Guest Book: Meet the Founder of The Solo Travel Concierge
“…a hotel room feels like home to me.”
Meet Simona Ispas, the founder of The Solo Travel Concierge
Meet Simona—solo traveler, sun chaser, and your go-to for unforgettable European getaways. She’s that type-A friend who builds the color-coded spreadsheets and the 80-page trip guide (you know the one). A green tea devotee, obsessed with interior design, and a proud beauty product hoarder, she is a nomad at heart, but currently calls Spain home. She is the author of our Journal, where she shares her travel rituals, hidden European gems, and how she helps others turn every trip into a story worth telling.
What was your first solo travel experience, and what made it special?
My first solo trip was to Czechia, where I lived for 2 years. I did it out of necessity. I got a well-paid job there and I had just gone through a break-up that left me without a compass, not knowing who I am and where to go. I felt the need to take myself out of my comfort zone and make drastic changes. Probably the best decision I have made. Solo travel does open the door to getting yourself better and it’s like gaining a confidence muscle, which I wish more people knew that and had the chance to experience it.
How do you pack for a trip? Any tips to share?
I pack light. Even though I’m not a minimalist in my day-to-day life, I do my best to create a capsule collection when traveling. I choose versatile clothing—mostly black and white, since it always looks elegant, and linen pieces for summer trips. I always pack heels, but usually don’t end up wearing them. At the moment I am having a crush on COS and collecting vintage silk scarfs that I use either as a belt or on my bags. I’m fine with packing fewer clothes, but what I struggle with is leaving behind my favorite beauty products (I travel with an entire French pharmacy) and the Dyson hair drier. That’s been a challenge! More often than not, my beauty and self-care products take up more space than my clothes. Sunglasses are essential, and my current favorites are from Mykita. Then, of course, jewelry for all occasions. I always wear my favorites from Andresco, my favorite Romanian jewelry brand.
How much does a place inspire you when choosing your clothes?
Always! I’m a total chameleon when it comes to travel. If I’m heading out with my boyfriend or girlfriends, I’m packing the most over-the-top outfits hiding in the back of my closet—you know, those “saving for the right moment” pieces. I love dressing to match the vibe of wherever I’m going. But when I’m traveling solo, it’s a whole different game. I actually prefer to blend in, keep it low-key, and avoid looking like a tourist. It helps me feel more grounded—and a bit safer too.
What’s your favorite European destination?
100% the South of France—but the more laid-back, authentic side found in Côte Varoise. I absolutely love hiking along the coast, and this place is perfect for it. I will be forever in love with the stunning island of Porquerolles (check out my recommendations here), a bohemian paradise with preserved marine habitats, the breathtaking Calanques of Marseille, and the overall effortlessly cool atmosphere. Oh, and staying at Tuba. Always a vibe—every time.
From left to right: Presqu’île de Giens, La Ciotat, Port-Cros National Park, Porquerolles
What sparked your love for travel?
I grew up pretty much in a hotel. My father worked as a receptionist all his life, and I remember being intrigued by the foreigners visiting the hotel. I would look at all their passports and check their stamps (passports used to be left at the front desk in the old days). There was also the occasional perk of getting a suite all to myself, which made me feel like Kevin from Home Alone at The Plaza Hotel. I also remember hotel visits where we would check the services of other hotels. I think these early travel-related memories made me fascinated with the world of hotels, their services, and traveling in general. To this day, a hotel room feels like home to me.
And finally, where to next?
I’ve got a girls’ getaway to Ibiza coming up in early August—just a quick weekend to unwind and (fingers crossed) squeeze in some partying. After that, I’m heading to a wedding in Bordeaux, which I’m really looking forward to. I’m hoping the harvest season won’t mean everything’s shut down, so I can still sneak in a few tastings and bring back some wine as gifts!