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.
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.
"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!"
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.
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.
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.
"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."
"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.”