Nikhil Thampi talks about conscious travelling, his definition of luxury vacations and his travel bucket-list for 2019. By Priyanka Chakrabarti
What does travelling mean to you?
Travelling for me is an inspiration. It’s all about interacting with different people from different cultures, tasting different cuisines and getting inspired from local fashion. For me, it’s about learning the various facets of multiple cultures that further helps me to add an element in my collection.
How has travelling inspired your creativity? Can you share an anecdote with us?
Travelling is a process where you explore, learn and get inspired. For me, modern architecture is something which inspires me the most. Clean lines, geometric-inspired architecture, smooth surfaces is what you will also see in my seamless furniture collaboration. Likewise, my clothes have a very minimal approach but maximum impact, with an attitude of our hardware embellishment; the same structure is seen clearly in architecture all around the globe. For example, Zaha Hadid’s body of work, her illustration and artwork has inspired me a lot. You can directly connect architecture with my brand aesthetic.
Do you remember your first holiday?
My first holiday was in Paris when I was really young. I do not remember much from the trip, but as a family we have lot of fun memories attached to the place.
What has been your best 2018 holiday?
Cambodia was definitely the best trip in 2018. It was educational, it took us back into nostalgia of the old-world charm and was a great inspiration.
If you could pack only five things for a vacation, what would they be?
My must have list includes a sweatshirt, my mobile charger, credit cards an essential black T-shirt and a pair of blue jeans, sunglasses and a good perfume.
We need your fashion guidance. While vacationing in this season, what are the top five ensembles one should carry?
It all depends on the destination you choose to go to. But this season, you can lay your hands on a flowy outfit, ultra short shorts and a stylish pair of sunglasses. One can opt for a pair of high-waisted trousers and a bralette to set for a perfect holiday vibe, too.
Do you believe in the concept of slow travel?
Slow travel is something I don’t believe in nor do I have the patience for it. I need excitement everyday and every minute of my life.
What’s your take on conscious travelling? How would you contribute to the trend of green-travelling?
Conscious travel means having a positive impact, not only spiritually, but also mentally. Since our generation is digitally forward one must work towards cutting down on paper waste. Travelling compact, which means not carrying excess clothes, pack clothes that will need minimum ironing and classic staple pieces, which can be worn throughout the holiday.
Do you think solo travelling is more enriching than travelling with a group of people?
I believe in solo travelling. While travelling in a group you’re bound to abide by the itinerary of the people in the group, but when you travel solo you have the freedom to explore the city on your own. One can explore the lanes, cafes and interact with the locals.
A destination that you want to visit this year?
I would want to visit Egypt and Morocco, as it has always been on my list.
The most awkward experience you’ve had while traveling?
This particular experience wasn’t awkward but a very dramatic one. Once while travelling I lost my passport and wallet. Then there was a time when I was flying back from Australia, I missed one flight and the repercussion was missing five other flights.
What does luxury travel mean to you?
Luxury to me is checking into a plush hotel that gives you an exclusive experience throughout, like the Ritz Carlton in Paris or London. A place like Monaco, or a place where people indulge in finer things like gourmet food and couture clothing. It means doing exclusive things in the city! Exploring super niche and elite parts of the country is also something I consider luxury.
What item(s) do you never travel without?
I will never travel without a pair of sunglasses.
Your top three luxury hotels around the world?
Who is your favorite travel buddy?
I have a lot of travel buddies, but my favourites are definitely my boy gang from college.
Where are you travelling next?
London is calling me immediately, but I’m trying to do Morocco or Spain this year.
Related:Here Are Masaba’s Top 5 Winter Fashion Must-Haves For The Travelling Folks
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