Tell us the last time you switched off the laptop for more than 24 hours? Or, left your phone at home? If you can’t remember, we’re going to suggest it’s time for a digital detox. Given the pace and plugged-in nature of modern life, the digital detox is increasingly relevant and something we’re big advocates of at Safara.
Read on for our Insiders’ tips on how, where and why you should embrace the digital detox.
1. A digital detox to Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Off the northwest tip of West Papua, you will find a collection of 1,500 islands that can only be described as idyllic. Celebrated for their turquoise waters and thick jungle, Raja Ampat is known for some of the best diving in the world. It’s myriad coral reefs are thriving thanks to the remote location, which has prevented human interference. Expect to see manta rays, sharks, whales, turtles, birds of paradise, and even salt water crocodiles.
Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort is the place to stay when you get there – the journey takes around 16 hours from Singapore, via three flights and two boats. When you get here there is no cell service, and no wifi. It’s paradise.
Isla Holbox is everything Cancun isn’t, which is exactly why you should come here for a digital detox. Stay at Casas Las Tortugas, located amid the nature reserve on this a car-free island, north of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. There’s really nowhere better to power down, relax and recharge.
Santa Teresa is the place to go for amazing beaches, good surf and great food. Forget about wifi, head to a hammock on the sand, rent a board, and relax with a good book and a fresh coconut after hitting the waves. Stay in one of the surf lodges closest to the beach – it’s not about luxury here, rather about switching gear, making friends and discovering new perspectives.
Famous for its beaches, pine trees and picturesque dunes, Ile de Ré is a perfect place to wind-down. Off the west coast of France, the island is much more “connected” than heading deep into the jungle, but it is still a far fling from the buzz of the Mediterranean cities. The vibe is extremely laid-back, with small cafes, expansive beaches and beautiful walks. Book a stay at Hotel Le Sénéchal in May or September, when you can truly take advantage of the peace and quiet the island has to offer.
If you were in and around NYC or LA five years ago, every plugged-in person you knew was discussing a little boutique hotel in Nicaragua called Maderas Village. No, this wasn’t a splashy five-star property with huge ad budgets to match. It was just that good of a place that people couldn’t help but share its magic. On our first (of a few) visits in 2015, we met one of the partners behind its word-of-mouth success, Bennett Brown. Originally from Toronto, he left a successful real estate career in the big city to move to a tiny, undeveloped beach town in Nicaragua. There, he helped build Maderas Village, and the pop-up boutique hotel that followed, Bayhouse.
When we met, we bonded over a shared love of adventure travel and a desire to challenge the status quo of the industry. Since then, we’ve founded Safara, and Bennett is now the CEO of tech company Pitaya, developing a new hospitality experience platform for boutique hotels. As an amazing hotelier and dedicated traveler – he recently spent a couple of months living in Lisbon, and before that, did a stint in Joshua Tree – his travel tips are always worth taking note of.
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).
What hotel room design element can you not live without?
I hate to say it, but reliable internet and wifi. A solid internet connection is just so critical today, and so many hotels fail to get this right. Few things will frustrate people more than unreliable technology.
Did you always want to work in the travel/hospitality industry?
It really hadn’t crossed my mind until I arrived at Maderas Village in Nicaragua. I was traveling through Latin America and stopped in to visit an old family friend, Matt Dickinson (Dickie), who had co-founded the hotel.
What really captivated me was their philosophy around how to deliver an incredible guest experience. That was the first time the term ‘hospitality’ really connected with me. It kind of sounds crazy, but very few hospitality companies actually bring people together.
I knew Dickie was on to something as I had never experienced a place like that before in all my travels. I felt I had to figure out what they were doing differently that the industry seemed to have missed. So, I decided to stay longer and make myself indispensable.
Name three songs on your travel playlist?
Inside Out, by Spoon. Got to Give it Up, by Marvin Gay. And Heroes, by David Bowie.
Who is your dream “co-pilot” or travel partne?
I suppose I would have to say Steve McQueen: he is a really fascinating individual, and seems like someone who would always be up for an adventure to unique destinations.
If you’re going to a new place, and your friends have not been there, what do you consult for advice?
I usually look to a few sources, such as A Hotel Life or Design Hotels, as they have a solid collection of curated properties around the world. From there, I find a few properties that match the vibe I am looking for, and then dig into their socials. There are generally some solid gems to explore – cafes, music venues, galleries or great eats.
Best travel advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have heard was to just ‘say yes’. I was at a talk given by Richard Branson and the CEO of ING in Toronto years ago, and a lot of their focus had been on the idea of ‘just saying yes’ as often as possible, as it leads to unexpected outcomes. It made a lot of sense, and I would have to credit that advice for leading me to some of the most fascinating ventures over the years.
Anxiety and burn out are big topics these days. How do you combat them, and how does travel help?
I passively manage my stress by ensuring those I share my time with both personally and in business have a calming presence and positive outlook. I have found that even the most stressful situations seem much more manageable with calm and positive people at your side.
However, while traveling I look to enjoy the unique environments each country offers. Whether that is surfing, climbing, snowboarding or even enjoying a coffee in a park and watching the world go by.
Travel can be about the little luxuries, like an amazing cup of coffee. Where was the best one you’ve had?
There was this little café in Rome called The Hybris Art Gallery, which has sadly now closed. It had an amazing atmosphere, great music, and welcoming staff. I am not even certain the coffee was truly the best, but in that moment it didn’t much matter, as it was all perfect.
Margot Boyer-Dry is the witty wordsmith we all need in our current reality. She’s based in Brooklyn, NYC, and the founder of Lorem Ipsum – a culture focused newsletter spanning music, food, tech and beyond. As The News Stand put it, it’s “the only newsletter you need in your inbox”. Frankly, we wholeheartedly agree.
In addition to keeping up with pop culture for Lorem Ipsum, Margot has done copywriting for Facebook and Audible, and has written for publications like Curbed, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. She co-wrote the NYT column “Summer in the City”, sharing her point of view on what to do, where to eat, and who to see during the warmer months in New York. And she’s our go-to for a creative reboot.
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).
I can’t remember its name, but the best place I’ve ever stayed was a hotel in a former convent in Avignon. Thick stone, sweet courtyard, pure delight. After that, I remember a great Riad in Fes, where I almost floated away after all the evening tea. And The Silo in Cape Town has a really friendly staff – find them and befriend them.
Photo via The Silo Hotel
What is the most unique hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?
The Hoxton in Williamsburg has coffee packets – like tea bags, but for steeping coffee. Why has no one told me about this before.
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
Pretty much anywhere outside will do. Give me dappled sunlight and something green, and I’m good to go. All parks with wifi are my offices in Brooklyn.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
Somewhere remote and mountainous. The Himalayas. Patagonia. Upstate New York.
Best travel advice you’ve ever received?
My cousin taught me early: never be on the main drag.
Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?
It’s basic, but it holds up: sleep on local time.
Travel can be about the little luxuries, like an amazing cup of coffee. Where was the best one you’ve had?
Figure 8 in Austin (included in the Safara guide), hands down. Coffee comes best with a spinning record. And a breakfast taco never hurts.
Beach, city or mountains?
Mountains!
Airplane food?
Plane food is almost uniformly disappointing, but nevertheless, absolutely.
Window or aisle?
Depends. Daytime flights pull me toward the window, but aisles are better for long trips. How many times do I anticipate having to pee?
Producer, composer, and keyboard player for indie-electro band St. Lucia, Nicky Paul has been in the music scene for a long minute. Growing up in LA, Nicky was surrounded by creativity from a young age, and he continues to grow his creative circle from his current base in Brooklyn, New York.
Prior to joining St. Lucia, Nicky worked on music projects with Tony Bennett, Britney Spears, Passion Pit, and more. He also spent a fair amount of time in the advertising music game, and runs his own publishing company. Touring has taken Nicky to Europe, Asia, South America, and around the US. He’s no stranger to spending serious stretches of time on the road, so his travel tips are worth noting. Plus, his hip swinging and head bobbing makes him one of our favorite people to watch on stage.
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).
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
Yosemite (High Tuolumne Meadows) or Santa Cruz Island (Channel Islands).
Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?
Get ahead of the game by falling asleep or staying awake on the plane, depending on the destination/time zone you’re going to.
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
Headphones.
What is your favorite travel book?
It’s actually The New Yorker magazine. I don’t have a favorite book, so if I’m not deep into one at the time, this is always my go to.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
Sneakers, sweats, sweatshirt, shirt – the 4 S’s. All Gucci, all the time. Sometimes Chanel.
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’ve always wanted to play and make music and I’ve always wanted to see the world. I’ve been lucky enough that both have come to fruition through what I love doing. I think the most essential point to making travel both fun and relaxing is to do things in moderation. Don’t plan too much, but don’t plan too little. Leave room for spontaneity, but also have a clue of what you want to do.
Don’t put pressure on yourself to do ALL the things, just book enough time (days/weeks) so that you can do them, without feeling like you’re in 5pm NYC rush hour traffic. Also, it helps if you’re doing it with someone or people you enjoy. Things tend to just fall into place, in my experience.
Beach, city or mountains?
Mountains.
Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?
The New Yorker (print edition) and Girl Scout chocolate mint cookies.
In-flight cocktail?
Bloody Mary or just tomato juice with a side of lemon and ice.
Solo travel can be one of the greatest vehicles for self-reflection. Many of us romanticize the idea of sitting on a train, writing in a journal and feeling blissfully content as we gaze out at the sunset. We might also expect to find a new sense of clarity, a lover or a career change along the way. And for that stylized take on solo travel, we have Eat, Pray, Love to thank.
With that disclaimer out of the way, we haven’t found a better way to reconnect with ourselves than solo travel. In our experience, you have to get quiet to get loud – and when you’re traveling alone, that inner voice is turned right up. Thoughts become more focused, decisions more confident.
Our best advice is twofold. First, carefully consider the solo travel experience that’s best for you – it could be really remote, or a city break surrounded by people; a month’s retreat with a group you don’t know or a short weekend spent alone.
Secondly, manage your expectations. There will be nights dancing with beautiful strangers, and best meals you’ve ever had, with just a good book for company. But, you might also get completely lost, and spend a few early nights in the hotel with Netflix, feeling a little lonely. Allow it all to unfold, because that’s where the best experiences are found.
If you’re still reading this, you’re probably a few clicks away from booking a solo trip. Our final piece of advice? Do it. And, read on for our suggestions of good places to start.
If Europe is easily accessible from where you’re based, Lisbon is a great city for your initial solo travel trip. It’s walkable, but big enough that you can get purposefully lost. The food and architecture is outstanding. There’s a friendly community of creatives, freelancers and expats. Plus, high-speed trains to Porto or Faro, if you want to explore further – and maybe jump in the sea. All the key ingredients for a fulfilling solo travel experience.
Treat yourself to a room at this 5-star boutique hotel. The 15th-century building has been perfectly restored, while interiors feature clean-lines, and contemporary design. Views over the Alfama neighborhood are picture-perfect Lisbon. And, the hotel bar is a good place for that initial drink to ease you into the solo travel mindset.
Taking the solo weekend to the next level
Sacred Valley, Peru
For the solo traveler who’s had a few successful weekends away and is ready to up the sense of adventure, we are going to recommend Peru’s Sacred Valley. Welcoming millions of tourists each year, Cusco is a safe and convenient hub to fly into. From there, instead of going straight to Machu Picchu, spend some time exploring Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba – you’ll find beautiful hikes, yoga studios, great cafes and friendly crowds. Tip: the best way to get from place to place is in a collectivo, a shared ride that picks people up around town. It’s a trip that strikes the perfect balance between finding new connection and getting away from it all.
This lodge is the most beautiful in the area. Inside it’s all dark woods and white details; outside, you’ll find an organic farm, a coffee collective and and a school for local children. Make sure to take advantage of the traditional lunch, which the chef cooks in a volcanic stone oven buried in the garden. It’s delicious.
Solo traveling further afield
Mae Hong Son, Thailand
Close to the town of Pai in norther Thailand, Mae Hong Son is nestled amid the mountains on the border of Burma. The setting is completely serene – so, if you’re serious about getting away from it all, start packing. Don’t count on cell service or wifi, because you most likely won’t have it. Instead, you’ve got breathtaking hikes, waterfalls, hot springs, and remote caves. From Mae Hong Son, you’re well placed to explore Salawin National Park; Pang Ung, a tiny village with a lake; or Baan Ruam, know for its coffee. If a “new you” is out there, this may well be the place to find them.
This eco-friendly resort is simple, but perfect for your time in northern Thailand. The resort is made up of 30 wooden bungalows, built on former rice paddies, overlooking the mountains. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in all that nature has to offer.
Technically, Michael Clarke’s occupation reads as “Director and Photographer,” working for some of the biggest brands out there. This includes shooting commercials for Samsung, capturing photos for Outdoor Voices, and developing videos for Equinox. Speaking more liberally, you could add former professional skier, and dog handler to his dream co-pilot, Walter (more on that below).
Born and raised in Lake Placid, NY, winter sports have always been second nature to Michael. When he’s not traveling to capture content for work, he frequently jumps on a plane (or into a helicopter) to find the world’s best slopes, from Switzerland to Austria and further afield.
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).
Baldface Lodge, Canada. A nice, remote mountain lodge with good food, decent lodging, and some great skiing and snowboarding for just about any ability. Plus, you get to take a helicopter in, which is always fun.
Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado. I had a reservation here for a week a couple of years ago that I had to cancel last-second. Looking forward to spending some time here in the not-so-distant future.
Hotel Almhof Schneider, Austria. The Arlberg Valley has some of my favorite skiing in the world.
Lake Placid Lodge, New York. I had to give an additional one here. I grew up in Lake Placid, and while this place has gone a bit downhill in recent years, it’s a special one. A beautiful central lodge with individual cabins right on Lake Placid is hard to beat.
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
A few summers ago I spent some time boat camping on a Norwegian tugboat, island-hopping through the San Juan Islands in Washington. During that time, I frequently worked on my computer from my tent, pitching on a couple of different film projects. It was a pretty cool “office”.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
My Sony camera with a 35mm lens (and usually many more than that one said lens, but that’s a must).
If you’re going to a new place, and your friends have not been there, what do you consult for advice?
This could come off as moderately pretentious, but I typically try and seek out interesting clothing boutiques when I’m in a foreign city and ask the person working for advice. I’ve found that these places have pre-made lists or maps with suggestions for travelers. For example, Void in Mexico City or Bastille in Cape Town both had great suggestions.
If I’m in a more remote place, Google Maps in satellite mode followed by a quick image search can go a long way. Beyond that, I find apps like The Infatuation tend to be helpful. Also, I always respect a New York Times 36 Hours story.
Best travel advice you’ve ever received?
I was driving down to the Algarve in summer, after a week-long project in Lisbon with my friend, Todd Martin. Todd suggested that we use Google Maps in satellite view to look for hidden beaches along the coast. It was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had to date, and we managed to keep a Google Map starred with all of our favorite stops.
Who is your dream “co-pilot” or travel partner?
My dog Walter, but he does make it hard to go to certain places.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
Originally from Ohio, Megan Puleri broke into modeling when she walked the Victoria’s Secret PINK fashion show in 2015, alongside Taylor Hill and Selena Gomez. From there, she was signed by Ford Models in New York, and soon moved to Brooklyn to pursue the career full-time. Her work has since taken her around the world, from Tokyo to Sydney, LA, and back. She has modelled for brands including Alice & Olivia, Marchesa, and Theory, and publications including Elle magazine.
When she’s not in front of the camera, she can usually be found painting or illustrating – sometimes for pleasure, and sometimes for commissioned pieces. And hanging out with her music producer other half, Avi Snow, and their adorable dog, Freddie.
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).
Hyatt Regency, Huntington Beach, CA. The hotel is right on the beach and the food is to die for. The resort has everything, from bonfires to multiple pools and hot tubs, and I got to attend a week long conference there, where spiritual teachers such as Eckhart Tolle spoke.
Gramercy Park Hotel, New York, NY. Because this was the first place I stayed when I came to New York. The art throughout the hotel is extremely interesting, the lighting creates a solid vibe, and I have so many fond memories of my stay there.
Santa Maria Suites, Key West, FL. This wonderful resort was so cozy. I stayed here for my cousin’s wedding, which took place nearby. The staff was amazing, they even gave me a discount for an Instagram shout out!
As a creative, where do you find most inspiration for your work?
I can get creative anywhere: planes, trains, castings, etc. As an artist, all I need are my tunes and I’m good to go. Of course, it helps if there’s a cool coffee shop or lounge nearby. I’m also a sucker for people watching, so anywhere I can sit and do that inspires me.
You travel for work a lot, was this something you were seeking in a career? And how do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?
Yes, it was. I have lived in Tokyo, Sydney, Melbourne, and Los Angeles, but mainly New York. Coming from Columbus, Ohio, I had a desire to travel wherever I could. I don’t really have much of a say re: where I go, my agency sends me where I’m wanted! I believe I’ll be traveling a lot more this year. I make it relaxing by being present and grateful that I am able to travel for my work.
What is your favorite travel book?
My favorite book to travel with is Mandala Of Beingby Richard Moss, because I can practice mindfulness and awareness as I read it and apply practices in real time.
What’s your go-to outfit for getting through security quickly, and still looking good?
To be completely honest, I don’t care how I look at the airport as long as I’m cozy. I usually wear leggings, my boyfriend’s oversized sweatshirt, and my Blundstone boots. The comfier the better.
Where’s next on your bucket list to travel to?
I want to go to Bali. My sister and so many of my friends have been, and I have heard amazing things about it. I want to leave my phone and submerge myself in nature and yoga. I think having time to yourself can do wonders for inspiration.
As a Creative Director of LA’s Runyon Group, and a brilliant DJ, Grace Lee is a multi-faceted force to be reckoned with. Born and raised in New York, she spent much of her childhood in Korea, and now lives in LA, so she’s very much on board with travel as a way of life. Case in point, she once planned a trip to Nicaragua to get away from city life for a bit, and ended up staying for months (and falling in love while she was there, why not!).
Though Grace Lee now splits her time between music and hospitality, DJ-ing used to take priority. Playing venues like The Standard’s Boom Boom Room, affiliated with artists such as Mia Moretti and Venus X, and working for Warner Brothers Music Group, her taste in tunes is second to none. As is her taste in food – between 2017 and 2018, Grace Lee ran New York’s award-winning restaurant, De Maria, with friend and Co-founder, Camille Becerra. We’re currently petitioning them to bring it back!
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).
What is the most unique hotel amenity you’ve ever encountered?
A complete custom-menu based on my blood type at a hotel in South Korea. Very personalized service.
What hotel room design element can you not live without?
An ambient bedside lamp (lighting can completely change a mood).
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
The rooftop of Boom Boom Room at The Standard Highline. Or the back patio of the Bowery Hotel.
Where would you go to digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
Meditation and solitude is usually found when I go to the desert or the woods, anywhere in the world. Being in LA, Joshua Tree is a great place to access that sphere.
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?
Absolutely. As a multi-faceted creative, I believe fluidity is so healthy, and surrendering to the notion of how other parts of the world can inspire us is really important. It’s a gratitude to travel – an ode back to our world to truly embrace and nurture it. I always make sure that I bring my personal relics and totems with me to remind me of a sense of home and comfort. That includes my journals, typewriter, orca sculpture, marble globe, frankincense and myrrh incense, palo santo, and golden flask (for solo wine or mezcal adventures).
I like the simplicity of applying your “tools of influence” and bringing them wherever you go. To me, a huge purpose of travel is to find your relationship with yourself, and with your work. And I feel so fortunate that it is a part of my career. Ultimately, I love that (upon a return back) it makes home feel like home, too.
Yes! We’re designed to understand our origin in the movement of pilgrimage. It’s in our science to be alone, because silence also creates expansive reflection. So when you travel alone, the individual spirit is at a space to find a deeper self.
What’s your favorite room service experience ever?
It’s hard to choose one. When they have a really nice pot of tea and fresh flowers, the hotel’s usually a winner.
Who is your dream “co-pilot” or travel partner?
My mom. I would love to see us both in the air, journeying somewhere new.
Anxiety and burn out are big topics these days. How do you combat them, and how do you use travel to do so?
Meditation is key for me. Without aligning yourself at the beginning of the day, you can reduce clarity and increase anxiety. Through reflection, I acknowledge stress, anxiety, or any other emotion that comes to the surface. Really finding “flow” is the core of it all. Without a good flow, the disarray can really complicate my day of travel, or even the entire trip. So meditation is my center, wherever I go.
Do you have any tips or tricks for beating the dreaded jet lag?
I get out in the sun! The sunlight adjusts our body clock. Beautiful, eh?
Travel can be about the little luxuries, like a really amazing meal. Where was the best one you’ve had?
Garlic grilled octopus and aji roasted potatoes at Nomade in Tulum. THE BEST octopus I have ever had.
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?
Iceland, South Africa, South of France, Mexico, or South Korea.
Alone or with someone else?
Someone else.
Is in-flight wifi a good idea?
No!
Early check-in or late check-out?
Late check-out.
Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?
Organic Asian tea selections: Oolong, Hojicha, or Barley Tea. Also mezcal either from Madre Mezcal, Yola Mezcal, or Lost Explorer. And definitely kimchee.
Author and all-around media maven, Dayo Olopade Lamolo, currently leads dealmaking with content creators to build and grow Amazon Prime Video in Africa. She previously ran content licensing and engagement strategy for sports, news and entertainment partners at YouTube. She is also a reporter in Washington and Nairobi, a Yale Law School Knight Law & Media scholar, and a council member at Reuters. Plus, she’s helped build and launch consumer products at the New York Times and Facebook. Above all of that though, she’s a blast to have a margarita with.
Though Dayo was raised in Chicago, her parents moved to the US from Nigeria in the 80s, and in the early 2000s, she moved back to Nairobi for two years. She went on to travel through 17 countries in Africa, and her book, The Bright Continent: Breaking Rules and Making Change in Modern Africa, was born out of the experience. The reviews speak for themselves – if you haven’t read it, we suggest you add to your list immediately.
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).
What hotel room design element can you not live without?
Rooms with wall sockets designed with different voltages in mind. I constantly toggle between European, American and South African hardware. We have to respect diversity in devices.
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
I am an airport lounge lizard and proud of it.
What advice would you give someone who travels often for work?
Invest in functional luggage, and noise cancelling headphones.
If you could swap suitcases with anyone in the world at baggage claim, who would you swap with?
Whoever was styling Kerry Washington on Scandal.
If you’re going to a new place, and your friends havn’t been there, what do you consult for advice?
I will always have a soft spot for the New York Times’ 36 Hours series. And, if updated within the past two years, Wallpaper* city guides usually offer a welcome focus on architecture and design. I run some 40 miles a month, so on the road I will also check out Strava, for any well-loved routes in a new city.
Best travel advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t drink on the plane. And, always take the trip!
Anxiety and burn out are big topics these days. How do you combat them, and how does travel help?
Once in a while, I will tack a Friday night onto a work trip, and spend it in a hotel bathrobe catching up on TV, email, and beauty rest. And if you can fly business, you should!
What are your favorite travel hacks?
I’m someone who always boards last – just in case there’s an open seat in a comfier class, or closer to the front of the plane. On any flight over six hours, I am doing active leg stretches and hydrating in the galley mid-way.
What’s the most unexpected travel experience you’ve had?
I received a mysterious upgrade to Air France Première, and was whisked directly from plane to connection in a posh Jaguar sedan. No idea why!
What is your favorite travel book?
I’ll name my own book, The Bright Continent, which is an investigation of technology and development in Africa. I reported it across 17 countries in two years, and while it covers meaty issues like education, health care and finance in Africa, it’s also a contemporary travelogue that brings back memories of some of the most unusual and fascinating places I’ve been.
What’s your favorite room service experience ever?
Zach Para is the drummer for Brooklyn-based band, City of the Sun. You might have seen him on stage at New York music spots Brooklyn Steel and The Troubadour, or playing events around town for brands like Chloe and Vans during fashion weeks. Or, you might recognise him and his bandmates from Billboard Mag articles or various partnerships with Gilt ,Sunglass Hut and Ilegal Mezcal. Those boys are always busy.
Hailing from Seattle, Zach Para found his way to NYC via Boston, where he graduated from New England Conservatory. Since then, his music has taken him everywhere from Brazil to Spain, Indonesia and back again. He has learned how to get creative when it comes to packing a bag with stuff needed for five different climates, and somehow managed to look good no matter where he steps off the plane.
City of The Sun is one of Safara’s favorite bands to include on our travel playlists (shameless plug to head over to our curated Playlists page). Of course, we asked Zach to create a playlist for us, too. And, we’ve gathered his intel on his home city for our Seattle guide.
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 House, Athens, Greece. A quaint hostel feel with great rooms that are inspired by the Greek Islands. The rooftop has hammocks and plant life that take you away from the bustling city life below. I’m pretty sure you can share rooms, but the private ones are perfect for a few nights going out in Athens.
Museum Hotel, Nashville, USA. Who wouldn’t want to walk through a tasteful, modern art museum after a long night out in Nashville? Rooms are spacious with high ceilings and attractive stone walls. And the fitness center felt like I was walking into a spa.
Hotel Unique, São Paulo, Brazil. Stunning modern architecture, amazing views of the city scape, with one of the best rooftop bars/restaurants I’ve seen.
What hotel room design element can you not live without?
Lots of sunlight. The bigger the windows the better.
What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?
My “offices” usually consist of recording studios, stages and practice rooms, but when I need to get some computer work done, I would say the pool/spa at The Standard Hotel in Miami Beach. Not a bad place to hang with your laptop.
Where would you go for a digital detox or just generally to get off the grid?
Uvita de OSA, Costa Rica or Lake Chelan, Washington. I have family in Costa Rica with a gorgeous Airbnb by the ocean. The gardens are a perfect place to disconnect. Lake Chelan is a special place for me. My dad’s family has had a cabin there for generations. You literally have no cell service unless you head into town, so it forces some peace.
When flying, try not choosing your seat. It’s a gamble, but on the right flights they’ll upgrade you simply because they are the only single seats left on the plane.
What do you always bring with you in your carry-on?
