On the road with …
Charlotte Semler of Verden
This month we slowed down with Charlotte, co-founder of Verden, the natural fragrance brand for bath, body and home. Sister brand to Votary, their signature skincare range, Verden is inspired by the focal role of nature in Charlotte’s Danish background. She grew up in Denmark but now lives in Oxford. Charlotte is passionate about the power of natural fragrance to connect us with our breath and the earth. Verden literally means ‘the earth’ in Danish and the brand is inspired by Charlotte’s childhood memories of her native beaches and forests. As you would expect from the creators of Votary, Verden products are formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients that perform beautifully on the skin. Verden products are, of course, also vegan and cruelty free. The Falstaff is delighted to now include their signature D’Orangerie products in our rooms and hotel. Its aromatic blend – a bright infusion of citrus and orange blossom – promises warmer times ahead!
What brings you to Canterbury?
Visiting the cathedral. I love reading about history and the cathedral often gets a name check in books I read – so I thought it would be fun to visit.
Where did you go on your last journey?
To Denmark for Christmas. It was the first time in 30 years I’d been there for Christmas. Copenhagen was very lovely but SO dark. I think I’ll stick to my usual habit of spending my summers there, I much prefer 18 hours of daylight to 18 hours of darkness! Scandinavian summers are magical because the days are so long that you are always outdoors.
What is your preferred mode of transport?
I walk everywhere that I can. I really dislike being in a car. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a perfectly competent driver, but I just don’t enjoy sitting still.
Home or away? Why?
Don’t ask me to choose! I love travelling but I’m always delighted to be home.
Tell us about your worst journey.
It was a massively delayed train from Edinburgh to London. It took 9 hours, there was no water and the aircon was broken.
If you could travel anywhere at any time… where and when?
I would go to the Maldives in February. It’s the antithesis of the wet, cold and dark European winter.
What essentials do you always travel with to ease your journey?
Moisturiser (from Votary), hand cream (from VERDEN), noise cancelling headphones and my own pillow.
What is your favourite travel song?
“Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles.
Where is the strangest place you have slept on your travels.
I once slept on the ground in a field in Northern Thailand. I got stung by a scorpion, so I don’t think I’ll ever forget that particular night.
Who is/would be your ideal travel companion?
My daughter, she’s the most positive person I know. She loves an outdoor adventure and will happily sleep under the stars on a mountainside, but she is also an enthusiast for luxury hotels. She’s the ideal travel companion.
