For Andrea Iyamah, journey is pushed by curiosity, connection and a powerful sense of place. The Nigerian entrepreneur and designer shares how Anguilla stunned her, from sudden cultural parallels and heat native encounters to lengthy lunches, luminous seashores and the island’s simple, unforced rhythm – and why its colors and power felt like a pure extension of her model.
How did you first encounter Anguilla?
“I’ve always been very centred on discovery, and I travel a lot. Anguilla’s not one of the hugely popular Caribbean islands, which made me all the more intrigued to visit. I don’t like looking at too many pictures before I go somewhere – I prefer to keep an element of surprise – but I knew I was bound for clear blue sea. I’m a water girl, so that got me excited.”
What stood out to you?
“Meeting Anguillian people. I’m from Nigeria and the names of some of the islanders sound exactly like Nigerian names, which is rare to find in other countries. It felt like there was an element of home: when you meet someone with a name from the place you’re from, you have a connection. And everyone was very welcoming: one man talked me through how he cooks lobster, giving me an insight into local cuisine and tradition. A lot of the Caribbean islands are melting pots of Indian and African cultures, where history still holds its roots.”
Where did you keep?
“I booked into Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel on the southwest of the island. The first thing I noticed was the architecture: a contrast of old and new, with Moroccan and Greek influences. The staff have a lightness about them and spoke to me about the island’s heritage. And the food is so fresh – I’m still thinking about the Anguillian lobster poached in lemon-grass butter with garlicky roasted leeks.”