Robert Zotescu

I’m a traveling architect. That’s what some friends once called me, and it stuck.
A few passions have intertwined naturally in my life: architecture, history, and a thirst for adventure. In my search for the most remote archaeological sites on the planet, I found everything I was looking for: both the destination and the journey gave me a sense of possibility, of what it means to overcome challenges and be rewarded for courage. In short, I’m an endlessly curious human being, someone who loves life through every obstacle and every success that comes from chasing a dream.

Have you ever had one of those “I can’t believe I’m actually here” moments?

In my first journeys, I still believed that what I was doing was unreal, risky — the madness of a man who refuses to see the risks and only sees the potential. There were many moments when I said, “I can’t believe I’m here,” but I think the first one is the most important. I was in Petra, in Jordan, back when access to the archaeological site wasn’t regulated. After a whole day of exploring, I decided to hide from the guards and tourists and spend a night among the ruins. I waited for everyone to leave and stayed there overnight. I listened to music in my headphones, watching the Milky Way, alone, surrounded by Nabataean ruins, and I couldn’t help saying out loud: I can’t believe I’m here.

Tell us about the funniest (or most unexpected) thing that happened on your travels!

Funny … I don’t know if it was funny, but it was definitely memorable. I was in Mumbai about 15 years ago, fascinated by the Parsi temples — a blend of eclectic European, Persian, and ancient Egyptian architecture. The only problem was that they’re off-limits to anyone who isn’t Parsi. Having perhaps a bit too much curiosity, I snuck into one of the temples — in true Romanian style — but, out of respect, I kept calling out for someone I could ask a few questions about their religion. No one answered. At one point, I entered a completely dark space inside the temple, dimly lit only by altars surrounded by flames. Then suddenly, one of the temple priests saw me and… well, a little chase through the streets of Mumbai followed — me running, and a few Parsi priests behind, cursing me every which way. I’ll never forget that moment.

What don’t people (yet) know about you, but should?

Life made me grow up faster than I probably should have, but I’ve managed to keep a piece of childhood innocence within me. Even though life keeps throwing tougher obstacles my way, I’ve remained, at heart, a child — one who sees the world through what’s possible and holds on to dreams that feel within reach. And many of them, I’ve already made real.

Robert Zotes tour leader in Japan with Terra Incognita
Robert Zotescu tour leader Terra Incognita
Robert Zotescu tour leader in Japan with Terra Incognita (2)

Frequently Asked Questions about Robert Zotescu

Who is Robert Zotescu?

I’m an architect, a university lecturer, and the Commissioner of the Annual Architecture Exhibition in Bucharest. I’ve won competitions and scholarships, and I’ve seen half the planet … but what doesn’t show up is the fact that I want to show and share so many wonderful places with others. Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the pleasure of showing a few hundred people places they had dreamed of, places they didn’t know existed, and places that became some of the most beautiful memories of their lives.

On which group tours can you travel with Robert as your tour leader?

I’m not a tour leader specialized in a single destination. Wherever there is architecture, culture, art, or history, that’s where you’ll find me — from Latin America to Japan, from North Africa to the great capitals of Europe.

What are Robert’s passions when he’s not on the road?

Travel is my passion, because the rest of the time I’m juggling my architecture office, teaching, and work with the Order of Architects. I’d say that’s enough for someone who sleeps, on average, five hours a night.