In partnership with Elements of Byron
Set among native bushland, beaches and endless blue skies, Elements of Byron is the kind of place that makes it easy to switch off. Nestled in a quiet pocket of northern New South Wales, every touchpoint of the resort invites you to slow down and settle in. It's no surprise, then, that when model, entrepreneur and RUSSH purist Jess Gomes checked in, she leaned in fully — letting the rhythm of Byron take over.
From the moment she arrived, Gomes embraced the ease of her surroundings – unpacking her bags, slipping into a swimsuit, and settling into a slower pace. Between tennis matches, poolside cocktails, and a spa ritual that included gold leaf facials and dry brushing, Gomes found a rhythm that was all her own. It was a moment of pause, but also of presence — one marked by coconut milk hot chocolates, the smell of frangipanis and salty sea air, and the joy of a white bed waiting at the end of the day.
Below, Jess Gomes shares her favourite memories, rituals and what she packed (and picked up) during her stay at Elements of Byron, from check-in, to check-out.
Check-In
What is your go-to travel outfit?
Usually, I am in my Nagnata sweats and a t-shirt when I travel and a comfy pair of flats. I love taking my sarong which I can use as a scarf also, very handy for travel and tropical destinations.
What was the first thing you noticed when you opened the door?
I noticed the beautiful light coming through the villa and how breezy and airy it all felt. The very comfortable couch and the beautiful welcome gift on the kitchen bench. I also very much noticed that I was surrounded by nature and lots of trees. It felt like a tropical jungle.
Did you unpack, or let the suitcase stay half-closed?
I unpacked properly. I like to hang all my clothes up and really settle in.
Was there a scent you wanted in the room (and did it find you)?
There was a strong perfume frangipani scent, which was very sweet. I love when I can smell the ocean and there’s salt in the fresh air.
The Stay
Where in the room, or what part of the resort, did you spend the longest?
I just loved relaxing on the beds by the pool. You can always find me at the adult pool sipping a pina colada.
What became your uniform here?
My Abysse swimsuit and Nagnata sarong with my Alaïa flats and my Deering sunglasses.
Was there an object in the room that felt like it was waiting for you?
The cozy white big bed to have the best most peaceful night sleep in.
Check-Out
What made it into your bag that didn’t arrive with you?
The Vanessa Megan care package that was given to me, I love her skincare: it’s all natural, and smells so good using all native Australian scents.
What was the last photo you snapped before leaving?
A selfie in the beautiful bathroom; I’m wearing a black Spell dress.
How do you take your coffee when it’s the last one?
I’m off coffee now so I had a coconut milk hot chocolate.
What’s a moment from your stay that will stay with you after your check out?
I had the best time playing tennis and running around the beautiful lush green tennis courts. Also, my incredible spa treatment, the full body dry bushing and oil massage and gold leaf facial was very memorable.
