SUITCASE SERIES: Cold Bath Co Duo – Kimberley George & Emillie Kirk

This week we caught up with Kimberley George and Emillie Kirk, the women behind Cold Bath Co, to find out what they never travel without, their packing tips, and what their most memorable trip has been so far…

Kimberley and Emillie have known each other for nearly ten years, initially connecting through their work in the Australian Fitness Industry.

Kimberley George is a Director of Invested Health Pty Ltd and a nationally recognised Business Advisor consulting private and public corporations to succeed. Besides her own entrepreneurial pursuits, Kimberley specialises in developing high-level strategic plans to assist companies with corporate structure, operations, business development and strategic marketing activities.

Emillie Kirk is a Director of Invested Health Pty Ltd and Co-founder/Director of Vast Fitness Academy, a leading Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that delivers Nationally Accredited nutrition and fitness qualifications across Australia. Emillie has given 15+ years of devotion to the education, health, and fitness industry and holds numerous Australian Champion and International titles as a former Figure Athlete – having competed in 17 shows from 2011 to 2016 across Australia, the USA and Europe.

Meeting face-to-face in their local gym, they chatted about their passion for fitness, and the rest was history. What started with a never-ending chat in the gym turned into a friendship that has been there through years of growth and many significant milestones. After sharing a common passion for health and fitness, it was soon evident that they also shared a similar passion for business. Because of their regular discussions on business and a never-ending supply of startup ideas, they knew there would come a time when they would go into business together. As a result, Invested Health Pty Ltd was born some seven years later, and to date, it has three exciting projects launching into the Australian market within the next six months, Cold Bath Co being the first of these exciting projects.

Cold Bath Co was founded around the principles of combining the use of cold water therapy and a unique, high-quality bath formulation. Our primary aim was to promote health and vitality by combining two notable health practices that attract various health benefits whilst avoiding the potential health risks of traditional ice baths and being an effective solution for muscle recovery.

In this week’s Suitcase Series, equipped with Cold Bath Co’s Bath Salts, 250g x 8 ($69.95) we take a sneak peek into Kimberley and Emillie’s travel psyche…

What’s been your most memorable trip and why?

KG: 
I have been fortunate enough to travel to some truly incredible destinations, but if I had to choose one of my most memorable trips, it was a combined adventure to Bora Bora and LA. Bora Bora is an absolutely breathtaking location, with its crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life. I was fortunate enough to stay in an overwater bungalow that was nothing short of luxurious, with its glass flooring where I could watch the colourful fish swim beneath me. The lush vegetation and towering mountain peaks provided a stunning backdrop, and the warm, sunny weather made it the perfect place to relax and unwind. I also got a chance to swim with the rays and reef sharks. The next stop was LA which was a completely different kind of adventure. As a bustling, vibrant metropolis, LA is a place that’s full of energy and excitement. I loved exploring the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, from the trendy boutiques and cafes to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. One of the highlights of my trip to LA was definitely the food. Whether I was indulging in street tacos from a food truck, sampling artisanal coffee at a local cafe, or enjoying a gourmet meal at a high-end restaurant, the culinary scene in LA is truly unparalleled.

EK: A few years back, my husband and I travelled to Canada for a month and spend the last leg of our trip in Mexico. I love a good adventure; we tried to do it all while we were there. We rode snowmobiles, watched an ice hockey game, explored the Canadian Rockies and then finished up in Mexico swinging through the treetops on a zipline – this definitely makes the top of my list for most memorable trips.

What’s your favourite ever hotel?

KG: I have stayed in many beautiful hotels in the world; however, one of my favourites was my stay at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji. The resort offers a unique combination of luxury, adventure, and sustainability. The resort’s natural surroundings are breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical vegetation. The exceptional service the resort’s staff provided was also a highlight of my stay, where they went above and beyond. There was no shortage of activities; from snorkelling and diving to kayaking and paddleboarding, there was always something exciting to do. I particularly enjoyed the Jean-Michel Cousteau Dive Centre, which provided a world-class facility for exploring the incredible underwater world of Fiji. The culinary experiences at the resort were also exceptional. The restaurant offered an incredible dining experience focused on fresh, local ingredients. I also took part in a cooking class and farm tour, which allowed me to learn about Fijian cuisine and culture. Finally, the resort’s spa provided the perfect place to unwind and relax. I can’t wait to visit again.

EK: This is a tricky one, I’m a sucker for a five-star resort, but I also love a cosy cabin in the bush or treetops. Experiencing The RimRock hotel in Banff (during Christmas) sure was a sight to see. I also highly recommend Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat on the NSW/QLD border.

Where or what is your escape?

KG: When it comes to escaping and finding a way to unwind and recharge, there’s nothing quite like taking short 3-4 day adventures with my partner to explore new places and indulge in delicious food. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a nearby city or a quick road trip to a scenic destination, these mini-escapes are the perfect way to break out of the routine and experience new things together.

EK: A getaway (anywhere) with my buddy, listening to country music, a good book, or a game of golf!

If you could go anywhere tomorrow it would be…

KG: If I could go anywhere tomorrow, I would hop on a plane with my partner and head straight to California. It has been many years since my last visit. There are so many unique places to visit in California, from the bustling city of Los Angeles to the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach. One of the main reasons I would love to return to LA again is the vibrant culture and diverse neighbourhoods. The eclectic mix of artists, street performers, and skateboarders makes this Venice Beach a unique and vibrant destination. This Californian adventure would also include San Francisco and Napa Valley, along with many natural landscapes, such as the Yosemite National Park and the Big Sur coast.

EK: Somewhere hot, with an amazing view of the sun setting over the ocean!

What’s your idea of a luxury wellness holiday?

KG: The best luxury wellness holiday experience should combine indulgence and rejuvenation, providing an opportunity to escape everyday life’s stress and focus on personal wellness. The location should include several key components: the location should be a tropical paradise offering complete privacy, seclusion, and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In addition, the experience should provide opportunities for relaxation, such as spa treatments and beachfront lounging. It should also offer healthy and delicious cuisine. In terms of exercise, the experience should offer hiking, kayaking, water sports, and gym facilities as I love lifting weights. Of course, a luxury wellness holiday experience is only complete with plenty of time in the sun, soaking up the warm tropical weather and vitamin D.

EK: Good healthy food, long adventurous walks, wholesome moments, and of course, a cold bath with my Cold Bath Co salts!

My top bucket-list destination is…

KG: My top bucket-list destination would have to be Italy. The country’s stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine make it my dream destination. I love cooking, so I have always been drawn to the idea of spending a month in the Italian countryside, learning to cook traditional dishes and discovering the local way of life. Exploring the different regions of Italy, each with its unique culinary traditions, would be an incredible experience. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-kissed beaches of the Amalfi Coast, the country has a diverse landscape that is sure to take my breath away, and it is an experience that I cannot wait to have.

EK: California, Bora Bora, Venice, Japan, Maldives, Portugal.

If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?

KG: If I had to sit next to anyone, dead or alive, on a long-haul flight, I would choose my partner without hesitation. Not only would he keep me laughing for hours, but we would also have never-ending conversations about life, business, our next adventures and everything in between. Also, he would be the best pillow for the journey.

EK: Easy – my best friend; my best friend! The perfect balance of adventure and safety all rolled into one.

What is your jet-lag recovery tip?

KG: My best jet-lag recovery tips include: staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water, getting some sunlight as exposure to natural sunlight can help reset your body clock and regulate your sleep-wake cycle and using Cold Bath Co salts in a cold bath to help soothe muscles, help me relax and also promote restful sleep. The magnesium and other minerals in our bath salts can also help to alleviate jet lag symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue.

EK: 
Hot/cold therapy (a hot sauna, followed by a cold bath (not an ice bath) so approx. 15 degrees, with my Cold Bath Co salts).

Cold Bath Co (250g x 8)

The solution combines two primary ingredients of Epsom Salts and Himalayan Pink Salt, which dissolve in cold water. Run a cold bath between the range of 15-25 degrees Celsius. Once dissolved, carefully step into the bath and lower yourself into the cold water slowly. Submersion time should range from 5 – 15 minutes, depending on your previous exposure and health.

RRP: $69.95

What is your suitcase staple?

KG: My suitcase staple would have to be a pair of comfortable walking shoes, comfortable, lightweight clothing including my favourite jeans and tees, and most importantly, Cold Bath Co bath salts to help me unwind after a long day of travel or sightseeing. They help soothe sore feet and muscles and promote restful sleep, ensuring I am ready to tackle the next day’s activities.

EK: A good book – a psychological thriller.

What is your number one packing tip?

KG: Make a packing list so that you remember everything, pack a few ziplock bags, which help organize small items or keep wet or dirty things separate from the rest of your luggage and always remember to pack your Cold Bath Co bath salts.

EK: Always pack a set of bath salts for muscle recovery, especially when hiking or going on adventures.

I never travel without…

KG: I never travel without Cold Bath Co salts which help regulate sleep, soothe aching muscles, reduce stress and help with relaxation, eliminate toxins from the body, combat fatigue and boost energy levels.

EK: Make sure the destination has a bath and my Cold Bath Co salts which help regulate sleep, soothe aching muscles, reduce stress and help with relaxation, eliminate toxins from the body, combat fatigue and boost energy levels.

In my beauty/toiletry bag, I always bring…

KG: In my toiletry bag, I always bring a nourishing face mask, some cold eye patches, an excellent moisturiser as my skin tends to dry out with flying, and of course, I never forget my Cold Bath Co salts.

EK: My Cold Bath Co salts, DYI facemasks

For more information visit https://www.coldbathco.com/