Raised in the heart of Rome, de Bonis' fascination with history and art began early and ultimately shaped his approach to experiential tourism. He recounted to AUR students how an unexpected opportunity during his university years - stepping in as a last-minute guide - revealed the power of authentic storytelling. What started as an impromptu tour became the spark for founding Imago Artis Travel, a company dedicated to crafting deeply personalized experiences that go beyond the typical tourist route.
Since its inception in 2008, Imago Artis Travel has grown into a recognized name in luxury travel, becoming a preferred partner in Virtuoso’s prestigious Destinations & Experiences Program. De Bonis attributes this success to a philosophy grounded in narrative immersion. “It is about how you tell the story and how you connect people to the place,” he explained to the audience, illustrating how carefully curated itineraries — from private viewings of the Sistine Chapel to hidden corners of ancient Rome — create emotional and lasting connections.
De Bonis emphasized that building a brand in luxury travel means much more than offering exclusive access; it’s about forging genuine partnerships and understanding clients' curiosities. His approach weaves together the threads of history, art, and personal interaction, creating experiences that resonate long after the journey ends.
Students were left with a powerful reminder of how passion, creativity, and storytelling can shape a career — and how Rome itself continues to offer endless inspiration for those willing to look beyond the surface.