“I like to say sometimes we are an analog experience. Everybody today is talking about digitalization, which is indeed important. But the digital means can never, ever replace the human connection between two people. We are artisans of memories. It's the software of our hotels. The hardware is in the beauty, how they look, but it would be completely empty and without soul if it was not about the people.”
We’re in great company with Ingrid Koeck, a Partner of Torel Boutiques in Portugal where her passion as an “Artisan of Memories” lies in crafting unique places. By infusing soul into remarkable structures with Portuguese artistry and interior design she intentionally creates a profound human connection with curious travelers turned guests.
With a growing collection of prestigious Portuguese boutique hotels sprinkled across Lisbon, Porto, the Douro Valley and soon the Azores, Torel Boutiques embody excellence around every corner—from the service to the amenities, the gastronomy to the ambiance, the distinctive moments turned memories.
In this episode, Ingrid’s natural storytelling captivates us as she weaves a narrative of her own life’s travels, painting for us a picture of the passion she found in Portugal, the home she created there, and the tales of cultural heritage she continues to capture in this convivial chapter.
Top Takeaways
[2:05] Ingrid’s life is full of many colorful chapters—from growing up in her grandmother's rural Austrian bed & breakfast to spending a decade with the UN across Africa and the Middle East—a story where diverse cultures have shaped her profound curiosity of and appreciation for authentic human connection.
[7:05] Through life's unexpected turns, Ingrid learned to balance her need for both adventure and stability—evolving from a fearless young traveler to seeking her European roots and creating her own hospitality business where meaningful connections happen on her terms.
[12:15] Shaped by the resilient women in her family, Ingrid's defining traits of curiosity and courage allow her to embrace new challenges with the unwavering confidence that no matter what happens, she can always take care of herself.
[20:05] Through Torel Boutiques' thoughtfully designed spaces, Ingrid honors her grandmother's wisdom that true hospitality creates memories based not on things, but on how guests feel when personally connected.
[25:00] Celebrate a legacy of Portuguese royalty with Torel Palace Lisbon and indulge in Michelin star gastronomy at 2Monkeys.
[25:35] Honor the writers of Portuguese literature with Torel Palace Porto and study your senses at BLIND.
[26:40] Discover a history of Portuguese expeditions with Torel 1884 and sip on a vault of fine wines at Bartolomeu Bistro & Wine.
[27:40] Savor the heritage of Portuguese vineyards at Torel Quinta da Vacaria and taste the terroir at Schistó.
[31:30] Craft artisanal traditions such as soap making at Torel Saboaria.
[35:55] Embrace the timeless tranquility of Portugal through nature-inspired sanctuaries at Calla Wellness & Spa—from Douro Valley's wine therapy to Lisbon's exotic chocolate-infused sanctuary.
[39:20] Uncover a hidden gem at Torel Terra Brava shining soon on the Azores Islands.
Visit For Yourself
Lisbon: @torelpalace_lisbon
Porto: @torelpalace_porto | @torel1884 | @torelavantgarde | @torelsaboaria
Douro Valley: @torelquintadavacaria
Azores: @torelterrabrava
