Best of AKD Travel

I’ve said it before: when I say I miss travel, what I’m really missing is a part of myself. 

Travel is an essential part of my life, truly fueling my soul: it challenges me, pushes my work further, teaches me the beautiful nuances of a new country or culture, and has helped shape the person I am today. Whether it’s a trip that gives me the chance to source the next collection of amazing design objects for the pop-up shops that fund my non-profit, Under the Same Sky, or an adventure with my loved ones that brings us closer as a family, travel creates experiences that run much deeper than a vacation or a getaway. 

In a nod to the impact travel has on our lives, today’s post is all about reflecting on past trips as I peruse old photos and recall how each and every adventure I’ve taken has opened up my own world view. From expanding my cultural knowledge, to sourcing products for pop-up shops, to seeing my children’s eyes light up as they see more of the world, every trip has had its purpose. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share the best of my travels with you, as we all dream about where our future travels might take us.

Best of Architecture and Design: India 

India is filled with incredible examples of design and architecture, rooted in history, culture and religion. These stunning works of art all have such amazing depth and character built into every detail that there truly is no parallel. Traveling around the country, I was in awe of some of the most exquisite structures in the world, like The Taj Mahal, the Chand Baori Step Well, Amer Fort, and The City Palace. The architectural aesthetic is uniquely tied to the place and culture, and each site shows the care and workmanship that creates a sense of timeless character and the continuous line of history through design.  That breathtaking attention to detail flows through to the interiors as well — many of which build on the wow factor created by the architecture in surprising and inspiring ways. 

If design and architecture expand your mind and excite your imagination, a trip to India will fuel you more than you thought possible. Read more about my travels to India here.

Best of Adventure: Patagonia 

If you’re seeking an amazing outdoor adventure after all these months indoors, Patagonia offers a sense of adventure like no other place I’ve visited. Incredibly beautiful mountainous peaks and glaciers invite you to lace up your hiking shoes and set off on a journey that places you in intimate contact with a wild and astonishing landscape. We spent our time trekking through national parks, traveling through glaciers and up mountains, and adventuring across the empty Steppes. 

Patagonia was truly the adventure of a lifetime and a trip I would recommend to anyone seeking to see the beauty of the world by foot. The hiking possibilities are endless.

Best of Relaxation: Bali 

If your future travel goals lean toward relaxation while soaking in a new culture, Bali offers exactly that. My husband and I went to Bali for our honeymoon, where we stayed in Jimbarayan Bay and Ubud, and I have dreamed of going back ever since. The island is filled with forested volcanic mountains, beaches and coral reefs and is known for a focus on wellness and relaxation and yoga retreats. With fantastic scenery at every turn and an overarching dedication to comfort and stress relief, travel in Bali creates a sense of serenity and tranquility. A return trip to Ubud, including market visits and sourcing new pieces for our next pop-up shop, was planned for this fall but unfortunately fell victim to the pandemic. I can’t wait to reschedule and visit this beautiful island again.

Best of Purpose: Tanzania

Tanzania is home to my first big fundraising effort: climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise money for the Heartland Alliance International, whose efforts target human rights protection. It is one of the most impactful trips I have ever made as it could be considered the beginning of my philanthropic mission. In a word, this was a trip filled with purpose.  

Adding to the sense of joy and love that pervades my memories of Tanzania, I was able to have my family join me for a two-week safari following my trek through the mountains. While the wildlife was astonishing and unlike anything I had seen before, it was the few days we spent in a handful of the larger towns of Tanzania that made the biggest impact. I couldn’t get enough of the beautiful culture this country is grounded in once I experienced the gentle attitude that permeates the cities and the way people connect. I felt intrigued and at home at the same time — I could have stayed in Tanzania for months.

Best of Family Experiences: Morocco 

My kids have told me that our adventure to Morocco was the trip that enlightened them on the power of travel and inspired them to truly want to see the world. Morocco is such a rich and experiential destination, with endless options for cultural enrichment and eye-opening inspiration. We divided our time between the community and culture of the city and the natural beauty and adventure of the Atlas Mountains. My children loved experiencing the culture, taking in the amazing scenery and tasting all of the delicious cuisine. It was also our first time experiencing the call to prayer — it is the most beautiful sound in the world, offering an almost otherworldly moment of peace.

Best of Breathtaking Views: Banff and Lake Louise Canada 

Banff and Lake Louise will always hold an extra special place in my heart, as it’s actually where Joe and I got engaged. But aside from the wonderful memories that stem from our engagement, the sheer beauty of its snowy peaks and vibrant blue water will always be indelibly imprinted on my mind. The grandeur of scale in the natural surroundings creates that feeling of something truly larger than oneself and makes our human concerns feel small. I remember trying to capture the unbelievable views through photographs, but they never did it justice. You truly have to see and experience it to believe it. 

Another key reason to seek out Banff’s natural beauty: it’s accessible to all. From mountain top treks to scenic drives, Banff National Park has options for everyone looking to take in its wonder. I’m so grateful this place set the scenery for one of the most special moments of my life — and I’ll never tire of that awestruck feeling when I get a glimpse of this singular landscape. 

Best of Unique Cultural Experiences: Bhutan

If you’re looking to expand your cultural awareness and challenge your mindset, Bhutan offers a magical, powerfully peaceful experience — one you might not even know you need. Prepare for the beautiful landscape and even more beautiful people to challenge your way of thinking; it is one of the few countries that has kept Western influence to a minimum, keeping its historic traditions and culture intact. Only in the last half a century were doors opened to visitors from other countries, meaning that Bhutan has retained its unique qualities, combining natural beauty, unique architecture and ancient culture. Yet, despite remaining somewhat isolated from the rest of the world, its people are demonstrably kind and caring, offering a warm welcome to visitors who find their way there. 

My adventures through Bhutan made a lasting impact on me — read more about my travels through this remarkable country here.

Best of Markets: Southern France 

Last but not least, if you are interested in experiencing the culture that emanates from the gathering of artisans, artists, producers and collectors at the world’s great markets, my favorite travel destination for sourcing beautiful and unique pieces for my pop-up shops has been Southern France. The markets here have everything from fresh flowers and local produce to, of course, endless antiques, textiles, art, clothing and more. The markets are bursting with color and filled with a beauty that inspires me, and my designs, tremendously. 

If you are looking to take home keepsakes for lasting memories, the markets of Southern France undeniably hold the treasures you seek — and there’s plenty of cultural learning to be had, too. The markets showcase the culture and passion of France beautifully, giving me a glimpse into how the French really live. 

I can’t wait for the day where we can pack our bags and take in the world again. Until then, it was a joy reminiscing with you all, and offering a little food for thought for future trips. Thanks for reading!