“How I Travel” With R.M. Williams’ Chief Design Officer Rachel Allen

The chief design and product officer for R.M. Williams shares her lifelong love affair with the French capital.

You’re going to Paris – is it work or play?

I’m heading to Paris this month with my team [R.M. Williams is the creator of the official ceremonial uniform for the Australian Paralympians] then I plan to have a solo holiday after the work portion is done.

What do you love most about the city?

How the French honour tradition and ritual. There’s something so beautiful about a culture that values taking a pause to sit still and enjoy lunch, to rest, to people-watch.

Where are you most excited about visiting?

My personal all-time favourite thing to see are the Monets at the Musée de l’Orangerie – it’s something everybody who goes to Paris has to experience.

Where are you staying?

Hôtel L de Lutèce, on Île Saint Louis. It’s a family-run hotel and they have the best breakfasts.

Proper French pastry! Where else do you plan to eat?

Marché des Enfants Rouges in the Marais. It’s an amazing open-air food market where you can sample delicious bits and pieces.

Do you have a hard-won luggage hack?

Soft luggage gives you way more wiggle room on the weight limit.

I have to ask, if you could only take one pair of shoes with you…

Ha! Definitely my R.M. Williams yearling boots. I walk a lot in Paris and they’re so comfortable but also versatile – perfect for day or night. What’s in your carry-on? My laptop and phone and a notepad. My phone is a visual diary because I’m constantly taking pictures and screenshots for inspiration. A longhaul flight is a great opportunity to calibrate and reflect.

What are you picking up while you’re in the city?

Okay, this is a bit weird but I have a real penchant for pharmacies, especially foreign ones. I’ll always find something exciting in a French pharmacy.

Do you have a travel wellness routine?

I drink a cup of chamomile tea every night at home and I continue that when I’m away.

What’s the first thing you do when you get home?

Cuddle my family then make a cup of tea.

SEE ALSO: How to See the Best of Paris for Free