Olay Noel’s Holiday Rules

The Atlanta, Georgia native knew from a young age that she was destined to walk the catwalk, drawing heavy inspiration from Naomi Campbell. While earning her degree from Kennesaw State University, Olay took a trip to New York City and returned with a modelling contract from Wilhelmina Models, the world-renowned agency that has had such clients as Naomi Sims, Anjelica Huston, Beverly Johnson, Patti Hansen, and Whitney Houston among others.

Despite facing adversity as a woman of colour in the modelling industry, Olay has continued to book countless projects including Essence, Cosmopolitan, and L’Officiel. Upon her parents’ advice, she has expanded her repertoire and started her own clothing and jewellery line with her sister that highlights the Black Diaspora, called MIANIK, which has been in business since 2019.

We sat down with Olay for all of her travelling tips and tricks! Follow her on Instagram and tune in for her first single “Flowers” will be available next month!

The best part of travel?

The best part of travelling is being immersed in different worlds. We can get consumed within the bubbles we create in our communities but travelling always broadens my horizon and gets me out of my comfort zone. Whether it be a language difference, unfamiliar food, music, or animals, I leave learning something new.

Packing tips?

Let’s face it, the bag is going to be overweight. Over my many years of travel experience, I have learned to pack a thin canvas tote bag and keep it at the top of my suitcase so if the agents aren’t feeling generous enough to let me get away with a few extra lbs I simply throw a few pairs of shoes (or whatever is the heaviest) in my tote and use it as my personal or carry on.

Next tip: Stay organized! I have a pouch for pretty much every part of my body (hair care, skincare, makeup, toiletries etc.) This is very helpful because I have loads of products and tools and the last thing you want on a relaxing vacation is rummaging through your suitcase to find a scrunchie.

I could give 100 tips but this one is my favourite. I always carry a small clear plastic wristlet pouch that holds my passport, wallet, boarding passes, a pen (to fill out customs forms), and a portable charger. The airport is hectic enough so anything you can do to move along smoothly we thank you.

What do you read?

I don’t. Sorry, mom! If anything, I would either listen to a book on audible or play R&B music. When coming back from travels, I use my time in the sky editing my content so it’s ready to go for the week.

Least favourite thing about travel?

My least favourite thing about travelling is waiting in lines. It’s unavoidable so I’ve made my peace but it’s still very annoying. On the bright side, I recently got approved for Global entry so that will allow me to wait in shorter lines.

In-flight rituals?

I am obsessed with this heated silk eye mask that you can plug in through the USB port and warms up to 130 degrees. This in combination with a neck pillow, EarPods and Advil PM, you’ll forget you were on a flight. You might want to pack your snacks and water in your bag because I’ve slept through both beverage and meal services.

Favourite vacation spot?

Bermuda, Antigua or truly any Caribbean Island. I am Guyanese so the culture feels right at home, plus crystal clear water, sunshine, and great food you really can’t go wrong.

Top hotel?

I recently came back from Antigua and stayed at the Royalton. It has stunning bungalows on the water and all of the restaurants and buffets are delicious.

Favourite spa?

The Silversands in Grenada are stunning, and I had an incredible massage on a quartz sand bed.

Last great souvenir?

I love a beautiful piece of jewellery, hence my accessory company MIANIK, so when travelling I always keep an eye out for something special. My newest favourite addition to my jewellery collection is an emerald ring I bought in the emerald market of Bogatá Columbia. Their emeralds are known to be the purest in the world so now when I look at my ring it will remind me of my beautiful experiences in Columbia and now, I have a little piece of that place forever.