Design Maven Kelly Hoppen Reveals Her Top Global Getaway

18.02.25

Best long-haul destination for R & R?

I love Mauritius and go there as much as I can. The islands and landscapes are spectacular. My favourite spot there is the LUX* Belle Mare resort which I designed. There really is a sense of being in one’s own private world surrounded by the bluest of skies and the whitest of sands. I also adore Mykonos.

Best piece of travel advice?

I am a bit of a geek when it comes to gadgets. I always make sure to load up my iPod before I go travelling as nothing beats a good playlist! Anything by Ben Bridgewater is amazing. I would also never go travelling without moisturiser and a mini beauty kit, they are must-haves!

Best global getaway for cutting-edge design?

This is a tough one but I would have to say Asia. The architecture there is spectacular and very innovative. Hong Kong and Shanghai always take my breath away as do the amazing buildings that shape the Mumbai skyline. In particular, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, it is truly iconic and filled with lots of history.

Sun or ski?

Definitely sun but I do love the snow at the right time.

Fondest holiday memory?

I always loved going to Capri as a child. I used to stay at the Scalinatella Hotel, it has the best food and the most amazing service. I also attach very fond memories to going back to my grandma’s home in South Africa. I left there when I was a small child but we would always go back there for the holidays. It was magnificent, rather grand but very homely and nurturing. It is a feeling that I try to instil in all my designs.