I recently spent a week on the coast of Croatia where all I did was swim in the sea and lounge on the beach with my book. In the past, I would have planned a busy itinerary, hired a car and made a long list of places to visit – but nowadays I prefer to travel at a much slower pace. 

The ferry arrives at the port of MESSINA and we anxiously wait for the doors to open and the strong Sicilian sun to greet the rows of cars shrouded in industrial darkness, all as eager as we are to drive towards the welcoming light. Patience is needed, but finally it is our turn to start the engine and roll towards dry land, further traffic and eventually, the open road.

Our first stop is the inimitable TAORMINA, town of endless elegance, ancient past, and legendary cannoli. We stop for a coffee at Bam Bar, uncertain of how we secured a free table among the busy August crowds, but we do not question our luck. The streets of Taormina are full but not unpleasantly so. Nonetheless, after our cappuccino, cravings turn to the sea and we stroll down to the beach.

We sat down with #HWTraveler Constanze Saemann, Berlin-based model and founder of Basium Fragrances. She reminds us of dreamy and eternal summers, sea breezes, tropical rains, and colors of magical sunsets. Both her modeling career and her sustainable living are an inspiration. Read below to discover Constanze’s daily routine, and favorite dream destinations.

We spoke with #HWTraveler Australian artist and musician Elle-Louise Burguez, known as Elle Músa. Living on the Sunshine Coast of Australia, it is no surprise that both her music and art remind us of an endless summer by the seaside. Read below to discover Elle’s favorite and dream destinations and how they inspire her work.