Think of the coolest places you know in New York, and they’re most likely one of Gavin Moseley’s projects. Co-Founder and Principal of Den Hospitality, Gavin is responsible for the good times that take place at The Garrett (West, East, and Nolita), The Lately, Borrachito and Chillhouse.

A Boston native, Gavin moved to NYC after completing his degree in hospitality at Cornell, and has since taken the city by storm. When he’s not opening pop-ups and creating the atmospheres you can’t help but want to be part of, he’s holidaying in Europe and collecting inspiration from travels further afield. His tips on how to pack are particularly well-honed.

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 Gavin Moseley.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

One Hotel, Miami, FL. The aesthetic is so dope. It feels like you’re in a cloud! Truly an escape. Eco-friendly/ sustainable hotel so it feels good to stay there too.

Finca Cortesin, Malaga, Spain. Everything about this hotel is first class! Landscape is breathtaking with the mountains in the background and I love the architecture.

Deer Mountain Inn, Tannersville, NY. Adorable. Feels like Thanksgiving every day there. So warm and welcoming.

What do you love most about working in hospitality?

You have the ability to make someone feel good every day. A guest may not remember a specific dish or drink – but they’ll remember how they felt.

What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?

I find the neighborhood coffee shop and post up. The Elk in the West Village is one of my local favorites.

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

Senegal. My friend has a non profit there that I volunteer for. It’s in Africa so it sounds far but it’s only a 6hr direct flight.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Whatever You Want by Sports. Places and Spaces by Donald Byrd. All Night by Romare.

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

A pen and noteboook for ideas, napkins because I’m messy, and my latest book.

Have you or would you travel alone?

I love traveling alone. That’s where you learn about yourself. Placing yourself in uncomfortable situations is where you grow!

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

Speak to a local elderly person, you’ll learn everything. Advice from my good friend Bryant Toth.

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

Toro coffee in Nicaragua (only coffee I drink black).

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

Super comfy outfit ( joggers and oversized sweater) but fresh kicks, a nice watch, and a beanie. Feet, wrist, and head is where you make the statements.

Beach, city, or mountains?

Beach.

Alone or with someone else?

Alone.

Lost luggage or lost phone?

Luggage.

Favorite travel app?

Velocity Black.

Window or aisle?

Window – I need to see what is out there.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.