Nina Anakar has seen almost every side of the food industry. During her time in New York, she was one of the first hires at salad empire Sweetgreen, and she has produced events for brands and chefs including Soho House and Mark Ladner (of NYC’s Del Posto and Lupa). Wanting to get back in the kitchen, she staged at San Francisco’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Mourad, and has now launched her own restorative urban farming initiative and kitchen, Ziza Urban Farm.

Nina is half Moroccan, drawing on her family’s roots in Tangier, as well as her time growing up in Buenos Aires, to create stunning dishes with seasonal Californian produce from her current base in LA’s Echo Park. Her food is delicious, her Instagram equally so, and her travel tips (especially for lovers of food) are well worth knowing. We’re also fully inspired by her take on restorative farming – she encourages the Cali community to get involved in growing, preserving and connecting with the land and each other.

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 Nina Anakar.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

The NoMad Hotel in New York. I’m a real fan of perfect, thoughtful hospitality that doesn’t feel forced or overwhelming, and the team at the Nomad is really good at that. Their Library Bar is the kind of place I dream of when I’m in New York, and it’s true that the chicken they serve at dinner is a very special dish (and I never order chicken at restaurants) .

The Standard Spa in Miami, FL. Any place that welcomes their guests to hang barefoot all day in a bathroom or bikini is the place for me. The restaurant always has the types of grilled and fresh food and drinks I want to eat by the water. I also love their fire pits, and the hot rocks in the spa are amazing.

Maison Arabe in Marrakech, Morocco. My dad is from Morocco and I really fell in love with Moroccan food when I first came to this hotel as a kid. While it’s true that you won’t get better hospitality than in a Moroccan family’s home, the team at Maison Arabe is so good at taking care of their guests. They also have wonderful cooking classes with Moroccan women who are serious about teaching you all of the traditions, from the ritual of Moroccan mint tea to bread making, preserving and tagines. They also have a beautiful pool and hammam spa.

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

Somewhere in Mexico.

Do you have any personal travel hacks?

Bring your own meal and snacks because plane food is the worst. If you don’t have time to prepare something, Sweetgreen or something like it is a great idea. And, drink lots of water!

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

Books, a notebook, a pen, a rose face spray and snacks. 

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes! I think it’s good to sit with yourself alone sometimes. 

What’s your favorite room service experience?

Breakfast in bed all the way.

Anxiety and burnout are a side-effect of modern living. How do you combat them?

It’s really important for me to stay off my phone, to stay nourished, and also to get enough sleep.

What is your favorite travel book?

I love to read cookbooks from the places I am either about to visit or have recently visited. Most recently: Greece by Vefa Alexiadou, The Mediterranean Kitchen by Joyce Goldstein, and Couscous and Other Good Food from Morocco by Paula Wolfert.

Carly Lockwood is a creator, marketer and builder of both online and offline communities. As former marketing consultant for Remote Year, and now product manager at Launchtrip, her travel mindset it well-honed and we’re here for her recommendations.

After two years traveling around the world for work – and some play – Carly now resides in beautiful British Columbia. Her dream is to orchestrate a lifestyle that allows her to travel to Mexico for a few months of the year, while still keeping her home base in Canada. Sounds pretty great, right?

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 Carly Lockwood.

Name your three favorite hotels?

The Fairmont Hotels are nostalgic for me as they remind me of cozy winter trips up to Lake Louise and Whistler. And, I know I have done something right if I am staying at any Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts.

On a local note, the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino, BC, is a top choice. It’s an oceanfront boutique hotel, and the coziest damn place you will ever stay in. With floor to ceiling windows, you can watch the waves crash right onto the rocks below. Tip: go during storm watching season for the most drama.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Air conditioning.

What are your favorite bouji offices while traveling?

I have spent quite a few weeks working from a hammock by the ocean! My friends at Remote Year started an IG account called @digitaldouchebag – you will see only the douchiest of places we have had the opportunity to work. 

You travel for work, a lot. How did you get into doing what you do? What advice would you give someone who wants to get into the travel industry, or have travel as a key part of their job?

The demand for work flexibility is becoming more and more common. I would suggest applying the “remote” filters and reach out to startup and tech companies that are implementing these benefits. As for advice, the “on the road” lifestyle is not for everyone. Talk to people who are doing it and understand both the up and down sides of it.

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

Great question. Anyone with better style, clean clothes and probably and most importantly, a clean record really.

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

I tend to go straight to the nearest cafe or bar for a beer (become a fast local). From there, you ask the barista, the bartender, meet new local friends, and really dive into the insider scoop on where to go and, more importantly, where the tourist traps are. Human-based referrals always lead to off the beaten path adventure.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

Before leaving on my epic journey, my step-dad advised that I act like a sponge: absorb every experience, interaction, smell, taste etc. On a more practical note, someone told me to travel with noise-canceling headphones and plane, bus and train rides have never been the same.

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

Such an important question! Regardless of how my Instagram looks, I went through some long periods of anxiety and feeling depleted.  The upside is you get to face all the emotions, but with incredible views.

Listen to your body and build a workout, meditation or “me time” regime. It’s important to have a little bit of routine, especially when your environments are constantly changing. A few friends had remote therapists, which was extremely helpful to them.

What are your favorite travel hacks?

I am always the last person to board the plane. This may make people anxious as people tend to line up right away – even though we all have our assigned seats. I do this so I can scan the entire aircraft for any vacant rows to sprawl out in. If I see one, I simply take the window seat, buckle up and wait for take-off before I stretch my legs out across the row. I promise I am not an asshole!

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

Vietnam has the best iced coffee. Hands down.

Beach, city or mountains?

Where the mountain meets the ocean.

In-flight cocktail?

No. Hydration is very important. ( I can hear my mom smiling at this.)

Window or aisle?

Window – most underappreciated view!

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Céline Bossart is a New York-based freelance writer and content creator in the drinks and luxury travel spaces. Her written work and photography have been published in Billboard, Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE Décor, Town & Country, Liquor.com, and more.

When she’s not typing up her insights on the latest vineyard we should add to our to-do list, Céline tell us she enjoys traveling, smashing the patriarchy, sipping fortified wines and nerding out over cocktail history (preferably all while wearing a silk bathrobe). She’s also an excellent drummer – surely the ultimate cool girl instrument to play?

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 Céline Bossart.

Name your three favorite hotels?

Rosewood Mayakoba on the Riviera Maya, because why wouldn’t you want to cruise around a lagoon to get to your sexy villa). The Ned in London, because it’s just pretty- on top of having excellent bar programs. And El Palauet in Barcelona, because it’s super whimsical and brings together modern luxury and old world architecture.

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

I once stayed at the W London and they had a gigantic mobile bar that you could order to your room (it was called Mega Bar – like minibar, but huge). Anyway, they rolled it up to my room and made me a cocktail and it was pretty cool. The disco ball inside was a nice touch.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

Pillow variety. There’s nothing worse than having four to six of the same damn pillow. Everyone has their preferences! I also enjoy a good USB port or universal outlet literally anywhere in a room. Those always come in handy if I happen to have forgotten adapters.

What are your favorite bouji offices while traveling?

I want to say the pool anywhere, but I’m a crotchety old grandmother type at heart and I can’t see my screen when it’s sunny, so that’s an issue. I love working at bars. The lobby bars at The Ned and the Blakes Hotel in London are awesome, and the bartenders are super friendly. Is that douchey? It’s the best I can come up with. Also, I’m a better writer after a cocktail or two.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

This one is hard because I listen to different stuff all the time depending on my music phase. My default is anything by The XX. But here are three specific songs I’m into right now:  Best Friend by Sofi Tukker, shedontknowbutsheknows by Tove Lo, and My My My! by Troye Sivan

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

I will never forget my experience at Coutume in the 7th Arrondissement in Paris. They let me do a stage there as a coffee roaster for a few months, so that was pretty cool.

Anxiety and burn out are side effects of modern living. How do you combat them? Any favorite hotels for this, specifically? 

I actually have Lyme disease and am in pain/exhausted literally all the time; I think it’s the little things that help me keep on keeping on. I carry around two sleep masks (one gel and one silk) for airplanes and other modes of transport. I also like to keep protein bars on me so that I don’t have to resort to eating quick and easy garbage. Currently, I’m hiking almost 200 miles along the Camino de Santiago, so I have a bunch of those in tow along with some plant-based protein from this brand that I really love, Truvani. In terms of using travel itself as a means of combating my fatigue or physical woes, I generally will take advantage of spas or hot tubs/steam rooms within my accommodations whenever I get the chance. I love a good massage or soak.

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

Never underestimate the power of self care. For me, this comes in little presents to myself that keep me looking forward to taking care of myself while on the road. Usually that’s new travel-sized beauty products either from Birchbox, duty free, samples I’ve been sent, whatever it may be; new baby moisturizer, a new shade of blush, a sugar scrub; it literally doesn’t matter. I just like the idea of cracking open a fun little treat after a long travel day. Travel-sized candles are great too and can instantly make a hotel room feel a bit more serene and cozy.

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

I have this awesome cashmere hoodie from Leimere; it’s soft and lightweight and layers easily. I’ll wear that under a leather jacket along with a big travel scarf that can double as a blanket (I always WITHOUT FAIL am freezing cold on airplanes). So you just throw the jacket and scarf on the belt and move on with your life. I also don’t care what anyone says or thinks about Uggs. I will travel in those until the day I die.

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

Victoria Beckham for obvious fashion reasons. She also probably smells great.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

My boyfriend. He’s the best human being to travel with and the greatest adventure partner ever; his shoulder is also very comfy to sleep on while in transit.

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

I honestly just use Google Maps. I’ll search for whatever I’m in the mood for (e.g. coffee, cocktails, whatever it may be) and I’ll take however much time is necessary to narrow down the nearby options to what I determine to be the coolest. And then I go find out for myself (I have to say my intuition is usually pretty on point). I’ve found some really great places that way, and there’s a satisfaction in knowing that I chose it without the influence of anyone else’s opinion. Sometimes though if a hotel has a good concierge, I’ll chat with him or her to get a feel for what’s going on nearby in terms of restaurants and bars, et cetera. They’re always very dialed in (it’s their job, of course).

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

Probably my dad. He’s traveled for work his entire career and throughout my whole life, so I inherently believed growing up that life on the road was normal, and that rang true for me in my adult life. It’s certainly not for everyone but it’s definitely in my DNA (my parents actually met on an airplane). Anyway, his philosophy is that you just go — to him, it’s not really a question. And you make it a lifestyle.

What is your favorite travel book?

Shantaram. It’s 900+ pages, so it’s a commitment (and it’s heavy if you’re reading the physical book), but so worth it. I read it while backpacking alone for three months back in 2012 and it rocked my world.

What’s your favorite room service experience ever?

It’s gotta be the Mega Bar at the W London.

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?

Well, I’ve been very lucky in that my job itself is basically a travel movie moment constantly. But if I were able to just go rogue and open a place of my own wherever I wanted, I’d likely choose Marrakech or Istanbul. Those are two of my favorite places on earth.

Lost luggage, or lost phone? 

Luggage (reclaim that $$$).

Airplane food? 

Yes (if Business Class).

Fantasy mini bar/fridge item? 

Bottled cocktail.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Nicole Heim is an creative director and consultant who helps create, launch and build brands. With 20 years of experience in fashion, she leads creative teams in marketing, product design and sustainability, and has helmed creative leadership roles for womenswear brands and start-ups, such as Mara Hoffman, Away and Argent. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, Vogue Italia, Fast Company, Forbes, Vanity Fair, Elle, and more.

Originally from California, Nicole studied Visual Communications at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, and Concept & Textiles at The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. After a brief stint at Marie Claire, she began her career at Victoria’s Secret. Then, in 2013, she took a sabbatical through Africa in the hope of finding a meaningful way to merge business and design. As a result, she founded her sustainable womenswear brand, Cienne, in 2014.

In 2016, Nicole was named one of “Five Designers Breathing New Life Into Sustainable Fashion” by W Magazine and one of “9 People Revolutionizing Their Industries” by Brooklyn Magazine. Cienne was also a semi-finalist in the 2018-2019 International Woolmark Prize and the recipient of the runner-up award in the 2018 CFDA + Lexus Fashion* Initiative. As you might guess from all of the above, Nicole’s life involves a good amount of travel!

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 Heim.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

Lazy E-nuf Ranch, Montana, US. An exclusive, no frills, family-run ranch on 8,000 acres of protected land in Montana.

Faru Faru Lodge, Grumeti Reserves, Tanzania. If you’re able to splurge, the Singita lodges/reserves in Tanzania (and across Africa) have incredible locations, amazing design, and are big proponents of conservation and community efforts.

Hotel Esencia, Tulum, Mexico. Originally a private home, this place is cozy and has the best music and design details.

Where are your favorite “offices” while traveling? 

The hotel lobby.

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

Anywhere in Africa or the mountains of Idaho.

What three songs are on your travel playlist?

Baltimore, by Nina Simone. Get Up Offa That Thing, by James Brown. And Passionfruit, by Drake.

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

Jao hand sanitizer, spare set of contacts, and a scarf.

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes! Traveling alone is a completely different experience than traveling with others – it forces you to get further outside of your comfort zone, and as a result you often encounter new people and unique experiences.

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

T Magazine or The New York Times or Instagram.

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

My favorite thing about travel is it gives you perspective; it reminds you of just how small you are, in the most positive way possible. This helps me to remember what truly matters, and subsequently to let go of anxiety or truly understand the root of the anxiety, so that I can better move forward without it. I also have a morning ritual which includes meditation and a gratitude practice. 

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

I don’t have any special tricks, but lots of water and exercise always helps my body get back on track.

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

Ethiopia has the best coffee. It’s everywhere, and espressos are often no more than $1 from a roadside stand.

What’s most important to you in a hotel experience?

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

Beach, city or mountains?

Mountains.

Alone or with someone else? 

Alone.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

Never!

Favorite travel app?

Hopper.

Window or aisle?

Aisle.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Babba C Rivera is that smart, successful woman who also happens to be gorgeous, stylish and nice. She’s Swedish and of Chilean descent, but has called NYC home since early 2015. An award-winning brand marketing professional (Forbes 30 under 30), she has experience working in fashion and tech in Stockholm, Berlin and New York, and has been featured in publications including Vogue and The Coveteur.

After working on the launch of Uber in Sweden, she moved to NYC to be its Head of Partnerships, and ran the company’s largest consumer partnerships with brands including Evian, Rag & Bone and Lyst. She left for a position as Director of Brand Marketing at a then-unknown luggage company, AWAY, and after she helped scale it to a household name she set out to found her own business — all before hitting 30.

Babba now works to merge the gap between the agency world and the uprise of fast-moving, direct-to-consumer brands with her company, Bybabba – a next-gen agency, based in New York. She is also the founder of beauty brand, Ceremonia. And she’s a board member of game tech company Leo Vegas and accessories brand ATP Atelier. She is also a wife, the co-founder of women in business network HER USA, and dog mama to the adorable @blue.official.

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 Babba C Rivera.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

I cannot live without a good hotel bathrobe! Staying in hotels for me is a form of self-care and nothing feels more like self-care than coming home after a long day and putting on a cozy robe and a face mask.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Only Love by Ben Howard, Riptide by Vance Joy and Slip by Elliot Moss.

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

Café Fabrique in Stockholm, Sweden is a favorite spot of mine for a delicious coffee and cinnamon bun.

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

It is about taking advantage of those little moments you have during the day to really check in and recharge. I download meditation sessions on my phone via Headspace before takeoff, and take the offline moment in-flight to focus on calming. I also have a full skincare routine during my flights, using Verso’s hydration sheet masks, Vintner’s Daughter serum with a floral essence and the Tata Harper essential oil rollers for anti-stress.

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

I always try to stay in hotel rooms with a bathtub or really luxurious showers, nice robes and an amazing staff. Bank Hotel in Stockholm is definitely a new favorite for me- their staff is incredibly accommodating. Nobis Hotel in Copenhagen is another favorite. Both hotels have great bath amenities and a super helpful staff. On top of that, they both have great restaurants within the hotel which makes it easy (and so convenient) to host business meetings at the hotel, over breakfast or lunch.

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

I love sets! My go-to right now is the Rag Doll set, paired with furry Gucci slippers. The set is wool, so it keeps me warm but it is still breathable and the slippers are so easy when going through airport security.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

My dog Blue! She brings a source of zen to any destination.

Travel alone or with someone else?

With someone else.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No!!

Fantasy minibar/fridge item?

Kombucha and milk chocolate.

Favourite travel app?

Blinkist! The app summarizes books into condensed 25-minute podcast episodes.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Nicholas Campbell started his companies, Narcissus Arts and Campbell Art Advisory, with the goal of making art more accessible for people he knew – the first time art buyers and art lovers in their 20s and 30s, who can afford to spend a few thousand, but who are typically ignored by an industry that seems to cater only to oligarchs and millionaires. Prior to founding his business, Nick gained art world experience at Victoria Miro and White Cube galleries in London, and Christie’s Auction House in New York. He also says sage stuff like: “I think art, at its best, provides viewers with a bit of escapism.” We couldn’t agree more.

Nick was chosen as the UK’s best art consultant under 35 by Spears Magazine in 2014, and was on British GQ‘s “Self Made List” as a top entrepreneur in 2017. He’s also a member of the ‘New 100 Club’, which is a collection of the top 100 young art collectors worldwide. Born and raised in London, he’s pretty much always on the road – from San Francisco to Costa Rica to New Delhi and beyond, he’s been there, or is planning to go there asap. Given his naturally curious mind and aesthetic eye, he’s our go-to when planning an artful escape.

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 Nicholas Campbell.

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

Personalized bicycles.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

A bathtub.

What are your favorite bouji offices while traveling?

By the pool of the Setai, Miami. The rooftop of Soho House, Istanbul, the lobby of the Imperial in Delhi.

Art being your main passion – what hotels have memorable art collections that are worth a peek, whether you’re staying there or not?

The Thief (Oslo), The Dolder Grand (Switzerland), Cavalieri (Rome).

If you could outfit any three hotels in the world with Narcissus Arts’ works, what would they be?

The new Peninsula that will open soon in London, the Four Seasons in Singapore and the Delano in Miami as it needs a facelift.

What’s your best tip for finding under the radar / unique galleries while traveling?

Contact me.

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

Jude Law.

Who is your dream co-pilot or travel partner?

Richard Ayoade as his hatred of traveling would be endlessly amusing.

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

Personally, my go-to is the Conde Nast Traveller ‘City Guide’. They never fail to be on point and up to date.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

When going to Ibiza, always pay extra to sit at the very front of the plane.

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

I’m lucky that I can fall asleep almost immediately when traveling, so I, in fact, tend to use the actual voyage as my downtime. 

Do you have any favorite travel hacks?

Always be polite and always give it a go, you’d be surprised at how many times you can get an upgrade, or at least get a better seat – just by being nice and asking.

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

Costa Rica. Even on the side of the road, the coffee is excellent.

What is your favorite travel book?

Bill Bryson ‘Notes From a Small Island’. It’s an amusing read

What’s your favorite room service experience ever?

I’m a simple person, a free bottle of something, preferably in an ice bucket for when you arrive can never fail to impress.

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?

A Riad in Marrakech is the dream.

Travel alone or with someone else?

Alone.

Is in-flight wifi a good idea?

No.

Window or aisle?

Window.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Negar Mohammadi is a woman worth knowing, whether you’re looking for the inside track from the fashion industry, the secret to incredible hair or the best beaches to catch some waves on any given coastline. As a former Brand Director at Vogue, she orchestrated the magazine’s promotion, from The September Issue to collaborations with global brands, including Nike and Comme de Garcons. And, she’s now the founder of a natural vegan brand 14th Night – the hair elixir has been tipped by Brooke Sheilds as “magic in a bottle“.

Negar Mohammadi has lived in downtown Manhattan for more than 15 years, and credits her Chicago roots and Persian values for keeping her grounded. Surfing, family, and friends are her top three favorite things, and she balances her busy career with regular (and sometimes rogue!) surf trips with her best friends. A woman after our own heart.

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 Negar Mohammadi.

Name your three favorite hotels?

The Edition Hotel in Miami. Hotel Costes in Paris. And, Le Sireneuse in Positano.

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

I love escaping to Santa Teresa in Costa Rica, because everything you need is there. There’s surf and delicious food, and the best friends you’ll make are in the water, where there is no wifi.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Gypsy by Fleet Wood Mac. Night Moves by Bob Segar. And,Wild Thoughts by Rihanna and DJ Khalid.

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

A silk eye mask by Slip. It doesn’t matter where you’re staying, once you shut your eyes – you feel like you’re sleeping in luxury.

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

Kim Kardashian — wait, actually Kourtney. I’m closer to her size.

Have you or would you travel alone?

In a world where you’re always on someone else’s schedule, nothing is more luxurious than having the freedom to do what you want, when you want.

If you’re going to a new place, and your friends haven’t been, where do you find the best advice?

Instagram!

What’s your favorite room service experience ever?    

French fries at the Hotel Martinez in Cannes – they arrive in the most elegant silver bucket. The presentation pretty much negates all calories.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

From Maya (Co-Founder of Safara!) – she encouraged me to travel alone with an open mind and agenda, letting the universe surprise me with its magic.

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

I make sure to have a trip planned every six weeks (hoping to make it once a month). The excitement and anticipation are enough to light me up and help push me through anything. The moment I get on a flight or arrive somewhere new, I feel an immediate wave of happiness that washes away any anxiety or feelings of burnout.

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

Instead of napping when I land, I move my body any way I can – be it a run, or even a set of jumping jacks and other 80s aerobics moves in whatever space I have. Otherwise, I drink tons of water and do anything it takes to get on the local schedule.

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

Double espresso from Cala di Volpe in Sardinia. Served with a perfect square of gianduja chocolate.

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

Black skinny L’Agence jeans, black James Perse v-neck, Common Projects pink sneakers with a big black cashmere sweater – as I’m always freezing on flights. The L’Agence jeans have so much stretch in them, they feel like yoga pants.

Beach, city or mountains?

Beach.

Airplane food?

Hard no. I always bring snacks.

Early check-in or late check-out?

Late check-out – insurance for whatever the night before has brought you!

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Lilly Alice was born in Germany, but now splits her time between London and Berlin – while fitting in as much travel as she can in between. As a top fashion PR, she partnered with the likes of Paul Smith, Selfridges, Stella McCartney and Adidas, before building her own equally impressive list of clients as freelance consultant.

In 2020, she put all of this expertise into practise, combining her love of travel and fashion to launch her brand Vicious Eyewear. Her sunglasses have featured in Vogue Italia, while her personal Instagram following has grown to almost 100k. Her feed features fashion parties, Ibizan beaches, Berlin sunsets and her Russian Toy dog Heidi, who of course has her own account, too.

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 Lilly Alice.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

The Standard in NYC. Town Hall Hotel in London. And, Soho House in Berlin.

All of the above have a super chilled vibe, but still maintain great service. Town Hall Hotel is my favorite – I used to book a room there every once in a while, even though my flat was only a five-minute walk away.

What hotel room design element can you not live without?

A master switch by the bed.

You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? How do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?

I never thought I would have the opportunity to travel so much, I didn’t really plan it. What I did plan is to run my own business and work as a freelancer, to be able to all have all the freedom in the world. I think the best thing is that I now know so many great people all over the planet, so whenever I travel, I will try to meet up with friends and get to know a new city that way.

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Parallaxis, by Traumprinz. Beach Side, by Kanedo. And Your Eyes, by Julein Collet and Jakob Oschmann.

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

From my mum: “The only thing you will ever need is a credit card.” 

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

I don’t, but if someone does, please tell me!

What is your favorite travel book or magazine? 

I love Suitcase magazine – it has amazing tips on what to pack and where to travel. It also has a super cool look.

What’s your go-to travel outfit?

A nice tracksuit in black, with easy trainers in a cool colour, no jewelry.

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?

Holbox, Mexico.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve purchased abroad and brought home (or tried to carry-on) from your travels?

A dog.

You have an hour to spare at the airport. What would you do?

I’d be working on my laptop.

Where’s your next trip?  

China, for work.

In-flight wifi – good idea?

YES.

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Luggage.

Are you a fan of airplane food?

No.

The subscription service you’ll never delete?

Spotify.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.

Ashley Ellis is a writer, filmmaker, creative, social impact designer and PhD candidate. If that doesn’t say “modern day Renaissance woman”, we don’t know what does. Having written for publications including Gopher Illustrated, Pyragraph, Bitch Flicks, Afrobougee and more, we are pretty sure she could write this intro way better than we can.

Though she spent years in Los Angeles, Ashley now calls Cape Town home and is currently teaching and working towards her PhD in film studies there. She has co-created films for some of the world’s most progressive institutions such as TED, XPrize, The American Heart Association and The Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art (to name a few). Always on the lookout for new inspiration and subject matter for her next film, Ashley likes to travel often and explore well.

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 Ashley Ellis. And then, read her guide to Cape Town, here.

Name three of your favorite hotels?

I have had so many wonderful international experiences with travel lodgings, from backpacker places to 5-star hotels, that it’s nearly impossible to answer this question. In Los Angeles, where I lived throughout my twenties, boutique hotels are a part of the social space. The three where I’ve spent the most time hanging out are The Line Hotel, The Standard DTLA, and Chateau Marmont.  I’ve had daily work meet-ups, partied, planned a film production, and watched Trump get elected at these hotels. These places signal that I’m home.

Dream places to visit as a filmmaker?

As a filmmaker, I’m inspired by locations that can themselves become characters. I dream about visiting and shooting in places like Timbuktu, Mali; Chefchaouen, Morocco; Lake Retba, Senegal; or the Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana.

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

The Okavango Delta in Botswana.  It’s my analog home.

You travel a lot for work, was this something you were seeking in a career? How do you make it as relaxing and fun as possible?

Yes, it was something that I was seeking and it took me years to set up in a way that made sense for my overall growth. I believe that we manifest the things we set our minds on. Once I decided that travel is an important aspect of my life, I started actively looking for jobs and developing projects that would allow me the opportunity to experience new places. Eventually, a project idea became worthy of PhD research, and that’s what brought me to Cape Town (but only because I dared to look far and wide for the right institutional home). The more I travel, the more I build relationships with people in my industry all over the world, and these connections naturally bring me more travel/work opportunities.   

How do I make traveling relaxing and fun? I think it’s all about just embracing the place I’m in without expecting that I’ll always be comfortable in a new place or on the go. I just breathe in the air and observe my surroundings, and soon enough I settle in or find some place or thing worth exploring. And a good book helps me to unwind in pretty much any circumstance.  

What three songs are on your OOO playlist?

Lavish Lullaby, by Masego. Count Your Blessings, by Mizz & Rabs Vhafuwi. And Ultimatum, by Disclosure feat. Fatoumata Diawara.

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

Pretty standard: Passport. Wallet. House keys. Laptop. Cell phone. Chargers. Adapters. A book or 2. My Belkin mini book light. Glasses. Tooth nrush. Disposable face wipes. Clean underwear! And anything and everything else that will fit, because I’m kind of crazy about having access to my stuff.

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

Anna Wintour. Her clothes and shoes wouldn’t fit, but that seems like a gamble no matter who you pick. However, she probably has some designer travel accessories that I really need in my life.  

Have you or would you travel alone?

Yes and yes. It’s the perfect opportunity to spend some time in your own head and reorganize everything that’s in there. I’m also much more likely to write, which I never seem to find time for during my life with the people I love.   

Best travel advice you’ve ever received?

“Always travel with cash, and store small amounts in different places in your belongings.”  – my Mom

Lost luggage, or lost phone?

Luggage! Everything can be sorted with a phone.

In-flight cocktail?

Yes. Well, red wine. Then, I’ll either write or sleep.

Window or aisle?

Aisle! I hate crawling over people to pee.

Read more from our Insiders series, here.