside Director of Sales and Marketing Michelle Marquis and Director of Human Resources Monica Gonzalez, will steer the Sandbourne Santa Monica towards unparalleled success.
Commitment to diversity and community engagement
The Sandbourne Santa Monica’s all-female leadership team is more than a reflection of its commitment to gender equality and diversity. It also signifies a deeper dedication to community engagement—one that goes beyond the hotel’s luxurious walls. The team has begun reaching out to local businesses and organizations to foster relationships and help make a positive impact on the Santa Monica community.
Amanda Parsons, Michelle Marquis, and Monica Gonzalez are determined to use their roles to initiate change not just within the hotel, but also within the Santa Monica community and the broader hospitality industry. They strive to inspire other women and girls by showing that yes, they too can secure leadership roles in a male-dominated industry.
Their commitment is a testament to the transformative power of travel. Not just in the experiences it provides to us as travelers, but also in the positive change it can bring to communities worldwide. By staying at places like the Sandbourne Santa Monica, we get to be part of that change. We contribute towards a more inclusive and equitable travel industry.
As we step into the latest chapter in our travel experiences, let’s celebrate the strides taken by forward-thinking establishments like the Sandbourne Santa Monica. By promoting diversity and committing to community engagement, we’re not just exploring new locales—we’re also supporting the positive change that travel can bring. So, why not make your next destination the Sandbourne Santa Monica and experience a city’s rich culture, while also supporting a property that actively chooses to make a difference.
Ava Thompson is a vibrant and adventurous travel writer, who has been captivating audiences with her vivid storytelling and insightful travel tips for nearly a decade. At the age of 29, Ava has already traversed the globe, exploring over 60 countries on six continents. Her passion for discovery and her degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, have fueled her pursuit to uncover the world’s hidden gems and share them with her readers.
Ava’s journey into travel writing began shortly after her graduation, when she embarked on a year-long solo backpacking trip. Her experiences, from the bustling markets of Southeast Asia to the serene landscapes of the Scandinavian fjords, became the foundation of her now-popular travel blog. This platform not only showcased her talent for engaging narrative but also her keen eye for the cultural nuances that make each destination unique.
As the lead travel writer for a major online news outlet, Ava specializes in off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel practices, and cultural immersion experiences. Her articles are a treasure trove of practical advice, covering everything from budget-friendly itineraries to luxury retreats, always with a focus on traveling respectfully and responsibly.
Beyond her written work, Ava is a sought-after speaker at travel conferences, where she shares her expertise on ethical tourism and the transformative power of travel. She is also deeply involved in various conservation projects, advocating for the protection of natural sites and cultural heritage around the world.
Ava’s infectious enthusiasm for adventure and her commitment to sustainable tourism make her a beloved and inspiring figure in the travel community. Through her stories, she encourages her readers to embrace the unknown, connect with different cultures, and see the world with an open heart and mind.
