Jetsetting with In Situ’s Isabelle Persenda

SINGAPORE — The creative director of furniture store In Situ takes the idea of discovering the road less travelled rather seriously.

“I only read certain (travel) guides such as the Lonely Planet and the French Guide du Routard as they’re focussed on discovering places off the beaten tracks. I don’t see the point in going abroad if one doesn’t experience the unknown,” said Isabelle Persenda.

The French woman fell in love with Guatemala and its furniture craftmanship when she moved there in 2008. And now, through In Situ, she wants to share that with Singapore homeowners. “We love that what we’re showcasing is unique and that we’re introducing totally unknown designers and artists to Asia.”

Q: What is it like in Guatemala?

A: Guatemala is nature at its most beautiful. The diverse scenery is endless: From the serene and magnificent Lake Atitlan up in the mountains, to the Mayan forests of the North to the Rio Dulce that winds through the jungle, to the black volcanic wild beaches of the Pacific coast. The mix of the Mayan and Spanish culture and traditions are also amazing. The country exudes a feeling of peace and happiness, and it’s totally inspiring.

Q: Any tips on travelling to Central America?

A: A trip to Central America requires one to adapt to its lifestyle for cultural and safety reasons. Although I’ve never once felt threatened, it can be dangerous. For the less travel-savvy, I’d recommend Belize and Costa Rica which are equally beautiful, but safer.

Q: Any travel pet peeves?

A: What I cannot stand are those places that lack identity and are neither down market nor upmarket. They have no charm and offer no comfort.

Q: Speaking of which, what’s your worst holiday experience?

A: On our way to Death Valley, my mother and I ended up in a grotty bar for lunch, full of weird locals who were staring at us. My mother wore her jewellery which did not go unnoticed, and I seriously thought we would be mugged! She also refused to leave the motel room because of the heat. It was no accident that (the motel) was called the Furnace Creek Lodge! VINCENT LEE

In Situ is at 238 River Valley Road. Tel: 6733 7307.