Victoria Ainsworth, or Tori to her friends, is a multidisciplinary marketer and e-commerce consultant. She’s spent the last 10 years working with startups, helping them develop unique brand identities and build meaningful communities. Her past clients include Negative Underwear and Maderas Village hotel. 

A Toronto native, Tori found her way to LA via NYC. After a long stint at GMR Marketing, Tori went to Nicaragua for what was supposed to be a break-away vacation, but turned into a long-term stay. She traveled around central America in search of calm, before making the decision to move to the US permanently. Now a Venice beach resident, Tori is getting used to the West Coast life. When she’s not at her laptop, she’s happiest on a surfboard with salt water in her hair and sun on her face – or, stirring up some trouble at Chateau Marmont, because as she says, “that’s just what you do there!”.

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 Victoria Ainsworth.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

The Harmony Hotel in Nosara, Costa Rica; Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, California; and The Urban Cowboy in Nashville, Tennessee. I stayed at each of those hotels at a pivotal time in my life. They remind me of embarking on a new chapter, and of unearthing new and interesting parts of myself. (And I got into the best kind of trouble at The Chateau Marmont, because that’s just what you do there!)

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Music. The rooms at Chateau Marmont have vintage record players. When concierge brings you to your room, all the windows are open and there’s a jazz record on. It changes everything.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Crazy Love by Irene Diaz; Season by Elder Island; and Pour Another by Nick Hakim. I like the moody stuff.

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

Oodles of chapstick and a journal.

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

I’d probably go back to Costa Rica. It’s one of my favorite places on the planet – the energy is intoxicating, and you feel so connected to the Earth. (I’d also really like to go on an Alaskan cruise!)

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

Someone with excellent taste in books.

Have you or would you travel alone?

I travel alone most of the time. Being alone has its perks – you don’t have to consult with anyone about anything, ever. You can just kind of… go. I’d really like to start a little family someday, and I imagine (and hope!) that we’ll travel together often. I try my best to take advantage of this time in my life where I can just be all by myself.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

“Don’t be such a wussy.” – An older gentleman watching me reluctantly get on a school bus in Guatemala.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

My Nana. Because she was the best woman I’ve ever met.

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?

Panarea!

Alone or with someone else?

Alone.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Lost luggage – we always need less than what we packed.

Window or aisle?

Window.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Carissa Barrett is a Long Island-native who started out working on the NYC club scene in the 1990s, booking DJs for the TriBeCa and Soho Grand hotels (her parties there were pretty infamous). She then moved to San Francisco for a “break”, taking cooking classes at Kitchen On Fire (taught by Michelin-starred chefs), and learning about wine from master sommelier Peter Granoff. It was there that she realized her passion for scent.

After stints managing retail at Prada, Jimmy Choo and Saint Laurent, that same passion led to her current role as Vice President of Retail at Byredo. If you’re looking to switch up your Santal 33, Byredo is the one. As well as an olfactory expert, Carissa describes herself as a “connoisseur of restaurants, hotels, recipes and travel” – which, incidentally, are exactly the qualifications we look for in a Safara Insider.

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 Carissa Barrett.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok for the service; Soho Beach House Miami for the view and beach beds to relax; and the Hidden Hotel Paris for the room with the handcuffs.

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

T-shirts and a rain parka, found in the mini bar – so smart.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

A “do not disturb” switch by the bed, so you don’t have to get up to put the sign on the door.

What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?

The beach at the Soho Beach House Miami, The Standard pool in LA, Dumbo House pool and lounge area in NYC, The Standard Miami pool, and the Design District outdoor cafes in Miami.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

La femme a la peau bleue, by Maree Basse. Rearview Mirror, by Pearljam. And By the Way, by Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

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

This is a tough one because most hotels have terrible coffee, but in Morocco, it’s great – and La Mamounia has the best.

Anxiety and burn out are side effects of modern living. How do you combat them?

Always stay at a hotel with a beach or a pool to decompress every morning – even if you get only 20 minutes of sun, it helps with the natural vitamin D and leaves me feeling fresh. Soho Beach House Miami has both options so you can choose amazing pool or beach, I love it there. 

You travel a lot for work – what are your tips for making it as easy and relaxing as possible? 

I always travel with a steamer, so that I can easily steam my work clothes (simple tip, but a super useful one, we think!). Good pillows and a great mattress are key- I always look for that in a hotel. Sometimes I call ahead to make sure they have foam pillow options, and enquire on the mattress situation- if I don’t like their answers, I don’t stay. Some hotels will make sure they have the foam pillows for me (and bring them in). The Hotel Therese in Paris always takes care of me, and Hotel 1898 in Barcelona does, too.

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

Nike track pants and zip-up hoodie, with a cool baggy T-shirt underneath. I don’t believe in wearing jeans on the plane – you get bloated up in the air, and they leave marks on your legs, so if you need a quick change to a dress or skirt for a meeting after the flight, you look terrible. Comfort first. I also wear my Saint Laurent leather jacket on top, to add my own style element.

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

Lady Gaga. I am sure her wardrobe is ridiculous, and I would be all over it.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

My husband, because he lets me choose everything, and goes along for the ride, and in the end is super happy with the results. He is flexible and able to adapt if we get somewhere and decide to change the entire itinerary. 

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

Tons of places: Tripadvisor, Google to look at hotel websites and restaurants, local food apps (if applicable), Eater lists, Condé Nast articles, Culture Trip, and I ask people on social media.  No one option in my opinion is 100% – so I need to dig deeper to find the right information for my lifestyle.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice has been from other foodies that travel the world, if I trust you choosing my food, I can trust you with my hotels and other recommendations. But I also like to be independent, and look for the best restaurants myself. I research hotels and places to go for months, and I feel nobody else can do this for me – so I feel like I take people’s advice with a grain of salt, add it to my list, and then pick it apart to find what suits me best. 

What is your favorite travel book?

Life and Death on the New York Dance Floor, by Tim Lawrence Brooks, because it reminds me of my youth and my home.

What’s your favorite room service experience ever?

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

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?

Turks and Caicos or the Maldives, or Lake Como in Italy.

Beach, city or mountains? 

Beach.

Alone or with someone else? 

Depends – usually with someone.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Yes.

Lost luggage, or lost phone? 

Luggage.

Airplane food? 

No.

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item? 

Green juice.

Early check-in/ late check-out? 

Early check-in.

Favourite subscription service you’ll never delete? 

iTunes.

In-flight cocktail? 

Yes, champagne: Billecart-Salmon rosé.

Favourite travel app? 

One Fine Stay.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Joey Kotkins was one of the original Safara founders, before heading off to continue his tech-industry path at Brandlive, where he’s currently COO. Meanwhile, Rachelle Saletto is a brilliant interior designer, who has worked with the likes of Starbucks, We Work, and now Design Well Spent Co. Together, they’re one of our favorite power couples – and always a great source of travel tips.

The pair met when they were both living and working in Seattle, WA, and they now call London home. Though they love the UK, a huge reason they re-located was to be in a better position to explore Europe and beyond. From the French Riviera to Paris, Berlin and further afield, they’re in the process of ticking a lot of places off that list. And below, they’re serving romantic travel inspiration.

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 Joey Kotkins and Rachelle Saletto.

Favorite vacation to take as a couple?

Renting a car and getting lost in the Cote d’Azur. The food, wine, fishing towns, beaches, glamorous history, and dramatic landscape make it hard not to have an incredible time.

What would you say are the benefits of traveling separately from your partner?

Beyond “absence makes the heart grow fonder”, we like to share our new discoveries and play tour guide for each other on later trips.

Most romantic hotel? 

Anywhere in Paris, but maybe above all, the Hotel des Grands Boulevards where we stayed for our mini-moon. The little design touches make it the perfect amount of Parisian romantic, while maintaining a casual atmosphere. No cliché Louis XVI style here. The cosy bar is an ideal start or end to any date night.

Is going away together is an important part of your relationship?

We moved to London to travel more, and we’ve become big fans of weekend trips. We try not to stress and over-plan, preferring to pick neighborhoods to explore on foot, stumbling into random adventures. It always gives us something exciting and new to look forward to, and reinvigorates our love for our home city.

Must-have hotel room amenity when you’re traveling together?

We’re both a little too obsessed with fancy travel-sized bath products. I’m not sure what we’re going to do with all of the mini shampoos, conditioners, and body lotions we’ve collected, but we’ll figure something out.

What’s a must-have design feature for a romantic trip?

Rachelle is an interior designer, so this list is long, but lighting is on top. The Sir Savigny in Berlin does layered light well. Each room has a feature chandelier along with various floor lamps and table lights that allow you to get the lighting just right.

Do you have different in-transit preferences?

Joey likes to get to the airport early, and Rachelle prefers to walk through security and straight onto the plane. We’ve accepted this tension will persist forever.

If only one of you got upgraded to 1st class, what would you do?

Rachelle gets it every time. It’s an investment Joey is happy to make.

Splurge on the flight or the hotel?

Hotel.

Yoga or mimosas to kick off a trip together?

Yoga.

Pack together or separately?

Separately.

You know those people who seem to live the life that you dream about, traveling the world, while you’re still sipping your coffee and plugging away at a Google doc? Well, one of those people is Nicole Humphreys.

Nicole traded in her job at a non-profit in LA to move to Bali for the better part of a year, and she now splits her time between the two. Using Bali as her launch point, Nicole has explored much of Asia, and continues to preach the digital nomad life – which, of course, we are fully on board with.

It was in Bali that Nicole founded August Effects, which sells beach- and home-wares that are 100% hand-crafted by local artisans. Bonus point? Every purchase equals a donation to Bali Children Foundation. Her latest brand, Bandits Bandanas follows a similar sentiment, creating sustainably made bandanas that feature original artwork and support charities worldwide.

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 Nicole Humphreys.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Aetas Glamping, Palawan, Philippines. One of a kind glamping experience overlooking the rice fields in El Nido, Philippines. The service is truly out of this world exceptional!

Four Season, Chiang Mai, Thailand. One of the most gorgeous hotels I have ever stayed in. The room was essentially a glamorous tree houses with unbelievable views.

Korakaia Pensione, Palm Springs, CA. A romantic, serene, gorgeous bed and breakfast with tons of special touches. Highlights are the incredible breakfast served on their patio each morning. Plus, the old movies they play outdoors every night, and the exceptional service.

What are your favorite “offices” while traveling?

In Bali, I am always on the go and work primarily out of coffee shops and co-working places. My go-to is called Dojo and it is located in the heart of Canggu, Bali, right next to Echo Beach. It is set up as an open-air concept with a bamboo roof overhead and a big pool if anyone needs a work break. They have an amazing café there to keep you well fed and caffeinated while you work. Every night Dojo offers different lectures,speaker, and activities for their members. The vibe is collaborative and everyone helps each other out. When you sign up, you join their Facebook group where everyone shares tips, apps, business advice, etc. Highly recommend the Dojo as your office if you pursue the digital nomad life.

A similar co-working place is Hubud in Ubud, Bali. The structure and vibe are incredible and the people are all amazing.

Lastly, my favorite coffee shop in Bali to work from is called Koloni. Great food, coffee, fast Wi-Fi, and comfortable set up.

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

The Philippines! I just went for my 30th birthday and it is the ultimate way to get off the grid and have a digital detox. This is because there is pretty much no Wi-Fi so you can’t be tempted to get on your phone. It is also a pretty difficult place to get to – think multiple flights, long car rides, boat rides to different islands, etc. It is worth it though. You feel like you are completely off the grid and forced to live 100% in the moment!

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

My August Effects bikini bag. It’s the perfect size for toiletries, noise cancelling headphones, my kindle, and my night shades (this is a must have for being able to sleep!).

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

I am kind of adapting this question, as I learned a lot about the importance of packing when I went on Semester at Sea, and traveled to 13 countries in four months. I find it so helpful for all my travels that I want to share it:

“Focus on making sure you have all the toiletries you need to feel clean and stay healthy while traveling and don’t focus so much on clothing.” 

You can always buy more clothing wherever you are in the world, but it is difficult to buy essential cosmetics and toiletries in certain countries.  This made me realize that the clothes you do pack should be multi-purpose if possible. One of the things I always have in my carry-on is my August Effects sarong, since it’s lightweight and I can use it over my shoulders, as a blanket, or as a cover up.

Anxiety and burn out are side effects of modern living. How do you combat them?

Meditate. This is something I started doing a few years ago and it has not only changed my life, but changed how I travel. I use the app Headspace and do a 10 to 15 min meditation every morning right when I wake up.

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

Peloton Supershop. This is my favorite café/coffee shop in Canggu, Bali. It is fully vegan café with some of the most gorgeous, unique and delicious food I have ever had in my life. It also has my all-time favorite cup of coffee. I order the flat white with coconut milk. Pro tip: ask them for the large size (it is not on the menu!).

From most to least important, what do you seek in a hotel experience?

Location, comfortable, doesn’t break the bank, locals hang out there, unique, has a pool, architecturally intriguing, dope minibar.

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?

Gili Air! There are three “Gili” islands off of Bali that are around an hour or two boat ride. My favorite of the three is called Gili Air. It is tiny island that no cars are allowed on. People get around via bike or horse and buggy, and you can walk around the entire island in about 45 min. There are bars and restaurants that line the island and everything is right on the beach. I spent my 1-year honeymoon there at a tiny hotel that a couple from Europe opened. They have been there for 15 years now and have never looked back. This would definitely be an amazing place to live out the dream of opening a small hotel on a remote island!

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No!

Fantasy mini-bar/fridge item?

Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee.

Favorite travel app?

Maps.Me – it is a free app where you download a map of the destination you are headed to (do this when you have wifi). Then when you are at your travel destination, you can use the app without wifi to look up anything you need while there!

The person we look to when we’re in need of a restorative reboot? Kat Heiberger. Kat was a Project Manager at The Martin Agency before committing to becoming a full-time yoga teacher. She traveled to Rishikesh, India to complete her training, and later became certified as an Ayurvedic Health Coach at Ayurveda World NYC. She gains inspiration from each of her trips, and continues to explore as much as she can.

Kat’s New York-based health coaching practice focuses on plant-based nutrition, food as medicine and natural remedies to help her clients achieve lasting health and harmony. Her drive to get to the root of any issue is what feeds her holistic approach to working with individual clients. And we’re here for the tips she share’s on Instagram – whether a recipe for an anti-inflammatory ginger tisane or guidance on meditative breathwork rituals.

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 Kat Heiberger.

Name three of your favorite hotels, anywhere in the world?

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Aguas Calientes, Peru.  Inkaterra a sprawling commune literally inside the jungle with hummingbirds flitting around outside your door. I also took a lot of design inspiration from this place: white walls, dark wood, soft velvety browns, shiny copper, bright pops of orange and red and lots of eucalyptus.

El Albergue, Ollantaytambo, Peru. This is a farm-to-table hotel in a quaint little village in the Sacred Valley of Peru where you can walk around the grounds, tour the farm and enjoy an authentic and very special pachamanca lunch outdoors. I don’t know what’s better, their local coffee or the mountain view from bed.

Ripplewood Resort, Big Sur, California. I mean Big Sur, in general, what a special place. This resort offers a series of log cabins right on the river. You can make a fire indoors and outdoors, go swimming, fishing and just take in the cool, crisp mountain air. It’s rustic, it’s simple, it’s a dream.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Wood-burning fire place in the bedroom. Once you experience falling asleep to the crackling of a simmering fire at the foot of your bed, you really can’t not put that on your “must have in my dream house” list. 

What are your travel wellness tips for staying healthy on the go?

Hydration! My number one tip is to drink more water than you think you need or than you even want to. I also try to keep up with as many daily, Ayurvedic rituals as I can while traveling (tongue scraping, drinking hot water in the AM before coffee, using essential oils, finding any place, any time to do a little yoga). Keeping up with the little things help a lot.

And then just let the rest go and don’t worry about eating all the croissants or having a bottle of wine at lunch. Wellness is also a state of mind!

What three songs are on your OOO playlist? 

Going Up The Country by Canned Heat. Meet Me In The Morning by Bob Dylan. And By The Light Of A Magical Moon, by T.Rex.

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

Essential oils. I always carry travel bottles of lavender (to chill out), lemon (to add to drinking water for internal cleansing & immune boosting effects), doTERRA’s DigestZen (a blend to help prevent digestion from being a problem), and a homemade blend of eucalyptus & tea tree (to help keep sinuses clear during cabin pressure). Oh and ginger chews – these also help with cabin pressure, nausea and boredom.

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes! I would definitely and I have, sort of. I went to a remote town in northern India in 2017 to do my 200hr yoga teacher training. It was the first time I had ever traveled solo, and so far away! Of course I made friends with my fellow students once I got there but just making the decision to do it, preparing for it, navigating foreign airports and transportation and adjusting to a whole new world on my own was a big adventure for me. I think I learned a lot from that experience and would encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone like that at least once. 

From most to least important, what do you seek in a hotel experience?

Comfortable, unique, close to things, architecturally intriguing, doesn’t break the bank, locals hang out there, has a pool, dope minibar.

Anxiety and burnout are side effects of modern living, how do you combat them?

The main way I combat anxiety and burnout is yoga. Even though teaching yoga has changed my relationship with it a bit, I still always, without fail, turn to my own practice whenever I feel stressed, confused, sad, overwhelmed (and all the in between). I didn’t have a huge AHA moment with my yoga practice but when I reflect back on it, I recognize that I would be a mess today had I not discovered it’s unique ability to help you silence all the noise.

And travel is honestly a close second. I think it’s essential for people to get out of their bubble, out of their comfort zone, see how other people live (the good and the bad). Travel gives you the kind of fresh perspective to which almost nothing else can compare.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea? 

Nah.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

 Lost luggage.

Favorite travel app?

Units Plus! I’m so bad with conversions.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Raised in a small village in Brittany, France, Manon Lagrève grew up on a farm where food was celebrated as the core of family life. Manon’s culinary love was second nature, keenly watching her mother and grandmother cook every meal from scratch; from breads to biscuits, and of course, desserts.

At 20, she traded rural France for the lure of the big city and moved to London to work as an au pair, becoming fluent in English – and she hasn’t left. She fell in love with the wonderful array of bakeries, was inspired to share her own recipes, travels and life on her blog Manon’s Little Kitchen, and this led to her becoming a quarter finalist of The Great British Bake Off season 9.

Now, she’s expanded into responsible fashion, launching a small-scale, low-waste womenswear brand with her friend Rosie Spencer, Manon and Rose. Her Instagram feed is a delicious mix of baking, beaches and cute outfits – alongside her husband Luke and their baby girl Fleur. It’s the kind of wholesome, French-influenced life we’d all love a slice 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).

Read on for travel inspiration from Manon Lagr´ève.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

I stayed in the Japanese Alps in one of the Ryokan to enjoy a spa (Onsen) in Hirayu and it was one of the best things I have done. Total immersion into the Japanese culture and so worth it.

Camping in a yurt the middle of the desert in North Tunisia – it was a very much an improvised stay with my family, we got to spend the night there and woke up to watch the sunrise, and had bread cooked in sand for breakfast, which was an amazing experience!

Manon Les Suites in Copenhagen. I think it will take a long time for me to find a better hotel. There is this amazing pool in the middle of the place, some amazing plants, and an amazing breakfast.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

A fridge, because I just love buying food.

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

Home, in the countryside of Brittany, France.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Howl by Florence and The Machine. Someone That Loves You by Izzy Bizu + Honne. And Story by Xxanaxx.

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

A eye mask and some water (I probably drink three litres a day, and probably pee 20-times a day).

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

Julie Sarinana, from Sincerely Jules.

Have you or would you travel alone?

No, I love sharing my experience with someone and just find myself bored very easily when alone. I need to communicate and relate to someone. 

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

I love looking at travel blogs, I think it is always the best pieces of travel advises I had (only if I don’t know anyone that has been there). If you like the blogger in question and already related to things they do and enjoy, their travel recommendations should match in a way what you like.

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?

Iceland.

Beach, city or mountains?

Mountains.

Alone or with someone else?

With someone else.

Window or aisle?

Window. The best part of flying is looking through the window.

And, a recipe for travel snacks (or a treat, even if we’re not going anywhere)? 

My Ultimate Ginger Biscuits 

Ingredients

• 400g of dark muscovado sugar
• 200g of granulated sugar
• 250g of salted butter at room temperature
• 2 tbsp of golden syrup
• 2 tbsp of black Treacle
• 3 eggs
• 2 tbsp of ground ginger
• 1 tbsp of cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp of nutmeg
• 600g of plain flour

Royal Icing:

• 2 egg whites
• 1 tsp of cream of tartar
• 500g of icing sugar

Method

1. Make the biscuit dough: In the bowl of an electric mixer, add the sugars and the butter and beat for 4 min. Then add the eggs one by one. When everything is combined, add the golden syrup and treacle and mix well. Finish by adding the flour and the ground ginger and cinnamon and nutmeg. The dough will be super stiff, but that is good!

2. Bake: Take a quarter of the dough, and roll on a floured surface and start to cut the shaped desired. Keep the pieces in the fridge for 30 min before baking at 180 degrees for 18 min.

3. Make the royal icing: In the bowl of an electric mixer, add the eggs and the cream of tartar and mix until soft picks form. Stiff in the icing sugar and mix for 5 min. Add some icing sugar to make it thicker, and add some water to make it thiner, easy!

Happy Baking!

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Lily Wan is the founder of Here.Productions, a storytelling studio for creative strategy, production and direction in “New York, Mexico City, or wherever” – which is exactly the kind of free-spirited ethos we love.

Lily travels often for both work and play. With a serious interest in design, she started her career at HWKN, and was previously Managing Editor at Surface Magazine and Director of Content at small-batch tequila brand Casa Dragones. Scroll her Instagram feed and you’ll find beautifully curated shots that make you want to pack a bag immediately, jump on a plane and join her for a casual sundowner drink.

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).

Don’t miss Lily Wan’s guide to Mexican hot-spot, San Miguel de Allende. And, read on for more of her travel inspirations.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Aman, Tokyo. Aman perfectly articulates Japanese design sense – an ideal balance of modern and traditional. The spa is fantastic and each room has a deep-soak bath tub.

Le Sirenuse, Positano. Hillside hotel overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. The pool area is surrounded by lemon trees and the colorful buildings that make up the town. Everything about this place is a 10. 

Hoshinoya, Kyoto. You access this hotel via private boat, and that is just step one. The design is flawless, and it feel like you can sit and meditate in any given room. 

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

A private wooden boat that takes you down the river and directly to the hotel at Hoshinoya in Kyoto.

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

Norway or one of the Greek islands.

What are your thoughts on solo travel?

I’ve traveled solo quite a bit. Buenos Aires, Paris, French Alps, Sydney, New Zealand, Greece… It’s liberating and relaxing, and I always eat a lot. Haven’t done a solo trip since falling in love a couple years ago, but sometimes I get an itch and imagine I would still enjoy it. Vacation days are precious though and my partner and I have the exact same taste and curiosities, so it’s especially fun to escape together now.

What was your favorite room service experience ever?

Another point for Hoshinoya, Kyoto. They have this full spread Japanese breakfast they bring to your room and set up for you (hot pot and everything). You sit on the floor, open up your wall-spanning window that overlooks the river, and begin your day in the most peaceful way.

Anxiety and burnout are side effects of modern living, how do you combat them?

These are both things I’ve been struggling with lately. In general, and in terms of vacation travel, when I’m off, I am o-f-f. Technology has helped made working and communication much more efficient, which is great, but if you don’t set your own boundaries, you’ll never get proper time to recharge.

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

Just gotta power through it as if you’ve been in your current time zone the entire time.

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

You’ll never catch me at the airport in sweats. There’s something to be said for how much of an event air travel was in the 50s and 60s. You’re flying through the air in a giant tube of metal – I still think that’s amazing and try to pay a little respect with my attire. Dropcrotch slacks and Martiniano glove shoes are the way to go. The shoes are especially key, these will be your best travel (and everyday) friend.

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 along the Italian coast (then maybe I will finally achieve my dream of becoming a nonna when I grow up! That’s how it works, right?).

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach or mountains.

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item?

Easy-mix Negroni (The Ned in London aced this).

Window or aisle?

Window (thank you, bladder of steel!).

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Anna Douglas is a wellness all-rounder. She’s a Seattle-based yoga teacher, founder of retreat company Renew + Restore and runs her own studio Take Care, as well as being the Social Manager at Alo Moves. Her love of travel is long-standing, pre-dating her time crafting international yoga retreats; before all of the above, she traveled along the southwest coast, living in a van. Though she has since traded those wheels for an apartment, her wanderlust is still very much something that shapes her life and work.

For her first long-haul solo trip, Anna traveled to Bali, where she did her yoga teacher training. Her path to wellness grew out of an obvious need for emotional and physical support within her art-school community. She was drawn to approach creativity in a holistic way, providing a space for people to travel abroad, practice yoga, and find fulfilment and positivity.

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 Anna Douglas.

If you could only bring a carry-on for a month-long trip across different climates, what essentials would you pack?

My Nikes, because I take them everywhere. A lightweight down coat and a Carhartt beanie, because I am forever from the Pacific Northwest. My camel-colored hat; I can’t put it in my suitcase and it drives me mad lugging it around, but I need it, I can’t explain why. My beats and my kindle, because they keep me sane when I am on long flights. And good socks. I have one pair that are really sentimental and I take them with me almost everywhere I go – weird, I know.

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

I am athleisure obsessed and I live studio-to-street with Alo Yoga wear. It is quick, easy, stylish and comfortable.

What supplements do you travel with?

Vital Proteins. My favorite daily go-to is the Collagen Creamer in Coconut. I throw it into my espresso with cinnamon every morning and it gets my day started. Whenever I get off a plane, my first purchase is almost always kombucha. I can’t get enough probiotics when I travel.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

Anthony Bourdain. Seeing the world through his eyes would have been unreal.

Name three hotels you love?

El Rey in Santa Fe. San Cristobal in Todos Santos. And Under Canvas in Zion.

If you’re going to a new place, and your friends haven’t been there, where do you go to for travel advice?

Honestly, Instagram. When I’m traveling, I always post about the place, and I love hearing about where other people like going. I have found some of the best hikes, food and neighborhoods just from connecting with people on Instagram. The internet is a hell of a tool.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

I have always loved the quote by Jonah Lehrer: “We travel because we need to, because distance and difference are the secret tonic to creativity. When we get home, home is still the same, but something in our minds has changed, and that changes everything.”

Seeing the world has been the only constant goal I have carried with me throughout my life. It is part of my makeup at this point.

Anxiety and burn out are side effects of modern life. How do you combat them?

Anxiety and burn out are something I deal with on the weekly. For me, it has been a practice of learning when to push and when to pause. When I travel into vastly different time zones I have to move my body. Getting the blood flowing might be brutal, but it is the one thing that works for me consistently.

I find that whenever anxiety comes up, it’s usually my body’s way of telling me I am doing too much and need to pause, whether I like it or not. If I’m not traveling in order to switch off, I take more time to be more deliberate about self-care. Long baths and walks generally do the trick, that and some really bomb bodywork. When I am in Seattle I tend to frequent Two Smiling Feet in Fremont, it’s the only place I’ve found, outside Bali, with body workers I truly love.

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

The last time I was in LA I had about an hour to kill and found this little coffee shop in Los Feliz called Maru. It was a damn good cup of coffee that helped me make my flight on time! Being from Seattle, I am a bit of a coffee snob, so I take it very seriously.

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?

Either Bali or Baja. Or some dreamy coastal European town that might only exist in my mind.

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach.

Alone or with someone else?

Someone else. Like Chris McCandless says: “Happiness is only real when shared.”

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Phone. It’s good to unplug.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Stephanie Janssen is a bonafide LA babe and Senior Content Manager for denim staple, Citizens of Humanity. Leading the brand’s fashion and editorial platforms, Steph is constantly spinning plates, but she still takes every opportunity she can to travel. With family in Costa Rica, New Caledonia and France, there are a world of holiday options waiting to welcome her. 

A longtime Angeleno – she epitomises the mood there so much so that she models for LA-based brands, like Freda Salvador – Steph is often on planes to NYC for work. For down time, she plans adventures with her fiancé or relaxes at home in Hermosa Beach, where she takes to the ocean like a true Cali girl.

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 Stephanie Janssen.

Name your three favorite hotels?

The Ludlow Hotel, New York. I stay at the Ludlow in NY a few times per year. I love the style, the rooms are comfortable, the staff is really kind, the lounge area is great for meetings, and the restaurant is consistently good.

The Nobu Hotel, Shoreditch, London. I recently stayed at the Nobu  just after it had opened and loved it. It has such a cool, sleek design, room service could not be better, and it felt like a cool area to be based out of while exploring the city.

Terranea, Palos Verde, CA. My fiancé and I recently had a nice weekender at Terranea and had a lot of fun there. The pools are great and it’s just so beautiful overlooking the ocean!

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

I love all of the Margiela goods at the Sixty Soho.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

I love a big bath tub with a ledge so I can eat room service and read in it.

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

I loved hiking through Zion National Park last year and would love to explore the rest of the National Parks in Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico next.

You travel (a lot) for work. Was this something you were seeking in a career? And how do you balance getting the job done and having some fun?

I didn’t set out to have a career that involved travel, but I am happy it naturally developed in that way. I think it’s important that no matter how tired or little time you have, you sneak in even the tiniest amount of time to see something specific to that city. It could just be going on a short walk or grabbing a snack at a local shop. When you travel for work, it can feel like you’re working non-stop, but it’s important to take a little time for yourself and appreciate where you are as much as you can.

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

A change of clothes in case my suitcase gets lost, a great book, and an extra sweater – I am always cold on planes.

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

Isabel Marant. I love all of her clothes and imagine her suitcase would be full of her own line.

What’s your favorite room service experience ever?

Sushi at the Nobu Hotel London.

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

Drink lots of water and don’t eat much until the new city’s dinner time.

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

I like the turmeric latte at the Ludlow Coffee Supply.

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

Lululemon yoga tights, St Agni loafers, cashmere sweater, a giant soft coat, and I keep a pair of jeans in my bag to switch into when I land if I’m not going straight to my hotel.

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach, 100%.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No!!!!

Travel alone or with someone else?

With someone else.

Window or aisle?

Window – better for sleeping.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Mia Zee is the quintessential California dream girl, though she prefers to wear black. She’s the former Director of Marketing and Brand at sustainable denim and apparel label RE/DONE, one of the first employees who helped build it into the global luxury brand it is today. Now, she’s working her marketing magic at Versed / Offspring Beauty.

While at RE/DONE, Mia was responsible for crafting the brand’s voice, and developing the overall marketing strategy across channels including social media, email promotion, influencer marketing, press and events. She also managed their brand partnerships with new and heritage brands like Hanes, Solid & Striped and Weejun’s.

Before RE/DONE, Mia spent four years as a professional ballet dancer living in Munich, Germany, before returning home to her native Los Angeles. She currently lives in West Hollywood and spends her time exploring new restaurants and hanging out with her two pet rabbits.

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 Mia Zee.

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

Recently, I stayed at St. Martin’s Lane in London for work. I only had one charging adaptor, but so many devices to charge. The room has USB charging ports, which were actually a lifesaver. Computer, phone, iPad, Kindle, headphones – I was fully charged and it was amazing.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

An outlet to charge my phone next to the bed. It is the first thing I look at in the morning and last thing I look at before bed. Also, it isn’t really a design element, but I need a really comfortable bed. I love sleeping.

Where are your favorite bouji offices while traveling?

Any Soho House. There is comfort in consistency.

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

I don’t drink coffee, but last fall, I was in Istanbul and after a super touristy day where I explored Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmet Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern, I stumbled upon a very charming little café nearby and had the most delicious fresh mint tea. It was the perfect late afternoon refreshment.

Anxiety and burn out are side effects of modern living. How do you combat them?

I work Monday to Friday and if I go too long without a break, I feel antsy. I always need my next getaway to look forward to and try not to go too long in between trips. Even if it is just a little weekend getaway, it is good to have something every six weeks, at least.  

You travel a lot for work – what are your tips for making it as easy and relaxing as possible? Any favorite hotels to stay in that help accomplish this?

I really enjoy my alone time on the plane to completely disconnect. That always helps me zen out before I land and inevitably need to do a million things. Also, when booking a hotel, I try to stay as close to my work as possible to cut down on the commute time. Last time I was in NY for work, I stayed at the Marlton Hotel, which was so cute and cozy. The location is great.

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

RE/DONE | Originals stretch double needle crops in black. They are so comfortable – I can sit for hours in them. They are like yoga pants, but they still hold you together and have a back pocket that I use to stow my phone as I check in and go through security.

RE/DONE | Hanes Classic tee in black or white, a black turtleneck cashmere sweater and my beat-up old Nike AF1’s in white. I skip jewelry or boots with hardware to avoid setting off the metal detector.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

Anthony Bourdain. No Reservations and Parts Unknown inspired me to travel. The way he would absorb and experience the local culture fascinated me. He’s been everywhere and knows what not to miss in each city. Plus, I know I would eat well.

What is your favorite travel book?

I am a sucker for historical non-fiction, because it allows me to travel to a different time and place through the pages. I recently finished George, Nicholas, and Wilhelm: Three Royal Cousins and the Road to World War I, which I highly recommend. It was educational, entertaining, and shockingly relevant to global politics today.

What’s your favorite room service experience ever?

Every time I’ve ever ordered room service, but if I had to be specific, it would have to be when I was like 8 years old in Hawaii with my family. We would go every Thanksgiving to the Mauna Lani on the Big Island. I ordered fries, took a bite of one and put it down because it was too hot. Without realizing it, my mom then picked up that same fry and ate it. My sister and I thought it was the funniest thing ever and laughed for a solid 30 minutes after.  

Travel alone or with someone else?

With someone else!

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Never.

Favorite subscription service you’ll never delete?

Netflix!

Read more from our Insiders series, here.