After two years where most of my travel was restricted to the coastline of New South Wales, it's easy to forget how much one can get up to when you only have 48 hours on the ground. Jetlag? She simply doesn't exist. Long holiday sleep ins? The itinerary would never. But let's be honest, who really wants to take things slow when marking their official return to international travel? Especially when the destination in question happens to be Singapore and the occasion is the celebration of Louis Vuitton's LV200 exhibition.
Stay
There is no shortage of iconic hotels in the city of Singapore. From the historic Raffles with its white-wash exterior and famous Singapore Slings, to The Ritz Carlton. But where I'm lucky to be resting my head is at none other than Marina Bay Sands. The three-tower landmark complete with the world's largest rooftop infinity pool is too much of a luxury to appreciate in only 48 hours, so I try and savour every moment. Aside from the extremely lush finishes and an enviable view over Gardens By The Bay, the hotel's buffet breakfast is like no other. And with an overflowing itinerary on the cards, I decide to fuel up!
Do
Marking its first international stop since debuting as a celebration of Louis Vuitton's bicentennial birthday in Asinères, Paris last year, it's clear that the French certainly know how to throw a party. Touching down at Changi Airport on Monday night, (with a much needed, indulgent order of room service to follow), the first stop on Tuesday's itinerary was of course a walk through the highly-anticipated LV200 exhibition; located next to the Crystal Pavilion, otherwise known as the iconic Louis Vuitton Island store on the Marina Bay Sands esplanade.
You might be wondering, what could possibly be an appropriate way to celebrate the birthday of one of fashion's most undisputed visionaries? By bringing together 200 of the world's most celebrated contemporary visionaries to design their interpretation of the iconic Louis Vuitton trunk. But before we get to that, can we please talk about this Lego birthday cake?
From the moment you step inside the exhibition, you're greeted with a dynamic energy and vibrancy that has continuously been synonymous with the House. A checkerboard floor is illuminated by black and white visuals and of course, the centre piece is a glowing LED trunk that transforms in rhythm. With each room taking on a different personality – from warehouse space to dreamscape panorama – it's impossible not to become completely immersed in the creations that surround you.
While it's impossible to pick a favourite trunk, honourable mentions certainly go out to our Australian representatives, who include Australian surfer and artist Ozzy Wright and florist Wayne Stubbs.
Then it's time for a visit to The Island store – sadly, all looking and no touching – before a quick (but undoubtedly indulgent) lobster roll before heading to the Former Command House to experience the latest Objets Nomades collection.
Take
The key to seamless travel always comes down to having the best carry on luggage. Whether you're a suitcase or duffle bag person, the logistical chaos that can unravel when you aren't able to take your toiletries bag out in time is too much for me to handle. I have found a new travel companion in the July Carry On and we are now joined at the hip. Perfect for the full wardrobe of accessories I most certainly did not need and the book I ambitiously brought along while knowing any spare time would be spent answering emails. At least I know she has the potential!
Humidity was in full swing and my suitcase consisted mostly of lose, free-flowing silhouettes like these Dion Lee pleated trousers that I simply will never retire and my new favourite fringe crepe halterneck midi dress from Vix. My trusty Louis Vuitton Grenelle in tow (I will never get over the orange suede interior) and a rotation of good sunglasses to combat the glare (Luv Lou's The Stevie in black and gold are a favourite), and the rest all comes together after a Singapore sling or two.