Sabrina Meier is the Director of Experience at London membership club, The Conduit, and former Membership Director and founding employee at 1880 Singapore (aka the ‘Soho House of Singapore’). She met our co-founder, Maya, in Shanghai back in 2006 while on a university exchange abroad — and they’ve kept tabs on each other ever since.

Fun fact: Sabrina was a professional dancer back in the day, most notably for the Black Eyed Peas during their Shanghai and Beijing tour. After getting her Masters in Business in Switzerland, she moved back to Singapore and spent time building her career in events and marketing within the LVMH Group — including helping launch Sephora in Singapore. She travels extensively, and has even met the Dalai Lama along the way.

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 Sabrina Meier.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Opera 02, Modena, Italy. Overlooking its own vineyards and the beautiful rolling countryside of Emilia-Romagna, this boutique farm resort is the most romantic getaway. It’s such a unique juxtaposition between old world wine-making traditions and renovated modern farmhouse, complete with infinity pool and breathtaking views. It’s where I had one of the best meals, and sleeps, during my entire trip to Italy. They age their own balsamic vinegar in barrels, too. And it’s a short drive into Modena, a quaint cobblestone town with speakeasy-style cocktail bars and Italian cafes. In short, just go!

Bambu Indah, Ubud, Bali. Bali is a magical place and often coined the Island of the Gods. And it truly is, especially at this absolutely stunning resort, a sanctuary tucked away in Ubud. Immersed in the natural environment, you transcend into total relaxation and tranquility. It almost feels like an enchanted bamboo palace. They have natural swimming pools and offer yoga and spa sessions, which are just blissful.

Topas ECO lodge, Sapa, Vietnam. On a hilltop, deep in the mountains of Hoang Lien National Park this lodge is just 45 minutes outside of Sa Pa in North Vietnam. There’s an infinity pool, spa with ‘Red Dao’ herbal baths, plus excursions, bike rides, cooking classes, and visits to the local tribes on offer. I loved the vibe of the town, perched up in the misty hills. One morning, we woke up at 5am to cycle down a winding road until we hit a remote village, where we were invited in for Vietnamese coffee, while one of the local villagers smoked his opium pipe. Totally transporting.

What is the best hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?

Linen bed sheets, a beach bag (to avoid sand in your suitcase), and personalized pajamas.

What do you love most about working in hospitality?

I’m so proud and happy to be part of such an amazing industry. At 1880, we worked through challenges, as with any hospitality business, but seeing all the happy members truly is a testament to the work we put in and vision we believed in. Being able to interact with so many people every day keeps me motivated and driven; building community by inspiring conversations and creating connections that may go on to impact the world. What I love most about it are the genuine friendships and deeper connections that we have curated along the way.  

What hotel room design element can you not live without? 

A bath tub with a beautiful view, a bedside universal adapter and, ideally, a Japanese toto toilet. 

Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?

Burning Man or Phuket Cleanse. Burning Man is an absolute cleanse from the world and your life as you know it. Most people that have not been think it’s an awesome party, but after you’ve been, you understand that it is a journey into yourself. The emotional landscape you navigate during that week is intense and rich. Phuket Cleanse is a retreat that includes a full day intensive program tailored to your need in fitness, nutrition, and meditation.

You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? How do you make your work travel as relaxing and fun as possible?

I bring my yoga practice and essential oils with me wherever I go. As long as I can fit in some meditation, morning or night, I’m set. It also helps to find your tribe in every city, who you can work out with.

What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?

A shawl, chewing gum, lip gloss, sunglasses, and a portable charger.

If you could swap suitcases with anyone in the world at baggage claim, who would you swap with?

Lady Gaga.

If you’re going to a new place, and your friends have not been there, what do you consult for advice?

I research the hottest hood, best coffee, yoga studio, best nightlife, authentic cultural activity, best brunch spot – as much as possible, via friends of friends first.

 Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

“Always back up your phone before you travel. Keep a passport copy with you and a $50 bill hidden in a random pocket. Roll clothes when packing for more space. Use ziploc bags for everything and reuse them again and again!”  – Love, (my) Mum.

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

Yoga and meditation have helped me through my darker days. Plus essential oils, and the blends I make myself keep me calm and comfortable wherever I go.

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

Sant Eustachio in Rome.

What is your favorite travel book? 

LUXE City Guides. They’re well curated and cater to travelers like me, who want to hit up all the newest and coolest (slightly off-the-beaten-path) hot spots. Also, my journal.

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

A bamboo cotton top, hoodie, yoga pants and Superga sneakers. Plus, a big comfy shawl, I never leave the house without one.

If you could quit your job and follow the Mamma Mia dream (ie. open a small hotel in another country or on a remote island), where would it be?

Siargao, Philippines. It’s as Bali was, 15 years ago. Still unexplored, a hidden gem and amongst the top surf spots in the world.

Beach, city or mountains?

Mountains.

Alone or with someone else?

With someone.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Luggage. More reason to hit the shops.

In-flight cocktail?

 Tequila on the rocks or bubbly (anytime).

Favorite travel app?

Calm.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.