As you can probably figure out by now, I love learning about all forms of travel, especially tips and preferences from fellow enthusiasts.  So I was naturally excited to interview Julia Cosgrove, Editor in Chief of AFAR, a leading media company dedicated to experiential travel. Along with its popular magazine, AFAR also organizes fascinating immersive travel experiences around the world. Click HERE  to learn more about their upcoming destinations including Australia, Bermuda, and Switzerland.

Here’s what Julia had to say:

1. How do you like to travel? Plane, train, car?

That thoroughly depends on where I’m going and what kind of a trip I’m on. For air travel, the service on carriers from the Middle East and Asia is unparalleled. I’m a big fan of trains in Europe and right here in the U.S. While we don’t have the high-speed infrastructure on trains that I would one day hope for, there’s something magical about the meandering routes up and down both coasts. And I’m doing a great deal of car travel with my one-year-old daughter these days—up and down the state of California. I love the freedom of stopping wherever I want and exploring small towns and regions I wouldn’t normally be exposed to. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, both the Santa Ynez Valley and the Paso Robles wine region blew my mind.

2. Favorite Airport?

Internationally, I love Amsterdam and Hong Kong. I’m looking forward to experiencing Dubai for the first time when I’m there in February for AFAR Experiences. Domestically, I’m a fan of Terminal 2 in SFO, mainly because it has the best dining options for travelers who crave fresh vegetables and healthier options.

3. How do you deal with jet lag?

I fight it as much as I can by walking around and staying outside as much as possible on arrival.

4. Any packing tips?

For big trips, pack two days before departure, then edit it down the day before you leave. I’m a big fan of traveling as lightly as possible. If there’s something major you’ve forgotten, it’s a good excuse to explore another destination’s grocery stores, small shops, and pharmacies.

5. What can you not travel without on a trip?

Scarves. Some for comfort, others for quickly dressing up an outfit.

6. What type of hotels do you like staying in?

I like hotels that truly understand the importance of sense of place. I want to be reminded of where I am at all times, from the food and service to the design and recommendations of what to do outside the hotel’s walls.