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).

Read on for travel inspiration from Josh Shinner.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

 The Craigellachie Hotel, Speyside, Scotland. The best whisky hotel in the world. 

Hicksville, Joshua Tree, USA. The best view of the Milky Way from a hot tub I’ve ever seen.

Soprarno Suites, Florence, Italy. Because Florence’s food and drink are the way to my heart.

As a creative, what places do you find most inspiration for your work?

Places with huge skies and interesting landscapes.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

The biggest rain shower possible. Oh and a plug by the bed.

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

Yorkshire – always.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

White Keys, by Chilly Gonzales. Too Good To Be Forgotten, by The Chi-Lites. And Television/So Far So Good, by Rex Orange County.

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

Everything I need for when the airline inevitably loses my checked bag.

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

Daniel Craig, just so I could see what James Bond actually travels with.

Who is your dream “co-pilot”, aka travel partner?

David Bowie – who else would I want to grab a drink with after a day of exploring?!

Beach, city or mountains?

Mountains.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

NO!

In flight cocktail?

Hell yes. Old Fashioned.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

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).

Read on for travel inspiration from Dayami Candebat.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

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.

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.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Rocket Man, by Elton John. Dos Gardenias, by Buena Vista Social Club. And Come Home, by Anderson Paak.

What are your favorite travel hacks?

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?

Spotify.

Window or aisle?

Window.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

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).

Read on for travel inspiration from Chloe Street.

Name three of your favourite hotels?

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.

Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. The Captain’s Bar is the best hotel bar in the world.

Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita in Matera, Italy. Staying there is like going back 100 years.  

Do you have any great travel hacks ?

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.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Katie Sharples is a woman right at the heart of the travel and hotel industry. Previously, she’s worked in marketing and events for brands including Saatchi Gallery and South African Tourism, and co-headed travel’s largest, global, invitation-only event, LE Miami. And now, she’s landed at hip European hotel-apartment hybrid, Locke Hotels. Managing openings from Munich to Dublin and London (with many more to come) means she’s constantly on the road, working with local teams. Which means she has some of the best insider tips going.

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 Katie Sharples.

Name three of your favourite hotels?

Borgo Egnazia in Puglia. The architecture and interiors are divine, not to mention the surrounding villages, people and food! 

La Sultana in Marrakech. It’s in the heart of the Kasbah, so it’s total chaos outside, but you head down a small alleyway and it opens up into a stunning oasis of calm. The hammam there is the best I’ve ever had. 

Amangiri, Canyon Point, US. This place really does live up to the hype. The location is like no other; you can sleep outside under the stars and have some incredible hikes right on your doorstep. 

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

When I stayed at Nobu South Beach, they branded my name on a pair of chopsticks, which I thought was super cute. You also get a five o’clock visit from a cocktail trolley each evening, which was enough to win me over. 

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

After the LE Miami event, all you want to do is switch off from the world. So, for a past post-show trip, I’ve landed in the Utah and Arizona wilderness in an RV. It was so liberating driving your house around and being able to set up camp for the night whenever you came across a good spot. Hiking through the landscape was phenomenal with no phone signal – you have no choice but to go MIA. 

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

I never travel without my Uniqlo down jacket (you know, the ones that come in the pouch). If it’s freezing on the plane, it’s a great extra layer, and if not, it’s the perfect travel pillow! 

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

USB’s by the bed, because I always forget my adaptor. 

Who is your dream travel partner (dead or alive), and why? 

I’m definitely the ‘co-pilot’ in this relationship, but my best friend/colleague Eliza is a fountain of all knowledge when it comes to travel and always puts together a great itinerary. I trust her recommendations implicitly, so I just do what I’m told, which takes the brainpower out of things. 

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

Usually, I’ll ask someone from the LE Miami community that’s based where I’m headed for local tips and suggestions. You can’t beat some insider knowledge! I also always consult Suitcase magazine – its recommendations haven’t failed me yet. 

What was your favorite room service experience ever?

At La Mamounia in Marrakech they wheel in a table and set up breakfast for you on your terrace. It’s glorious.

What do you love most about working in hospitality?

Without a doubt, the people. I’ve met some of my closest friends through the industry.

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?

Somewhere in the Portuguese countryside. The Mamma Mia dream will happen some day! 

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

Exercise! If I’m traveling to the US and I’m up at the crack of dawn, I’ll always go for a run. 

Where are your favorite remote “offices” while traveling?

Hotel lobbies or Soho House.

Beach, city or mountains?

Mountains.

Alone or with someone else?

With someone else to share the memories.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No! It’s the last sacred offline space. 

Yoga or hotel gym? 

Gym: I’m obsessed with Peloton bikes.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Half Egyptian, half Irish, Salma El-Wardany is a writer, poet, BBC Radio London presenter and activist, who writes for Stylist, Metro, HuffPost and more. Her work deals with feminism, how hard life can be as a woman, solo travel and dating in this modern world.

Constantly on the hunt for new places and unafraid to travel the world alone, she writes: “You weren’t made to stay the same. Rather, you were made to stretch and grow, to explore and journey, your feet are longing for the dust of another place.” A refreshing voice in a saturated digital world, we were keen to hear her travel picks as someone who does not settle for anything less than the best.

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 Salma El-Wardany.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

The One And Only, The Palm Dubai. It’s pure luxury here and the way they take care of you is exceptional. They come around the pool just to wipe your sunglasses clean. You basically feel like the most adored and special person on the planet.

The Hanging Gardens of Bali, Ubud Bali. Every little detail is taken care of and the location is stunning. Each room has a private pool.

The W, Maldives. The food here is unbelievable and their breakfast buffet is a sight to behold. Their customer service is phenomenal and my bathtub looked out onto the sea with these huge bi-folding doors. The shower floor was glass and you could see the fish swimming in the sea below you.

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

GHD straighteners. I really think this needs to be the norm. 

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

A good bathtub. There’s something so luxurious about a gorgeous tub in a hotel and having a nice long bath, either alone or with someone. Also a plug by the bed to charge your phone. I hate it when they don’t have that. 

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

Deia, Mallorca. I haven’t been yet, but it’s come highly recommended as a place for artists to go and create and be solitary. It’s on the list for this year actually. 

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 don’t think I ever intentionally set out to have travel as part of my job, I just knew I was curious and wanted to see the world. I think the more you travel the more that happens. I’m a big believer that nothing was ever created at a desk. I didn’t think we all had to be in offices for eight hours a day as a way of life, it seemed ridiculous to me. The rebellion against that led me to find a new way – and that included travel. 

I actually find travel more relaxing than being at home in London. I carve out specific times for work and fun. That might mean working in the morning and then going out and about in the afternoon. 

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

Woolly socks or slippers. I cannot sit for hours on a plane in shoes and without socks your feet get freezing and you can’t sleep properly. 

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

Eva Peron. Her outfits were phenomenal. I want to look just like her when I grow up and stealing her suitcase would be the first step. 

Have you or would you travel alone?

I travel alone all the time. I find it to be one of the most empowering and freeing experiences. It also keeps me in touch with myself and who I am. These things are hard to find when you’re constantly surrounded by people and conversation. 

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

Instagram and established travel blogs. Asking my followers for tips is an amazing way to find places that aren’t touristy and are native to the locals.

What was your favorite room service experience ever?

At the W in the Maldives. They knew I don’t drink alcohol and that it was my birthday so they left a bottle of non-alcoholic champagne on my bed with flowers, chocolates and the recipe for one of the cakes I really wanted from the chef. 

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

Travel is my ‘get out of jail card’ for burn-out. When I’m working too much, feeling run down and a little lost, I instantly get restless and want to leave. Traveling gives me the opportunity to remove myself from the constant noise of your daily life and calm down, slow down and come back to yourself in a way you can’t do when you’re constantly on the go. When I’m traveling I’m still working, but I’m doing it in a quieter, slower environment and it makes all the difference. 

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

High-waisted black leggings, flip flops and a belly top. Comfortable and cute. Plus, flip flops mean getting through security way quicker than boots and trainers. 

You have an hour to spare at the airport. What would I find you doing?

You’ll find me over a pot of tea and a slice of cake catching up on my phone and sending emails. And responding to all the messages I didn’t have time to answer when I was rushing around packing and trying to get to the airport on time. 

Where’s your next trip?

Pula, Croatia. I picked it because it was cost effective, I’m going with a couple of girlfriends and we needed somewhere on a budget. Croatia is also (maybe) my favorite place in Europe. I’ve been twice before and adore everything about Croatia. 

Beach, city or mountains?

Mountains.

Alone or with someone else?

Alone.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Lost luggage (at least I can then tweet about it).

Airplane food?

No.

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?

Cake.

Early check-in or late check-out?

Late check-out.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?

Spotify.

Favorite travel app?

I literally have no travel apps.

Window or aisle?

Window.

Yoga or hotel gym? 

Gym.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

As Founder of the cult UK brand Barrecore, Niki Rein has spent her professional life turning fitness into a lifestyle. She began teaching yoga in 2000, before starting to work with Tracey Anderson in 2006. Inspired by the way dancers trained and moved their bodies, she developed a class which she called ‘barrecore’ for some her private training clients and the response was overwhelming.

When Niki moved to London from the US in 2009, the first Barrecore studio was born. Now, it’s fans include the likes of Darcey Bussell, Jourdan Dunn and Poppy Delevingne, among tens of thousands of other regulars at their now 12 (and counting) studios. As a mother and businesswoman, finding work-life balance is key and she’s a huge advocate of frequent travel, which helps her switch off.

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 Niki Rein.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Casa de los Neveros, Granada, Spain. This perfect spot in gorgeous Granada is across the street from the breathtaking Alhambra. There are small local restaurants and local galleries on the doorstep.

Kempinski San Lawrenz, Gozo. Warm and welcoming, while being a place to stay cool from the heat of Malta sun. I love the incredible local sculpture they have around this gorgeous 5-star hotel. It’s also, home to Barrecore’s first retreat.

Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica, CA. This charming beachside boutique hotel is in one of my favourite ‘woo-woo’ neighborhoods. A reiki treatment, chakra balancing session or yoga class is just a stone’s throw away from this casually luxe hotel.

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

All the things at Soho House hotels. You literally just have to bring your clothes. They have the rest sorted.

Name three songs are on your travel playlist?

Sir Duke, by Stevie Wonder. She Makes Me Laugh, by The Monkees. And Can’t Stop the Feelin’, by Justin Timberlake.

What are your favorite travel hacks?

I always sit on the aisle of the middle four-seater section and pick a row that is empty or has two sitting on the far two seats. This way, I am very likely to have a seat next to me free to spread out in coach. I also order a gluten-free meal (because I am), but also because special meals are delivered first. The perk is that I can pull my eye mask down sooner on an overnight flight.

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

Chocolate. I will never fly without good chocolate. Montezuma 73% buttons are the absolute best travel buddies.

Who is your dream “co-pilot”, aka travel partner? 

My partner Ruben. Sounds cheesy, but he has a zest for life I have never experienced before. We have a little girl and I swear he is more kid-like when traveling than she is. It’s the best!

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

Mini three- or four-day trips are my cure all for burn-out. It’s too easy to get wrapped up in work and life stressors. Escaping for a short time is a sure way to learn something new that has nothing to do with daily to-do’s. I am always amazed at how I come back with answers to problems at hand after a mini trip!

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

Yes! I always drink Nuun tablets (electrolyte replacement) when traveling, plus loads of water. I sleep as much as possible by taking magnesium tablets 30-minutes before I want to nap, which helps relax the body and mind, and keeps restless legs at bay. Depending on length of flight, I will take another dose a couple hours before landing. The intense hydration and shut-eye make the flip side so much easier!

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?

Any town near San Sebastian, Spain – the food, sea, summer sun and winter ski nearby make it heaven on earth!

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach (but mountains within a three-hour drive).

Alone or with someone else?

With someone.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Terrible!

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

After cutting her teeth at some of the biggest hotel brands in Asia, such as Six Senses, The Aman in Sri Lanka and The Fullerton Hotel in Singapore, Harsha L’Acqua decided to launch her own brand, Saira Hospitality in 2015. A non-profit, Saira Hospitality creates partnerships between communities and luxury hotels by empowering locals and providing hotels with a committed workforce. Their pop-up hotel schools have taken place in The British Virgin Islands, Mexico and LA, with more to come, and there are currently nearing 300 Saira graduates worldwide.

Harsha is also Head of Marketing for Six Senses Private Residences, which means she travels – a lot. She’s a global citizen, brought up in London, her parents hail from Mumbai and she’s now based, with her husband, in California. Her Instagram is pure travel inspiration; and she’s been dubbed the ‘Hospitality Humanitarian’ by CN Traveller for good reason.

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 Harsha L’Acqua.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Six Senses Llamu, Maldives. For the glass-bottomed bathtubs, overwater hammocks, purple sunsets and no sense of time…

Blakes, London. I love that it’s still undiscovered by many and blends into the street so easily. It’s the first boutique hotel I ever discovered as a child living in London, and where my love of hotels and design began.

Hotel San Cristobal, Todos Santos. For the robes, the vibes, the service.

What do you love most about working in hospitality?

The people. I feel like we’re a certain breed of people. We look to get the most out of every experience, work or play, and we blend them as much as we can. You can always tell when someone has the hospitality gene, something we always try and identify in our students. They have a natural instinct to connect, to serve, to spread happiness – whether in the spotlight or behind-the-scenes. Hospitality, at its core, is really what it means to be human and as Mohammed Ali said, “service to others is the rent we pay for our room here on earth.”

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?

Yes, I love traveling and couldn’t imagine my life without it, even if it’s just exploring a new neighborhood. Whether it’s Namibia, Mexico or India, we’re totally open and excited to bring our pop-ups to communities globally. I’m a huge fan of “pool meetings” when we’re on a project at 9am. Love to start the day with team morning meditations – optional always.

I’m a huge advocate of work/life balance, too. If we can get out on a boat one morning and island hop we’ll definitely do it. Our partners are a blast and we laugh at the situations we get ourselves into. Like when I walked out of the shower one day in Mexico and there was a cow at my front door staring at me.

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes – it’s important. To connect with yourself, to make yourself feel a little uncomfortable. A friend once asked if I feel loved when I’m alone. It’s important to cultivate that.

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

I haven’t found a concierge company that I love as of yet. I like to do a tonne of my own research with online articles or asking friends of friends. Then I compile it into a Google Doc that I share with close friends when they go.

What was your favorite room service experience ever?

The little breakfast crepes at Cliveden House, just outside London. Few people can make them so thin, with a hint of orange and still hot upon arrival.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received? 

“Get Global Entry” – Michaelangelo L’Acqua.

Who is your dream “co-pilot”, aka travel partner?

Anthony Bourdain – what a legend. He recognized, embraced and shared the value of the local experience. And didn’t seem to take himself too seriously.

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

A few: Carnitas in Todos Santos; King Coconuts in Sri Lanka; Hole In The Wall Gyoza in Kyoto; and Baked Crab Hand Rolls in LA.

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 don’t know about Mamma Mia, but that’s always been my dream! It changes, but today: Comporta, Portugal.

Where’s your next trip?

Ibiza and Formentera. I’m taking my entire family this August – they’ve never been. I lived there for a brief moment and want to share the magical parts of the island with them.

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach.

Alone or with someone else?

With someone.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Phone.

Airplane food?

No.

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?

iSodi – their Cacio e Pepe and Lasagna.

Early check-in or late check-out?

Late check out.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?

Insight Timer.

In flight cocktail?

Mescal Negroni.

Favorite travel app

Safara. Seriously!

Window or aisle?

Aisle.

Yoga or hotel gym?

Yoga.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Nick Ferman started his career in Italy in the early 2000s, before moving to London in 2005. After launching a number of contemporary fashion brands, his lifelong passion for America (special subjects: its rock and roll history, and Bukowski) saw him develop a cultural and retail swap between Carnaby and New York’s Lower East Side. Now, he’s at Luxottica, where you can find him conceiving global partnerships for the company’s brands, such as Ray-Ban, Persol and Oliver Peoples. He splits his time between London, Milan, Amsterdam and Stockholm – although he’s happiest driving his grey Moto Guzzi bike around South Sardinia, he says.

Outside of PR and brand partnerships, Nick started a band – Ora Violet – in 2019, after playing a handful of gigs in Italy with two of his long-time friends. Nick is on guitar and songwriting, and their sound has been described as a sonic boom of fresh rock and roll, fusing the 70s proto-punk of The Stooges and The Modern Lovers with the modem versatility of Raconteurs and Queens Of The Stone Age.

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 Nick Ferman.

Name three of your favourite hotels?

Riad Tizwa, Fes, Morocco. Stay in the ground-floor room. Opening the wooden doors with a huge lock will make you feel you are entering your own castle. The charming bathroom with smudged tiles is worthy of a decadent prince. And breakfast is home-cooked every day by the loveliest staff.

The Line, K-Town, LA. A hipster hotel with nice and attentive staff. Interior designer Sean Knibb did a pretty good job: modern, with a 70s feel, and the furniture was made bespoke for the hotel by local artisans. There’s a floor-to-ceiling view in every room – I’d pick one facing the Hollywood sign.

Little Hoi An Central Boutique and Spa, Hoi An, Vietnam. This hotel is an oasis of tranquillity in the City of Lanterns. The colonial style rooms are straight out of a movie and they have the best beds. Make full use of the spa, every treatment is superb. It’s also 15-minutes walk from the fish market.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Loads of sockets. There’s never enough these days, with all the devices we have. And, light switches that are easy to find and operate. 

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

South East Sardinia. It’s unpretentious, the people are friendly, and the sea is the best I have ever seen (go to Chia beach). When you’re done swimming, Fradis Minoris is the best seafood restaurant I ever tried, in the middle of the Nora lagoon.

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?

It was. I’ve worked long and hard to achieve a position where I get to manage projects at a global scale. The main thing is to develop skills that are transferable to different markets. When traveling for work, I always download a lot of movies and a series to kick back with, do at least one new thing while there (whether a bar, gallery, book shop – I recently discovered the delicious Berlin restaurant, Lokal), and don’t feel bad about staying in if the working day has worn you out.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Red Bone, by Childish Gambino. There Is No Time, by Lou Reed (listen to the lyrics, it could have been written now). And, Outrageous, by Calva Louise.

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

• Pukka green tea bags
• A Drake’s cashmere scarf
• Noise-cancelling head phones
• Persol 714 folding shades (in black)
• A good rock and roll biography (Seymour Stein’s Siren Song is excellent).

If you could swap suitcases with anyone in the world (alive or dead) at baggage claim, who would you swap with?

Glenn O’Brien, in his TV Party days.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

Book your essentials early, and improvise the rest (from my friend Manuela, the most adaptable person I know).

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

Don’t drink too much alcohol, only go to functions you have to attend, don’t look at your phone, find time every day to do at least one thing you love (going to the cinema on my own, learning a new riff on the guitar). I apply the above to travel, work or play.

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

I’m writing this while^ on holiday in Sicily. What’s better than a cremolata for breakfast?

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach!

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Noooooo!

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?

Italicus aperitivo – just try it.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.