Where To Travel, What To Wear & How To Keep Your Kids Entertained On A Flight: According To UAE Athlete Natalie Lankester
Discover travel tips and tricks from UAE team professional dressage rider and mother of three daughters – Sheikha Hessa Bint Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikha Alia Bint Rashid Al Maktoum and Maitha Bint Rashid Al Maktoum
“WHEN I’M TRAVELLING…
I like to wear comfortable clothes. I’m a fan of Loro Piana’s silk and cashmere-blend joggers and knits, topped off with a cosy scarf to keep snug. I’ve lived in the Middle East for so long – everywhere else feels chilly!”
“SHOPPING FOR THE KIDS IS BEST IN…
West London – it’s hard to beat. A UK trip wouldn’t be complete without paying Harrods and Harvey Nichols a quick visit. I also love independent kids’ retailers such as Trotters for toys and gifts.”
“THE BEST BEACH I’VE VISITED IS…
Soneva Fushi in the Maldives. Nothing comes close to the white sand in juxtaposition with the crystal-clear blue sea. Heavenly.”
“MY FAVOURITE FAMILY FRIENDLY HOTEL IS…
La Réserve Genève Hotel Spa & Villa, in Switzerland. I was based there last summer whilst training with Olympic dressage rider Morgan Barbançon Mestre, and the children really enjoyed the serene surroundings and being at one with nature. The girls are very adventurous and loved exploring the forest, splashing in the lake and making use of the top-notch facilities.”
“THE BEST SPA IN THE MIDDLE EAST IS…
Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al Qasr. I often ride five to six horses a day, followed by strength training, so regular massages are a must to keep competition-ready… although sometimes it feels as though the horses are pampered more than I am!”
“MY IN-FLIGHT BEAUTY REGIMEN CONSISTS OF…
Firstly limiting coffee. I’m a bit of a coffee fanatic but when flying, I try to keep hydrated with lots of water. I discovered a clean beauty brand in Germany called Nature’s Very Best, and I slather on their super hydrating superfood oil face cream at the start of every flight now. I also keep an Augustinus Bader The Lip Balm on me at all times as my lips tend to get really dry on planes.”
“I KEEP MY CHILDREN ENTERTAINED ON FLIGHTS WITH…
Drawing. Both of my girls love to draw and colour so it’s our go-to activity when travelling. Between watching movies and overindulging on snacks, we also like reading books together and playing games.”
