Travel has become an essential for me now. It doesn’t have to be across the world, it could be a drive down the coast or into the mountains. I just crave that feeling to see— and feel —something new.
When I travel, I prefer to blend in and feel more like a local. I never really stay at hotels, I always look for apartments with a great kitchen so I can cook with the local produce. I love going for a run early in the morning. It grounds me wherever I am, as the world moves slower at this hour. Watching the local fishermen at the port load up their stalls, mothers and fathers taking their children for a stroll, older women tending to their small balcony gardens—this is all inspiring to me. When I get home from a trip, I love to reflect on these simple, everyday moments that play out against a faraway backdrop.
Traveling has redefined the way I feel about comparison, and taught me to appreciate all that I have. It is a luxury, and one that has shown me that, despite our different cultures and upbringings, we are all somewhat the same. We all need clean air to breathe, fresh water to drink, and a good community around us to live a full and beautiful life.
I’m currently traveling for about three months, with Paris as my main destination. I love being in a place for an extended period; you really get to find your rituals and follow the locals’ rhythm. My partner and I decided to stay in Montmatre, which is almost like a little village and our cocoon in the city.
We decided to spend the last two weeks of our work trip in Marseille, as we were craving the coast. The city was too hot and we wanted a holiday where we could take things slow in the sun. My favorite swimming spot in Marseille is Anse De La Fausse Monnaie. I like to get early in the morning, to avoid the crowds and the high noon sun.
On your way down, pick up bread from T65 Boulangerie and cheese from La Malmousque Fromagerie. After your swim, grab a scoop of gelato on your way home at LouLou Monsieur. Or, if you plan on swimming until sunset, stop for a drink at Sarment or local favorite Le Releve.
"All I need is good company, good food, and a beautiful environment. I have learned that, deep down, I love living simply."
I have similar rituals at home and away. After drinking a big glass of water, I love to move my body upon waking. I like to tidy the kitchen, so I have a fresh palette. It helps to clear my mind in preparation for what I will make that day. For my skin, I live for the Refining Cleanser and the Regeneration Mist, which is a must for summer. Normally I stay away from zinc-based sunscreens as they always leave a very evident white cast on my darker skin tone, but I have tried the Every Tone SPF 30 and I am lost for words — Neada has performed some sort of magic trick! It glides on and then disappears, yet I feel so protected. I also definitely love a sneaky Campari on ice, which I guess has become a bit of a travel ritual, too!
As a traveler, I always bring too much. I just think “I’ll need this,” when I never really do. All I need is good company, good food, and a beautiful environment. I have learned that, deep down, I love living simply.
Bella Thomas is a model and creative based in Sydney Australia. Explore her Rituals interview here.
