Anna Lahey reveals her travel secrets and survival tips
When it comes to overseas jaunts, the beauty entrepreneur doesn’t skimp, even with the kids in tow.
Have kids, will travel. That is, in essence, the credo of Anna Lahey. The Sydney-based founder of ingestible beauty brand Vida Glow is a mother to four, ranging in age from three months to six, and she cherishes European getaways with the whole gang in tow. Over the years the Lahey clan has visited Puglia, Provence and Majorca among other jet-setting locations. “I often look back at pictures of them from these trips, and they are my favourite memories,” she says. We asked Lahey for her travel insights, city obsessions and essential accoutrements on the road.
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My favourite place in the world
The French Riviera. We love the weather, the sound of cicadas, the warmth of the ocean. Visiting here is all about twilight swims, walking among pine trees, and the wonderful mix of cuisines. Plus, the butter and baguettes are impossible to resist. We stay at Cheval Blanc St-Tropez, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes or we rent a villa on the coast.
Most inspirational city
New York. It’s hard not to get swept up in the buzz. I feel so inspired everywhere I go – walking through Central Park or seeing a play on Broadway. We stay at The Carlyle on the Upper East Side for proximity to the park. It’s a great location for walking and shopping.
Packing essentials
My journal, Kindle and Lanolips 101 Ointment for dry lips, dry cuticles and everything in between. SPF50+ sunscreen is non-negotiable, as are Vida Glow Natural Marine Collagen Sachets to keep my skin hydrated and plump. If you’re at any Australian international airport, stop by our concession for a free pre-flight tasting.
Best way to sleep on a plane
I change into a comfortable pair of pyjamas and read instead of watching movies. It helps me drift off to sleep more quickly. I’m currently reading Queen Victoria: Twenty Four Days That Changed Her Life by Lucy Worsley.
The best travel bags are from
For quality, reliability and innovative design, you can’t go past Rimowa. I love the classic black trunk, it fits so much. I haven’t mastered the art of packing light. It’s lightweight and recognisable on the luggage carousel.
The smartest hotel I’ve stayed in
The Peninsula Shanghai. It’s hi-tech, cutting-edge and yet still so personalised. The lobby is studded with boutiques like Hermes and Graff, which makes for intriguing people-watching. The rooms are enormous and the breakfast pancakes are the best. They think of everything.
My ultimate destination
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. My husband (Kieran Lahey) and I stayed there on our first holiday together 11 years ago and we’ve returned often. So much so that they’ve added a mocktail to their menu called the Teddy’s Champ, named after our six-year-old son. While the grounds, the history and the location are all remarkable, it’s the people who work there who bring the magic. They embrace the messiness and joy of little children – and they’re the reason we return every year.
Always in my toiletries kit
Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum. I’ve only ever worn one fragrance, and this is it. It’s fresh, vibrant and comes with me everywhere.
Where I’m going next
In September I’m travelling to Kuala Lumpur to speak at a Women in Leadership event. Then I fly to Hangzhou for the opening ceremony of the Asian Games, where Vida Glow is the official beauty and health provider. I’ll stay at the Four Seasons in Kuala Lumpur, and then a few nights at Amanfayun in Hangzhou.
A place I return to often
London. The UK is one of our largest markets. I stay at Claridge’s in Mayfair and I love it. After a spiffy revamp, the hotel looks incredible and the location is ideal when I’m working. I use the tearoom or bar for business meetings and people are always eager to join you.
As told to George Epaminondas
