Binny’s Top Travel Tips

Planning your dream escape should be as effortless as the journey itself. At Somak Luxury Travel, we believe magic begins the moment you wonder ‘where to go?’ and we want to ensure every step is seamless, from that first spark of inspiration to the memories you carry home. That’s why we sat down with Binny, our social media manager and lifelong traveller, to get her exclusive insider tips.

From her childhood in Mombasa, Kenya to her explorations of the world’s most remote corners, Binny’s adventures have always been about stories: the ones you live, the ones you tell, and those that stay with you long after you return home. Her journeys perfectly balance authentic local culture with refined luxury, making her the ideal guide for travelling with purpose.

Here’s what she shares as curated tips to ensure your next escape is as smooth as it is extraordinary:

1. When you start planning a trip or holiday, what’s the very first thing you look for in terms of destination, experience, or convenience?

“It always starts with the experience. I ask myself: What story will this destination tell? Whether it’s food‑led travel, wildlife encounters, or culture‑rich escapes, the experience comes first.”

For Binny, the most rewarding adventures are those sparked by a genuine curiosity for the stories a new destination has to tell.

2. What are the top three essentials every traveller should consider before booking a luxury holiday?

• Authenticity: True luxury is about meaningful experiences, not just thread count on the bedding. Booking ethical experiences is also very important to me and making sure that we can support locally owned businesses as much as possible.
• Location: The best luxury properties immerse you in their surroundings. Location also matters if you plan to do a lot of activities in a destination as you don’t want to be located too far from everything that you end up spending lots on transport.
• Service & flexibility: Personalised service that adapts to your pace makes all the difference.

This approach reminds us that the most memorable holidays are those where every detail, from ethical choices to location, serves to deepen your experience

3. How do you avoid overpacking while still feeling prepared for different climates and activities?

“I stick to a tight colour palette and pack versatile pieces that layer and mix and match well. Think items that work day to night, plus one statement outfit –we all have that one outfit we are most excited about wearing on our holiday!

Shoes are the real danger zone; if you can limit them, you’ll definitely win the packing battle. I usually have 1 pair of trainers, 1 pair of flip flops or flat shoes and one pair of heels.”

 

Binny swears by her Somak-branded Briggs & Riley travel bags, which keep everything neatly organised, especially useful when packing for a safari, where versatile layers and smart essentials make all the difference.

4. What’s your best tip for making long flights or layovers more comfortable and enjoyable?

“I create a mini ritual, noise‑cancelling headphones, a great playlist, hydrated skin, snacks, and a good book. During layovers, I always walk and stretch, it resets both body and mood.”

These thoughtful habits ensure that even the longest flight serves as a peaceful prelude to your stay.

5. How do you balance exploring like a local with indulging in luxury experiences when you travel?

“For me, it is all about the intentional layering of experiences. I love immersing myself in local culture—wandering markets, chatting with artisans, and even browsing supermarkets for interesting snacks to find the true soul of a place. These raw, authentic moments are often the ones that stay with you the longest.

At the same time, I believe in rewarding yourself with luxury that allows you to pause. I usually structure my days so the morning is for active exploration when the destination is at its liveliest, leaving the afternoon or evening for indulgence. Whether it is a sunset boat ride or a quiet moment in a stunning boutique lodge, this balance ensures I experience a destination in all its layers, from local authenticity to refined comfort.”

 

 

6. Which destination gave you your most unforgettable travel lesson?

“While I was born and raised in Kenya, my curiosity about my Indian heritage led me on a journey to Osian, in Rajasthan. After discovering records of my great-great-great-grandmother in a London exhibition, I felt compelled to trace our origins back to this ancient trading centre, known as the ‘Gateway to the Thar Desert.’

Walking through the vibrant streets and visiting the Sachiya Mata Temple, I felt a tangible connection to my ancestors that I had never experienced before. This trip taught me that travel can be a powerful tool for self-discovery. India gave me a profound sense of perspective and history, proving that when you seek out your roots, a journey becomes more than just a holiday; it becomes a part of your own story.”

Binny’s experience is a testament that the most impactful journeys are often those that help us understand where we come from as much as where we are going.

Binny visiting the temple in Osian

 

7. What advice would you give to someone embarking on their first safari holiday in Africa?

“A first safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and my biggest advice is to bring an open mind and plenty of patience. Wildlife does not operate on a schedule; sometimes the real thrill is in the wait. Trust your guides implicitly because they know the land and the best ways to spot those hidden moments you might otherwise miss.

While packing essentials like neutral clothing and binoculars is important, my favourite tip is to simply be present. Wake up early to hear the bush, find its voice and stay for the golden hour sundowners. Remember that a safari is about more than just ticking off the Big Five, it is about the stories of the land, the people and the wildlife coming together. If you go with curiosity and humility, the experience will stay with you forever.”

Binny enjoying a Masai Mara Safari

 

8. What’s next on your travel calendar, and what excites you most about it?

“Next up is a Kenya safari across the Masai Mara, Tsavo, and Samburu, and I honestly can’t wait. Even though I have gone on many safaris throughout my life, I still have the same sense of excitement with every trip, as you never know what you are going to see or experience.

What excites me most is the contrast of the different parks and reserves, the golden savannahs and big cat territory in the Masai Mara, dramatic landscapes in Tsavo and the famous Red Elephants (covered in dustings of the red soil found in Tsavo) and the remote, rugged beauty of Samburu – all in one journey.

I’ll be staying at Ashnil Camps and Lodges during my trip, which makes the experience even more special, as it’s the perfect base to slow down, reconnect with nature, and witness wildlife in its natural rhythm.

I will also be staying 1 week in Mombasa with a 2-night stay in Diani, where I absolutely love the beaches. I was born in Mombasa, so it is always special to return to this island.”

9. What can you not travel without?

“My travel essentials are all about peace of mind and staying inspired. I never leave home without an AirTag for my luggage, a multi-plug and a portable charger to keep my devices powered and a sunscreen. For comfort on the move, noise-cancelling headphones and an eye mask are non-negotiable. Finally, I always carry a good book and a notebook with a pen, so I can capture those sudden bursts of inspiration that only happen when you are exploring somewhere new.”

 

Travel is ultimately about the stories we collect and the connections we make along the way. Binny’s insights show that with a thoughtful mindset, every journey can be both seamless and deeply personal.

At Somak Luxury Travel, we specialise in curating adventures that balance local authenticity with refined indulgence. When you are ready to begin your next chapter, our experts are here to craft a tailor-made escape designed just for you. Contact us today to start planning a journey that will stay with you long after you return home.