For model Melodie Monrose, traveling back to her home island of Martinique has always kept her feeling centered as she pursues a career that requires she be constantly on the move. “It is very easy to unconsciously let yourself get sucked into NYC’s frantic rhythm,” she tells Vogue. “Returning home is an essential step for my growth process, I take these home trips almost as a pilgrimage. I look forward to recharging, resetting and enjoying the simple pleasures.”
After a year of practicing different forms of escapism, like “traveling through literature” due to the pandemic, Monrose was finally able to board a plane back to the Caribbean island last month. Bags packed with body hugging crochet dresses and skincare favorites like Black Girl Sunscreen and Dior’s Cica Recover Balm, the model spent two weeks reconnecting with loved ones over fresh seafood, while paying visits to old favorites like the library of Fort de France, where she would spend countless afternoons “traveling through times, universes, and countries” as a child. She also indulged in a few stays at the La Villa Clair de Lune and Hotel Bambou—“staying at this resort felt like being transported in a little tropical oasis”—but most of her time was spent in the comfort of her parent’s home, located in the exceptionally lush Sainte-Luce.
And while there was plenty of leisure, the trip was also an opportunity for her to “discover and re-discover part of the island” as part of her work as a cultural ambassador. “It’s a way to show my audience a very personal view of my Martinique.” Towards the end of the trip, Monrose celebrated the launch of the Amazones Martinique Magazine for Pink October.
The non-profit, which works all year round to provide information and resources to women living with breast cancer, released the publication as part of their campaign motivating women of all ages to start yearly screenings and checkups. For Monrose, it was a particularly special moment. “It’s a cause that is very dear to my heart, since my own mother is also a breast cancer survivor. We are both very proud to be a part of this incredible group of women. It was a very emotional moment to celebrate and commemorate together.”
“My goal for this trip was to make sure every single outfit was something I felt truly comfortable in. Things that were unpretentious, functional, breathable but also a reflection of my personal style. I mostly packed what I call my quintessential island girl wardrobe.”
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“Martinique has been on lockdown for a big part of 2021 and the situation with COVID has been critical these past few months. Being able to share moments like these with my loved ones truly made my heart feel a bit lighter.”
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Monrose pausing to catch the light after a busy day exploring town.
“The food in Martinique is a wonderful crossover of Caribbean culture and French savoir faire.”
A pistachio and banana financier from the Zandoli restaurant.
“I also had a few small staycations throughout my trip. I first opted for the ‘maison d’hotes’ Clair de lune which was the perfect hideaway where I received the warmest welcome. I got to spend an extremely indulging and relaxing weekend there.”
Monrose relaxing at the Villa Clair de Lune. Bathing suit by a local store, Bagatiba earrings, sunglasses vintage Chanel.
The Villa Clair de Lune at night.
”Skin care is always a focus of mine even on vacation. I try to keep the items in my routine to the minimum.”
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“My mom and I at the launch of the Amazones Martinique.”
“At the bar of the Bamboo Hotel.”
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
“Morning journaling practice.”
Photo: Courtesy of Melodie Monrose
“Daily morning walks with my parents.”
Photo: Courtesy of Melodie Monrose
“Mid-day excursion with Boat Paradise.”
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
Monrose eating fresh fruit while enjoying a moment of shade at home.
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
Monrose in jeans by Eytys, a bathing suit by Akoia Swim. The bag is vintage, necklace from Maya Stepper x Bagatiba collaboration.
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
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“I really love reconnecting with this part of me. It really pushes me forward and motivates me even more when it is time to get back to work.”
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
Fort de France
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
A store selling traditional clothing.
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
Monrose wearing a dress by Pucci, Mateo earrings, Hermes shoes, and a vintage Pucci bag.
Photo: Courtesy of Lauren Genteuil
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