We caught up with Nava Tadmor to ask her our “fab five” #AlembikaWomen questions… Her answers are so thoughtful and inspiring! Nava will be 70 in a few months and currently refers to herself as a “blogless traveler, enjoying life and new experiences.” She says that over the years, she has invented herself over and over again as changing circumstances allowed. We love that!

What do you do or did you do for work?
I was born and raised in Israel. After graduating from university (biology), I started working in hospitality—from front desk to hotel management. After finishing business management at the university (while working for a hi-tech company), I worked with Israeli jewelers and artisans, promoting them overseas (I always had an artsy side to my soul).

My next stop was when we moved to Los Angeles in 1995. While working (movie industry), I studied Interior Design at UCLA. Upon graduation and after moving to Maryland, I worked as an interior designer, focusing on hospitality (coming full circle to my hotel days in Israel).

In 2009, when the economy took a down turn, I transitioned to real estate and staging. During COVID, I decided to put my licenses on hold. Now, with no professional obligations and with COVID becoming a fact of life, I am traveling again.

What do you do when you don’t know what to do?
I believe that every piece of information is in the tip of my finger. If not readily available, I either “dial” a trusted friend or family member or I do a Google search (I am the “Google Queen”, after all). Starting a new project or embarking on something new is like “ripping” a sweater, you start by undoing one knit stitch. Once I have a starting point, I search for data, weigh my options, and take it from there.

What would you do if you had the whole day for yourself?
When traveling, I often have most of the day for myself. My favorite pastime is to wander the streets, visit the must-see attractions, and visit at least one museum a day. When at home, I love to sit on the deck, read a book, cook (gourmet and healthy), improve my French (we try to spend springs in Paris), or call a friend to go and do something fun.

What is the best thing about being a woman?
Being strong yet gentle. Being caring yet demanding of others what I expect of myself. Being feminine and beautiful. Being able to cry in happy and sad moments. Allowing myself to be me and celebrate life.

What is the one piece of clothing you cannot live without?
Alembika Punto Pants in black!