Our superb #ForteFemale today is Vivienne Tang, the founder and CEO of the wellness and travel publication, Destination Deluxe. This comprehensive publication handpicks the best resorts, retreats, spas and beauty brands for the global nomad. Vivienne has made a name for herself in the wellness and travel field, having been in lifestyle publishing for the last 21 years. She is also a frequent speaker at events and conventions, including the Global Wellness Summit, World Spa & Wellness Asia and Female Entrepreneurs Worldwide.
WHERE ARE YOU DREAMING OF TRAVELLING AT THE MOMENT?
I’d love to go to Cambodia, but sadly it won’t be opening up to international travellers until Q4. I am also debating whether or not I should visit my family in Switzerland for the Summer. European Summers are the best!
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TRAVELLING TIPS?
When I’m travelling for Destination Deluxe, I’m often invited to places where I’m reviewing a retreat or a resort. So, most of the time I have a pre-organised itinerary, but I like to do my own research about a specific destination. This allows me to see specific spots or do certain activities that might not be on my schedule. Also, I do use Instagram for a lot of my research. I have saved folders for almost every category…from individual destinations, waterfalls, resorts, retreats, spas and even bathtubs!
Tips for when you’re actually travelling? I always wear compression socks on the plane. It’s not very sexy, but I hear it has become very en vogue.
Even pre-COVID, I’ve always made sure to carry alcohol wipes and plasters with me. I’m basically a walking pharmacy. Many of my friends have found that to be very useful when travelling with me.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP SUN CARE TIPS/PRODUCTS?
I’m loving Irene Forte’s SPF 50 Sun Cream. It’s very light and doesn’t feel like I’m wearing sunblock.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SPA OR WELLNESS RESORT/SPACE?
There are so many that I like, so it’s hard to pick one. Some of my favourites are Kamalaya in Koh Samui and COMO Shambhala in Bali.
Kamayala has a vast range of programmes and is very hands-on in its wellness approach. You have various consultants to guide you throughout your retreat. The retreat is built around a Buddhist monk cave, and the beautiful energy permeates through the entire property. One of my favourite programs is their sleep retreat. Here you learn everything about cultivating better sleeping habits, including turn-down rituals, melatonin production and natural supplements that you can take for better sleep. The food is phenomenal too, making it super easy for you to stick to a healthy diet.
One of the most stunning properties I’ve ever seen is the COMO Shambhala Retreat. It is famous for its natural surroundings, which include a set of spring pools above the Ayung River. The water is said to have healing qualities, so don’t miss out on bathing in these natural rock pools. The water is ice cold (think Wim Hof style), but the refreshing activity is well worth a try.
WHAT HELPS YOU GET TO SLEEP IF YOU ARE WIRED BUT TIRED?
If I can’t sleep, I start to meditate and that automatically calms me down.
WHAT DO YOU DO/USE TO STAY PHYSICALLY ACTIVE AND MENTALLY WELL?
I tend to hike a fair bit and engage in some strength training whenever I can find the time. As for mental and emotional wellness, my #1 wellness tip is to have a regular meditation practice. It really strengthens the connection with yourself, giving you a very good understanding of who you are and the thoughts/patterns that run your subconscious mind…and life.
WHAT IS YOUR SKINCARE REGIME (MORNING AND EVENING)?
I have very sensitive skin, which tends to get red very quickly when it’s irritated. Irene Forte’s Hibiscus Night Cream has been an absolute dream. My skin is finding it really nurturing and soothing.
ANY SKINCARE ADVICE FOR OUR READERS?
Having a great toner to balance the pH level of your skin is key. I try to never skip this part of my skincare routine - it’s crucial.
ANY ADVICE FOR ASPIRING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS?
Stay flexible and adapt to changes quickly. When I was first starting out as an entrepreneur, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to do and how I wanted to get there. However, life throws many challenges at you. You have to be able to pivot and take chances when opportunities arise. Sometimes you have to be quick and you can’t mull over a decision for weeks. Often, a decision (that turns out to be a 'wrong' one) is better than no decision at all because it will get you to the next step.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE:
BOOK:
Understand Women Better by Lorin Krenn. The title doesn’t do it any justice. It’s really about relationships and how men and women relate to each other. Lorin is a “Deep Intimacy Coach” and his teachings are the real deal.
SKINCARE PRODUCT:
I’ve really fallen in love with the Hibiscus Night Cream. It feels very rich when applying it, but my skin absorbs it so well, giving it a beautiful glow.
DOCUMENTARY:
I don’t think I have a favourite documentary. I have many I’d like to watch though, including The Hidden Life of Trees, which just came out in July. It highlights how trees “communicate” with each other, constantly trading information and nutrients. Apparently, you will never look at a tree the same way again.
