Explore the Globe with Emilia Fazzalari: Cincoro’s Visionary Co-Founder

Emilia Fazzalari is the Co-Founder and Executive Chair of Cincoro Tequila, a collection of premium tequilas she initiated with four NBA icons including Michael Jordan.

In her capacity, she frequently travels internationally and embarks on trips several times each month to meet with distributors, restaurateurs, hotel and nightclub proprietors, educating them about Cincoro. I recently caught up with Emilia to discuss her travel destinations, preferred locations for both work and leisure, her travel habits, and the insights she has gained along the way.

How frequently do you travel for work, and what drives your work-related travel?

I devote a significant amount of time to traveling throughout the United States and abroad to promote our exquisite tequilas on a global scale. Recently, we have expanded into the UK, Spain, Italy, France, and Greece in Europe; Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the Middle East; as well as essential Asian markets like China and South Korea. There’s always a new destination awaiting my arrival. I lead master classes to enlighten our partners about Cincoro and engage directly with restaurants, nightclubs, liquor store proprietors, and distributors to share our narrative and showcase our delightful products.

What has been your favorite travel destination and what makes it special?

Italy is where my family roots lie and it constantly feels like a second home. Additionally, I enjoy traveling with the Celtics team, especially during playoffs. The experience of NBA travel is unparalleled and unique – amazing teammates, late-night adventures, elegant accommodations, a plethora of healthy cuisine, and high-stakes games!

What has surprised you the most during your travels and why?

A few years ago, we visited St Barths and selected to stay at the Carl Gustaf Hotel. It’s not beachfront and perhaps some might overlook it. However, the stunning rooms with private pools, exceptional staff, breathtaking elevated views, and the proximity to the main town make it our forever go-to spot in St. Barths! As the saying goes, “take me to the Carl, (and pour me a Cincoro)!”

Share some findings you’ve encountered while traveling.

One of my favorite discoveries has been the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi. It features a remarkable church, synagogue, and mosque all within the same vicinity. The venue promotes peace and acceptance by bringing together varied faiths to share and discover different religions. Another must-visit location is the Louvre Abu Dhabi, situated quite close to the Abrahamic Family House on Saadiyat Island.

What’s your travel routine like?

For domestic trips, I prefer taking an early morning or a late-night flight when going abroad. I typically enjoy a meal at home and then eat sparingly during the flight while hydrating extensively, and I never consume the warm nuts!

Are you a check-in or carry-on type of traveler?

If possible, I prefer to carry-on my luggage.

What type of luggage do you use?

Carry-on – a vintage TUMI featuring an internal hanging bag for suits and long dresses—not replaceable!

Checked luggage – RIMOWA Trunk – so aesthetically pleasing and functional, it accommodates two weeks’ worth of clothing!

What are your must-have travel items?

My laptop for working on the flight, a couple of Veronica Beard blazers, comfortable high heels (they do exist), and numerous accessories that can elevate a daytime outfit into an evening one.

What items do you always carry in your purse?

WYN BEAUTY Glideline, and lip gloss. I’m a fan of Serena Williams’ new makeup line!

Your top tip for overcoming jet lag?

To minimize jetlag on long flights, I opt for an overnight trip and make sure to work out upon arrival. For me, this helps my body adapt to the new time zone as efficiently as possible.

Any insider tips to make travel smoother or more enjoyable?

Immerse yourself in the local culture. For fun, I enjoy wandering through side streets and discovering small family-run eateries that are beloved by locals.

What do you seek in a hotel?

It should be centrally situated and contemporary, with a trendy ambiance.

Any specific room requirements?

A desk, a reasonably sized closet, and a bathroom with ample counter space and good lighting.

What destinations do you enjoy vacationing in?

We relish exploring stunning beach towns worldwide. Italy is always on our travel list. Our next holiday is planned for Sardinia.

What is your favorite hotel around the globe?

The Caruso Hotel, situated in an 11th-century palace perched on a cliff above the Amalfi Coast. Wyc and I stayed there during our honeymoon.

And your preferred hotel bar?

Baccarat Bar in NYC. It’s simply beautiful and makes you feel special every time you enter.

Share some destinations you’ve traveled to in the past year and your experiences there.

I visited Italy several times last year as we have recently launched our WE Dream College Scholarship for girls from Calabria, Italy.

Wyc and I are passionate about making a meaningful difference in individuals’ lives. The WE Dream scholarship program was established because we hold the belief that education is essential for a better future and can significantly alter someone’s life path. We aim to inspire girls who cannot afford a college education to dream big and assist them in achieving their aspirations.

We chose to initiate the project in Calabria to honor my family’s roots and contribute to the region where my parents were born and raised. Furthermore, we selected Calabria due to the genuine financial need present in the area. According to the Italian Ministry of Education, fewer than 18,000 students enroll in a bachelor’s program out of a potential 100,000 students, and that number has remained stagnant for the past decade.

Our goal is to grant ten scholarships annually. The WE Dream scholarship will cover tuition and housing expenses. This is our inaugural year of the program, and we hope that this year’s recipients will become mentors for next year’s scholars, fostering a community of young women who uplift one another.