Sunscreen? Check. Boarding pass? Got it. Perfume that matches your destination? Stop right there. Before you’re accosted by the rictus-grinned security woman at the airport, arm yourself with our fragrance guide. As you plan your much-needed getaway, it’s essential to consider every detail – from packing the perfect outfits to choosing the right fragrance that will enhance your vacation experience. We got the deets
You’re Going To: The Beach
DESTINATION: Durban, Mauritius, Jamaica
BUY: Aquatic and exotic white floral scents
WHY: It’s known that humidity in the air traps odour-causing molecules and makes them not only travel farther but also linger longer. Hot weather also hydrates your nasal mucus membrane, so scents get dissolved on their way to our receptors, making them smell stronger. So, if you’re hitting the sands, stick with fragrances based on indigenous white flowers. They have lighter scent molecules, which thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. Try out jasmine, frangipani, gardenia, orange and cherry blossom.
Aquatic fragrances are also great choices for the beach. These scents capture the essence of sea spray and saltwater, creating a refreshing and breezy vibe. Look for perfumes with notes like marine accord or seaweed – they will give you that just-stepped-out-of-the-ocean feel.
Try these perfumes for a beach holiday:
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris Aqua Celestia Cologne Forte EDP for 70ml
Perfect for hot weather, refreshing and long-lasting. This one has notes of bergamot, blackcurrant, jasmine, and mimosa. It takes its cue from both the seas.
Issey Miyake A Drop D’Issey Rain for 50ml
A floral aquatic fragrance that really evoke intoxicating seaside vibes.
Top note is rain notes; middle notes are lilac, watery notes and damask rose; base notes are dreamwood, ambrox super and cedar. Soooo good.
Armani Privé Jasmin Kusamono EDT for 100ml
A classic that is a Japanese floral composition technique inspired by the ancient art of bonsai. This fragrance is both minimalist and multifaceted. The watery and crystalline juice recreates the smell of jasmine at dawn , contrasting with wood base notes that give the juice a very long-lasting aura.
You’re Going To: The City
DESTINATION: Johannesburg, Beijing, New York City
BUY: Strong and sophisticated notes
WHY: Pollution affects one’s sense of smell and sensitivity. So, in most big cities, your fragrance must work extra hard to be noticed. Crystal clear fragrances that let just one ingredient sing – sometimes by repeating it in the top, heart and base notes, sometimes by adding little else – are robust enough to stand up to environmental nasties. They will tend to smell pretty much the same (in scent and strength) after a few hours’ wear.
For this type of vacation, you want a fragrance that exudes confidence and elegance. Consider perfumes with notes like bergamot, leather, or patchouli – these scents add depth and richness to your overall aroma. A touch of spice can also give your perfume an edgy twist that complements the city vibe perfectly.
Try these perfumes for a city holiday:
Jo Malone Velvet Rose & Oud Cologne for 100ml
You can quote us on this: rose + oud = match made in heaven. It’s simply gorgeous. This fragrance is rich, realistic, dark, peppery and woody. It’s also spiked with clove, decadent with praline. Magnetic.
Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb for 100ml
This cult-favourite perfume is heavy on the jasmine when you first spray it, but slowly mellows into a spicy and woody finish. It’s long-lasting and lingers, making it perfect for a night out on the town.
Aqualis Utopia Extrait De Parfum for 50ml
A bold fragrance unconstrained by rules and conventions. A woody floral that will have heads turning. Top notes are blood orange, apricot and pink pepper; middle notes are osmanthus, peony, papyrus and jasmine; base notes are vetiver, bourbon vanilla, patchouli, sandalwood and amber. Diiivine – trust!
READ MORE: These Are The Perfect Perfumes For Your Personality
You’re Going To: The Mountains
DESTINATION: Mpumalanga, Peru, Tanzania
BUY: Earthy and woody scents
WHY: When you’re planning a mountain getaway, the crisp air and serene surroundings call for fragrances that complement the natural beauty of your destination. For this type of vacation, consider perfumes with notes of cedarwood, sandalwood, or vetiver. These ingredients will transport you to a tranquil forest setting.
Remember to choose fragrances that are not overpowering but rather blend seamlessly with nature’s own aromatic offerings. A subtle yet enticing perfume will create a harmonious balance between yourself and the majestic landscapes surrounding you.
Try these perfumes for a mountain holiday:
Le Labo Vetiver 46 EDP for 100ml
This is the Rolls Royce of vetivers (according to some). You get a fresh and smokey vibe from this one. It’s very intense to start but dries down softer with notes of bergamot.
Diptyque Vetyverio EDP for 75ml
What we love about this one is that it’s a perfume for all genders and all seasons. Perfectly for summer and winter. It’s citrus, woody and aromatic.
Hermès Elixir Des Merveilles EDP for 100ml
Let’s categorise this under: signature worthy. This is a lovely blend of woody and amber notes. It opens with fresh citrus, continues with a heart of pepper and violet, and settles into a warm base of oak, cedar, and balsamic notes.
You’re Going To: Home, You’re Staying Home
DESTINATION: Home
BUY: Fresh and light fragrances
WHY: According to the Michael Edwards Fragrance Wheel, fresh fragrances are broken down into the Green, Water and Citrus families with notes on either side of those blurring into the floral and woody categories. Fresh scents make a great any-time perfume and are perfect if you don’t want an overpowering heavy fragrance, but still want to smell crisp and clean.
Try these perfumes for a staycation:
Byredo Sundazed EDP for 100ml
Just spray this one on yourself on a warm summer day and fall in love instantly. Bask in sunny top notes of mandarin and lemon to a bold heart of neroli and Arabian jasmine. A cascade of white musk injects this citrus scent with the endorphin rush of sugar on skin. It’s giving endless summer vibes.
Karl Lagerfeld Fleur De Femme Eau De Parfum for 100ml
This is a great one to put on a warm relaxed day. A fresh, spicy, lemon-y fragrance that is pleasantly airy and light, combining notes of yuzu, nashi pear, peach blossom, jasmine tea and cotton musk.
Elizabeth Arden White Tea Mandarin Blossom for 100ml
A vibrant floral with a burst of radiant orange. White Tea Mandarin Blossom evokes an air of festivity. The sparkling pleasure of an ocean mist on warm skin.
