The editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure shares packing mishaps and where to wander next
The Good Sort talks to Jacqueline Gifford about all things travel
By Zander Abranowicz
Jacqueline Gifford’s job title is the stuff of dreams. As editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure — one of the world’s foremost travel media brands — her role is to monitor the horizon for trends and destinations that will inspire wanderlust among a vast audience of modern jetsetters. Under her direction, the magazine and its offspring cover more than cocktails and Instagrammable sunsets. Today’s Travel + Leisure is helping globetrotters use their conscience as a compass, exploring subjects like food insecurity, sustainability, and multigenerational travel. Born in Japan and raised between the Middle East and East Coast, Jacqueline now calls New York home. With international travel back on the map, The Good Sort spoke with her about beloved souvenirs, perfect packing, and places to prioritize for your next trip.
THE GOOD SORT: Looking back countless passport stamps later, what’s your earliest travel memory?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: I have a vague recollection of traveling to the Maldives as a child, I was probably no older than three. I misbehaved in a restaurant and my father had to take me outside, to the beach, to tell me to be quiet. I remember that — and the smell of mothballs, in one of our resorts' bathrooms! Hotels were pretty barebones in the destination back then, a far cry from what it is like today. But there was something magical about it. We stayed at Cocoa Island, which is now run by Como Hotels. At the time, a German photographer was living there and running the show. We stayed at a simple hut on the beach, and the days were not that strenuous.
THE GOOD SORT: There’s nothing like moving to encourage paring back to the essentials. How did your globetrotting upbringing shape your attachment to material possessions?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: My mother was always obsessed with throwing things away, because we had to pack up and move — it really is the ultimate form of pruning. I think it encouraged us to not collect too much extraneous stuff, and only spend money on things that were worth shipping halfway around the world.
THE GOOD SORT: The internet is awash with packing tips and rules, but we’re curious about how even the most seasoned travelers sometimes fall short. What’s one memorable packing faux pas you can share with us?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: On one of my trips to India, I wildly underestimated how much stuff I was going to buy — I should have gone over there with room in my suitcase. I had things spilling over at security, in the hotels — it was a nightmare.
THE GOOD SORT: Even the most exacting packer has their indulgences. What’s one unexpected item you believe is always worth its weight?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: A book. Especially if it is about the place you are traveling to.
THE GOOD SORT: How do you balance your passion for sustainability with the inevitable ecological footprint of modern travel?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: I try to walk or use public transportation, when possible, and also support businesses that give back to their local communities or hire locals — that is a form of sustainability, too.
THE GOOD SORT: When you’re visiting a city for the first time, where or who do you turn for insight into the most unmissable retail destinations?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: I scour Instagram for tips, but also ask our network of contributors — we are lucky that we can do that!
THE GOOD SORT: What are the most exciting brands, designers, and products you’ve encountered on your recent journeys?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: When I was in Saudi Arabia, I came across a boutique called Es*pace that supported young female designers, all Saudi. It was at the Boulevard in Riyadh, an outdoor plaza designed for families to enjoy an evening out. I am kicking myself that I didn't buy more — but I did get this gorgeous pair of green linen pants, with a top to match. I also love buying things at hotel gift shops. Especially when in Europe or Asia or the Middle East. I find the sourcing to be excellent.
THE GOOD SORT: For those of us already planning next summer’s travel, what are a few under-the-radar destinations we should consider that haven’t been invaded by influencers yet?
JACQUELINE GIFFORD: Good question. I should be asking you this! I still think South America, for the money, offers great value — places like Bogota, Santiago, Buenos Aires, Trancoso … there's great food and style. Also, having just come back from Ischia, Italy, I can share that it is one of the more magical places in that part of the world — think Italy in the 1990s, before the mass invasion of Americans.
The Sort Six
What’s the object that’s been with you the longest?
My watch, a gift from my parents.
What brand is totally underrated?
White + Warren. They still make the best cashmere wraps, period.
What’s one store you can’t visit without buying something?
What’s the best gift you’ve ever given or received?
Tough one. My husband gets me a card on every holiday, birthday, anniversary, Valentine's Day, you name it. I appreciate that he takes the time.
What’s on your desk right now?
A can of LaCroix and a stack of magazines.
What’s your greatest extravagance?
A bath in a huge hotel bathtub!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.