Four Afar with Bella Thomas, Sylvie Mus & Fong Min Liao

This summer, come along with our community as they reveal their coveted travel essentials, blending timeless classics with newfound treasures. From local recommendations to favourite finds, their journey to beautiful things afar starts here.

July 2022

Bella Thomas

Indian-Australian artist Bella Thomas takes us away to the quiet, nature-filled landscape of Milos, Greece. From the go-to packing favourite to her secret finds abroad, tap through for her four essential tips from afar.Milos, a Greek island adored for idyllic landscapes, distinctive white rock formations and boutique escapes, has evolved into one of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after vacation destinations.

The carry on essential

I always bring a few different wraps, sarongs or scarves on a summer trip. I find them so handy to wrap around after a swim or throw over your shoulders when the breeze comes in at night. They’re also super easy and light to pack.

Worn on repeat

Always my rings, new and old. I come home with tan lines that are a nice reminder of the holidays, ha!  My most treasured piece is one from Ole Lynggaard, their Lotus Ring with a blue topaz. It shines so many shades of blue, changing colour throughout the day. It’s a very special piece and always reminds me of the sea.

The Ole Lynggaard Lotus Ring is a renowned jewellery piece crafted by the Danish luxury brand Ole Lynggaard Copenhagen. Inspired by the lotus flower’s elegance and symbolism of purity, the ring showcases intricate design and exceptional craftsmanship.

Something Sourced

I stumbled upon some beautiful handmade jewellery and bags in this tiny shop in Chora on the island of Andros. Everything was designed in Greece and then made in India by the artisans there. They had these beautiful silver rings that reminded me a lot of what my grandmother would wear. I bought a few bags as gifts for friends at home.

Chora, the picturesque main town of Andros, celebrated for its Cycladic architecture, narrow alleys and epicurean delights, remains an under-the-radar gem. Known for a slower pace, the town serves as an appealing alternative to the busier Greek islands.

The Secret Find

We befriended our neighbour in Andros and he invited us onto his farm and allowed us to take whatever we liked. We cooked with homegrown tomatoes and cucumbers and spent everyday with his beautiful dog Xionoula (Snowy). I guess my tip would be - get friendly with the locals, don’t be shy. I love really getting to know the land and people when I’m in a new city, island or country.

Sylvie Mus

Paris-based stylist, Sylvie Mus, shows us the simplistic beauty of Marrakech. From everyday accessories to must-see galleries, tap through for her four essential tips from afar.

The carry on essential

I can’t travel without a book! My most recent read was ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle. I would totally recommend it to anyone.

“The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle is a transformative guide that invites readers to embrace the present moment, with insights to achieve a state of mindfulness, ultimately leading to a more conscious way of living.

Worn on repeat

I always wear my “S” pendant from Chloé. It pairs with just about everything.

Something Sourced

I bought a beautiful handmade rug to bring back home from a small boutique in the souk.

Marrakech is renowned for its handcrafted, artisanal rugs. Each item demonstrates intricate designs and vibrant colours to reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The Secret Find

MCC Gallery in Ménara was very impressive. My favorite piece was called “Desert” created by artist Amine El Gotaibi, which was crafted using iron and wool.

Initially a space dedicated to the exhibition and promotion of contemporary photography, The MCC Gallery now hosts a diverse collection of artworks that span various styles and mediums that are present in Marrakech.Amine El Gotaibi, most known for his famous piece “The River’s Reflection, is a Moroccan artist who’s work uniquely showcases a blend of impressionism and contemporary realism. With a usage of vivid colours, forms, and emotions, viewers are invited to explore his unique perspective.

Fong Min Liao

Fong Min Liao is a Chinese-American painter and writer. Heading to Tokyo for a late summer trip, the artist takes us on a journey of her secret finds. From the city’s quiet neighbourhoods to note, to sourcing modern Japanese heirlooms along the way, tap through for her four essential tips from afar

The carry on essential

This tortoiseshell hair clip was my carry-on essential. My hair is super long, so I do not go anywhere without a hair clip to quickly pull it back if I need to in the moment.

Worn on repeat

These Chanel shoes are so comfortable for walking - they always look incredibly chic with any look I’m wearing.

Chanel Slingbacks, synonymous with timeless elegance and comfort, made their debut in 1957 and continue to be adored for their minimalistic style and durability.
Something Sourced

I had to have this leather Furoshiki - a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used to carry belongings or wrap gifts. I love seeing modern versions of it, and adopting these ancient traditions into my everyday style in a chic yet practical way.

Japan’s leather furoshiki reimagines gift-giving, blending traditional elegance with modern sophistication and durability. This environmentally-conscious and chic evolution of the classic wrapping cloth is is ever present in modern life.
The Secret Find

One afternoon I decided to explore Omotesando, a beautiful neighbourhood in Tokyo, by myself. There’s a four seater teahouse called “Itsu” that’s at the top floor of a building tucked away in a quiet back street. The experience here is one that I will simply remember forever because it was so intimate and pure. Please stop by this place if you ever visit Tokyo!

Omotesando is a stylish, bustling avenue located in Tokyo and celebrated for its cutting-edge architecture, high-end fashion boutiques and vibrant atmosphere.Nestled in the Omotesando district, the Itsu teahouse offers a serene escape in the heart of Tokyo. The space seamlessly blends traditional Japanese tea culture with modern aesthetics, creating a unique experience.