For Alterre's founder, Shilpa Iyengar, travel has always been more than simply visiting new places, it's about connecting with people, discovering new cultures, and finding inspiration in every corner of the world. Her passion for exploration has shaped not only her perspective but also the heart of Alterre, weaving a spirit of creativity, versatility, and vibrant storytelling into every collection. As an avid traveler and lifelong adventurer, Shilpa is sharing a few of her favorite travel tips, lessons, and stories gathered from years of exploring the globe.
What is one thing you absolutely can't travel without?
In terms of shoes, probably the Cognac Square Sandal right now. It’s the perfect dressy casual pair for the summer. But otherwise I’d say my glasses! I’m blind as a bat, and if my contacts ripped I’d be in big trouble.
What place have you visited that you'd love to go back to?
I’d love to go back to Prague. I went for a weekend when I was living in London and fell in love with the place. It’s been over 15 years so I’d love to see what it’s like now. The Byzantine architecture, medieval charm and low prices can’t be beat.
What was the best meal you've ever had while traveling?
I’ve been blessed to have some fabulous meals while travelling, but the top three are:
A dinner at Kjolle in Lima, which is rated one of the top 50 restaurants in the world. The chef Pia Leon is also one of the best female chefs in the world so it was a pleasure to eat there on my honeymoon.
A private dinner on the beach on a small island in Greece, we went on a weeklong sailing trip which was just my husband Max’s family. They prepared everything fresh on board and we just sailed right in and ate with the sunset. It was magical.
I dream about a warm Pasteis de Nata from Lisbon. We lived there for a month in my nomad years and I ate them quite often!
What is your favorite activity or experience you've ever had on a trip?
I went hydroballing in the sand dunes of Namibia which was pretty cool! And the hydrothermal baths at Tabacon in Costa Rica were sublime. But I can’t say I have a favorite, there are too many good ones!
What is the most underrated destination you've visited that deserves more attention?
I think people don’t think about travelling to the Okavango delta in Botswana for safari. People usually hit South Africa or Kenya, but the intimate encounters you get with the animals are unparalleled as well as the amazing lodges and hospitality.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start traveling more?
Do a small boat cruise, you can hit a lot of places with the least amount of logistics and make friends on the boat. It’s a little less daunting when you don’t have to do all of the planning yourself. Otherwise I would say center your trip around an event you really want to do. Some of my favorites have been Jazz Fest in New Orleans or Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque within the states. But there are always opportunities like the Venice Biennale or seeing ABBA in London!
What bucket-list destination are you still hoping to visit?
I haven’t done a lot of Southeast Asia and would love to see Angkor Wat. I would also love to go to Egypt one day, I’m obsessed with mummies and ancient Egypt!
What are your three favorite Alterre looks for traveling, and why?
I always take a sandal + heel if it’s warm, or slide + heel if it’s cold. Which ones depends on what outfits I’m wearing. Lately, my Summer combo has been the Cognac Square Sandal + Jackie Strap, the Gold Lo Platform + Elsie Strap, and maybe an extra Gold Twiggy Strap. I’d wear the sandal with the matching Jackie Strap for casual walking around, wear it with the Gold Twiggy Strap as a slip on around the hotel, or dress it up with the Gold Elsie for a more informal dinner. The heels would be for more formal occasions or just for fun. When I wear flats for too long I feel blah!
0 commentaire