I am quite a relaxed traveller, just eager to explore something new and come home with fresh eyes. Traveling pushes me out of my comfort zone and allows me to gain a stronger sense of self. It forces me to be present and evaluate things needed in life, always confirming less is more.
This trip was a last minute escape to Sumba, an island in East Indonesia. It was really about switching off. A moment to embrace rest and live simply. A place to lay in the sun, swim in the ocean, read books, drink coconuts and try to do nothing.
Not knowing what to expect as this was my first visit, I was taken aback by the island’s raw beauty and untouched landscapes. The towering cliffs, empty beaches, rice paddies, and coconuts in masses drying in the sun. There is minimal accommodation as most of the island remains untouched, with traditional culture and indigenous practices prominent.
I am landscape driven and a huge nature baby, so a favorite ritual on the island was a sunrise swim at Watu Bella. With its white sandstone cliffs and clear blue water, you can sit on the grassy hill watching the sun rise and then pop down the cliff side for a salty morning dip! This was one of the most pristine beaches I have ever visited and not a person in sight.
We would return to the ocean at low tide in the afternoons. Here, you can watch all of the locals walk down the hills to catch dinner. Hiding in the reef, they would find a variety of fish and octopus.
"A favorite ritual on the island was a sunrise swim at Watu Bella... with its white sandstone cliffs and clear blue water, you can sit on the grassy hill watching the sun rise and then pop down the cliff side for a salty morning dip."
When I travel, I always bring a book and turn off my phone. A few other essentials for this trip were the Every Tone SPF 30, which is small enough to carry around all day and blends beautifully into skin, and the Ritual Serum, which I love applying overnight knowing my skin is soaking up all that goodness or after a swim to keep my skin healthy and glowy.
I also packed the LESSE Tote, which is a perfect day bag for riding around on the back of a scooter. It fits everything needed for the day. The Soothing Lip Balm is another lifesaver when traveling, especially on flights, to keep lips soft and hydrated. All of the products being travel-sized is truly a huge win, so I can continue my skin care rituals wherever I go.
Claudia Smith is a photographer based in Bundjalung Country, Australia. Explore her Rituals interview here.
