Meet Yolanda Edwards, Founder of Yolo Journal, New York City

How would you describe your home in one word?
Calm.

What makes a home in one word?
Family.

How would you describe your taste in hotels in one word?
Soulfulness.

What made you first want to travel?
I grew up in a very conservative family who didn’t really travel, so travel was my escape, my rebellion.

Describe your travelling philosophy? 
I try to be in a discover mode as much as I can, no matter where I am. When I’m doing research before a trip, I get so excited that it’s almost like I’m there (helpful for times like now). I go down so many rabbit holes with all the options of which way to go: I put everything in a notebook and bring it with me—so that if what I’ve mapped out ends up shifting, I have some other options at the ready. 

If you could eat at one restaurant in the world today?
Prima Aneplora in Leros, a feet in the sand simple restaurant on the water.

Favourite address for decoration in London/ in the world?
Another Country in London and the flea markets in France.

How do you think this pandemic will influence the way we travel?
We have all slowed down so much, and as much as it wasn’t our choice, I think many of us have realized that constantly moving isn’t healthy for us, or our environment. I imagine that we will be more considered in our choices moving forward. 

A message for people at home?
This is a time to use your imagination in ways that maybe you haven’t before. In order to make the days feel different, try doing things like picking a theme for the dinner…maybe based on a place that you miss. Pull souvenirs if you have them and make a little still life centerpiece with them. Listen to the music of the place, and get lost in your vacation pictures.