Akiko Takashima – Founder of Strategy Luxe

Written by Safara on October 31, 2025.

Spanning over two decades, Akiko Takashima’s career in marketing, communications and digital has taken her across Europe, US, the Middle East, Russia and APAC – basically all around the world. She started out in music artist management, before switching her focus to the luxury fashion, beauty and lifestyle industries. She’s since worked with senior management teams at brands including Stella McCartney, Smythson and Roland Mouret, increasing their growth and visibility on a global scale.

Born in Japan, Akiko was educated in the UK, has lived in five countries, and speaks two languages. She now runs her own agency Strategy Luxe, a 360 boutique consultancy dedicated to luxury fashion, beauty, wellness and technology. She’s top of her game, and our go-to for advice on style, travel, comm’s… Well, everything really. Prepare to be inspired.

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 Akiko Takashima.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Sri Panwa, Thailand. Who doesn’t want to share a private outdoor bath with a monkey? It was kind of weird, but kind of cool.

Chalets Chamarel, Mauritius. The view is like being on top of the world in absolute peace and tranquility.

Atzaro, Ibiza. The secret garden outdoor sauna is the best!

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Sun In My Eyes (MJ Cole Remix), by Myomi. Higher Love, by James Vincent McMorrow. And Electric Feel, by Henry Green and Kygo.

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes, I have done many times. It opens up new experiences to be on your own and creates a space that allows you to be free.

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

Ritz Singapore cleaned my hairbrush, removed all hairs and it looked brand new!

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

Surfing in Nosara, Costa Rica.

What are your favorite travel hacks?

Get the seat closest to the door, so you can be first off the plane.

Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?

If you fly on a red-eye back home, you can have a nap til noon. But you MUST wake up after that and stay awake for the rest of the day. Leave the house, so you are not tempted to fall back to sleep. Go to bed at 9pm and then you will be back on your timezone!

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

A cotton hoodie jumpsuit. Looks super stylish off the plane, but comfy enough to sleep in.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

NO!

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Lost luggage.

Early check-in/ late check-out?

Late check-out.