Rebecca Taylor Swears by Turks and Caicos in the Off Season

New Zealand-born designer Rebecca Taylor is constantly looking to her world travels for inspiration. Part of what makes her effortless pieces work so well is that she keeps on-the-go women in mind. Just back from a Mexican vacation with her family—she was in Tulum and Isla Mujeres—she’s got some pro travel and style tips to offer us, including the best outfits for the plane and what makes for the perfect travel shoe. Plus, she dishes on her favorite fellow airplane passenger ever (Sting!), the most luxurious hotel bathroom on the planet, and more.

What’s your summer vacation destination? Isla Mujeres and Tulum. It was the first time I’ve ever been to Isla Mujeres. I really liked the restaurant in Na Balam Oceanvs Beach Club and Restaurant.

Favorite mode of travel? Sea plane when going to Shelter Island, but regular planes everywhere else.

Best or worst person you have ever been seated next to on a plane? Sting sat across the aisle from me once! I would say that would categorize as best person…

Best freebie you’ve stolen off a plane? Back in the day nothing was bolted down so it was pretty much a free-for-all, I used to love the hand moisturizers in the bathroom.

Go-to travel outfit: Vintage Italian army pants, a white Victorian blouse, cashmere socks, and a throw.

What’s something you would never wear on a plane? A skirt.

Best travel shoe? Nude leather Birkenstock.

Name five essential pieces of clothing/accessories you can’t travel without: My Rimowa luggage, pink Bottega bag, Balenciaga sunglasses, Chanel vintage jacket, and my Marni beaded sandals.

Go-to swimwear brand? Malia Mills.

What’s a big packing mistake to avoid? Not packing enough underwear!

Best beauty products for travel? Neils Yard Solid Oil—it’s amazing, it takes makeup off and it works as a lip balm. It has many end uses.

Favorite airport lounge or restaurant? The Air New Zealand business class lounge in L.A. — it’s amazing, they have showers, a full bar, and a buffet. It makes me feel like I am almost home.

Airline with the best or worst food? Air New Zealand for best food. I have some challenges with Japanese airline food…

What’s your favorite hotel in the world? L’Hotel in Paris—there is a private swimming pool in the basement. I love the history as well, Oscar Wilde lived there.

Most luxurious hotel bathroom you’ve ever seen? Park Hyatt in Tokyo.

Favorite off-season destination? Italy and Turks and Caicos. The weather is still really nice in May and June but there are less tourists and the beaches are not as crowded.

Best souvenir you have ever picked up on a trip? My son Charlie was conceived in Japan and is my favorite Tokyo souvenir.

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