Suitcase Series: Oksana Stakhovych, Founder and Director of MIA COOSH

In this week’s Suitcase Series, we take a sneak peek into Oksana´s travel psyche…

What’s been your most memorable trip and why?

It’s almost impossible to choose just one because every trip gives you something different. Some are special because you get to spend time with family and friends who live far away, while others are about discovering new places and experiencing different cultures.

If I had to choose one, it would be Christmas in New York visiting my sister. It was one of those trips where everything felt magical. We saw the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, watched the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, wandered through beautifully decorated streets and enjoyed so many incredible restaurants and cafés. But what made it truly memorable was simply spending Christmas together as a family. Those moments are the ones I treasure most.

What’s your favourite ever hotel?

I don’t usually remember places by the hotel name. My husband, Stan, and I often choose boutique hotels or beautifully designed apartments because we love experiencing a city the way locals do.

For me, it’s never about how luxurious a hotel is – it’s about how it makes you feel. I love thoughtful design, beautiful natural light, a view that makes you pause for a moment, and being able to walk everywhere instead of relying on transport. Those are the places I remember.

Where or what is your escape?

The Mornington Peninsula.

Living in Melbourne, it’s close enough for a spontaneous weekend away but far enough to feel like a real holiday. I love walking along the beach, stopping at the Sorrento Continental for lunch, having an ice cream by the water and simply slowing down.

Since our toy poodle Mia joined our family, those little escapes have become even more special. She comes almost everywhere with us, so finding beautiful dog-friendly places has become part of our adventures. Sometimes you don’t need to travel overseas to feel like you’ve escaped.

If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…

The Netherlands.

Stan and I lived in Groningen while we were students, and after a few years it truly felt like home. It’s still one of my favourite places in the world.

I love the architecture, canals, cycling culture and how beautifully everything is maintained. Even though it rains quite often, whenever the sun comes out everyone heads outside. Cafés fill with people, parks come alive and there’s such a wonderful appreciation for enjoying simple moments. It’s a country that always leaves me feeling inspired and relaxed at the same time.

What’s your idea of a luxury wellness holiday?

Luxury means something very different to me today than it did a few years ago.

These days, it’s having quality time with family, putting my phone away and allowing myself to slow down.

One of my favourite places is the Peninsula Hot Springs on the Mornington Peninsula. I love spending the day moving between the different thermal pools, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and simply giving myself permission to switch off for a while. Afterwards, a relaxed dinner nearby and an evening walk along the beach is my idea of the perfect reset.

Sometimes the greatest luxury isn’t travelling far – it’s creating space to truly relax.

My top bucket-list destination is…

Japan.

I’ve wanted to visit for years because I admire the country’s appreciation for craftsmanship, attention to detail and respect for tradition. From everything I’ve seen and heard, every experience feels thoughtful – from the architecture and gardens to the food and everyday service.

I also love that you can experience the energy of Tokyo one day and the peaceful atmosphere of traditional towns the next. I have a feeling it’s one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve come home.

Signature Walk Set – Vanilla Cream

If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?

Catherine, Princess of Wales.

I’ve always admired her quiet elegance and the way she carries herself with such grace. She has a timeless sense of style that feels effortless, and I appreciate how she remains composed and authentic despite living such a public life.

Although, knowing my personality, I’d probably be too shy to start a conversation. I’d spend half the flight wondering what I should say! But if we did end up chatting naturally, I’d love to hear how she stays grounded, balances family life with such an important public role, and remains true to herself through it all.

What is your jet-lag recovery tip?

I’ve learnt not to fight jet lag.

If I’m tired, I sleep. If I’m awake, I make the most of the day. I try to spend plenty of time outdoors in natural light, stay hydrated and avoid planning too much during the first couple of days.

I also limit coffee at the beginning of a trip because I’ve found my body adjusts much better when I don’t add unnecessary stress. Holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.

What is your suitcase stalwart?

Definitely my husband, Stan.

He’s incredibly organised and always takes care of the practical side of things – driving in new countries, navigating, making bookings, finding parking, and discovering incredible places that are a must-visit.

Knowing he’s looking after all of that means I can relax and simply enjoy the journey. We make a great team.

What is your number one packing tip?

Before every trip I spend time on Pinterest and Instagram looking at the destination. I like getting a feel for the architecture, cafés, streets and overall atmosphere before we arrive.

Then I plan my wardrobe around the destination while staying true to my own style. I usually put outfits together beforehand and even take photos of them, so once we’re travelling, I don’t have to think about what to wear. It makes everything feel much more effortless.

I never travel without…

Sunscreen and perfume.

Living in Australia has taught me never to leave home without sunscreen, no matter the season.

Perfume is something much more personal. I think scent has an incredible ability to preserve memories. Years later, one fragrance can instantly take you back to a particular city, a holiday or even a single beautiful moment. It’s like music – it has a way of bringing memories back to life.

In my beauty / toiletry bag I always bring…

I’m quite loyal to products once I find something that works.

For skincare, I always pack my Jurlique favourites – especially the Calendula range, Herbal Recovery products and the Rose Shower Gel, which I’ve used for years.

For makeup, I love Jane Iredale’s pressed mineral foundation and blush for an effortless everyday look, and Chanel Le Volume mascara is one product I always repurchase.

After a long flight, I also like using the Biodance Bio Collagen Real Deep Mask. It’s my favourite way to refresh my skin after travelling.

For more information visit https://miacoosh.com.au/

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