Andrea Belck-Olsen is the Director of Sales at Nordic Hotels, which includes over 25 beautiful hotels across Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland. The coolest boutique on their books? Hard to choose, but if we had to, we’d probably say THE THIEF in Oslo.

A life-long nomad, Andrea has always loved to travel. She grew up in Peru (where her parents were missionaries, working in local hospitals and schools), went to high school in both Bolivia and Norway, and then attended college in Perth, Australia, and Chicago, US. 

After a short stint as a DJ, she started working in the hospitality industry – initially, she was on the front desk at The Peninsula Chicago. Soon after, Andrea was offered a job with the pre-opening team at THE THIEF, to help launch their hotel in Oslo. Ever the global citizen, she moved to Europe to take on the role. She now works with Nordic Hotels partners around the world, from the US to the UK, the Middle East, and China – all of which she travels to often. In fact, she wrote this Q&A on a flight to Beijing!

Part of our Insiders series, this is your window into the worlds of the coolest people in Safara’s network. These are the contacts we’d hit up for travel inspiration, whether it’s a hotel recommendation, a new track for our in-transit playlist, the best mini-products to pack, or just to daydream about where we’d open a boutique island hotel (this changes with each Insider guide we read – we’re easily and happily influenced).

Read on for travel inspiration from Andrea Belck-Olsen.

Name three hotels, off the top of your head, that you love?

Besides THE THIEF (obviously!), my current favorites are: Wolfe Lodge in Norway, Maderas Village in Nicaragua, and Petit Ermitage in LA. They are all unique in their own special ways.

What is the most unique hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?

The uber cool HOBO Hotel in Stockholm has a water gun in the bathroom. It has to be the most original amenity I have ever encountered, and definitely makes your stay more fun!

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Proper lighting in the bathroom.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Tunes that remind me of epic trips. At the moment: Me Enamorè by Shakira, Selva by Elionor Emù, and River by Leon Bridges.

Did you always want to work in the travel industry, and if so, what sparked that interest? How did you break into it?

I spent most of my childhood traveling with my family. We lived in Peru, Bolivia, and the United States, as well as Norway. I remember spending lots of time at airports staring at the departure screens. I was so curious about where everyone was going, and tried to memorize all the different destinations.

It definitely sparked my interest in the industry, and to be honest I am not sure I could handle having a job that did not involve traveling today. After studying Tourism and Hospitality in both Perth, Australia, and Chicago, I was hired at the prestigious Peninsula Chicago. After that, the ball just kept rolling, and here I am.

What are your favorite travel hacks?

I have always been that girl that jumps in my seat when the meal cart comes rolling. However, as I have gotten older I have started to skip the in-flight meals. I bring lots of water and power bars on the flight. Then I have a proper meal when I land at my destination, instead. It actually helps with the jet-lag, and I feel much better.

Have you, or would you, travel alone?

Absolutely! Everyone should do a solo trip at least once in their lives. Personally, I crave that alone time as it gives me time to reflect and find my inner creativity. Which is something that I usually don’t find much time for in my everyday life. I’ve did a solo trip to Peru a couple of years ago – ping me for hidden gems and must do’s, please!  

Travel can be about the little luxuries, like an amazing cup of coffee. Where was the best you’ve had?

This isn’t a literal “coffee” answer, but, a trip to Kuwait is worth it for the local hummus alone! Especially the one at the old and traditional market Souk Al-Mubarakiya. This market is also awesome when shopping for spices. Definitely beyond re: “little luxuries”.

What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?

I am a “less is more” type of girl. I think a pair of jeans, nice sneakers, and a blazer gets me far. Comfortable, but still classy. I also try to avoid too many accessories when going through the airport security line – there’s no need to set off any alarms for fashion. 

Anxiety and burn out are big topics these days. How do you combat them, and how do you use travel to do so?

Disconnect! Because of today’s technology, we are constantly available to everyone, and I find that my work and social lives collide. It is hard to find balance when you are always “on”. I am a big fan of the “airplane mode” on my phone, and try to use it often, even if I am not traveling. The feeling of not being available all the time is quite addictive to me now.

Favorite travel app? 

Mapstr.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete? 

Spotify.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea? 

No.

Fantasy minibar/fridge item? 

Espresso Martinis.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.