Inside Indigo 8. In Conversation with Kath Kay
Wildlife encounters, family adventures and why ethical travel matters more than ever.
Kath and her diary
1. You’ve trekked to see gorillas in Uganda and bears in the Apennines—what’s one wildlife encounter that deeply changed your perspective on travel?
About 20 years ago I rode an elephant in Thailand, as it was sold to me as an ethical thing to do - supporting these magnificent creatures that were homed in a sanctuary. Now in hindsight - and having read more around the topic - I think it is often misrepresented to tourists. It's not something I would do again.
2. What are your top travel tips?
Using UNESCO sites and AONB can be a really effective way to plan a route. We did this when planning our honeymoon, backpacking around the world, and it meant we saw some really amazing sights and discovered unexpected ones too.
Consider using night trains in certain destinations. It can be a really special experience, as well as being a more cost effective and eco-friendly way to cover big distances (saving you a night's accommodation in the process).
You need to take far less than you think. So when you think you've finished packing, reduce it all by a half.
Prioritise local guides; they enrich the experience and ensure your spending supports the community.
Take local currency or dollars to use as tips.
Build in downtime into every trip and don’t overschedule. Some of the best travel moments are completely unplanned.
“Stay curious and open. Whether it’s trying local food, learning a few words of the language, or joining a community activity, immersion creates the most lasting memories.”
3. As a qualified PT and daily yogi, how do you maintain your fitness routine when travelling in remote locations?
When travelling, I'm less worried about a strict regime and more focused on just moving as much as I can. When I arrive somewhere new, I do try to run to get my bearings (although friends will attest to the fact I have a terrible sense of direction, and my runs can often end up being two or three times longer than intended...). Walking is my go-to everywhere else, and easy to fit in wherever you are and whoever you're with. And stretching - I try to do a few yoga moves for at least ten minutes a day.
4. What are your travel essentials?
Definitely good earplugs, whether it's to block out the noise of snorers or bickering kids! I also always travel with a reusable water bottle.
A sarong is super useful, as it can also serve as a beach blanket, makeshift skirt, kids' towel, or impromptu pillow.
My diary - I keep a journal whenever I travel, especially now we have kids as I love remembering the different trips we have had with them.
Despite how mobile phones make navigating and researching so much easier, I still love taking a proper travel guide, so I can highlight things and turn down pages.
5. How do you aim to inspire travellers to make more conscious choices, without compromising the magic of the travel experience?
Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, both professionally and personally. We aim to spotlight stories that inspire discerning travellers to make better choices, whether that’s staying somewhere that supports local communities, choosing low-impact experiences, or discovering brands that put the planet first. At the same time, we never want to lose sight of what makes travel so special. It’s about keeping the magic alive, the joy, the sense of discovery, living like a local, the connection to people and place
6. Your favourite hotel?
That’s a tough one! But I have very happy memories of Lapa Rios on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, which has a sensational rainforest setting, surrounded by the most incredible wildlife. I loved sitting out on our balcony listening to monkeys and watching out for brightly coloured Scarlet Macaws.