My Life In Travel: Callie Thorpe

For a city break, I like to choose destinations with good food, thrifting, markets and coffee. Lisbon was one of my favourites and the food scene there is really exciting. I’m planning a trip to Copenhagen this summer so I can experience its coffee scene, the cool hotels and chic stores.

I love a road trip. Windows down, playlist on, stopping at beautiful places on the way without the faff of the airport – it’s perfect. Two summers ago, we travelled from Barcelona through the south of France, taking a few days in each stop to explore properly. We spent time in Costa Brava, Cadaqués, Provence and finally the Riviera – such a fun trip. We later repeated a road journey across California because we’d loved it so much the first time, once in a car and then again in a camper van, which was incredible in its own way, if a little less glamorous than hotels. The sense of freedom you get from a road trip is unmatched.

Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful and magical places I’ve visited. It has everything – waterfalls that look almost unreal, striking beaches, extraordinary biodiversity, abundant wildlife, hot springs, volcanoes and cloud forests. The experiences feel endless and the country leaves a lasting impression.

When I think about the most romantic place I’ve ever been, Christmas in the California mountains stands out. We rented a cabin that felt wonderfully cosy, with a hot tub overlooking the forest, a small cinema room and a kitchen where we made breakfast while Christmas songs played on the record player. On Christmas morning we woke up to snow, which made the whole experience even more special.

I’ve had countless memorable meals on holiday. One dish that immediately comes to mind is khao soi – a northern Thai speciality from Chiang Mai made with a rich, savoury curried broth, soft and crispy noodles and a tangle of pickles on top. Mexico City is another hotspot for food; every meal during our trip there felt memorable. And sometimes nothing beats simplicity: a tapas spread or a grilled fish with a Greek salad at a taverna can be unforgettable.

If I had to live in one hotel I’d choose Belmond La Residencia in Mallorca. It’s a beautiful hotel that feels like it’s woven into the town of Deià. You’re surrounded by hilltop houses and close to striking beaches, and the restaurant El Olivo is one of the most memorable dining settings I’ve experienced. I love Spain, and Mallorca in particular offers everything I’m drawn to – mountains, shoreline and a lively city scene all in one place.

Choosing favourite holiday photos is impossible. I’m a memory collector, so each one holds something personal. The images that feel especially meaningful tend to be the film shots. There’s no instant preview, so you commit to the moment, and the cost of film makes every frame intentional.

My packing essentials always start with my Away luggage because it’s chic and lightweight. I also rely on my TRTL travel pillow, a battery pack, my mini handheld fan, Caudalie Beauty Elixir for an in‑flight refresh, and a good lip balm – usually Malin + Goetz or Tatcha. My Sézane and Elizabeth Scarlett fabric bags come with me on every trip; they’re perfect for keeping things organised.

For swimwear, I keep things simple. I usually reach for a swimsuit rather than a bikini, and You Swim make brilliant options – stretchy, flattering and available in numerous colours.

My bucket list is long and ever‑growing: Vietnam, Brazil, Japan, Egypt, Bhutan, Bora Bora, Jordan, Iceland and Colombia are all high on it…

For more travel inspiration follow @CALLIETHORPE