Eshita Kabra - Founder & CEO of By Rotation
Introducing Weekend With, our latest content series featuring interviews with fascinating women who love to travel. Discover how these bold personalities would spend a weekend away, from their destination of choice to their ideal travel companion. Come along for the ride as we explore unique perspectives on the art of traveling. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or simply curious about new destinations, Weekend With promises to deliver insightful and inspiring travel stories that will leave you yearning for your next vacation. Sit back and join us on this exciting journey.
Who is Eshita Kabra?
I am Eshita, the Founder and CEO of the award-winning fashion rental app By Rotation, the world's largest shared wardrobe available in the UK and US. A third culture kid from India, Singapore, US and UK, I am a global citizen who now lives between London and New York. While I am now regularly profiled in the likes of Vogue, FT, The Times, Bloomberg and speak on panels at the UN Headquarters, Harvard Business School and more, my background is in investment banking and asset management. I'm passionate about the sharing economy and making sustainability socioeconomically inclusive.
Where are you going?
The Aeolian Islands, off Sicily, Italy. I'm going there to learn how to scuba dive and disconnect by the beach, reading my Murakami novels. I hope to return home as a water baby.
Who are you bringing with you?
I'm bringing my husband with me. He is very adventurous and always encourages me to push myself. He also works very hard and deserves the time and space away from his demanding career.
What’s your travel style?
I like to explore the less travelled, and will avoid cities where possible. With age, I am less fussed about going to places where the "scene" is - and it's not about being seen and seeing people. I like to travel for nature: scenic views, sunshine, flora and fauna. Disconnecting from my life home is important to me.
Eshita’s Hit List
What I Like.
The Aeolian islands are the road less travelled, very authentically Italian and often not very busy. There's a "if you know you know" vibe to them. The variety of the islands is exciting - you could have one as a base, one for hiking, one for scuba diving and another for a chic "scene" lunch.
What I Recommend.
Use Lipari as your base, it has a very Italian atmosphere to it with enough amenities so you don't find it too quiet.
Eat at Kasbah, Lipari for a nice, but very moderately-priced dinner.
Hike up Lipari Volcano. The views are completely worth it, despite the stench of the dormant volcano.
Charter a boat trip, it's well worth it. Be careful not to get stung by large beautiful jellyfish!
Have lunch at the island of Panarea. It is very chic and great for people-watching. You can't go wrong at any restaurant!
Sunbathe on the black sand beaches of Stromboli, it's likely you will also find a private secluded spot for yourself. I would also recommend bringing snorkels, as you will see the most colourful fish without going in too deep. The most beautiful beach I've ever been on.
What is your must-pack item?
My go-to swimsuits are from Sommer Swim. They have very flattering bikinis, I have worn mine for over 7 years. SPF50 is a must, and I also love Nuxe Oil for after tanning. My go-to holiday brand is Jacquemus.
Carry-on or check-in?
Check-in, I don't like the faff at the airport and on the flight.
Hotel or Airbnb?
Airbnb, always. I have found so many hidden gems and made so many friends. I'm a huge supporter of all sharing economy businesses!
Share a song, podcast, or book for the trip.
Song: Those Days - Kaasi.
Podcast: On Rotation.
Book: The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro (actually did read it on the Aeolians, and it changed my life).
Movie: The Godfather (hey, we're in Sicily).