We believe—as we’re sure you do—in starting them young. But often with kids, the best-laid plans are just that, and things can go off the rails when you’ve planned one too many museums or get caught without pens on the plane or snacks in your bag. So we decided to launch a column dedicated to family travel—tapping parents who are always adventuring to share their strategies for everything from packing to mid-air meltdowns, go-to clothing and equipment, and their favorite kid-friendly hotels and destinations. First up? Our own head of strategy, Maeve, who first came into my world 17 years ago as our babysitter when Clara was five, back when I was the travel editor at Cookie magazine and doing my own travel blog, Travels with Clara. She was smart, scrappy, and super creative, and when I was hired at Martha Stewart Living, I brought her there with me. From there she came with me to Traveler, and I’ve been pining for her ever since she left when we did. In a full circle moment, Maeve now has little kids and has just started working with us, and came up with the idea for this column, which we’ll be doing once a month. —Y.E.

Name: Maeve Nicholson

Home base: NYC

What you do: Head of strategy & growth at YOLO and Wm Brown Project 

Paint a picture of your family—how many kids do you have and how old?

Two girls: Winnie (5 years) and Rocky Joy (3 years) 

At what age did you start taking them on more challenging trips?

My husband and kids’ dad is Australian, so we dove straight into the travelsphere when Winnie was just two months old to spend the holidays Down Under. A lot of my friends were horrified that I would take her on a 26-hour flight, but honestly, a two-month-old mostly eats and sleeps, which is exactly the kind of energy I try to channel on long-haul flights.

What are a couple of the most successful trips you’ve taken as a family?

Success is defined by many metrics, but I would have to say our favorite trip so far was our most recent, to the Aeolian Islands and Sicily this August. My kids are finally old enough to really “get it.” Since they’re not technically babies anymore, it’s been amazing to watch them notice things, ask questions, and actually see the world through a new lens. I didn’t travel much as a kid, so watching their little worlds open up, whether it’s tasting something new or looking out a hotel window that feels straight out of a dream, has added a whole new layer to travel for me. 

Do you do anything special to prepare your kids before a trip or certain destination?

For our Sicily trip (partly thanks to YOLO’s postcard from Salina), my husband and I read The Leopard. But I also love hyping my kids up before a trip with bedtime stories loosely connected to our destination—in this case, we read Strega Nona. Once you’re home, the books become sweet little souvenirs for your library. 

Any organizing hacks when it comes to packing a suitcase?

I’m obsessed with packing cubes (Thule are my current favorite), and I honestly don’t know how I ever traveled without them, even pre-kids. I like to organize by activity—so swimsuits, casual clothes, and nicer outfits all live in their own cube and are easy to grab. If I have the space, I always toss in an empty one too, which is perfect for corralling the deeply dirty (disgusting?) clothes that inevitably pile up by the end of a trip.

What are a few essentials that you pack for your kids on most trips?

Both my kids have gotten into the somewhat ridiculous habit of wearing opulent, feather-trimmed faux-silk pajamas to bed, but on our trip, they actually came in handy. They doubled as cute plane outfits, and at the end of the day, they were still pajamas, perfect for catching sleep in transit. With a cute hair style and slip on shoes, dare I say they are also dinner appropriate? The button-up tops also made for great layering pieces, which felt unexpectedly practical for something so over the top.

These soft Bluetooth headphones were an amazing find. They double as a sleep mask, and allow your kid to drift off without losing an earbud. (See below re: MELATONIN!) Genius. We also never travel without these over-the-top goggles, a real rebuke of quiet luxury. A lightweight jacket always earns its keep, and I swear by ballet flats since they are foldable, chic, and surprisingly versatile. And finally, I cannot overstate the importance (forgive me for being obvious) of tote bags. Beach toys, shopping, wipes, diapers, snacks, interesting rocks, the list goes on but they can do it all. I’m partial to ones that double as a cute “lunch purse,” but are in reality a modern upgrade to Mary Poppins’ bottomless everything bag.

Do you have any go-to tricks for preventing meltdowns mid-flight?

I love turning a Muji hanging dopp kit into a kids’ travel kit. I first saw the idea floating around Pinterest, but I like to give it a little upgrade: fresh crayons, cool sticker packs, maybe a tiny toy or two tucked into the zip pockets (gum for altitude changes! Hand sanitizer! Bandaids…). The genius is in the design since the hanger means you can hook it onto a tray table latch or seat pocket so everything is visible and within reach. It’s the perfect thing to bust out during those high-risk moments when meltdowns lurk: pre-takeoff boredom, or the during descent when the iPad is on 5% and WiFi has vanished. For older kids, you can slide in slim paperbacks, comic books, or paper dolls so the kit can be a fit for almost any age. Essentially, it’s a portable bag of crafty, fun activities that feels exciting, keeps them occupied, and most importantly saves you from fishing crayons out of the seatback pocket.

How do you get them to sleep on a long-haul flight?

Melatonin, melatonin, and melatonin. At home, we’re pretty “hippy-dippy” for the most part, but when it comes to long flights, all bets are off. We once made the disastrous mistake of booking a 4 p.m. flight from NYC to Rome, and never again. The lights never really dimmed, and just as the kids’ eyelids started to droop, we were touching down. Now I swear by booking the latest red-eye that’s reasonably possible. Melatonin plus screen time via downloaded YouTube videos and they’re out like lights. One tip: do a “melatonin test drive” a few days before you travel. It’s harmlessly soporific in small doses for most kids, but I’ve heard it can also have the reverse effect. High energy levels at 30,000 feet is not the kind of turbulence anyone needs. 

Do you have any travel rituals with your kids that have become tradition?

Not exactly groundbreaking, but postcards are one of our sweetest travel rituals. Whether you’re sending them to grandparents or mailing them home as little notes to your kids’ future selves (trip highlights, or even just a doodle), they double as both memory-keeping and a kid-friendly activity. They slip neatly into that dopp kit and make the perfect no-mess craft. The only snag is the stamps, so keep an eye out for a local post office. Luckily, many hotel concierges can also handle this, often making it as easy as dropping your cards at the front desk.

Picture approach: are you iPhone-only, or do you travel with film?

Retired hipster that I am, I still travel everywhere with my Polaroid. The kids get such a kick out of it and my eldest now thinks she’s Slim Aarons. Honestly though, I can’t recommend it. The newer Polaroids are temperamental at best, and the film eats up precious suitcase space. What I do love, though, is the idea of tossing a few disposable cameras into your suitcase. Low stakes, no stress: if they lose it or break it, who cares? 

Screens during vacation: survival tool or slippery slope?

Jet lag and late nights are basically part of the package with family travel, so instead of fighting it, we’ve started leaning into screens when we’re fighting the nod. Before a trip, I’ll download a few of my favorite childhood movies (Labyrinth, Chicken Run… I could go on, but I’ll spare myself the embarrassment) and rebrand a nightmare-ish evening of meltdowns into a “family movie night.” The upside? If it’s a film you actually loved as a kid, it’s really fun to curl up and watch it with your own children. And if you’re really feeling wild, crack open the hotel minibar. Why not splurge on some overpriced chocolate covered nuts? You’re on vacation! 

Strategies for traveling with picky eaters?

Before becoming parents, our pre-trip ritual was to avoid anything even loosely related to the cuisine of our destination. Kids, however, have flipped that strategy on its head. I’ve had much more luck doing the exact opposite: in the weeks leading up to a trip, start sneaking in as many flavors from your destination as you can, and see what sticks. Your local interpretations of dishes are perfect warm-up meals, and if you live in a city, you can probably find a specialty shop that carries the real-deal baseline snacks from your destination. Get them hooked early and you won’t be scrambling for Pirate’s Booty and fruit pouches. I also love shopping at local grocery stores wherever I travel. Bringing kids along can be a headache, but I think it’s worth it. On our last trip, my 5-year-old discovered an Italian yogurt brand she became completely hooked on, and just like that, a grocery run shifted from a chore into a semi-fun family outing.

What’s your strategy for eating out at “grown-up” or fancy restaurants with kids and what have been your favorites?

This summer, while in Salina, we visited Hotel Signum’s Michelin-starred restaurant and were pleasantly surprised to find that not only was there a fairly extensive kids’ menu offered during the tasting, but the staff couldn’t have been more kind or accommodating. I’ve also found that even the most elevated dining experiences feel infinitely more kid-friendly when they’re alfresco. It’s a strategy we rely on often in New York, especially when attempting anything remotely “fancy” with kids in tow. Dinner at Altro Paradiso, Charlie Bird, La Mercerie, or Balthazar? All totally kid-friendly under one condition: secure an outdoor table. Ideally, one with a heater as the weather turns crisp.

And as I always say: when in doubt, email ahead. Since having kids, I’ve been surprised by how many restaurants are genuinely welcoming to families. Some of our most peaceful meals have been at high end establishments that happily wrote back to say they would be glad to host little guests. Of course, it depends on the place, but sending that quick email is worth doing for peace of mind

Favorite family-friendly hotels or resorts you’ve been to?

I have to say we were totally blown away by Su Gologone in Sardinia. It’s one of those truly special places with amazing food, warm staff, and a property that feels like it was designed for kids to explore—you don’t have any regrets not leaving the property. (There was also a very sweet stray kitten there that led me down a brief Google rabbit hole around rules and regulations for bringing foreign animals back to the U.S.) We also really enjoy The Miami Beach Edition, specifically because of its two pools. The larger shaded pool has naturally become the “kids’ pool,” and the hotel gets it completely right by keeping the energy relaxed and family-friendly without feeling overrun (or, dare I say, gross). And finally, a shoutout to The Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia, which I have a huge soft spot for. It’s not the most modern, but it’s incredibly beautiful and elegant in that old-school way, and perfectly located for exploring one of the most underrated cities to visit with kids. (And of course it has a pool.) 

What’s your policy on souvenirs?

I like to buy things that are actually useful on the trip. While I’d normally cringe at dropping ~$30 on a kids’ water bottle in NYC, on vacation it doubles as the perfect souvenir, and one that starts earning its keep the minute you leave the shop. Once home, every refill becomes a little reminder of your trip.

Of course, the inevitable floaties and cheap plastic toys will always be a dangerous temptation (in a small Sicilian seaside town, we couldn’t even escape Laboubous…). But I try to steer us toward flea markets or thrift shops instead. In Palermo, we stumbled across a Sunday flea market and found two small, porcelain ballerinas—one in pink, one in blue, and just €3 each. They instantly became my 5-year-old’s most precious cargo, lovingly wrapped in and unwrapped from bubble wrap at every hotel. There’s something about these small, inexpensive treasures that end up feeling more beloved than a suitcase of plastic junk. And if they do lose a limb or two along the way, being out just a few euros is far preferable to hauling home an entire carry-on of cheap toys.

The post Frequent Criers: Taking Kids to Australia (and Everywhere in Between) appeared first on Yolo Journal.

I first met Jules Maury, head of Scott Dunn Private, on a media trip to Mallorca with PR founder Julia Perowne, who kept calling her friend “The Duchess.” The nickname fit: tall, elegant, rarely without a Hermès scarf and pearls, she cuts a grand figure. But Jules is also warm and wickedly funny, the kind of dinner companion whose travel tales—she’s lived everywhere from Hong Kong to Switzerland, France to Australia, Vietnam to South Africa—leave everyone cackling into their cocktails. That gift for storytelling fuels her work: orchestrating the yearly travel plans of Scott Dunn Private’s high-net-worth and most loyal clients, and designing tailor-made journeys from scratch. It also keeps her perpetually in motion, hopping from lounge to airport to hotel room, gathering scoops and intel, some which she shares with us here, along with a few memorable bon mots.—Alex Postman

How often do you travel?

Every month, it seems, when I checked the diary—in some form or another.

Most recent passport stamp?

Marrakech! And on my French passport, Peru (as I often travel on my French passport to avoid stamps within Europe).

What’s your travel uniform?

White shirt (either Anne Fontaine or Naracamici), navy trousers (always Raffaello Rossi) or white jeans (I pick up about 5 pairs every year when I go to Cape Town), navy/cream blazer (NM Peal and Stella McCartney), and always one of my large statement Hermès scarves. I have wonderful loafers I have made at Lachoix in Lisbon that I pick up every year in a few colours—perfect for traveling. Always my South Sea pearls.

Go-to luggage for a short trip? Long trip?

Always my Samsonite luggage and BRIC carryon—I cannot travel with hand luggage. Long haul up to three suitcases!

Hardest-working item you bring?

My Birkin

Airport routine? I try to make it 1.5-2 hours at least as the “get to gate and board” gets earlier and earlier—especially if the plane is running late and turnaround time gets shaved right down. Also gives me a chance to pop into the Hermès shop, which is my happy place.

Favorite airport?

St Barths. It is such fun arriving on that epic tiny strip of cement with ocean at the end and to walk through the quickest baby airport straight into the Eden Rock car to drive three minutes to have your feet in the sand and champagne in your hand—heaven! It screams glamour!

Favorite airport lounge/club?

Qatar Doha, as it is the cleanest, slickest check-in on departure straight into that truly amazing lounge. And on arrival, whisked straight through into the Al Mourjan Lounge, where everything is done for you before you are guided to your car. And Fireblade Aviation in Johannesburg: you are either on the private Lear jet to Miavana, with a helicopter at the end, or eased into the Tswalu private plane down to Tswalu. The Oppenheimers own both Fireblade and Tswalu—two of my favorite destinations. So civilized, and if you want a shower and to freshen up before you connect, they have day rooms.

Best duty-free you always stop in and for what?

Dubai or Doha for Hermès scarves, Chanel sunglasses, and cigars for my husband.

Window or aisle? Go-to seat number?

Window 1F on short haul. BA: Window 3 rows back from the beginning of Club Class, usually on long haul. If the Airbus A380, then 52F window (I hate being right at the front). Or row 2 First Class window.

Any in-air rituals?

I always scoop up all the back copies of CNT, T&L, The Week, Tatler, and Country Life that I have not had time to read, and podcasts I have not had time to catch up on. I have a friend who makes endless playlists for me, which are brilliant and suit every country I am heading to. The latest is country & western for my trip to Texas! My go-to skincare has been German skincare brand QMS, and their day and night serum is brilliant at the beginning and end of a long-haul flight.

What’s always in your carry-on?

My personal Bric carry-on (a personalized edition) was a gift from a friend who owns one of the most beautiful hotels in the world. Apple Air Pods. same for chargers. White Company cashmere socks. Apple iPad. Dell laptop. Silk eye mask purchased at Xigera in Botswana! Hermès silk and cashmere large scarf (if I am not wearing) ultra lightweight cashmere and cotton gilet from Falconeri (I love this if it gets cold!). Qatar or BA First pajamas if I am on other flights where they do not give you PJs! Small makeup bag, Phizz rehydrate tablets, hairbrush and small Elnet hairspray. Earplugs—forgotten the name, but will not travel without them! Apple Air Tag and Pingu my penguin jellycat, who protects me from everything!

Three favorite hotels in the world?

Passalaqua (Lake Como), Singita Ebony (Sabi Sands, South Africa) and Miavana (Madagascar)

Consistently favorite hotel brand?

Belmond and Oetker 

Most compelling recent discovery?

Many years ago I worked for the now Sultan of Oman, when his uncle Qaboos was Sultan. Recently, sitting down and talking to one of the owners of The Malkai, a circuit of camps that will open next year in Oman, was a fascinating trip down memory lane. Also the yet-to-be-finished 6-suite Crocodile sur le Nil dahabiya. 

Most memorable meal you’ve had while traveling? Crystal, lobster and caviar years ago when First Class used to be just that! I was married to the head of Air France Asia and Africa for 11 years, and their First Class served fabulous champagne, food and wines.

Any jet-lag wisdom?

Melatonin and Stilnox. For me, the only way through severe time zone changes are drugs!

Go-to room service order?

Club sandwich with extra mayonnaise and fries

Tricks for making a hotel room feel like home?

Room spray and pillow spray I take from the Hotel Bristol—which I love—just in case I do not like the signature hotel scent! My magazines laid out on the coffee table. I am terrible with “lotions and potions,” which probably contribute to my huge weight allowance—but once laid out in the bathroom, it feels like home!

Best in-room amenity you’ve come across?

Eden Rock St. Barths’ heavenly shower hat, leather manicure set, rose quartz facial roller, make-up bags, personalized beach bag, divine signature red flip-flops, along with signature Champagne and homemade chocolates. Passalaqua cannot be discounted with their gorgeous Venetian-style slippers, silver earring box engraved with initials, personalized passport holder, luggage tags and oh so much more….

Best hotel gym?

He was my butler in one of the Amans. Oh, I see gym, not Jim. It’s something I avoid like the plague!

Favorite destination spa/wellness retreat?

I love the whole Spa Safari at Nihi Sumba, which is so much more than a spa!

Your favorite airline/hotel rewards program?

Qatar – BA for the rewards, as I am so locked into the Avios system and BA is so handy for short-haul destinations.

Your dream airplane would have…

A bedroom and gorgeous ensuite stocked with Bvlgari products, which I love. I know Andrew Winch Design and would entrust them with the spec. Their pared-back style today would be perfect to design the interior. Taupes, creams, beiges and a slash of orange to reflect my inner Hermès obsession. A state-of-the-art kitchen. Definitely a bar where you could hang out.

Best in-flight conversation/seat-mate encounter?

On my way to Santiago after the sudden loss of a family member from my husband’s side, I was engulfed in grief, but continued with the long-planned business trip. In that fog of misery, two moments reminded me that someone up there was looking out for me. First, by sheer luck, I knew the captain, who arranged an upgrade to Club Class and asked the crew to be gentle with me. Then, despite my tearful state, the young man beside me introduced himself as George. I tried to retreat into silence after explaining my red eyes and sniffles, but he gently offered: “You can either cry all the way to Chile, or I can at least entertain you through drinks and dinner.” He did just that. A well-connected figure in the copper industry, he even showed me a raw diamond he’d sourced in South Africa for his soon-to-be fiancée, asking my advice on how to propose—after learning I’d had three husbands! I laughed, cried, slept, and woke up feeling like a new day had begun. George guided me through Santiago airport, handed me to my driver, and vanished. A true guardian angel for one unforgettable night.

First thing you do when you get home?

Unless I’ve been on safari, I pack all my clothes on hangers in dry-cleaning plastic and fold them into the suitcase. First thing I do when I’m home is hang them all up, shower, and sit down with a cup of coffee. Or, if it’s the evening, I light a candle, put on some music and pour a glass of wine with my husband.

The post Jules Maury, Head of Scott Dunn Private appeared first on Yolo Journal.

I first met Tanya Rose at the Buchinger Wilhelmi clinic on Germany’s Lake Constance, and liked her immediately. The co-founder of London-based Mason Rose, she’s the powerhouse PR behind brands like Airelles, Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Gstaad Palace—which, I learned when reading about her background, was her “teenage playground,” having grown up in the glamorous mountain town rubbing shoulders with the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Roger Moore on school holidays. She’s fun and irreverent, which you’ll get if you listen to her Travel Secrets podcast. Given how much time she spends on a plane, we wanted to get her to download her favorite hotels, in-air rituals, dream airplane, and tricks for making a hotel room feel like home.

How often do you travel?

I usually travel at least once a month, but sometimes two to three times a month!

Most recent passport stamp?

Istanbul

What’s your travel uniform? 

My travel uniform is always from ME+EM: sneakers and a blazer from their travel tailoring collection, plus a cashmere cream shawl from Bamford.

Go-to luggage for a short trip? Long trip?

Rimowa. I never do hand luggage; I always have bags in the hold. I tried it once, I started with one bag and ended up with five and they all fell on the floor!

Hardest-working item you bring?

My cashmere shawl on the plane, which I also wear in the evenings if it’s cool outside.

Airport routine?

I check in, then decamp to Gordon Ramsay for breakfast or the British Airways Business Lounge if it isn’t an early-morning flight. I always get cigarettes from Duty Free and never enter an airport without taking a chance with a Euromillions lottery ticket!

Favorite airport?

London Heathrow as I know I’m leaving the cold in Blighty for new destinations, warmer climates and exciting adventures.

Favorite airport lounge/club?

Definitely the British Airways First Class/Concorde Lounge.

Best duty-free you always stop in/best duty-free score?

I always take advantage of the Duty Free for cigarettes for my husband and Jo Malone Red Roses perfume.

Window or aisle? Go-to seat number?

I prefer an aisle seat in the first row on the left hand side of the plane

Any in-air rituals?  

I don’t travel without my Trinny London miniatures and Lyma laser for my skin. I love to download podcasts and all the Netflix shows I want to binge watch on my ipad which is fully loaded before I fly anywhere.

What’s always in your carry-on? 

The Anya Hindmarch travel bag is my absolute favourite because it fits all of my essentials so beautifully, such as my Sonos headphones, my Bamford cashmere shawl, Trinny London lipstick stacks, Anya Hindmarch eye mask, Werther’s Originals sweets, Victoria Beckham eyeliner, iPad, writing journal. I always take advantage of a long flight to write in my journal and usually come up with very creative ideas and good action plans.

Three favorite hotels in the world?

La Colombe d’Or in St Paul de Vence in France

Dunton Hot Springs in Colorado

Ett Hem in Stockholm

Do you have a favorite destination spa?

I would say the family-run therapeutic fasting and integrative medicine clinic, Buchinger Wilhelmi, located on Lake Constance.  I go there each year for a full reset.

Consistently favorite hotel brand?

Peninsula, Royal Mansour and Airelles. I can’t narrow it down to just one!

Most memorable meal you’ve had while traveling?

I had the most unforgettable picnic made for me to take on the plane by the Peninsula Beverly Hills. The caviar, smoked salmon and Meursault wine were unbelievable… I was the envy of every passenger on that flight!

Any jet-lag wisdom?

I swear by the Lemme Sleep gummy for jetlag (a brand created by one of the Kardashians), but normal melatonin is great too.

Go-to room service order?

A hamburger on arrival!

Tricks for making a hotel room feel like home?

I spritz the room with my travel-size Rachel Vosper room spray!

Best in-room amenity you’ve come across?

The nail drier in all Peninsula hotels without a doubt.

Best hotel gym?

I never go to the gym myself but the reformer Pilates room at Maxx Royal Bodrum is fabulous.

Your favorite airline/hotel rewards program?

British Airways as I’m keen to keep my silver/gold card…

Your dream airplane would have…

A double bed, caviar, and a TV—like the Qsuites on Qatar Airways. But a private jet would be lovely too, as it avoids all of the hassle at the major airports.

Best in-flight conversation/seat-mate encounter?

I never talk to anyone when I’m flying but my husband’s best friend sat next to Whitney Houston on the Concorde and pretended to be the number one horse breeder in the world because he thought that being a banker was too boring!

First thing you do when you get home.

I indulge in a cup of tea because you never get as good a cuppa anywhere else in the world!

The post Tanya Rose, Co-Founder of Mason Rose appeared first on Yolo Journal.

Tell us about you and your company.

I am the co-founder and CCO of Glassette, a lifestyle retail media platform selling curated goods for the home. I love all things homeware and was frustrated that there wasn’t one platform to buy a selection of interesting products, so I set out to build it myself. We launched in 2021 and over the last four years have firmly placed ourselves as the UK’s best lifestyle curation platform.

How often do you travel?

It varies, but I would say I leave London at least once a month. I travel for work, love a weekend get-away, and always up for an adventure with the kids. I love to have something in the diary, whether it’s for work or play. To me, travel is the greatest luxury and something that gives me so much joy and creativity.

Favorite airport?

Great question and one I haven’t been to… Singapore! A friend showed me the airport this morning via her son, and I couldn’t believe how green it was, with a huge waterfall in the middle. Is an airport bucket list a thing?

Most recent trips? 

I just came back from Cape of Senses in Lake Garda and it was amazing! It’s a new hotel situated just above the lake with an absolutely breathtaking view. The pool goes from the spa indoors and opens out overlooking the lake. The hotel was full, but because of the design it did not once feel busy. The food was delicious – I had bolognese for lunch three days in a row. I went to the Dolomites earlier in the year, and then a little trip to Naples and the Amalfi, where I stayed at Borgo San Andrea. I also visited Il Pellicano – which blew me away! I think I am having a love affair with Italy this year.

A trip I took at the beginning of the year, however, was one forever imprinted on my brain – for life! I visited the Mayr Clinic in January and it was nothing short of extraordinary. I spent a whole week on my own in the most beautiful part of Austria, overlooking the Maria Wörth lake. While it’s called a “clinic,” it doesn’t feel overly clinical – it’s warm and homey. When I first arrived, I didn’t know anyone, but by the time I left, I was nearly in tears saying goodbye to the other guests I’d met. The food was delicious, even though the detox program cuts out sugar, gluten and caffeine – it didn’t prohibit innovative cooking. They have a fasting programme and a longevity programme; I chose the latter and enjoyed heavenly dishes like risotto and chicken supreme along with the clinic’s famous broths, buckwheat breads and spreads. I also learned so much about my gut, how to properly chew, the benefits of short-term fasting, and the importance of rest.

What’s your travel uniform? 

I love to travel in a pair of comfortable Adidas tracksuit bottoms and my Wales Bonner trainers. I usually have a long-sleeved tee on and a big oversized Kestin knit. I usually travel in my Simone Rocha bomber (a beloved sample sale purchase). I am light on jewelry travelling with my wedding rings and my Otiumberg hoops with my children’s initials.

Go-to luggage for a short trip? Long trip? 

For short trips I carry an Anya Hindmarch tote and her Anya clear travel bags. I have lost a few over the years, so I am clinging to my last Anya zip for my cables. I have a Smythson passport cover. I don’t travel anywhere without a notebook, paper diary, pencil and reading book. My tote is heavy. Suitcase is a carry-on July (whilst I wait for a silver Rimowa dream case – one day). For large trips, I have an amazing July trunk – and three kids in tow!

Best duty-free you always stop in/best duty-free score?

Not bothered about duty free… I walk straight past to get breakfast/lunch/dinner, usually at Wagamama. 

Window or aisle? 

Window. Every time.

In-flight routine for skincare? 

I am a skincare junkie. I usually take the La Mer Intensive Revitalizing Mask on the plane and essential oils from Neal’s Yard. I try to drink lots of water and give my face a floral water spritz from Omorovicza when I land. I try to travel as light as possible, so I often stick to the essentials, including the Equilibrium eye balm by Hourglass, natural deodorant and a cleanser – the Charcoal & Bergamote Face Cleanser Rowse face cleanser is great as it comes in a tin.

Tricks for making a hotel room feel like home?

When I check in, I put all my clothes away, line up the bathroom shelves with all of my products, turn the kettle on, make a brew – Yorkshire tea if possible, but I also love herbal tea or what is local. I recently travelled to Morocco and had plenty of fresh mint tea. It sounds so mad to say, but sometimes I even travel with things like our Glassette Glassware, especially the tumbler, they’re so lightweight and feel great to hold. These are also great for travelling.

Any jet lag wisdom? 

My husband always says stay up as long as you can when you land in your destination, and the next morning set the alarm for 7 and get up.

Three favorite hotels in the world?

The Red Tree House Mexico city – Mexico City is my favourite city in the world and I would never be in Mexico City and not stay here. Run by my friend Alej, It’s like a home away from home. 

Dimora Cala del Pozzo Favignana, Sicily. I have been to the Sicilian island three times in my life. It’s not easy to get there, but boy is it special. The first time I went it was very unspoilt. It’s more built up now, but very much still off the beaten track.

Villa Tre Ville, Positano – my husband took me here for my 30th and proposed to me in Anacapri. It holds such special memories.

And a fourth! Soneva in the Maldives – I went there in Jan 2024 and it was one of the most amazing experiences for our family. A once in a lifetime trip! 

Most memorable meal you’ve had while traveling?

La Canta Rana in Lima. I travelled for a few weeks around South America in my early 20s. I can still remember the ceviche and pisco sours in this garage-style restaurant. I long to go back to Peru.

Go-to room service order?

Burger, fries and a glass of Champagne

Best in-room amenity you’ve come across?

Room service at Claridge’s is like no other – mainly because it is absolutely exceptional. I stayed for my birthday this year – and I nearly cried when I had to leave. The room has everything you need, from incredible toiletries to a well-stocked bar. The bed from the pillows to the duvet feels like you’re on a cloud. I sat and read my book on the balcony with chips, mayo and a glass of champagne – heaven! 

Favorite places for creative inspiration?  

Travel is the ultimate creative inspiration for me — I love to explore and let my mind wander. I enjoy eating out in little neighbourhood restaurants like the wine bar Joyau — it has simple interiors, but it’s nestled under the arches and feels very special. Nothing beats tasting local cuisine, getting excited about the glassware, floors, ceramics – even the loos! I love visiting markets. Marché aux Puces Saint Ouen in Paris is huge. You can spend all day there looking for treasures, getting lost shopping for anything from veg to flowers to antiques. People-watching is so inspiring – nothing beats sitting in a Parisian restaurant like Parcelles (my absolute favourite), watching locals go about their everyday business, how they interact, how their clothes move as they dine. Travel is an attack on your senses—landing in Bangkok, you’re hit with the thick humidity and then the most delicious layered smells. Mexico City is also great for this – the smell of fresh lime and smokiness from the taquierías and restaurants spilling out onto the streets is unbeatable. Travel is the greatest luxury, I never take this freedom for granted. I find inspiration from everywhere I travel.

What’s on your travel dreamscape?  

Ireland. I am desperate to explore the west coast in a campervan (although is this a terrible idea with three kids?), which is my summer family plan – and I hope to finally make it to Ballymaloe! I was with JR the pastry chef last year for art week in Mexico City – and the Ballymaloe puddings alone sound worth travelling for! I am so excited about planning this trip, but also feeling a tad overwhelmed because I don’t want to miss any great places. I’ll be staying at the new Immobilia Residence in Cairo soon, which I am excited about. I just spied the hotel on the World of Interiors instagram and it looks incredible! I would love to end the year somewhere hot, so I am researching Brazil. I have had Trancoso in my list for 12 years, so I am praying I can make it there. I think this could be a great way to start 2026! My 40th is next year and I am thinking of a trip to Bali – I want something that ticks the beach and soul-searching box. I would also love to go to Georgia, swim the lakes of Germany, head to the Japanese islands, hike in Nepal and have a week at Nimmo Bay in BC. There are so many places to discover…

Your dream airplane would have…

Fresh air.

Words to live by? 

If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.

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How often do you travel?
I try to reduce my travel by air each year. For work, this means I make the most out of each trip: visiting stores, spending time with the team, meeting customers, people watching—all my favourite pastimes. When it comes to holidays, I visit the South of France often—I lived there for a long time and it’s a second home to me. In recent years I have found myself travelling less and spending more time at home with my family. We are also lucky enough to have shops in beautiful parts of the UK, such as Bath and Oxford—I like to spend time there when I can.

Most recent passport stamp?
The USA

What’s your travel uniform?
You’ll always find me in a pair of TOAST trousers when travelling. They are comfortable without compromising on style. I’m currently obsessed with the cotton paper bag trousers in honey. The pleat detailing brings texture and volume to the wide silhouette, making me feel like Annie Hall from Woody Allen’s ‘70’s film! I’ll often pair my trousers with light layers, including a cashmere sweater.

Go-to luggage for a short trip? Long trip?
I’m a VERY light packer. For a short trip, I can get away with just packing some essentials into a tote bag – Kate Sheridan’s waxed cotton totes are ideal. For a long trip, I have been borrowing my daughter’s AWAY suitcase—it’s not big, but it does have a phone charger built into it which is rather handy.

Hardest-working item you bring?
Flower Mountain Yamano Kaiso trainers—I wear them with everything. The recycled and bio-based materials come in great colours and, most importantly, they are extraordinarily comfortable.

Airport routine?
When I’m at the airport, I like to browse books and magazines as I don’t usually have time to do this. Other than that, I’ll be getting a coffee and heading to the gate early.

Window or aisle? Go-to seat number?
Honestly, I don’t mind. Either way I will be striking up a conversation with whoever is sitting beside me. Sorry!

Any in-air rituals?  
Most likely you’ll find me reading a good book. Maybe listening to a podcast. I do like The New York Times podcast, “The Interview.”

What’s always in your carry-on? 
I find that long flights are a great opportunity to be productive which is why I’ll always have my Smythson notebook on hand for jotting down creative ideas. My noise cancelling Bose headphones are essential for blocking out unwanted sounds. My Falke Wool socks keep my feet warm, and I’m also never without Aesop hand cream.

Three favorite hotels in the world?
Chateau Voltaire, Paris, France.
Inness, Accord, USA.
Thyme, Cotswolds, UK.

Consistently favorite hotel brand?
I like to book small, independent hotels. Once I find one that I love I will often go back. The Marlton Hotel has become a home from home when in New York.

Most memorable meal you’ve had while traveling?
An amazing Thali I enjoyed on the seafront in Kovalam, Kerala whilst travelling with my mother and daughter. Sensational food and wonderful company. A treasured memory.

Any jet-lag wisdom?
I like to maintain my usual sleeping schedule when I’m travelling in different time zones. While that means I’m often up through the night, I am an early riser making it slightly easier to manage!

Go-to room service order?
I’m far too interested in local culture and meeting new people, so I’ll always go out and soak that up instead of ordering room service!

Tricks for making a hotel room feel like home?
Unpack properly.

Best hotel gym?
I truly don’t think I’ve ever been to one. I like to do yoga in my room. My husband loves the gym at The Newt—good equipment and great architecture.

Your dream airplane would have…
Lie down seats for everyone.

Best in-flight conversation/seat-mate encounter?
I recently met an old acquaintance on a flight who gave me a huge opportunity early in my career. We had a lovely chat, caught up on the past 30 years since we last met, and I was able to thank him for trusting in me. It would not be an understatement to say he changed the course of my life.

First thing you do when you get home.
My dog Boots greets me as soon as I’m through the door, so rubbing his ears is often the first thing I’ll do.

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