IAAPA Fireside Chat: Inspiring Minds of the Industry

Hear about the panelists in Jakob’s own words:

Eric Domb is the visionary mind behind Pairi Daiza, one of the most stunningly designed Zoos across the world. Under his leadership the park has grown tremendously and is today known for its animal enclosures and theming. His dream is creating a place where art, architecture, nature, and wildlife coexist in harmony. His passion for ancient cultures—evident in immersive realms like the largest Chinese garden in Europe—and his deep commitment to conservation define Pairi Daiza’s soul. But in addition, he has designed and built some of the world’s best immersive accommodation and is now expanding with a spectacular water park.

Bob Bentz is the visionary founder and driving force behind Anakeesta, the immersive mountaintop attraction nestled above Gatlinburg, Tennessee. A landscape architect by training, Bob transformed a former camp into a one-of-a-kind destination that seamlessly blends adventure, nature, and hospitality. Bob and his wife Karen have cultivated a vision rooted in sustainability, storytelling, and place‑making by questioning what a “park” can be: part theme park, part adventure retreat, and entirely mountain‑shaped.

Bob Bentz, Founder and Owner, Anakeesta

Eric Domb, Founder, Pairi Daiza

Alexandre Costa, CEO and Founder, Cacau Park – Cacau Show