GLOBETROTTER

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Solo Traveler

WHETHER YOU’RE ON A LONG HOLIDAY OR A WEEKEND GETAWAY, KNIGHT FRANK’S STACEY WATSON ADVISES HOW TO PACK, WHERE TO EAT AND WHAT — OR WHO — TO LEAVE AT HOME.

BY LAURIE DAVIES

Whether you’re a jetsetter or a trendsetter — or both — smart travel is the difference between a refined experience or a regrettable one. From travel hacks on what to pack to how to arrive at your destination rested, Stacey Watson, partner in the international residential department for Knight Frank International, offers wit and wisdom for your journey.

I never travel without …

The non-negotiables — my passport, money, wallet, contact lenses, sunglasses, reading glasses, computer and chargers. After that, I’m flexible. For a long trip with ample suitcase space, clothes, shoes, handbags and jewelry are essentials. If I’m pressed to pack in a carry-on, I try to pack a capsule wardrobe: Pack a smart pair of trousers and a pair of blue jeans with different looks on top.

I never travel with …

A hairdryer and people. The latter is meant to be a bit of a joke. Really, though, it is important to consider your routine and how others fit into it. Do you like to arrive to the airport early and enjoy the lounge or browse the shops? Do you want to talk on the plane or read? If you have strong travel preferences, consider meeting people at your destination rather than traveling together. STACEY WATSON PARTNER, INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL AT KNIGHT FRANK

QUICK TIPS FOR SEAMLESS TRIPS

GET TWO PASSPORTS.

If you lose one or have to send one away for a visa, you’ll still be able to travel.

DOWNLOAD THE VERIFLY

APP. With up-to-date travel restrictions (think COVID), this app cuts through confusing travel rules and ensures you have the right documents for your destinations. TRAVEL IN THE OFFSEASON. “I want to see the Eiffel Tower with 4,000 other tourists,” said no one ever. Beat the crowds by avoiding peak seasons (this includes school breaks). RELAX. Other than prescription eyewear and your passport, there’s almost nothing you can’t buy when you arrive.

I arrive at my destination rested by …

Making lists to eliminate the stress of getting out the door. During travel, I always have four things ready in my hand luggage: ear plugs, an eye mask, a liter of water and travel socks. And upon arrival, it’s essential to adopt local time immediately. You have to break through the jet lag on the first day.

The best place to stay is …

Totally dependent on the sort of holiday you’re going on. With a large group for a weekend, I really do like Airbnb for a more local experience. If I’m going to a beach destination, I wouldn’t want the hassle of cooking and cleaning, so I would lean toward brands I know and trust. For exclusivity, nothing beats a boutique hotel. The downside to boutique: If anything (like COVID) delays your stay, they are less flexible with lastminute travel cancellations.

I get the flavor of local cuisine by …

Depending on tried and tested personal referrals. Boutique hotels have the ability to get under the skin of what their guests want, so they often recommend the best of the best. A word of caution: chain hotel recommendations often come from a standard list. Some may not point you away if they have their own food and beverage offerings.

On my bucket list for travel is …

Costa Rica and New Zealand. One of these won’t be a luxury thing for me, it’s more of a give-back experience, working with local communities. For a bit of fun, look into the Mark O’Travel app. You can mark the different places you’ve been around the world.