The model, entrepreneur and mother shares her approach to travelling en famille, why Bali keeps calling her back, and what’s next on her ever-expanding map.
Whether you know Cara from the worlds of fashion and television, or through her latest venture, OHAYŌ Modern Matcha, one thing is clear — she’s a master in creating as well as immersing herself in curated experiences. For Cara, travel is about far more than ticking off must-see sights; it’s about discovering a destination at different stages of life and enjoying the magic of being present.
In our latest conversation, Cara shares how travelling with children has reshaped the way she holidays, and why Bali (and The Luxe Nomad!) remain her go-to for the sweetest escapes.
Pick your homebase: Toy Story 5 Reminds Us Why Play Matters – These Bali and Koh Samui Family Villas Get It Right
You’ve been to Bali many times before. What keeps you coming back?
I love that Bali has so many different sides to it, you could come back again and again and have a completely different experience each time. These days, I’m especially drawn to its slower, more laid-back side. As I’ve gotten older, and now that I’m travelling with my kids, I’ve found myself appreciating destinations that let you slow down and really be present.
On one trip, I happened to be in Bali during Nyepi and it’s so hard to really explain that experience! That special Bali energy feels even more amplified. We live in a world that rarely slows down, and Nyepi pushes you to really embrace the quiet and appreciate stillness.
Then there’s Sanur, which offers a different kind of calm — one that I enjoyed getting to know better this time around.
Why do you think Sanur is the perfect getaway for families?
Sanur isn’t the Bali you see on viral social media videos, it’s much more relaxed and there’s a chill vibe to it. I remember visiting years ago and thinking it wasn’t as exciting as some of Bali’s busier hotspots. But now that I’m here with my kids, the slower pace has become one of my favourite things about staying in Sanur.
One of the highlights was that we barely needed a car. We spent our days cycling everywhere, from the villa to the beach, while stopping at restaurants along the way. That easy accessibility is so important when you’re travelling with kids.
Eeny Meeny Mini Mo: Seminyak vs Sanur: A Family-Friendly Seaside Showdown – Which One is Right For You?
What did you love most about your stay at Manu Villas?
The spaces that allowed us to be together! We spent so much time by the pool, and the sunken lounge quickly became our favourite spot. We could keep an eye on the kids while they played, while we relaxed in the shade with a book. It made it so easy to spend quality time together and stay connected.
View this post on Instagram
Honestly, I feel like we could have enjoyed the villa forever. We visited during Bali’s rainy season, but we were never short of things to do. We had a great movie-night in the entertainment room, and the kids absolutely loved the bunk room. The villa had everything we needed to make every day enjoyable, rain or shine.
From Koh Samui to Sanur, what’s your favourite thing about travelling with The Luxe Nomad?
I love knowing I can always rely on The Luxe Nomad for curated stays. Wherever I go, I know every property will be beautiful and staffed by people who genuinely make every stay feel effortless.
Now that I have kids, travelling can be a bit of a logistical exercise, but The Luxe Nomad makes it feel surprisingly easy. The team goes above and beyond to make sure every detail is taken care of throughout our stay, so we can simply relax and enjoy our time together. It’s luxury without the stress. And when you’re travelling with children, that’s probably the greatest luxury of all.
Stay and Play: Easter in Paradise: 10 Best Family-Friendly Villas in Asia
Tell us, what’s next on your travel wishlist?
Japan! My last trip to Japan left a lot to be desired, so it’s definitely time for a return visit. This time, to experience Japan the Luxe Nomad way.
Have a little one? Here are places to roam with your mini nomads:
Family Holiday in Koh Samui: Top Tips & Must-Visit Spots for an Unforgettable Getaway
Postcard From Here: Joe Chang on Snow Play, Slow Days, and Family Time in Niseko
Where To Eat In Sanur: Iconic Tables, Family-Friendly Restaurants, and Beachfront Dining Spots To Know