For Christina Tan, luxury has never been about surface shine. As one of the world’s most respected hospitality influencers and a Leica Ambassador, Christina has carved out a global platform built on authenticity, visual artistry, and a deep emotional connection to place. Named among Forbes Travel Guide’s Top Instagram Accounts and consistently listed in the Top 100 Luxury Travel Influencers, she has redefined what it means to curate beauty in a fast-moving digital world.
But behind the polished visuals is a woman who sees travel as something far more human: a path to connection, a practice in presence, and an ongoing dialogue between culture, craftsmanship, and care. From her base in Jakarta to wellness sanctuaries in Italy and boutique retreats across Asia, Christina’s journey is one of thoughtful exploration—where storytelling is as important as the destination itself.
In this conversation, she reflects on the defining moments, lessons, and quiet rituals that have shaped her career and worldview.
How did your path into luxury travel begin—and was there a defining moment when you realized you could turn this into a full-time career?
My journey into luxury travel began quite organically. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for aesthetics, hospitality, and cultural nuance. Over time, what started as a personal passion evolved into something much more. The defining moment came when hotels and brands began reaching out—not just for exposure, but for storytelling, authenticity, and perspective. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a hobby—it could be a full-fledged career built around value, not vanity.
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You’ve built a global reputation as one of the top hospitality influencers in the world. What has that journey meant to you personally?
It’s been humbling and deeply fulfilling. Being recognized on a global scale wasn’t something I planned, but it became a natural extension of consistently sharing honest, meaningful content. Personally, it reminded me that staying true to yourself resonates more than chasing trends. Every message from someone who’s booked a stay, changed their mindset, or found inspiration through my content keeps me grounded and grateful.
Being recognized on a global scale wasn’t something I planned, but it became a natural extension of consistently sharing honest, meaningful content.
You’ve experienced some of the most iconic hotels and destinations—what makes a place truly stand out beyond just five-star amenities?
It’s always the human touch. The sincerity of service, the cultural integrity, and how thoughtfully a property brings its story to life. I’m drawn to places that respect their roots and offer a sense of soul—not just polish. Whether it’s a butler who remembers your tea preference or a quiet space that encourages reflection, those subtle things leave the strongest impression.
It’s always the human touch. The sincerity of service, the cultural integrity, and how thoughtfully a property brings its story to life.
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Can you tell us a little about where you’re currently based—or how you decide where to spend your time?
I’m currently based in Jakarta, but I consider myself semi-nomadic. My time is often guided by collaborations, seasons, and a sense of intuitive flow. I also try to balance work trips with personal resets-wellness retreats, cultural immersions, or simply places that nourish the spirit.
What does a typical year in your life look like now? Are there rhythms or rituals that keep you grounded between destinations?
No two years are ever the same, but I do try to carve out intentional pauses. I often retreat to wellness sanctuaries like Chiva-Som or Palazzo Fiuggi when I need to realign. Photography is also my form of meditation—it helps me stay present and see beauty in the everyday. And of course, time with my daughter keeps me centered no matter where I am in the world.
You’ve built a polished, professional, and beautiful brand—but what’s something most people don’t know about you?
That beneath all the polished content, I’m quite introverted and sensitive. I feel deeply, and I often need solitude to recharge. I think that sensitivity helps me connect with places and people on a more emotional level—but it also means I value authenticity far more than appearance.
Beyond luxury, what human experiences has this lifestyle given you? Has travel changed the way you see the world—or yourself?
Absolutely. Travel has expanded my compassion. It’s taught me to listen more, judge less, and embrace the unfamiliar. I’ve met people from all walks of life, and each encounter has shaped the way I move through the world—with curiosity, humility, and respect. It’s less about ticking boxes, more about genuine connection.
Travel has expanded my compassion. It’s taught me to listen more, judge less, and embrace the unfamiliar.
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You’ve built an engaged global community—how do you stay connected to your audience while staying true to your vision?
I always lead with intention. I never post just for the algorithm. My audience values real recommendations, honest reflections, and beautifully told stories—and I honor that trust. I also make time to engage directly, respond to messages, and share behind-the-scenes moments so there’s always a human connection behind the curation.
With so many places to choose from, how do you decide what to feature next? What guides your destination and brand choices?
It’s a mix of alignment and instinct. I look for places that offer depth, not just dazzle. Boutique hotels with character, wellness properties with integrity, or resorts that support sustainability and community—those speak to me. I also trust my intuition. If a place sparks curiosity or emotion, I know it’s worth sharing.
If I have a major assignment in one destination, I’ll often research nearby locations or hotels to maximize the journey and create complementary content. Seasonality also plays a role—I try to align my travels with the mood and relevance of the moment, whether it’s a cozy winter escape, a vibrant spring bloom, a sun-drenched summer retreat, or an atmospheric autumn getaway.
I look for places that offer depth, not just dazzle. Boutique hotels with character, wellness properties with integrity, or resorts that support sustainability and community—those speak to me.
Lastly, what’s next for you—and what advice would you give someone dreaming of building a life around travel?
What’s next is more intentional storytelling. I want to delve deeper—into the “why” behind places, not just the “where.” I’m also exploring editorial projects and curated experiences that bring my community into the journey.
To anyone dreaming of a life built around travel: start with your voice. Be genuine, stay curious, and let your unique perspective guide you. It’s not about being everywhere—it’s about seeing deeply, wherever you are.
To anyone dreaming of a life built around travel: start with your voice. Be genuine, stay curious, and let your unique perspective guide you. It’s not about being everywhere—it’s about seeing deeply, wherever you are.
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Christina Tan is one of the world’s leading luxury travel influencers, celebrated for her soulful storytelling and visual artistry. As a Leica Ambassador and Forbes Travel Guide Top IG Account, she has redefined the way hospitality brands connect with audiences. Based in Jakarta but endlessly global, Christina continues to inspire through her lens, blending beauty, culture, and human connection in every journey.
You can follow her journey here:
Instagram: @sassychris1 and @1sassychris
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Isha Sesay is Escape Artist’s Associate Editor. Born in London, she has spent the past decade living and working across the globe, and now calls Barcelona, Spain, home.
