Julia P. Douglas
Founder, Jet Set World TravelRight about now we’re dreaming of sandy beaches and sun-kissed skin, but if you can’t beat ‘em join ‘em, right? We asked travel guru and expedition extraordinaire Julia Douglas, founder and president of Jet Set World Travel, for winter getaways to beat the arctic blues. The cool company specializes in creating tailored travel itineraries that make your adventurous dreams a reality. Unlike other travel agencies, Jet Set adds a grandeur concierge element in the mix to create a unique luxury consultation. From a month in Africa to a week in Aspen, Julia and her team have an aptitude for curating an agenda of the best restaurants, shopping and sights to see. Not only are Julia’s travel destination recommendations super chic, but she looks haute while doing it. Cashmere and Ray-Bans and Cliff Bars, oh my. Read on to find out Julia’s beauty must-haves, travel essentials and of course, an enviable itinerary for her upcoming jaunt.
BEAUTY MUST-HAVES>> scent: JO MALONE OSMANTHUS BLOSSOM COLOGNE // moisturizer: ARCHIPELAGO POMEGRANATE BODY LOTION // face: MAC MINERALIZE FOUNDATION // mascara: PETER THOMAS ROTH LASHES TO DIE FOR // nails: ESSIE IN SMOKIN’ HOT
We gotta get away. Favorite winter escapes?
Aspen remains my favorite winter retreat. It’s 19th century mining town architecture, Western character and cosmopolitan offerings for shopping, dining and entertainment are hard to beat. Not to mention, endless outdoor activity with four mountains to choose from: Ajax, Buttermilk, Highlands and Snowmass. With four direct daily flights during the winter season and an airport that is 10 minutes from the town center, it remains one of the easiest mountain resorts to access.
Après Ski favorite there?
After an aggressive morning of skiing, Ajax Tavern is my favorite reward. The food is exceptional—and the people watching is just as good!
When you can’t beat the winter blues, you join them. What are your other cold-weather favorites?
One of my most memorable alpine experiences was dog sledding in Jackson, WY. Driven by Iditarod trained huskies through remote cross country trails in the wilderness bordering Yellowstone was both exhilarating and surprisingly romantic.
And staying chic while being cold? Any must-haves?
Skinfare’s Thunder Cake—organic coconut oil, beeswax and castor oil with nutmeg, clove and anise that you can apply anywhere.
Ok. Forget the cold. Where are you heading this year?
I’m off to Chile in February for my annual adventure—and some warmth! We’ll start with three nights in Atacama, the driest hot desert in the world at 10,000+ feet in height. Then briefly indulge in everything food and wine around Valparaiso and Santiago for two nights before returning to the wild in Patagonia for the grand finale. Days will be spent trekking, horseback riding and mountain biking.
Adventurous! Any down time?
There will be complete relaxation at day’s end: couples massages, gourmet cuisine and star gazing. Sheer bliss!
Get up and go! Visit JetSetWorldTravel.com for more information on planning your next trip.