You have to assume a couple adores seeing the world when they give their baby ‘Atlas’ as a middle name – very on-brand for Jessica and Patrick! The pair met while living on opposite sides of the US, moved to Madrid for a few years with their baby son, and now call Mallorca home (although, who knows where’s next). They are, in our eyes, the very definition of a power couple – and rich sources of travel inspiration.
While Jessica is the founder and designer of Zahava Jewelry and The Brave Collection, and a Forbes 30 under 30, Patrick is an advisor, investor, board member of non-profit Apex for Youth and former CMO of Refinery29. Their personal and professional lives have taken them all over the world, and we are forever inspired by the travel tips they’ve collected along the way – check out Jessica’s five reasons to visit Madrid for just a few. But first, read on.
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 Jessica and Patrick.
Name three of your favorite hotels?
St Cecilia in Austin. Patrick was living in LA and I was living in NY. We met in the middle here, and went from crushing on each other to deciding to give this love a go!
Scarabeo Camp in Morocco. Glamping among the camels and under the stars!
Is there one spot that holds a special memory?
Palm Springs. It’s where Patrick proposed (on a hike with my family) and where we got married!
Who’s the planner? Who likes to fly by the seat of their pants?
Patrick is definitely the planner — he is meticulous— an incredible planner. Typically, our itinerary revolves around one thing: food. We are total foodies and map out entire trips based on meals.
Best travel tip you’ve learned from each other?
Patrick taught me how to travel light. When we met, I was the worst packer, I’d just throw everything I have into a giant suitcase. Now, we are strictly carry on — I bring only what I will use, and it’s so much easier. Plus, less to unpack when you get home.
What’s the best hotel experience you’ve had while traveling together?
Sleeping in a museum at the Benesse House Hotel in Naoshima, Japan, was out-of-control incredible.
Tell us where’s next on your travel bucket list?
We are dying to go to Sicily for the beaches (and vongole)!
Taormina, Sicily
Favorite vacation to take as a couple?
We both love the beach, we are total sun worshippers and so adore a gorgeous ocean. That said, we also love exploring new cities. Usually, we try to find a friend-of-a-friend that lives in the city, to get a local experience. We are really aligned on travel as a couple, luckily. Our tastes have sorted melded into one and we tend to get excited about the same places.
What is the one item you can’t travel without?
I love my cashmere travel wrap from White + Warren, because it’s always chilly on planes and airports. And I always wear my Zahava jewelry — it adds some texture and light to anything I’m wearing, and feels like a token of protection on my travels. Finally, I pack my leopard pony hair slippers from the souk in Morocco, because they are so comfy! Patrick’s would probably be tech devices.
When it comes to airport and travel logistics, are you both aligned?
We are both the worst! We have missed more than one flight, mainly down to the fact that we just loathe wasting time at the airport and being too early. Now that we have a baby though, we are getting our act together!
When you’re not traveling with each other, who’s your next favorite partner in crime?
We both actually love traveling alone. It’s less of a draw now we have each other, but before we met, I spent a lot of time doing solo travel, and sometimes I still like to take a few days on a trip to just explore and reflect.
Who’s chief trip planner?
Patrick.
Who gets aisle, who gets window?
I get aisle, because I always have to pee.
First poolside drink?
Iced tea.
Room service or hotel restaurant?
Restaurant! We like getting dressed and getting the vibe for a place, as we are social butterflies.
Business-class flight, or more luxe hotel?
We go both ways — all about the high / low. We will splurge on cushy flights and then eat a $5 taco dinner when we arrive, or take a last-minute budget flight and then book a swanky hotel! We’ve learned that more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
It’s Valentine’s Day, so our insiders this week are a duo, and a pretty cool duo at that. Haley is a fashion stylist and editor (for brands like Moda Operandi and Nylon Magazine), and is in the midst of launching her travel itinerary website The Away Message. Alan is a furniture dealer, interior decorator, and designer – and the founder of Somerset Studio, Everyone Wins, as well as one of the original designers of cult NYC brand Timo Weiland. Whew!
Haley and Alan met working in fashion 12 years ago, and have been together ever since. They travel a lot, including annual trips to Jamaica – which they LOVE – and recently got married there at the incredible Jakes Hotel, Treasure Beach (a Safara fave!).
Based in New York City, they’re unequivocally each other’s fave travel companion (cute), and gave us their ultimate hotel picks, travel hacks, and recs for 2020. Much love.
Jakes Hotel, Treasure Beach: We have so many memories here, we discovered this off-the-beaten-path spot years ago and got married here last year!
Chebague Island Inn, Maine: This place is so special and is on an island in Maine. It’s remote, beautiful, and you feel like you’ve been transported to another time. It has a very Americana vibe in the best way possible and oh my god – the breakfast!
Is there one spot that holds a special memory? Tell us why.
Alan:Golden Eye in Jamaica holds a lot of special memories for us, we got engaged here and also came here right after we tied the knot. This is such an amazing place and although we generally are travelers who love to explore the surrounding area, this is one property you do not want to leave.
Alan and Haley’s wedding at Golden Eye, Jamaica
Who’s the planner? Who likes to fly by the seat of their pants?
Alan: Haley! She’s actually working on an itinerary-driven travel website called The Away Message. In our relationship, Haley is deemed “our social director”.
Best travel hack you’ve learned from your partner?
Haley: Choose carefully for when and when not to rent a car. Also, roll your clothing in your suitcase and invest in good luggage.
Alan: Keep an open mind. Sometimes Haley suggests something that doesn’t speak to me immediately and I go on the trip because my wife wanted to, but when I arrive it’s always sensational.
What’s the coolest and/or most surprising amenity you’ve ever seen in a hotel when traveling together?
The ice rink at the Edition in Miami is a favorite of ours. The times we’ve gone we were the only ones there! What’s more amazing and odd than ice skating in the basement of a luxury hotel in the middle of the Miami Beach heat?
Tell us one place and / or one hotel that you definitely want to go to together in 2020, and why?
Southern Italy, we have traveled to Italy so many times from Rome and are obsessed in a crazy way. This year we want to switch it up just a little bit, and go south to eat our way through all the scattered beach towns.
Favorite vacation to take as a couple? How do you compromise?
Alan: We love visiting countries where we can get in the car and really explore. We’re usually looking to include both nature and culture on our trips. Haley prefers the beach, I prefer city breaks, so our compromise usually meets in the middle for a place like Portugal which has it all in a very accessible way.
What is the one item you each can’t travel without?
Haley: The White and Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap. I style for this company, and truly cannot travel without this product.
Alan: My Contax T2 film camera: it was designed in the ’90s to be the perfect travel camera, and it is just that.
Airport confession time! Which one of you likes to go super early? Which one prefers to be last on the plane?
Haley: Alan is obsessed with getting on the plane early to ensure our luggage has a good spot. I take anti-anxiety medicine before getting on a flight, so I am VERY chill by boarding time.
When you’re not traveling with your partner, who’s your next favorite partner in crime?
Alan: I don’t really travel with anyone but my wife, otherwise I’m my next best partner in crime.
Haley: Ditto to what Alan said, except as stated earlier I take meds and have a fear of flying (VERY unfortunate for me!), so I’ll often travel with my best girlfriends who take very good care of my snoozing body mid-flight.
Dylan Essertier has pretty much come full circle. Starting her career in training and development, she got itchy feet and followed an opportunity to pursue travel writing in Dubai. There, she became Culture Editor for lifestyle magazine Savoir Flair, which continued her travels around the world, reporting on the latest luxury hospitality and fashion trends. She has also contributed to the likes of Vogue, WSJ and Condé Nast Traveler.
Alongside her own travels, Dylan set up an eponymous travel and business mentorship, Dylan Grace, where she builds community and shares ideas, tools and resources to help people to travel better. She’s moderated panel talks including W Hotel’s ‘What She Said’ panel, bringing powerful, progressive women together (think Jenna Lyons, Rachel Zoe, and more). And, so far, Dylan has lived in Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, and Italy.
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).
Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman. Alila Jabal Akhdar sits on the edge of a cliff in Oman’s Al Hajar mountain range (think: The Grand Canyon of the Middle East). The hotel is designed after a traditional Omani fort and has a heated infinity pool that looks over one of the most stunning views I’ve ever seen. Oh, and in the spring months, the entire Al Hajar mountainside blooms with beautiful roses. It’s beyond dreamy.
Sujan Rajmahal Palace, India. This Jaipur hotel feels like a Wes Anderson movie come to life! Communal rooms are painted in bright shades of fuchsia, cobalt, gold, and jade. Did I mention there are 43 custom wallpapers throughout the property? Each of which tells a different story about Jaipur’s fascinating and regal history.
Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives. Elegance is the name of the game at this gorgeous property, which was designed by renowned architect Jean-Michel Gathy, the man behind many of the Aman resorts around the world. Maldives luxury at its finest.
What is the best hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?
An on-demand champagne button at The Baccarat Hotel in NYC.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
I really value the power of alone time to regroup and regain perspective. Some of my favorite off-the-grid experiences have included spending a month living in a cabin in Temecula, California, writing. A silent meditation retreat in New Hampshire (challenging but valuable). And 10 days in southern India at an Ayurvedic center.
You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? And how do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?
I started my career working in Human Resources, in Training and Development. Just before I turned 25, I was restless. I enjoyed my work and helping employees build confidence, but I had always dreamt of traveling the world and becoming a writer. So, when I got an opportunity to move to the Middle East and write, I took it. I spent six years working as a Culture Editor in Dubai, traveling to report on the latest luxury hospitality trends.
Today, I’m lucky enough to combine my travel expertise with my background in personal development to run my own travel coaching business, which is dedicated to helping people build better lives through their travels. I love to travel knowing that once I get back I can share these amazing experiences, both through my travel writing and the trips I plan for my clients.
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
I travel alone constantly for my travel writing assignments. I love it.
Travel can be about the little luxuries, like an amazing cup of coffee. Where was the best one you’ve had?
I’m a celiac, so anytime a property goes above and beyond to make sure there is a gluten-free treat in my room, it stands out! The Kimpton Seafire resort in the Cayman Islands had a bowl of warm gluten-free chocolate cookies waiting for me when I arrived that I still remember to this day. Can you tell I have a sweet tooth?
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
My plane uniform includes a pair of silk pants I had made in India, sneakers, a soft top, and a black oversized blazer.
If you could quit your job and follow the Mamma Mia dream (ie. open a small hotel in a another country or on a remote island), where would you do it?
I love this question! I would absolutely co-run it with my mom, who is also a travel fanatic, either in Sri Lanka or a remote seaside town somewhere in Italy.
Beach, city or mountains?
Beach.
Is in-flight wifi a good idea?
No.
Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?
Gluten-free Boston cream pie cake.
Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?
Spotify.
In-flight cocktail?
Yes – champagne.
Favorite travel app?
Not technically a travel app but Moodpath – it tracks your moods. I’m always curious about how travel impacts my brain and moods.
Naomi Walkland is someone who really makes us wish we had more hours in the day. As VP of EMEA marketing for global dating app Bumble, she’s always on the go, but still finds time for causes close to her heart — namely, female empowerment. She launched her panel and dinner series The Power of Quitting in 2017, with the aim of bringing together female executives from around the world (including Forbes 30 under 30 Insider, Babba Rivera, and our Co-founder, Maya). She’s also an advisor at Ok Mentor, supporting women looking to break into creative industries.
Given all of the above (we could easily go on!), Naomi’s work travel hacks, airport style and skill for finding a place to chill while on the road, are second to none.
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).
Royal Senchi, Ghana. It’s where my family spends Christmas every other year. It’s so serene and in the midst of nature, overlooking the Volta River.
Chateau Carbonneau. We booked this three years ago for a wedding trip, and fell in love with it. We’ve been back every year since. It’s a chic B&B in a 19th-century castle with charming rooms and it’s own vineyard. They produce amazing wines!
Royal Senchi, Ghana
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
Soho House is always my go-to “office” while traveling.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
North Yorkshire. My husband is from there and it’s the place where we both switch off and enjoy the beautiful scenery, long walks and in the winter, evenings by the fire. It also helps that I have limited or no signal at my in-law’s home.
You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? And how do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?
At Bumble, I travel a lot as I oversee a number of markets. I feel incredibly lucky that my job allows me to visit beautiful cities. Every time I travel, I always allow myself an hour to walk around the city, grab a coffee, and pop into a few shops first. This ensures that I have some “relaxation” time.
What three songs are on your OOO playlist?
The Weekend, Funk Wax Remix by SZA and Calvin Harris. Happens, by Sampha. And Nights Like This, by Kehlani & Ty Dolla Sign.
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
Bose noise-canceling headphones, whatever book I’m reading (currently My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite), and a portable charger.
Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?
Drink lots of water ahead of the flight and during the flight.
Do a workout as soon as you land whether at the hotel, local studio (I always go to Soul Cycle), run around the neighborhood, or an exercise routine in your hotel room.
Aim to go to bed as late as you can when you land so you can adjust to the local time.
Stick to the local time throughout. It is very easy to keep looking at the local time and your time back at home, but this makes it harder to adjust.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
One of our favorite ways to reset is by traveling somewhere new for a weekend break. It’s something about the journey and the change of scene that brings a fresh perspective, leaving us reenergised, even after just a couple of days away.
Many of the Safara community find ourselves traveling between London, New York City and Los Angeles. And, extending a work trip with a couple of days holiday is a brilliant way to explore a little further afield from all three of these cities.
Whether you’re based on EST, PST or GMT, here are 10 of our go-to destinations, for that well-earned weekend break.
Weekend breaks from New York City
Kingston
The Hudson Valley and the epic Catskill Mountains are easily accessible by car or train from New York City. Base yourself in the creative hub of Kingston, in Upstate New York, at Hotel Kinsley – a 42-room hotel, between the foothills of the Catskills and the banks of the Hudson River.
Hotel Kinsley, Kingston
Tannersville
If you’re looking for somewhere more remote, head to the Deer Mountain Inn in Tannersville – the country house vibes and Michelin-starred restaurant make it difficult to leave, but there are hikes aplenty if you do venture out.
Deer Mountain Inn
Miami
A three-hour flight from New York City, Miami has and has a thriving art, culture and fashion scene. Book a room at Casa Faena or The Standard Spa Miami Beach – for poolside drinks, parties and fresh inspiration in abundance.
Okay, this one’s a staycation. Treat yourself and check into the 11 Howard for a night or two. It has the perfect Soho location for great bars and nightlife, cafes, and parks. Top off your stay with a unique kind of wellness experience by booking an infrared sauna sesh at the onsite HigherDOSE.
Gramercy Park
Weekend breaks from Los Angeles
Malibu
Malibu is an ideal spot for a weekend break from the Westside of Los Angeles. The weather suits beach walks, mountain hikes and vineyard tours – surely a holy trinity of the weekend break. Stay at Calamigos Ranch, which has access to all of the above from the front door.
Calamigos Ranch
Ojai
Venture further north to Ojai, which is equal parts eclectic, artistic and delicious – the area’s microclimate means that everything grows well here. Stay at the hacienda-style Ojai Valley Inn, set on 220 acres of incredible land, and offering everything from golf to tennis and even an on-site apothecary.
For a roadtrip to the Kent coast with a dash of culture, head to Margate and Deal. Formally sleepy seaside towns, both are now favorites of those looking to get out of London for a weekend break. Check into The Rose in Deal, a former pub that’s filled with charm and beautiful rooms. Then, drive (or train) to Margate to visit the Turner Contemporary, and get lunch at Sargasso on the port. By the end of your trip, you’ll be looking up house prices and plotting your relocation.
The Rose, Deal
Cheltenham
The Cotswolds check every box when it comes to manor houses surrounded by great outdoors, and days that end in cozy fireside drinks. The Cowley Manor in Cheltenham has all of that and more, with 31 unique bedrooms and an award-winning spa.
Cowley Manor
Marrakech
For something further afield, Marrakech is only a 3.5-hour flight from London, and a good choice for warmth and culture. We adore El Fenn: it’s moments from the main square, but like many of the riads here, it is peaceful and calm. Be warned, you’ll want to bring all of the furniture home with you.
It’s safe to say Ben lives life to the extreme. He’s a record-breaking explorer, who led the first return journey to the South Pole on foot via Shackleton and Scott’s route in 2013; still the longest ever polar trek on foot. He has skied over 4,500 miles on polar expeditions since 2001, and remains the only Briton to have skied solo to both the North and South Poles.
His trips are incredibly inspiring and he shares his stories via TED talks that encourage others to take on life’s challenges, too – even if you’re not about to tackle a polar expedition. Given his regular adventures, he makes for the perfect ambassador for Canada Goose and Land Rover, testing the best kit and equipment in some of the the harshest conditions on the planet.
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).
25hours, Zurich Langstrasse. I was there a few years ago, and my room came with a bicycle and a Polaroid camera.
The Opposite House, Bejing
What is the best hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?
I had a treadmill in my suite at the Intercontinental in Malta. I don’t know if they knew I was coming, or if it was standard issue, but I put it to good use.
What hotel room design element can you not live without?
Complete darkness and silence at night. I often unplug fridges and alarm clocks and cover up glowing LEDs on televisions with a towel.
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
I love NeueHouse in NYC, but the reality is that I mostly end up working from airport lounges (Virgin is my favorite). Tinto Coffee on the Fulham Palace Road was a regular haunt when I was in South West London.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
Nowhere beats Antarctica when it comes to disconnecting. I did a long expedition in 2013 (take a look at scottexpedition.com) and setting up my out-of-office in October before I left was one of the most decadent things I’ve ever done (“I won’t be checking email until late February next year, and if you need to contact me, you can’t…”).
You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? How do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?
I never even imagined that what I do could become a career. I’ve been incredibly lucky. My father was an orphaned and penniless bricklayer who only ever left the UK once on a package holiday to Tenerife. While I feel deeply conflicted about the amount of air miles I continue to rack up, the ability to travel has broadened my own horizons immeasurably. Long-haul flights are a guilty pleasure and I find time in the air a unique opportunity to reflect and think a little more deeply.
What three songs are on your travel playlist?
Ella by Pete Cannon. I spent a bit of time raving in warehouses as a teenager, and I’ve always had a penchant for this sort of electronic music. Tracks I can leave on repeat for ages and zone out to, whether I’m doing email on a long flight, or skiing through a blizzard.
River by Leon Bridges. The antidote for too much electronic music, and the perfect soundtrack for a heading home on a red-eye.
Violet (The Upper Room) by CunningLynguists (!). I’ve loved hip-hop since my teens, and while it can have its misogynistic and thuggish sides, it can also be poetic and moving. It so often tells a story of striving and aspiration and struggle against the odds, which has always inspired me to work a little harder.
What are your favorite travel hacks?
Never check-in luggage (unless you’re flying with skis and a sledge) and sign up for Global Entry if your travels take you to the US more than once or twice per year. It’s been a game-changer for me.
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
Running shoes. Everything else is negotiable.
If you could swap suitcases with anyone in the world at baggage claim, who would you swap with?
Ernest Hemingway.
Given that you often travel alone, how do you feel about traveling with others?
I’ve spent many weeks alone on solo expeditions to both the North and South poles, so I’m pretty happy with my own company. But, I love going to new places with my wife. I took her to NYC for her first time a few years ago, and I hope to take to her Antarctica one of these days. Re-experiencing the magical places that I’ve perhaps started to take for granted through her eyes is a joy.
If you’re going to a new place, and your friends haven’t been, who, where or what do you consult for advice?
I often look at Strava to find running routes that the locals use.
What was your favorite room service experience ever?
Not exactly room service, but we had a ski butler at l’Apogee in Courcheval! After coffee we went back outside to find our skis and poles were ready for us, and pointing in the right direction, with a little name flag next to them.
Best travel advice you’ve ever received?
I have a “Work Hard and be Nice to People” print by Anthony Burrill on my office wall. It’s a maxim that has served me well so far.
Who is your dream “co-pilot” and why?
I’d love to do a trip with Werner Herzog or Ed Burtynsky. The ability to tell genuinely moving stories through film and photographs is something I covet.
Anxiety and burn-out are big topics these days. How do you combat them, and how do you use travel to do so?
I’ve tried meditation, but have so far never managed to fit a regular practice into my life. My body gets seized up when I’m training hard and traveling lots (especially now that I’m in my forties!) so I use an app (see below!) that guides you through a daily flexibility routine. I try to eat well. I’ve been interested in nutrition for years and I’m going against the plant-fuelled trend by eating fresh, locally sourced and ethically reared meat whenever I can find it. I avoid sugar and anything processed with rapeseed or palm oil. I eat low-carb/high-fat unless I’m doing a lot of endurance exercise, when I use an energy drink by Maurten.
Other than that, the best remedy I’ve found to feeling overwhelmed is leaving my phone at home, taking my dog for a walk in the woods near our home and reminding myself that we’ve identified 55 billion Earth-like planets in the Milky Way alone, and that what I’m worrying about invariably doesn’t matter all that much in the grand scheme of things.
Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?
I do a lot of short trips to the US for speaking engagements and try to stay on UK time. So, I’ll go to bed in the afternoon when I arrive, wake up at 4am local time, get loads of work done, run/go to the gym, have a giant American breakfast, speak, eat at the airport, skip the in-flight meal and sleep on the entire flight home. Regular exercise helps a lot, and I’m pretty good at sleeping on planes. I’m usually lucky enough to have a flat-bed seat and I use melatonin on longer trips (especially to China/the Far East – I find flying east harder than going west). I also take zinc and magnesium before I want to go to sleep. On planes I use a combination of an eye mask, Flare’s brilliant ear plugs, Bose noise-cancelling headphones over the top, and a white noise app on my iPhone to make sure that I’m not woken up!
Travel can be about the little luxuries, like an amazing cup of coffee. Where was the best one you’ve had?
The first that springs to mind was from Gimme! Coffee on Mott St. in NYC.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
Right now I’m wearing navy Bam sweat pants (made of bamboo!), a white T-shirt and grey cashmere crew-neck sweater from Sunspel, ON running shoes and CEP compression socks (essential for long-haul). My Bremont Endurance watch makes sure I don’t look like too much of a slob, and I hide behind a Golden State Warriors baseball cap and a pair of Oliver Peoples aviators for a bit of airport privacy.
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 you do it?
I’ve work with White Desert, so in a way I’m doing precisely that! Otherwise a finca in Mallorca would be fun, and I’ve heard the cycling/hiking/running in Slovenia is next-level, so maybe an old farmhouse there to convert into a basecamp for like-minded souls.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve purchased abroad and brought home (or tried to carry-on) from your travels?
The man that hand-makes my expedition sledges (from kevlar and carbon composite) is based in Norway, so I’ve brought a few back from there over the years. In Oslo, everyone knows exactly what it is when I’m wheeling it around on a trolley and trying to get it sideways through bollards and doors (they call it a ‘pulk’), but at Heathrow most people assume it’s an exotic canoe.
You have an hour to spare at the airport. What would I find you doing?
Tragically, I’d probably have my headphones on, doing emails.
Where’s your next trip?
I’m currently on a Virgin flight to NYC, and then on to Washington DC to see my speaking agents. My wife and I had an amazing time at Torralbenc in Menorca (we were told it was like a quieter version of Mallorca, and they were right).
Beach, city or mountains?
Mountains.
Alone or with someone else?
With my wife, as she doesn’t often get to join me!
Is in-flight wifi a good idea?
No.
Lost luggage, or lost phone?
Luggage (I can buy almost anything I need with my phone these days!)
Airplane food?
Yes, although I augment it with protein bars.
Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?
A bottle of still water that isn’t disposable, and that preferably doesn’t have a price tag attached.
Early check-in or late check-out?
Early check-in.
Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?
Spotify.
In flight cocktail?
Black coffee!
Favorite travel app?
ROMWOD.
Window or aisle?
I’m typing this from a Virgin Upper Class aisle seat, but I love a window. The approach into Seattle was a recent favorite view.
Whether you here for the ski, the snowboard or just the après, The Alps has it all. While we love a leisurely afternoon on the main slopes followed by a warming vin chaud, the heady thrill that comes with taking things off-piste in The Alps is where it’s really at.
With that in mind, we’ve partnered with FATMAP, the essential mapping app for anyone who loves the outdoors. Read on for our round up of five top places to go off-piste in The Alps – and, of course, where to stay when you’re there.
Verbier
Verbier is serious about off-piste – so much so that it hosts Freeride Week annually in January, where skiers from all over the world come to tackle some incredible powder. Stay in the Experimental Chalet (of Experimental Cocktail Club fame) – rooms are cozy, but modern; and Verbier’s iconic Farm Club is right on the doorstep.
Chamonix is said to be one of the world’s best ski areas for adventures off-piste in The Alps. Give the Vallée Blanc a go – with a guide if necessary – for incredible views of Mont Blanc. For a well-located hotel, try the brilliantly named Rockypop in Les Houches: think fun decor, basic but hip rooms, and an on-site ski shop.
Val D’Isere
Val D’Isère sits within the Vanoise National Park, meaning it has some of the most impressive natural landscape around. Hotel Avenue Lodge is our shout for a place to get your well-earned rest. It’s right in the middle of the resort, and rooms are chic and cool, without being overly traditional.
Three Valleys
While Val Thorens is the highest of the Three Valleys (fun fact: there’s actually four) at 2,300m, Courcheval is where you want to stay. Incredible dining options and access to trails and peaks perfect for freeride powder, and there’s also some great hotels. Our pick is Hôtel Barrière Les Neiges. Rooms are miles away from traditional, alpine lodges and views are second-to-none. Oh, and it’s ski-in ski-out – the best part.
In the Austrian Alps, Ischgl is Europe’s biggest freeride region. While there are slopes abound for all levels, the Piz Val Gronda is good for those who are slightly less-experienced going off-piste in The Alps – breathtaking views included. Hotel Zhero is our pick for peace and quiet away from the slopes, with beautifully designed rooms, roaring fires, exposed brick walls and soft fabrics to sink into.
Check out FATMAP’s interactive Guidebook to these spots here and visit FATMAP.com for more.
Josh Shinner is one of our favorite photographers. The main subjects for his work are beautiful humans looking happy in beautiful clothing. In other words: fashion editorials. He’s worked with big name magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, T Magazine and Esquire. Did we mention he also shot the videos for pop music duo Oh Wonder?
When he isn’t behind the camera, he is usually listening to David Bowie, thinking about space, drinking an old-fashioned, or doodling. All great past-times for a seasoned traveler.
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).
Dayami Candebat is the model we look to for everything, from travel inspiration to plus-size style and beauty and skincare tips – her complexion is pure goals. Thanks to her job, she’s extremely well traveled, whether she’s shooting campaigns for Scandinavian giant Kappahl, German retailer Zalando, Swiss lingerie label Beldona or international beauty brand Nivea, among others. She’s regularly between the London, New York and Berlin – she’s has roots in Germany and Cuba, too.
Dayami began her modeling career when she was studying abroad in Amsterdam. While not always loving what she saw in the mirror growing up, she found modeling gave her a new confidence and perspective on the importance of physical appearance. She’s now a firm believer in living your life on your terms, and is busy broadening the definition of beauty and taking every trip that comes her 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).
The Grand Hôtel, Stockholm. This lush and luxurious hotel is in the city centre at the waterfront. I loved the spa with its saunas and cold baths. The restaurant’s ‘kottbullar’ (meatballs) with cranberry sauce paired with a glass of red wine was delicious.
The Iberostar Parque Central, Havana. I’m Cuban and German, and I used to go to Cuba four times a year. This is one of my favorite hotels. It is located in the old town on the Parque Central and Paseo del Prado where Chanel held its Chanel Cruise 2016/17 collection show. The amenities are amazing, and the rooftop pool is a perfect place to rest in between exploring. On the rooftop you have an amazing view of Havana Vieja – sitting there at sunset with a mojito in your hands is priceless.
Rapopo Plantation Resort, Papua New Guinea. On East New Britain island, this hotel has stunning views of the Tavurvur volcano overlooking the islands of Rabaul. You can swim with dolphins 10 minutes from the hotel and the water is crystal clear. Papua New Guinea is one of the best countries for diving, too.
Rapopo
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
I love the Hoxton Hotels in London and Amsterdam. In Havana, it’s the Hostal Conde de Villanueva – an old colonnaded mansion. Peacocks walk by whilst you drink your coffee!
You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? How do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?
Yes, this was something I always wanted since I was a little girl. In school we traveled more than any other family (I knew), so it always seemed normal to me. I lived in the US for a year, then studied Mechanical Engineering in Cuba, then Business Administration in India, then completed my Masters in Amsterdam. I used to work full-time for one of the biggest creative agencies in Germany as a Digital Project Manager, but there wasn’t enough travel.
Through modeling, I discovered that traveling for work gives me a lot of energy. It’s fun to meet new people and learn about different cultures and languages. To keep my travel fun and relaxing, I pay attention to my mood. I can be talkative, but If I feel tired and need sleep, I put on my Bose noise-cancelling earphones straight away. I need to be true to myself.
Usually, I wait to be the last one to board the flight to guarantee myself a good seat. Obviously, this doesn’t work when the flight is fully booked!
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
I am still learning to pack light, but I always bring my noise-cancelling headphones, a good book, my phone charger, an external battery, an international adaptor, a multi-socket plug, some lightweight gym clothes, a jump rope, my camera, a pair of black and a pair of blue jeans, some simple white and black shirts, and my laptop. I also throw in a hair and face mask, some painkillers, throat/flu remedies and eye drops (yes, I am a walking pharmacy).
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
There are three options:
Gold hoops paired with a white tee or blouse, comfortable jeans, my black Acne scarf to keep me warm, a cashmere pullover, and some sneakers.
If I know I’ll be constantly on the move, I’ll put on my comfy Lululemon leggings, a big pullover, and Nike sneakers – that’s it.
My third option, you probably won’t like to hear, but sometimes I simply don’t really care how I look. Business class or economy class, I just wear whatever feels good at that moment.
If you could swap suitcases with anyone in the world at baggage claim, who would you swap with?
Definitely Michelle Obama or Oprah!
Where’s your next trip?
South Africa. It’s my first time, so I’m really looking forward to learning more about the ‘rainbow nation’. I want to take a Township Tour and see Mandela’s home. I discovered a love for hiking a few years ago and South Africa has a lot of trails. The final reason is the amazing food and wine!
Have you or would you travel alone?
Definitely! I traveled alone a lot during my studies in India. I went to Nepal alone and had an amazing time. It sounds cliché, but you get to know yourself and it gives you a feeling of empowerment.
Beach, city or mountains?
Beach.
Is in-flight wifi a good idea?
No.
Early check-in or late check-out?
Late check-out.
Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?
Chloe Street is our go-to for all things fashion. After graduating from the University of Oxford and a stint at Burberry, she became an instrumental part of London Fashion Week, where she produced events for the likes of Vivienne Westwood. She went on to spend four years at Hong Kong Tatler, and now, she’s the Fashion Editor at London’s Evening Standard.
When she’s in her home city, Chloe can usually be found zipping around the capital interviewing designers and attending fashion events. And when abroad, she’s ideally taking some well earned down time, exploring glamorous destinations with a G&T in hand.
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).
Rosewood, London. Because I just love the interiors and the slightly feminine vibe. Plus, the heated outdoor seating area in the courtyard has to be the chicest smoking area in London.
If I’m traveling long haul, I always pre-order a Hindu Vegetarian meal. I’m neither, but when it comes to plane food, a veggie curry and rice is so much more appealing than mystery meats or overcooked pasta. Plus, you get served first.
What hotel room design element can you not live without?
Having USB ports by the bed is the most sensible recent trend in hotel design. It’s such a lifesaver for anyone like me who has a drawer full of adapters at home that they always forget to bring.
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
An eye mask, ear plugs, and (if I’m traveling long haul) a neck pillow. On long flights I also like to do a full diva skincare routine, so I’ll carry a fair few toiletries. I’ll remove all my makeup, wash my face in the loos and apply all sorts of moisture-giving lotions and potions to stop my skin getting dehydrated. And, much to my traveling companion’s embarrassment, I’m quite partial to an in-flight sheet mask.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
I am dying to go to either the Vivamayr or SHA wellness clinic for a full mind and body reboot.
Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?
I used to live in Hong Kong and honestly I’m not sure it’s something that can be beaten!
That said, I always change my watch to the time of my destination the moment I get on the plane – oldest trick in the book, but I swear it helps. I try to sleep and eat at times that make sense for my destination. For lethargic days, coffee is a cheap failsafe. For nausea, nothing beats Diet Coke. And for sleep, I find melatonin really helps.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
If I’m flying long haul I tend to wear leggings or cashmere sweatpants and a super comfy jumper. I’ll always take extra layers and socks for when they inexplicably crank up the air-con to minus 10. I hate being on a plane with bare legs, so if I’m heading somewhere hot, I will wear silky pyjama-style trousers. My current favorites are a white silk polka dot pair from this amazing British resort-wear brand called Lelloue.
You have an hour to spare at the airport, what would you be doing?
I find it comforting to eat constantly when I travel, and I resent buying cheap sandwiches on budget airlines. So, you’ll probably find me in Pret, buying two or three meals. One to have immediately, one for on the plane and one for, well, back up. Did I mention I’m a comfort eater?
Where’s your next trip?
I’m off to Marrakech for a friend’s birthday soon, which I’m really looking forward to as I’ve never been. And I’m also planning to head to Munich for Oktoberfest this year, which will be relaxing I’m sure!
Beach, city or mountains?
Mountains.
Alone or with someone else?
With someone else.
Is in-flight wifi a good idea?
No, but yes. I’m an addict.
Lost luggage, or lost phone?
Lost phone.
Airplane food?
Yes.
Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?
Ice for my G+T.
Early check-in or late check-out?
Late check-out – have a full day, then shower and change before you fly.
Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?
Raya. Lol joking, probably Spotify.
In-flight cocktail?
Does G+T count as a cocktail? (Editor’s note: yes.)
Favorite travel app?
I’m really into the ViaVan ridesharing app. It’s so damn cheap.
Window or aisle?
Window for uninterrupted sleep on long haul, aisle for short.
Yoga or hotel gym?
Neither. Run outside or do a local HIIT class, like a Barry’s or SoulCycle.