Decorate a pair of jeans with black lace (think Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton), embroider a t-shirt or embellish a scarf with decorative tassels: customising is a way of making it your own. Also the secret behind an ideal vacation. Makes no difference if you go for a luxury hotel or the ease of an apartment, you’ll enjoy it more if the rest feels right. Even the hippest hotels can be very anonymous. But how do you customise your vacation location?

On arrival

Take photos of your loved ones with. Pop them in the frame that’s undoubtedly hanging on the wall. Usually not the most exciting pictures hanging there. Pack your favourite scented candle in your case: light it next to your bed when you arrive. Oh, and sprinkle a little of your favourite perfume on your pillow. You probably have your own music with you: most hotels have a docking station for your iPhone or iPod these days. Yes, you’re on your way to creating a homey vibe.

The next day

I always head for the nearest florist the next day (totally had it with the white orchids). I go for a cheerful bouquet, and use the hotel/apartments ice-bucket as a vase. Then I find a local delicatessen and find something for the snack moments. Sometimes when you’re far from home you wake up in the middle of the night, and it’s wonderful to have some delicious thing at hand. Besides you’ll pay a fortune for that Toblerone bar in the fridge/vacuum packed nuts.

Happy Holidays!