Globetrotter: Rebecca Taylor, Designer

Tokyo, Paris, Italy, the Caribbean islands—Designer Rebecca Taylor is constantly zig-zagging across the globe, no doubt gathering inspiration for her beloved line of romantic frocks and separates that are adored by the fashion elite. Here, we chat with the New Zealand-born designer about her multitude of travel ‘favorites,’ including her favorite hotel, her favorite beach, and her favorite way to cure jet lag (“Melatonin and a glass of brandy with ginger.”)…she is soooo our kinda girl!

Favorite hotel:

I love L’Hotel in Paris. It’s very romantic and it’s located in a great area of the city. Plus, the rooms are cute, the staff is great, and there’s a private pool in the basement of the hotel that you can rent out. I also adore Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy, along the Amalfi Coast.

Favorite restaurant:

The American Grill at The Park Hyatt Tokyo has a spectacular view which can’t be beat and it feels very luxurious and regal. I always order the foie gras appetizer, roasted pumpkin soup, and brioche croutons. Delicious!

Favorite city:

Paris! I love that it’s a walking city and of course the food, architecture and art galleries are superb.

Favorite airline:

Air New Zealand. From the moment I step on the plane I already feel like I’m back in New Zealand.

Favorite airport:

Wellington Airport in New Zealand! It means I am home!

Favorite seat on the plane:

For a nighttime flight I like the aisle as it gives me easy access to the loo. If I’m flying during the day, I prefer the window seat since the views are simply exceptional.

Favorite in-flight beverage:

White wine—it takes the edge off.

Favorite in-flight entertainment:

Movies, books and lots of magazines. Right now I’m really into bringing an actual ‘paper’ book on the plane—I like the feel of it in my hands versus reading on my iPad. It’s nice to get lost in a story while you’re flying through the clouds.

Favorite brand of luggage:

Rimowa! They are made very well, and for carry-on purposes are not too heavy.

Favorite brand of carry-on bag:

My A.P.C. backpack. I love having my hands free when I’m out exploring, sightseeing, or running through an airport.

Favorite outfit for the plane:

My Italian Army pants and a striped top layered with cashmere sweater. And of course a scarf and socks.

Favorite in-flight essentials:

I can’t fly without my Neal’s Yard lip balm and face balm—it’s great for my hands too.

Favorite travel gadgets:

iPad. I need reading material to keep me busy when I’m away from home and on-the-go.

Favorite shopping destinations:

Liberty in London and anywhere in Tokyo.

Favorite spa:

I adore the spa at The Park Hyatt in Tokyo…it’s got a beautiful view of the city.

Favorite ski resort:

I don’t ski.

Favorite beach:

Grace Bay in Turks & Caicos, Caribbean.

Favorite hotel pool:

I’m really not a pool person…I much prefer the beach.

Favorite item from the hotel mini-bar:

Splits of champagne and tequila.

Favorite items to order from room service:

Sandwiches, pasta, and ice cream sundaes.

Favorite items to pilfer from the housekeeping cart:

Is that even allowed?

Favorite way to beat jet lag:

Melatonin and a glass of brandy with ginger.

Favorite vacation destination:

Anywhere in the Caribbean. The water is just incredible.

Favorite find/souvenir from your travels:

A jewelry box my father bought me in Sorrento, Italy.

Favorite childhood memory of traveling:

Traveling with my family in a Caravan through Europe in 1979. It was truly amazing because we all got to experience this special time together…and I love that I’ll have these memories with me forever.