Marcia Kimpton, heir to the legacy of Kimpton Hotels founder Bill Kimpton, is carving out her own distinctive path in the world of travel and film. As a seasoned traveler and award-winning filmmaker, Marcia has launched the Kimpton Travels and Films app, a unique platform designed to merge her passion for exploration with her love of storytelling through cinema.
The app is the latest venture for Marcia, whose film career spans multiple countries and genres. Over the course of her journey, she has filmed in over 42 countries, winning more than 40 awards globally. The app is an extension of her mission to share the world through the lens of film, guiding users not just to destinations, but into the hearts and cultures of the people who inhabit them.
Marcia’s inspiration for creating the app stemmed from her vast global experiences and the deep connection she has forged with the stories, sounds, and flavors she has encountered along the way. “I thought that after filming in countries like Thailand, Bali, Turkey, Greece, and South Africa, I had so much to offer,” says Marcia. “I wanted to share my knowledge of travel and film in a way that provides people with a deeper understanding of the places I’ve visited.”
A Fusion of Filmmaking and Travel
Kimpton Travels and Films is more than just a travel app. It’s a blend of Marcia’s life’s work, her passion for exploring new cultures, and her love for film. Users can access curated travel recommendations based on Marcia’s personal experiences, including boutique hotels, unique restaurants, and fascinating cultural spots. But what sets it apart is its focus on independent films, with Marcia herself providing a handpicked list of 100 films that showcase the best of global cinema.
The films featured on the app are a mix of lesser-known independent films and Hollywood favorites that Marcia believes perfectly complement the spirit of each destination. “I wanted to create something that allows users to connect with the culture of a country before they even arrive,” she explains. “Each of these films is a way to travel through storytelling, to see the world through the eyes of filmmakers from different cultures.”
The app’s focus on independent cinema is a significant part of Marcia’s broader mission to promote the work of emerging filmmakers. “I watch hundreds of trailers to find films that aren’t just entertaining but also enlightening. It’s about finding those hidden gems that capture the essence of a culture or a moment in time,” she says. The curated list is a great resource for those looking to discover independent cinema that might not get mainstream attention.
A Personal Touch to Travel
What makes Kimpton Travels and Films stand out is its personal touch. As the daughter of Bill Kimpton, who founded Kimpton Hotels, Marcia has inherited a deep appreciation for unique travel experiences. “My father loved to stay in places that weren’t necessarily luxurious but had character and charm. That philosophy has influenced the app’s recommendations,” Marcia says. She actively seeks out boutique hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences that reflect the essence of each destination.
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Her travels also inspired her to create the Bright Lights Late Nights show, a late-night travel series that will debut on the app in December 2024. “The show is a way to give a platform to artists who are not typically seen in mainstream media,” Marcia says. “I’ve spent years in the industry and know how hard it can be for talented artists to get noticed. This show is my way of showcasing original voices from around the world.”
The show will feature a wide array of international artists—from chefs to architects, filmmakers, and musicians—and will be available for free on platforms like YouTube. The premiere episodes were filmed in Stellenbosch, South Africa, a region known for its rich arts culture and incredible winemaking heritage.
Marcia Kimpton’s Films: Capturing the Heart of the World
In addition to her app, Marcia continues to work on several film projects. Her second film, Bardo Blues, was inspired by her travels to Northern Thailand and explores the intersection of Buddhism, family, and personal healing. “I think that trip to Chiang Mai changed everything for me,” she reflects. “It was the moment I truly understood my father’s journey into Buddhism and the peace it brought him. That trip sparked Bardo Blues, which is as much a love letter to Thailand as it is to my own family.”
Her upcoming film project, Tanzan, will tackle human-elephant conflict and conservation in Namibia and Tanzania. “Elephants are under immense pressure, and I want to tell their story,” Marcia says. The film will also give back to the communities in Africa, with 50% of the profits dedicated to supporting local wildlife conservation efforts.
Marcia’s filmmaking process is deeply rooted in her love for cinematography. She works closely with Justin McAleece, a director of photography with whom she collaborates on many of her projects. “He’s a genius at making locations feel like characters in their own right,” Marcia says. “The way he films and edits creates an immersive experience for the viewer, making them feel as if they’re right there with us on the journey.”
Her films aim to do more than just entertain. “I want people to feel like they’ve traveled with me, even if they can’t physically go there,” she says. “I think it’s essential for people to understand that travel isn’t just about visiting new places—it’s about immersing yourself in different cultures, learning from them, and seeing the world through fresh eyes.”
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Wellness Retreats: Bringing Balance to Life
In addition to her film and travel ventures, Marcia has also turned her attention to wellness retreats. These carefully curated retreats, which take place in destinations like Hawaii, Lake Tahoe, and Bhutan, aim to blend relaxation with adventure. “I’m a deeply spiritual person,” Marcia explains. “These retreats are designed to help people find inner peace and joy through yoga, meditation, hiking, and holistic treatments like acupuncture and massage.”
The retreats are small and personalized, with a focus on organic food, physical activity, and spiritual practices. “Each retreat is unique,” she says. “In Hawaii, we’ll be doing yoga on the beach, while in Bhutan, we’ll be trekking to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It’s about creating an experience that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit.”
Her retreats are designed to provide travelers with the tools they need to create balance and happiness in their own lives. “The goal is to help people find inner peace, to reconnect with themselves, and to give them tools to manage stress and live more joyfully,” she says.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Kimpton Travels and Films
Marcia’s vision for Kimpton Travels and Films is ambitious, but rooted in her love of discovery. “I want to create an app that goes beyond simple travel recommendations,” she says. “My goal is to feature a film for each country on the app, so users can experience a cultural immersion before even stepping foot in that country. It’s a huge challenge, but it’s something I’m passionate about.”
For now, her attention is split between film projects, her travel app, and retreats. But one thing is certain—Marcia Kimpton is not slowing down anytime soon. “I believe travel and film have the power to change the way we see the world,” she says. “And I hope my app and my films help people do just that.”
