Alex Cabon describes himself as "international to the core". With a Brazilian and French background, he's traveled to 50 countries for coaching, training, and speaking. But more than that, he's a people-person who views humanity as one family of eight billion—still figuring out how to live together. His life's mission? Uniting us through diversity by building communities.
That's what drew him to StayingBee. After hearing about the platform through AIESEC channels, he hopped on a call with founder Kelvin Chikezie. "I loved the vision and the possibility for real impact," Alex says. He saw how communities like AIESEC could be strengthened—giving alumni a way to stay connected and leverage their shared history.
For his first StayingBee experience in Paris, Alex chose his host not based on location or price, but on her profile. She was from Mexico, a place Alex had lived and worked in for three years with AIESEC. From their first messages,
There was a difference. It felt warmer and there was an excitement because we already had things in common.
When Alex arrived—later than expected after a dinner commitment—his host and her husband greeted him warmly. The next morning, what started as breakfast turned into a three-hour heart-to-heart about careers, struggles, and goals. They even realized they'd crossed paths at a 2007 conference where Alex was a keynote speaker.
What struck Alex most? "I felt at home, but was given the freedom to follow my own routine," he explains. StayingBee handled the transactional side, allowing them to focus on genuine connection.
The impact of that single night? Alex now considers her a friend. On a follow-up trip to Paris, he invited her to one of his Mastermind coaching sessions. "Things happened because of this experience," he says.
It's 100 times more than just a place to sleep—it can actually have a huge impact on your life and future.
For people unsure about using the platform, Alex shares his philosophy: "trade expectation for appreciation."
Don't expect a hot shower or build up an experience in your mind—just appreciate what you receive. With that mindset, you have nothing to lose.
Use StayingBee to experience something new, especially while the platform is still growing and you can help shape it. Even if the only listing has a couch instead of a private room, go for it. A memorable experience can count for more than pure comfort.
As a final word, Alex says "The secret to life is giving."
Go into the experience with a "giving mode"—offer your host positive energy, gratitude, and your authentic self. Give them something to inspire them in return for opening their doors.
and connect with your community while you travel.
Alexandre Cabon is a coach, trainer, and keynote speaker who has traveled to 50 countries for work. With a Brazilian and French background, his life mission centers on building communities and uniting people through diversity.