Blythe Harris: Travel Advice

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BLYTHE HARRIS: NOMAD CHIC TRAVEL ADVICE

LEFT TO RIGHT: PHOTO COURTESY OF BLYTHE HARRIS, THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART GOLD NECKLACE ELEMENTS, BOZ SCHURR EXIST IN ABUNDANCE

When it comes to travel, what’s your best piece of advice?
Think about what type of experience you have before you start planning: do you want a restorative experience that is all about recharging and relaxing, or do you want an invigorating experience that expands your mind?

At this point in my life as a busy entrepreneur and mother of two young kids, I find that I need a lot of restorative travel—and I recommend going someplace where that is a sure thing—i.e. a place I’ve been to before or a friend has highly recommended. The most relaxing places are ones where money and decisions are taken off the table. There is a set meal plan, zero electronics or wireless signal, no electricity, no tipping and no decisions to be made.

Simplicity trumps fanciness when it comes to relaxing.

On the other hand, I like to really stretch myself at least once or twice a year and go someplace with no set itinerary that I have never been before—with as few expectations as possible. I find these to be the most life-affirming types of trips and my advice is to really have no goal other than to be open—coming without a set checklist or agenda is key.

Pick a region and just wander. It will make you feel ten years younger and restore a childlike sense of wonder towards the world.

November 2012