Growing up in Southern California, Robert’s family never traveled outside the US. Seeing relatives and a few family excursions across the country were the norm. As he grew and developed, Robert had a curiosity to explore other cultures, and meet people from different backgrounds. He began to view the world beyond the United States as fascinating in its diversity with different geographies and traditions. 

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Fast forward to a move to Colorado, where he found a job at Keystone Resort in Food and Beverage. He started with cafeterias on a seasonal basis as a front of the house manager, then moved through every operation at the resort from banquet waiter to breakfast and lunch manager.