Carla Sersale, Le Sirenuse, and Positano need no introduction. The Milan-born designer-turned- hotelier and her husband Antonio have been at the helm of the Amalfi Coast’s most iconic hotel for nearly 30 years.
Calling Positano the “quintessential Mediterranean village,” Sersale tells us about her glamorous life on the coast, her travels and her dream destinations.
Inspired by the Le Sirenuse lifestyle, Le Sirenuse, Positano collection was born in 2012, with the help of her Mumbai-based niece, Viola Parrocchetti, a young designer herself. Three collections later, in addition to Emporio Sirenuse & Emporiosirenuse.com, the collection is sold at top global retailers, most notably Bergdorf and Matchesfashion and most recently with Net-a-Porter.
When it comes to hotels, travel and packing, look no further than Carla as we delve into her suitcase psyche.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
Sardinia, camping with my parents at six years old. I still feel the excitement. I was the last of four daughters and six was the minimum age set by my parents for the mythical family camping holiday.
Which holidays have been your favourite and why?
We went climbing Kilimanjaro in 2008 with some British friends. It was epic: the incredible views, sweeping natural landscapes and each day’s mounting exhaustion. The gratifying feeling of having made it. But most importantly the fantastic company of our friends.
Where or what is your escape?
We spend more than seven months a year in Positano. When we want to escape, we go to New York, London, Miami and Milan.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from your travels?
Open your eyes and heart and judge outside the box.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow, you’d go to…
Those incredible fish tapas restaurants in Barcelona.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
A beautiful place – could be a villa or a hotel – with impeccable service, provided with grace and nonchalance.
Le Sirenuse, Positano
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
Speaking with friends!
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?
Michelle Obama.
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How do you recover from jet lag?
I don’t go to sleep till it’s sleep time. If you can resist, the day after you are fine.
Your flight’s delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
Read a book.
Favourite Hotel? Why?
Mezzatorre, Ischia. The most beautiful setting between beach and pool, and a friendly, understated service. Gorgeous view.
Favourite airline?
British Airways.
What’s on your travel playlist?
Mia Moretti’s playlists.
What are your must-have suitcase picks?
Your go-to brands on vacation (aside from your own!)
7 for all mankind jeans, Aspesi Milano and Ancient Greek Sandals
Do you have any packing tricks or travelling tips?
Pack the morning before, not the night before departure!
One daily travel ritual?
My breakfast – fresh fruit and a coffee.
Where next?
The Arctic.
First thing that comes to your mind?
Hand-luggage essential?
A good book.
Packing: roll or fold?
Fold.
Inflight book or inflight film?
Both.
Music or podcasts?
Music.
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
A sleeping pill.
Holiday tipple of choice?
Champagne.
Bucket list top destination?
I’d like to drive through rural America… I’ve always dreamt of a coast to coast trip.
Best shopping gem found abroad?
Vintage stores near Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London.
Beach or City?
City.
Ultimate holiday treat?
A massage.
Any Questions or Tips to add?