Alyssa Lau is a 27-year-old Chinese-Canadian creator and photographer, among other things. “My astrological sun sign is Aquarius and moon sign is Pisces, if that tells you anything about me,” she says. These days, she’s mostly the founder of a slow fashion web store called New Classics Studios, which launched in 2014 after deciding she didn’t want to pursue a masters in Biochemistry.
This weekend, she flew from Edmonton, the capital of Canada’s Alberta province, to New York to attend the launch party and workshop for Gucci Beauty’s new line of lipsticks. Below, Lau shares her philosophies on travel—and the perfect tips and tricks for any jet-setter.
PACKING STRATEGY
I always know exactly what I’m wearing so I don’t have to pack anything extra. I keep a list of things I need to pack at the very back of my Moleskine that I check every night before my travels to make sure that I haven’t forgotten anything.
IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS
I never used to get nauseous on flights, but thanks to some recent travels, I take Gravol with me everywhere—just in case. That, and a book, some hand sanitizer, mixed nuts, and an empty water bottle to fill up as soon as I pass through security.
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
As soon as I arrive at my AirBnB or hotel, I always unpack my suitcase so I don’t have to open it back up during my stay. This simple action makes me feel so much more at home at wherever I’m staying.
STYLE ON-THE-GO
I always wear something comfortable like leggings and Converse sneakers, and always make sure to wear a jacket or sweater because it can get a little drafty on the plane.
TRAVEL PHILOSOPHY
I love how traveling removes you from the routine of daily life and throws you into the middle of the unknown. You never really know what kind of stories you’ll come out of your travels with! Also, the food. Definitely the food.