Ernesto Roman – Photographer & Creative Director at Deer Mountain Inn
Born and raised on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, in Cartagena, Ernesto made his way to NYC via Utah, where he developed a love for the mountains and the desert. After a good number of years in Salt Lake City, he made the move to New York, where he developed a career in photography and hospitality, working with brands including Grand Life Hotels and Indie Fork.
A few years later, to get a break from the city noise, Ernesto made the move to the Catskills. Since, he’s planted roots as Creative Director for Deer Mountain Inn, an upstate boutique hotel gem, and East Coast Editor of A Hotel Life. As you’ll see from his images, his photography has won awards and been featured in the pages of Interview Magazine, Surface and The Impression, among others. He’s also a creative consultant for luxury brands (including Safara!).
Part of our Insiders series, this is your window into the worlds of the coolest people in Safara’s network. These are the contacts we’d hit up for travel inspiration, whether it’s a hotel recommendation, a new track for our in-transit playlist, the best mini-products to pack, or just to daydream about where we’d open a boutique island hotel (this changes with each Insider guide we read – we’re easily and happily influenced).
Read on for travel inspiration from Ernesto Roman.
Name three of your favorite hotels?
Masseria Moroseta, Ostuni, Italy. This place stole my heart when visiting Puglia. The architecture is impeccable, with well thought out details everywhere you turn, from the stunning courtyard, to the pool, to the light fixtures. It’s just the right amount of chic and minimal, and quite photogenic. You may be greeted by Beppe, the house bulldog. I can’t wait to go back.
Amangiri Resort, Canyon Point, Utah. This place seems to have it all: a respectful relationship with the environment, incredible architecture, out-of-this-world location, and views of a remote desert landscape. Plus, it’s wellness focused.
The Bowery Hotel, New York City. A favorite hangout that has been witness to a lot of what makes NYC cool. Love the classic vibe and views. I could spend all day in their lobby.
What is the most unique hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?
Olive tree cotton bath robes, made from the century-old olive trees that grow on the hotel’s property.
Dream places to visit as a creative?
The Namib Desert. I’ve been obsessed ever since I saw the movie The Cell. It’s one of the most surreal places on earth; I’d love to do a fashion shoot there.
The Bonneville Salt Flats. Another out-of-this-world location. The entire place is an endless white canvas, where you could create the most beautiful imagery. The colors you see at dawn are incredible, as all the light bounces off the white surfaces. I’ve been many times and it’s heavenly!
Hong Kong. Just to recreate scenes from Wong Kar Wai’s In the Mood for Love.
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
I discovered Cafe de la Mañana, which is away from all the noise in Cartagena, Colombia when I was looking for a spot to work remotely. It’s perfect for an all day breakfast and email marathon.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
A sail trip through the San Blas islands: an archipelago of 365 islands off the north coats of Panama. Nothing but small islands with palm trees and exquisite sunsets.
If you could swap suitcases with anyone in the world at baggage claim, who would it be?
I think Jeff Goldblum has been killing it recently, that could be interesting. Also Adrien Brady looks great all the time. Let me throw Adrien Brody in there too!
Have you or would you travel alone?
Yes, and absolutely. Allow yourself to explore, get lost and be out of your comfort zone. You can learn a lot about yourself when traveling alone. It will push you to exercise your creative thinking and social skills. Also, not a bad thing if you’re single.
Travel can be about the little luxuries, like an amazing cup of coffee. Where was the best one you’ve had?
El Imparcial in Madrid. Cappuccino, tapas, magazine and art book browsing, all in one place.
What is your favorite travel book?
The Motorcycle Diaries. Takes one Ernesto to know another.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
Depends on the season and destination. I usually wear slacks and comfortable sneakers (that can be easily removed), and a light sweater in case the plane cabin is cold. For longer red eye flights, I do like a hoodie, too. I just don’t understand why most people look so disheveled when they travel.
Beach, city or mountains?
All three! It’s my life story.
Is in-flight wifi a good idea?
Yes, but never for work.
Window or aisle?
Window, always! How dare you miss the view of the sky, clouds, sunsets, mountains, oceans and city lights!