How To Get Away: Insider Insights To Travel Like An Interior Designer

Traveling doesn't have to be just about sight-seeing.

It can be about discovering yourself and learning about the world around you. You'll see new sights, hear new sounds, taste new food, meet new people. With a little planning you can experience a home away from home by travelling like an interior designer.

Get Inspired by Your Destination

Before you set out on your trip, plan your route and research the area you will be visiting. Knowing the history and culture of the places you will be visiting can help you create a more meaningful experience.

To truly travel like an interior designer, choose a location you find inspiring. If there's a certain look or vibe you've always wanted to create in your space, look for destinations that have the same feeling.

Last summer, my husband and I took a much needed grown up vacation to Las Vegas while our kids were with their grandparents. I’ve always loved mid-century modern design but I don’t have a lot of mid-century elements in my home. We decided to stay at the Virgin Hotel and I got a huge dose of the casual, relaxed, charming energy that mid-century designs evoke. It was a great way to a good feel for the design style and help me figure out which elements I wanted to bring home.

If you love warm, cozy spaces with a bohemian vibe, consider visiting Morocco or Bali. These countries are known for their beautifully designed interiors that are full of color and texture. Or, if you're more interested in modern design, try visiting Tokyo or Copenhagen where the architecture is sleek and minimalist.

Live Like a Local

One of the best ways to experience a country's culture and design style is by living like a local. Skip the touristy hotels and opt for an Airbnb or homestay instead. Or find a boutique hotel off the beaten path. This will allow you to immerse yourself in the local community and get a taste of how people really live in your destination. You might even find some unique design inspiration from the homes you stay in.

If you have the chance, talk to locals and ask them about their experiences with interior design in the area. They may be able to give you tips on the best places to find unique pieces of furniture or artwork.

As much as we love exploring new destinations and gathering inspiration for our dream spaces, it's important to take time to relax and unwind. Travel can be exhausting, so make sure to carve out moments for self-care. That could mean lounging on a beach or creating a cozy nook where you can read or relax, surrounded by soft blankets and plush pillows in your hotel room.

Try Something New

Traveling is all about trying new things, so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone when it comes to design. Take a class on pottery-making in Japan or learn about traditional weaving techniques in Peru. You'll have a newfound appreciation for these crafts and you might also pick up a new skill or hobby you can use for your own home decor.

One of my favorite things to do in a new country is to take a cooking class. I’ve discovered recipes that have become family favorites and the spices and special ingredients make for great souvenirs.

While in Sayulita, Mexico, I took a pom-pom and macrame class after seeing beautiful tapestries and hangings throughout the town. The experience was something different than what I would typically do but I had a fantastic time making decor items with the ocean breeze blowing through the shop.

Pay Attention to Details

As an interior designer, it's all about the details. When you're traveling, pay attention to the little things that make each place unique. Maybe it's the way the light shines through the windows in Italy or the intricate tile patterns in Morocco. These small details can add a fresh and creative touch to your own home design.

Look around and take note of the architecture, furniture, artwork, and colors and patterns of the area. Take pictures of anything that catches your eye. This will help you get a better understanding of the local design style and give you ideas to take home with you.

Be Open to Adventure

Traveling is an adventure, so embrace it! Don't be afraid to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations or try new experiences. You might stumble upon a beautifully designed boutique hotel in a booming city or find inspiration in the colors of a local market. Being open to adventure will not only make your trip more exciting but may also spark some new design ideas.

Follow Your Desire

If there's a specific style or design trend that you've always wanted to try, traveling is the perfect opportunity to experiment with it. Maybe you've been dreaming of adding warm earthy tones to your home decor or incorporating unique textures into your designs. Choose hotels, restaurants, and experiences that will immerse you in the design elements you're attracted to.

Take Time to Enjoy

Lastly, don't forget to enjoy the journey. Traveling is meant to be an exciting and enjoyable experience, so take time to appreciate everything around you. Whether you're visiting a bustling city or a quiet countryside, take the time to explore and soak up all the unique elements that make it beautiful. Notice the different textures, colors, and patterns around you, from the warm tones of exposed brick walls to the fresh blue hues of the ocean.

Have Fun with It

Don't forget that both travel and design should be fun! Don't get too caught up in achieving the perfect look or itinerary. Instead, enjoy the process of discovering new things and trying out new ideas.

Whether you're exploring a bustling city or designing a cozy bedroom, approach it all with a sense of excitement and curiosity. By infusing joy and playfulness into everything you do, you'll find inspiration and beauty around every corner.