1. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?
My name is Fernanda Gattas and I am Brazilian, from Lebanese descent, born and raised in São Paulo. For the past three years I’ve divided my time between São Paulo and New York, leading international marketing & communications for the iconic hospitality brand Fasano.
2. What is your most unforgettable escape?
My most recent trip to Punta del Este was special – unforgettable in all the subtle, moving ways that an escape should be.
3. What was the purpose of your travel?
I was travelling with the particular mission of capturing stories to elucidate the spirit of the place. This is the sort of nuance that shapes my work representing the brand, and, in many ways, defines my approach to luxury.
4. With how many people did you travel?
I went alone! Come to think of it, some of my most cherished escapes were adventures I set about on my own.
5. Where did you stay?
The Fasano, in Punta del Este.
6. What did you like most about the trip?
Destinations like Punta del Este are rare. It’s sexy, it’s alluring, it’s social and culturally vibrant… but with very serene, effortless undercurrent. The subtleties of this rhythm stay with you—it’s what I like the most about visiting.
7. Can you share an unforgettable memory from the journey?
I love being the first one up, sitting with the stillness of sunrise. At the height of autumn, I woke up to skies that did not feel real: electric, candied pinks and lavender blues.
8. Your most surprising find during the trip?
How much I loved the off-season… truly! A slower pace and uncrowded spaces, the golden light, the landscapes… this may be Punta del Este’s best-kept secret. Days are warm enough that you can sit by the pool in the morning and get a nice flush from the sun, then head to José Ignacio for lunch and lose sight of time by the sea… at night, the temperature is perfect to sit by the fire, under the stars, with friends and a glass of wine.
9. Favorite restaurants or food discovered?
· La Huella – Perhaps José Ignacio’s most coveted tables, and for very good reason. With an aura that is unmatched, La Huella specializes in Uruguayan grill and seafood, enjoyed on the beach, in the sand. The experience wonderfully showcases Uruguay’s strong farm-to-table culture.
· La Linda – This family-run bakery is a jewel, elegant and simple. A place for all hours of the day. And for the sweet-toothed like myself, the best place to pick up fresh (travel-safe) souveniers, like their alfajores with dulce de leche.
· Fasano Las Piedras – A most scenic place to enjoy the Uruguayan parrilla, served on the patio of the property’s original farmhouse, overlooking the estate. Everything is grilled on a beautiful open flame, and pairs impeccably with the restaurant’s signature Italian flare.
· Medialunas Calentitas – A ritual stop on my way from the airport for fresh, Argentinian/Uruguayan croissants.
10. What are the must tries in this destination?
Exploring the region on horseback is a must—this is, afterall, an equestrian destination. Whether on a trail along the beach in José Ignacio, across the open countryside in La Barra, or through some of the region’s famous vineyards, riding experiences in Punta del Este are magical.
11. Any hidden gems you could whisper to us?
Casa Zinc is a treasure-trove for antiques, and their café is deliciously cinematic. Mutate curates beautiful furniture, fashion, design and miscellaneous finds.
12. Would you go back, and why?
Punta is a place to visit year-round—with a lover, with friends, with family.
For me, next up is likely New Year’s. I’m partial, but the party at Fasano Las Piedras is arguably the best scene at the moment.
Have a peek at @reveillonpunta
13. Could you list a few of the favorite finds you came back with?
· Some fresh, small-batch olive oil from a local producer;
· Marmalade made with pomelo, the Uruguay’s native grapefruit;
· A linen kaftan, for summer;
· A small heart-shaped stone, picked up from the ground while I was wandering about. It’ll make for a glorious tablescape adornment—perhaps a napkin weight. I’m a terrible cook, but love creating mise-en-place with unusual bits – always sentimental – that I collect in my travels.
· A pair of cowboy boots.
14. Any tips that might be useful to know before going there?
Regardless of when you visit, be sure to pack a warm pullover, a scarf or cashmere throw.
15. Next stop you would like to visit?
My current obsession is a cruise down the Nile.
16. What does traveling and escape mean to you?
An escape is really an artifice to be fully present. Travelling gives me such clarity… I can organize my thoughts in the distance. I’m never the same when I return.
17. What’s your winter travel soundtrack?
I’ve been on a sort of mellow, classic country journey lately… that and some house music.
18. What about your latest read?
I just recently picked up “The Lover” by Marguerite Duras. Prior to that I read “A Man’s Place” by Annie Ernaux – uff, brilliant.
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