After more than 130 years, Brownell continues to innovate the forms in which it sells travel. Yesterday, the company announced its new concept, Sojourns by Brownell. Sojourns are three-month experiences that allow travelers the opportunity to “live, work, (and) play” in destinations across the globe.
Brownell’s first Sojourn will be to South America, with one month each in Argentina, Uruguay and Chile, beginning in February 2018. Travelers will live in private luxury apartments with dedicated office space equipped with all of the necessities and modern comforts to live and work remotely.
Amanda Foshee, the lead product developer, will host the group. She was inspired to develop Sojourns after living and working remotely in France with her husband. First, however, she had to address the challenges they faced: access to reliable high-speed internet and secure workspaces, affordable, upscale and central private housing, and a community of peers.
“There are a few start-ups that offer housing and work space for digital nomads, but it’s more akin to a hostel experience. Bathrooms and kitchen facilities are often shared and would be categorized as 2 or 3-star,” said Foshee. “Our market is explorers who want the same creature comforts they have at home – well-appointed, private accommodations. They also want to be among a community of other travelers that they can relate to and share experiences with.”
This long-term travel program would be one of the first to cater strictly to upscale travelers.
Brownell president and CEO Troy Haas said Sojourns could be a good fit for young couples and empty nesters who are either near the end of their careers or in consulting positions.