For this new portrait, the format is a little different because I asked Kay to take a few snapshots of himself and share his traveler tips with us. I really enjoy his taste and his travels, and I was curious to get his insights on the city of Copenhagen, where he currently lives. Thank you, Kay, for taking the time to do this little interview.
Kay, can you introduce yourself?
My name is Kay and I’m based in Copenhagen. I often refer to myself as a creative multi-hyphenate as I tend to find myself involved in various creative endeavours. My day job is Senior Communications Manager in the fashion industry but I also freelance as a writer and consultant in travel and lifestyle. I’m born and raised in Germany and have lived in Stockholm and Mexico City before calling Copenhagen home.
Your must-have when you travel?
A good book. I love picking books specifically for the trip I’m going on, be that in regards to the book’s setting or because it fits thematically to where I am in my life right now.
How do you choose your destinations?
I’m a pretty nostalgic person and as I’ve been lucky enough to have lived in different places, spent a few months here and there, and gone on more trips than I can count on, the first question that pops up whenever I’m thinking about going anywhere is: am I craving nostalgia or newness? From there food tends to play a key role: I love destinations with a dynamic culinary scene.
Your “Quiet Space”?
I try to create quiet spaces in my everyday life. A cup of espresso in bed in the morning or a little aperitivo before dinner are some of my favourite moments.
The trip that impacted you the most?
A three-month long trip around Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia after I finished my bachelor’s degree. The richness in culture, craft, and food combined with breathtaking landscapes excited me more than I could have hoped for. I loved it so much that a year later, I moved to Mexico City for a little while.
What do you love to see out the window?
The ocean, there’s nothing better.
Your favourite address in Copenhagen?
La Banchina. Nothing beats a summer evening here: a good book and a glass of wine or a few bottles shared with friends, interrupted by a dip in the harbour, and with stunning sunsets as the backdrop. Copenhagen at its best.
A Danish dish that you love?
The pastries, for sure. I have a particularly soft spot for cardamom buns. (At Flere Fugle and Juno).
A scent that reminds you of holidays?
The salty sea breeze.
Sunrise or sunset?
Sunset.
Your dream destination?
Too many dream trips in my head to choose just one but right now I’m dreaming of a manor with sweeping views in the Scottish countryside – think autumnal walks by the coast and cosy evenings in front of the fireplace.
Which main sites do you use to book your vacations and find good deals?
I love finding unique houses via Landfolk or Airbnb. For hotels, I trust Design Hotels’ curation. When it comes to checking the best flight options, I alternate between Skyscanner and Momondo but mostly book directly via the airlines.
Your favourite shoes for exploring a city?
I usually bring at least one comfortable pair of trainers like Salomons and then one pair of loafers or boots for more dressed-up looks.
Thank you Kay
Love, Daphné