Well-travelled women have been making space in their suitcases for eponymous British swimwear brand Heidi Klein since its launch in 2002, a favourite brand for the likes style icons like Kate Moss and Sienna Miller.
Founded by design duo Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein, this London-based label is a go-to for poolside glamour, its range of designs, shapes and sizes making it particularly special and accessible to all women.
Here, Heidi Gosman shares her most memorable adventure, her ideal summer getaway and her top hotel picks from the Bahamas to Vietnam.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
Australia, to visit my godfather who was working there at the time. We stopped off in Bangkok for a few days en route, I remember stepping off the plane and the heat instantly hitting me, with a total immersion into the smells of a new country. We spent our time visiting temples, eating delicious food, and exploring the floating markets – I even saw my first elephant and my first snake, it was a true adventure. Once we arrived in Sydney, I was mesmerised by all the swimming pools in back gardens. We visited Sydney Harbour and the blue mountains. Riding my first skateboard is a great memory too – I loved every minute!
What’s been your most memorable trip and why?
Okavango Delta Botswana and doing a horseback safari. When on horseback, the animals are completely relaxed around you and you can ride with herds such as zebra, giraffe and buffalo – it really is an unforgettable experience. In the evenings we would weave along the redlined waterways in traditional mokoro canoes watching the sunset, then head back to camp for dinner under the stars, it was just magical.
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Where or what is your escape?
An early morning walk over the field – just me and my dog.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from your travels?
Don’t just stay put in the hotel or resort. It’s so important to explore the culture around you, whether that’s local markets, restaurants, boutiques, or sights. I always find so much inspiration for my work in doing this.
If I could go anywhere tomorrow I’d go to:
The Amalfi coast – it’s become so popular, but as with anything, there is good reason for this. One of my favourite activities is to wait at Positano harbour, and if you’re lucky a little old boat with a redfish on a pole emerges. If you have pre-booked in advance (which in itself is quite a challenge), you can climb aboard to be whisked off to Da Adolfo. This is a charming and rustic beach club, with a restaurant serving the most delicious Italian food in the most wonderful atmosphere. The loungers are the perfect place to relax for the afternoon post-meal, as you look out to sea and soak up the rays.
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How would you spend your ideal afternoon in your home city?
In Somerset, I’d start with lunch with friends on the terrace at The Newt then head over to the Hauser and Wirth Gallery.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
Spending quality time with my family, with no-one else around, enjoying the peace and quiet of escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
Listening to my clients – it’s a perk of the job.
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – who would it be?
My grandfather.
How do you recover from jet lag?
Keep hydrated on the flight – lots of water and a brisk walk in the fresh air when you arrive at the destination.
Your flight’s delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
If I’m on the plane, I’ll absorb myself in a good book. If I’m still in the airport, I’ll get up and look around – and I love people-watching in airports.
Favourite hotel?
I have been lucky enough to stay at some amazing places and so it really is impossible to say a favourite. I do love Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Little Dix Bay in the BVI, The Ocean Club Bahamas, Strawberry Hill Jamaica, Golden Eye Jamaica and most recently I stayed at The Four Seasons Nam Hai in Vietnam. It was my first time visiting the country as we were there shooting our next campaign and the attention to detail and service from the hotel staff was simply sublime.
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Favourite airline?
Qatar Airways – the planes are lovely and the staff and service are impeccable.
What’s on your travel playlist?
I love the old classics. Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles, Summertime by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, The Dock Of The Bay by Otis Reading.
What are your must-have travel picks?
A cashmere scarf – on flights, it can act as a blanket and then once on holiday it’s perfect to drape over my shoulder on a cool evening, a notebook, the Heidi Klein racer back one piece, Barbara Sturm face cream, my beloved vintage gold cuff and Heidi Klein sunglasses.
Where next?
Lake Como for an upcoming Heidi Klein shoot!
FIRST THING THAT COMES TO YOUR MIND…
Hand-luggage essential? Cashmere scarf.
Packing: roll or fold? Roll.
Inflight book or inflight film? Book.
Music or podcasts? Music.
Time killer on a long-haul flight? Sitting next to Penny Klein.
Holiday tipple of choice? Cool crisp rose.
Bucket list top destination? Japan.
Best shopping gem found abroad? My gold vintage cuff in Verona.
Beach or City? Beach.
Ultimate holiday treat? Early morning beach walk.
Any Questions or Tips to add?