Highly subjective takes on life's most interesting experiences.

What was your most surreal travel experience?

I have this theory about traveling. Every time I get home from a trip, no matter how near or far the destination may be, I return home as a different person than when I boarded. All travel experiences transform us, teach us something new, and a few we carry in our souls forever! For me, going to Japan was notably surreal. It was a real culture shock in every which way. I spent time in Tokyo and Kyoto and both places felt truly like an out-of-body experience.

Tokyo was a crazy cool city with so much to offer. As soon as I thought, This feels close to New York City, I noticed how different it was as well. It felt like all these individuals just beating to their own drum. Locals simply walking down the city streets felt like they were naturally in sync. There is so much action in Tokyo and so much to take note of: the people, the hidden alleys, the food and way they dine, the nightlife. But even more so was how the chaos of a buzzing city was also so in order and backed by tradition. I was inspired that every neighborhood was so unique from one another.

Going from Tokyo to Kyoto on the bullet train was an interesting way to explore Japan for the first time. Kyoto is very traditional and the historical heart of the country. Between the many gardens, the Buddhist temples, the bamboo forest, the monkey park, the timeless architecture of homes — it’s a place that slows you down and lets you enjoy the true Japanese culture. I remember my creative juices flowing, but also feeling a sense of calm I wanted to soak in forever.

What’s the best swimming spot you’ve ever been to?

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is a timeless and iconic landmark hotel located in the South of France. This dreamy spot holds all the Slim Aarons vibes. Du Cap is what feels like a chic, regal artists’ retreat and luxury playground. It is a barefoot French paradise that has Old Hollywood vibes. Soak up the summer sun swimming along the jagged edges of the Mediterranean water … You can’t go wrong!

The best place to disappear?

Big Sur is my version of California Dreamin’. It is a tucked-in location surrounded by the most magical parts of nature. A place where you feel above the clouds, literally, but also down to earth. This place holds a very special spot in my heart as well. It is filled with memories of where my husband and I got engaged. The tranquility and simplicity of sleeping in a treehouse and hearing the birds chirping and whales swimming by in the distance gave me the feeling of freedom and just wanting to be present.