December 9, 2025, by Teun Tielen

SUITCASE STORIES: Karen Limpens went from Australia via Indonesia to Amstelveen

December 9, 2025, by Teun Tielen

SUITCASE STORIES: Karen Limpens went from Australia via Indonesia to Amstelveen

Through Barts Boekje we may post plenty of (travel) tips and inspiration; we also really enjoy sharing stories and travel tips from other travel-loving women. Hence the launch of SUITCASE STORIES, a platform within a platform in collaboration with SUITSUIT where we tell stories, learnings, inspiration and share more.

After living in Australia and Indonesia for a few years, Karen Limpens moved to Amstelveen with her husband and daughters. She works as General Manager of Cybex Netherlands, a brand that focuses on design, innovation, and style in family life. Traveling is her way of disconnecting and finding inspiration.

 

Which place immediately felt like home?

Which place immediately felt like home?

Indonesia. I lived there, so maybe it's obvious, but it always feels like coming home. The warmth, the chaos, the food—everything feels right there for me. I lived in Australia (Sydney and Melbourne) and Indonesia (Jakarta) for a few years, and that mix of cultures has shaped me. I feel a little at home everywhere, and I really enjoy traveling and discovering other cultures.

What preconception about a country or culture turned out to be completely false once you visited?

What preconception about a country or culture turned out to be completely false once you visited?

"That Australians are just laid-back and nonchalant. They're actually super entrepreneurial and positive, but without stress. I love that combination of ambition and relaxation!"

Which destination surprised you the most?

Which destination surprised you the most?

Japan. Everything is perfect down to the smallest detail, and yet it remains a country full of surprises. I find the balance between tradition and staying ahead of many trends fascinating.

What's always in your suitcase and what's your ultimate travel hack?

What's always in your suitcase and what's your ultimate travel hack?

My e-reader, sunglasses, Aesop hand sanitizer, and enough snacks for the always-hungry kids. I roll everything up instead of folding it, which saves space and wrinkles. And I always pack outfits in a specific color palette. All tips from my friend who is a cleaning coach and this smart travel hacks shares with me.”

A suitcase in the same color palette is perfect matchy matchyWe love the copies of SUITSUIT.

Are you taking responsible travel into account?

Are you taking responsible travel into account?

I try to travel consciously, but not with guilt. I treat nature and people with respect, eat and shop locally, and support small-scale entrepreneurs by booking their tours. Small choices make a difference. In Balikpapan (Borneo), we once stayed at a center that cares for orangutans and involves local people in rainforest conservation. Places like that touch me the most; you enjoy yourself, but you also leave something beautiful behind.

 

 

What does slow travel mean to you?

What does slow travel mean to you?

"Don't rush, just take your time. For a good glass of wine, a walk, or a conversation with a local—those are the moments that make travel beautiful. Avoid over-scheduling. As soon as everything is fixed, spontaneity disappears."

Karen's favorites

Karen's favorites

"You can get the best coffee at Market Lane Coffee in Melbourne, but Coffee District in Amsterdam remains a favorite too. Munchies in Lombok has delicious espresso and a great breakfast. Restaurant Bambu in Seminyak has the best Indonesian food, and in Amsterdam I love Proeflokaal van Wees. Tuur in Maastricht has delicious, unique wines and a good menu. Then I stay overnight at the Cousins ​​Boutique Hotel, run by two cousins ​​who have created a fantastic concept. In Lombok, I love the Qunci Hotel, and I'm also a fan of all the 25 Hours Hotels, which have a great selection." quirky and playful style.”