Daphne Guinness has lived many lives. A member of the brewing dynasty, Guinness spent her childhood between London, Dublin, and the Spanish mountains, where Salvador Dalí was her neighbor. She ascended in the world of high fashion, becoming a muse for Alexander McQueen and Isabella Blow, before going on to design her own clothing and jewelry. There’s nothing Guinness can’t do—she co-produced Cashback, an Oscar-nominated film; starred in a series of art movies; and, per David Bowie’s suggestion, launched a pop-music career. Guinness is always jetting to her next project. Here, she details her travel routine.
Last flight you took?
New York to London.
Favorite airline?
Air France or Emirates—they have a shower!
What do you wear to the airport?
My usual “day uniform”—Charvet shirt and tailcoat, Rick Owens beanie and scarf, sunglasses.
How long before your flight boards do you get to the airport?
I get there as late as possible. I don’t like hanging around in airports.
Check bags, or carry-on only?
That depends … I’ve been known to travel with quite a few bags!
What do you bring in your carry-on?
Headphones, books, paper and pen in case inspiration strikes at 40,000 feet.
T.S.A. PreCheck, or regular?
I have everything I can to get through as fast as possible.
Favorite airport?
Narita airport, in Japan, is fabulous. Or Dublin.
What do you buy in the airport terminal?
I like shopping for things in Dublin Airport. The staff are so nice.
What do you do while waiting to board?
Read my book.
Item you can’t fly without?
Headphones. I have music with me wherever I go!
First class or coach?
First. But not picky. I once flew in a rusty Yak-50 between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Window, middle, or aisle seat?
Window. I like cloud-watching!
Do you buy Wi-Fi?
No. I use it as my time to disconnect from reality and dive into my book.
Favorite airplane snack?
Water all the way.
Do you eat plane food?
Sometimes. The food on the Concorde was fabulous.
Best drink to get on a flight?
Mint tea.
Do you talk to the people sitting next to you?
Not usually. Headphones are always on. I like to take that time for myself.
Keep shoes on or off on the plane?
Definitely on. No question.
What do you do when turbulence hits?
I laugh! It’s a good distraction.
Worst part of the flight?
There isn’t one, really. I just want to get where I’m going.
First thing you do when the plane lands?
Get off!
Advice for travelers?
Meditate and always be polite to airline staff.
