Sebastian Puga’s CV reads like a who’s who of the best in hospitality. A creative executive and global connector of ideas, he specializes in designing experiences for brand innovation and growth as SVP of Brand Development at Ten Five Hospitality. Previously, he spent four years as VP of Brand Marketing at Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotels in NYC; and before that was at Sixty Hotels, Morgans Hotel Group and The Standard Hotels. All the hits, basically.

With over a 15 years of experience, Sebastian has worked with some of the world’s most recognized organizations, leaders, and brands. He’s happiest working from a hotel rooftop bar – we spent several remote office afternoons at the PUBLIC – or at his home in the East Village. However, he’s no NYC native; in fact, Sebastian has roots in Miami. In short, he’s a well traveled man, full of good travel advice.

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 Sebastian Puga.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

La Granja, Ibiza, Spain. This is a beautifully designed farmhouse situated on the north side of Ibiza. There’s no sign for the hotel, just a dirt road from the main street, which is perfectly fitting for the feeling you experience once you arrive. The hotel is simple yet elegant, and small, with just six rooms in the main house, an amazing pool and a restaurant that produces its menu from the land it sits on.

Deer Mountain Inn, Tannersville, New York. Deer Mountain is an old turn-of-the-century home transformed into a six-room cottage, plus three additional guest houses. The design is rustic, warm and welcoming. There is an incredible restaurant and it has the perfect deck to enjoy long lunches during the summer months. In the winter, get cozy by the fireplace. You can hike around the property, without needing to leave, as there are 100 acres of land to explore. I love coming here anytime of the year, and and it’s a great excuse to get out of the city.

PUBLIC, New York, NY. This is the hotel I opened alongside the godfather of boutique hotels, Ian Schrager. It breaks the mold from what the big hotel groups were doing in the market at the time, by offering “luxury for all”, ie. a design hotel at an affordable rate. It’s exactly the style of hotel that was missing in Downtown Manhattan. My favorite part is the five bars, all of which serve a different purpose, design, and experience. It’s a one-stop shop when you are traveling to NYC.

What do you love most about working in hospitality?

A passion for service is embedded into my life, and there is nothing I can do to get away from that. Everything else just falls into place.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

A comfortable mattress, or I’m not coming back.

What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?

I prefer working in my hotel room. It’s quiet and I get distracted far too easily when I’m in a public setting. 

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

I travel to upstate New York as often as possible. And cell service is terrible up there, so it’s easy to forget about my phone.

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

Running shoes. It’s a great way to get to see the city and work up a sweat.

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

Johnny Depp.

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

My friends website, A HOTEL LIFE for the best hotels.

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

Hunter S Thompson. I would love to have been in Puerto Rico while he was writing The Rum Diary. That was probably a lot of fun. Sunshine and rum!

What is your go-to read while traveling?

The New Yorker.

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?

Working on this dream… in Tulum or Ibiza. Or any beach, actually.

Travel solo or with someone else?

With someone.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Lost luggage.

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?

Bottle of Margeux.

Early check-in or late check-out?

Late check out.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Andrea Belck-Olsen is the Director of Sales at Nordic Hotels, which includes over 25 beautiful hotels across Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland. The coolest boutique on their books? Hard to choose, but if we had to, we’d probably say THE THIEF in Oslo.

A life-long nomad, Andrea has always loved to travel. She grew up in Peru (where her parents were missionaries, working in local hospitals and schools), went to high school in both Bolivia and Norway, and then attended college in Perth, Australia, and Chicago, US. 

After a short stint as a DJ, she started working in the hospitality industry – initially, she was on the front desk at The Peninsula Chicago. Soon after, Andrea was offered a job with the pre-opening team at THE THIEF, to help launch their hotel in Oslo. Ever the global citizen, she moved to Europe to take on the role. She now works with Nordic Hotels partners around the world, from the US to the UK, the Middle East, and China – all of which she travels to often. In fact, she wrote this Q&A on a flight to Beijing!

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 Andrea Belck-Olsen.

Name three hotels, off the top of your head, that you love?

Besides THE THIEF (obviously!), my current favorites are: Wolfe Lodge in Norway, Maderas Village in Nicaragua, and Petit Ermitage in LA. They are all unique in their own special ways.

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

The uber cool HOBO Hotel in Stockholm has a water gun in the bathroom. It has to be the most original amenity I have ever encountered, and definitely makes your stay more fun!

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Proper lighting in the bathroom.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Tunes that remind me of epic trips. At the moment: Me Enamorè by Shakira, Selva by Elionor Emù, and River by Leon Bridges.

Did you always want to work in the travel industry, and if so, what sparked that interest? How did you break into it?

I spent most of my childhood traveling with my family. We lived in Peru, Bolivia, and the United States, as well as Norway. I remember spending lots of time at airports staring at the departure screens. I was so curious about where everyone was going, and tried to memorize all the different destinations.

It definitely sparked my interest in the industry, and to be honest I am not sure I could handle having a job that did not involve traveling today. After studying Tourism and Hospitality in both Perth, Australia, and Chicago, I was hired at the prestigious Peninsula Chicago. After that, the ball just kept rolling, and here I am.

What are your favorite travel hacks?

I have always been that girl that jumps in my seat when the meal cart comes rolling. However, as I have gotten older I have started to skip the in-flight meals. I bring lots of water and power bars on the flight. Then I have a proper meal when I land at my destination, instead. It actually helps with the jet-lag, and I feel much better.

Have you, or would you, travel alone?

Absolutely! Everyone should do a solo trip at least once in their lives. Personally, I crave that alone time as it gives me time to reflect and find my inner creativity. Which is something that I usually don’t find much time for in my everyday life. I’ve did a solo trip to Peru a couple of years ago – ping me for hidden gems and must do’s, please!  

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

This isn’t a literal “coffee” answer, but, a trip to Kuwait is worth it for the local hummus alone! Especially the one at the old and traditional market Souk Al-Mubarakiya. This market is also awesome when shopping for spices. Definitely beyond re: “little luxuries”.

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

I am a “less is more” type of girl. I think a pair of jeans, nice sneakers, and a blazer gets me far. Comfortable, but still classy. I also try to avoid too many accessories when going through the airport security line – there’s no need to set off any alarms for fashion. 

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

Disconnect! Because of today’s technology, we are constantly available to everyone, and I find that my work and social lives collide. It is hard to find balance when you are always “on”. I am a big fan of the “airplane mode” on my phone, and try to use it often, even if I am not traveling. The feeling of not being available all the time is quite addictive to me now.

Favorite travel app? 

Mapstr.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete? 

Spotify.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea? 

No.

Fantasy minibar/fridge item? 

Espresso Martinis.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Cyrena Lee is a freelance writer based between NYC, Paris and Taipei – and sometimes other places. With over 10 years of experience in branding and marketing, she has helped to launch startups in the retail, fitness, travel and health and wellness spaces. In her own words, she is particularly interested in “holograms, lucid dreaming, meditating, eating hot pot, learning languages, and climbing.”

When we first met, Cyrena was the Head of Content at Getaway, where she launched the content strategy as well as overhauled their website and brand platform across all channels. The result was “an experience designed to bring us back to our elements, immerse us in the magic of the woods, and challenge us to rediscover the pleasure of boredom, solitude and unstructured time.” Sounds dreamy, right?

Cyrena studied Anthropology at Barnard College, then spent time abroad in Beijing and Paris, before moving to Shanghai to explore the world of advertising at Oglivy. Since then, she’s worked in creative marketing for brands big and small, including Virgin Sport and Brooklyn Boulders. And she is currently working on several novels and a collection of short stories.

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 Cyrena Lee.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Remote controlled curtains — I first encountered this at CitizenM in Shoreditch, London. Going from day to night without getting up is a pretty nice touch, and now it seems like an absurd necessity.

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

Any Getaway cabin to detox, or the south of France to just hang out and eat fresh tomatoes and cheese all day.

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

My rock climbing shoes, because, you never know.

Have you or would you travel alone?

Traveling alone is one of my favorite things to do. I even wrote a piece on it called “When You Travel Alone, You Belong to Everyone” for Fathom a few years back. People emailed me saying they were inspired to do so after. It’s absolute freedom!

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

I used to plan in advance more, but my French boyfriend has a very lax approach to traveling. He never books hotels in advance because, as he puts it, he never knows if he’ll want to stay longer or go somewhere else last-minute. I’ve found that this mode of non-planning opens up for a lot more unexpected adventures.

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

Start eating according to the time zone you’ll be traveling to 12 hours before your flight. Or just convince yourself it doesn’t exist. A combination of the two works every time for me, even for flights to Asia.

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

Love my ADAY Don’t Stop Top and Brakes On Leggings, for comfort and looking chic all at once. I pair it with a massive Lauren Manoogian sweater to keep warm.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Yes, working flights equal less stolen vacation time.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Lost phone. Airplane mode, please.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?

Patreon.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Born and raised on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, in Cartagena, Ernesto made his way to NYC via Utah, where he developed a love for the mountains and the desert. After a good number of years in Salt Lake City, he made the move to New York, where he developed a career in photography and hospitality, working with brands including Grand Life Hotels and Indie Fork. 

A few years later, to get a break from the city noise, Ernesto made the move to the Catskills. Since, he’s planted roots as Creative Director for Deer Mountain Inn, an upstate boutique hotel gem, and East Coast Editor of A Hotel Life. As you’ll see from his images, his photography has won awards and been featured in the pages of Interview Magazine, Surface and The Impression, among others. He’s also a creative consultant for luxury brands (including Safara!).

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 Ernesto Roman.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Masseria Moroseta, Ostuni, Italy. This place stole my heart when visiting Puglia. The architecture is impeccable, with well thought out details everywhere you turn, from the stunning courtyard, to the pool, to the light fixtures. It’s just the right amount of chic and minimal, and quite photogenic. You may be greeted by Beppe, the house bulldog. I can’t wait to go back.

Amangiri Resort, Canyon Point, Utah. This place seems to have it all: a respectful relationship with the environment, incredible architecture, out-of-this-world location, and views of a remote desert landscape. Plus, it’s wellness focused. 

The Bowery Hotel, New York City. A favorite hangout that has been witness to a lot of what makes NYC cool. Love the classic vibe and views. I could spend all day in their lobby.

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

Olive tree cotton bath robes, made from the century-old olive trees that grow on the hotel’s property.

Dream places to visit as a creative?

The Namib Desert. I’ve been obsessed ever since I saw the movie The Cell. It’s one of the most surreal places on earth; I’d love to do a fashion shoot there.

The Bonneville Salt Flats. Another out-of-this-world location. The entire place is an endless white canvas, where you could create the most beautiful imagery. The colors you see at dawn are incredible, as all the light bounces off the white surfaces. I’ve been many times and it’s heavenly!

Hong Kong. Just to recreate scenes from Wong Kar Wai’s In the Mood for Love.

What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?

I discovered Cafe de la Mañana, which is away from all the noise in Cartagena, Colombia when I was looking for a spot to work remotely. It’s perfect for an all day breakfast and email marathon.

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

A sail trip through the San Blas islands: an archipelago of 365 islands off the north coats of Panama. Nothing but small islands with palm trees and exquisite sunsets.

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

I think Jeff Goldblum has been killing it recently, that could be interesting. Also Adrien Brady looks great all the time. Let me throw Adrien Brody in there too!

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes, and absolutely. Allow yourself to explore, get lost and be out of your comfort zone. You can learn a lot about yourself when traveling alone. It will push you to exercise your creative thinking and social skills. Also, not a bad thing if you’re single.

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

El Imparcial in Madrid. Cappuccino, tapas, magazine and art book browsing, all in one place.

What is your favorite travel book?

The Motorcycle Diaries. Takes one Ernesto to know another.

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

Depends on the season and destination. I usually wear slacks and comfortable sneakers (that can be easily removed), and a light sweater in case the plane cabin is cold. For longer red eye flights, I do like a hoodie, too. I just don’t understand why most people look so disheveled when they travel.

Beach, city or mountains?

All three! It’s my life story.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Yes, but never for work.

Window or aisle?

Window, always! How dare you miss the view of the sky, clouds, sunsets, mountains, oceans and city lights!

Check out Ernesto Roman’s guide to the Catskills, here.