Africa is home to numerous beauties and wonders centuries old. Its encapsulating heritage and the history of its landscape are a tourist’s joy. Journeying through the Africa’s cardinal points immerses you in continent’s majestic wonder. In the ‘Ventures Travel Interviews,’ Vénicia Guinot follows the trail of international globe-trotting artists, chefs, CEOs and designers, who share their most memorable Africa travel experiences with our readers.
Crystal Deroche is a professional and dynamic Fashion Stylist born and raised in Paris (France), and she is known for her Flair in style and fashion. Crystal is a Freelance Fashion Stylist who works on commissioned assignment all around the world. She works on Editorial and Commercial photo shoots and can also be booked for videos and TV adverts. Crystal as been styling for various catwalk shows such as London Fashion Week, NSPCC Fundraisers, TMC, and “Elegance” fashion Shows to name a few.
Crystal Deroche has developed strong relationships with designers and PR agencies and she is always looking to get involved in new and challenging projects. Crystal’s vision of style lies in a mixture of shapes, texture and colours, which allows her to create original pieces for editorial stories. She also enjoys working on clients brief and always delivers excellent work. Crystal Deroche shares her passion for travel with our readers…
How often do you get away and what is your favourite African city? Can you recall few memories of your very best trip ever and would you do it all over again?
Crystal: One of my favourite traveling destinations is Nigeria. As it is my country of origin but never got the opportunity to grow up there, discovering the country is all adventure to me.
I remember the first time I went, as soon as we came out of the airport, I got slapped by this hot and humid air. I was not expecting it as we arrived very late that night. My body went into shock and I could not breathe properly for a few second, slowly my breathing became normal again and I was ready to rumble.
Is it still fun for you to pack up a suitcase and head somewhere new? If yes, where would that be?
Crystal: Thanks to my line of work I often get the opportunity to travel, I think the world is an exciting place which is why I am always looking forward to my next trips. I definitely learn a lot from meeting new people and experiencing different cultures. I am looking forward to going to Brazil and Japan one day as I have never been before.
What are your style choices during getaway seasons? Have you ever experienced any fashion disasters while travelling?
Crystal: During getaway seasons, my style choice is focused on comfort. There is nothing worse than be feeling all sweaty and unable to move freely. Having said that, I always make sure my looks are stylish and colourful.
I have been lucky enough not to experience any fashion disaster situation and hopefully it will remain that way.
Do you know of any African destination that is overrated? Give us your own review of this country…
Crystal: Frankly, I do not know of any. Africa is beautiful.
Take us through the process of choosing your accommodation and making your food choices abroad… Have you ever dealt with a culture clash?
Crystal: When I look for accommodation I normally contact friends that have been in the country I am looking to visit to find out which place they will recommend for accommodation. This allows me to get an authentic insight into the hotel I am trying to book.
In terms of drinks, I would normally have canned drinks or bottles of water. Food wise, I rather eat in the hotel or go to a nice restaurant offering a variety of meals.
What part of the continent would you like to revisit should Africa’s tourism industry improve?
Crystal: I would particularly like to visit Kenya and Zimbabwe.
