Haute Ambassador Maria Sharapova Shares Her Traveling Tips

Maria Sharapova

Although I love traveling, getting lost in a city and finding little spots and vintage stores, it’s not always about the destination. Rather, it’s about the adventure and the journey in getting there.

I’m equally as happy on the beach of a remote island or traversing the cobblestone streets of a European city. For me, each place has its own unique flavor. I like to seek out the best cafés—from King Arthur in Brisbane to Café Kitsuné in Tokyo or Paris with espresso machiattos to die for. Enjoying a cup of coffee at Eataly in New York on a Sunday morning while reading through the ‘Travel,’ ‘Arts’ and ‘Sunday Styles’ sections of The Times is another must.

But keeping the days easy and relaxing is best—especially when I’m traveling through eight countries in seven weeks. Traveling is such a beautiful gift. I’m especially thankful for those times I get to spend with my friends, laughing and exploring new places, and not taking life too seriously.

Bon voyage! – Maria Sharapova

HOW TO DO BARCELONA THE ‘HAUTE’ WAY

This summer, I was able to enjoy some down time in Barcelona and Girona. Check out my new favorite Spanish spots.

El Celler De Can Roca
Calle Can Sunyer, 48, 17007 Girona
The dining culture here is top notch and helps make it one of the best restaurants in the world, in my opinion.

Boca Grande
Passatge de la Concepció, 12, 08008 Barcelona
This is an excellent spot for dinner and drinks with a unique menu and very cool atmosphere.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona
Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, 08007 Barcelona
A great place to stay as much for its location as its rooftop pool.

El Born, Barcelona
This is a perfect little area to walk around and visit the Picasso museum, among other enjoyable sites.

MY GO-TO TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

No matter where I go, there are three constants in my travel routine:

1. I make sure to have some organic nuts and decadent chocolate on hand (like my own Sugarpova chocolate, above).

2. I always pack a black dress and a layering scarf, as well as a cashmere wrap for the plane.

3. My current travel obsession (it never leaves my handbag) is Supergoop’s Shine-On Lip Screen on top of my lipstick.