Exclusive: Actor Henry Golding on the Funny Reason He Thinks Nicole Kidman Would Make a Great Travel Partnera"and Life As a Travel TV Presenter

Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, August 16th 2025 at 7:53 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Actor Henry Golding of "Crazy Rich Asians" shares his go-to tips for beating jet lag and traveling as a family, plus his favorite filming destinations.

Henry Golding's Ultimate Travel Guide: From Jungle Adventures to Luxury Escapes

Henry Golding, the charismatic actor best known for his breakout role in *Crazy Rich Asians* and subsequent hits like *Snake Eyes* and *Last Christmas*, has always had travel woven into the fabric of his life. Born in Malaysia to a British father and Malaysian mother, Golding spent his childhood bouncing between the lush rainforests of Sarawak and the bustling streets of England. This multicultural upbringing ignited a lifelong passion for exploration, turning him into a globetrotter who views travel not just as a getaway, but as a way to connect with cultures, cuisines, and communities. In a candid conversation for Travel + Leisure's Celebrity Check-In series, Golding opens up about his most memorable journeys, essential packing tips, and the destinations that have left an indelible mark on his soul.

Golding's travel philosophy is rooted in authenticity and adventure. He emphasizes the importance of stepping off the beaten path to truly experience a place. "Travel isn't about ticking boxes," he shares. "It's about immersing yourself in the local vibe, trying street food that scares you a little, and making connections that last beyond the trip." This mindset stems from his early years in Malaysia, where family trips often involved trekking through dense jungles or visiting remote longhouses of indigenous tribes. One of his fondest memories is from Borneo, where he recalls camping under the stars in the heart of the rainforest, listening to the symphony of wildlife. "There's something magical about waking up to the calls of hornbills and gibbons," he says. "It reminds you of nature's raw power and how small we are in the grand scheme."

As his career skyrocketed, Golding's travels evolved from backpacking escapades to more luxurious sojourns, often blending work with pleasure. Filming *Crazy Rich Asians* in Singapore and Malaysia was a homecoming of sorts, allowing him to rediscover his roots while introducing the world to the opulent side of Southeast Asia. He raves about Singapore's blend of modernity and tradition, recommending a stroll through the Gardens by the Bay for its futuristic Supertrees and a feast at hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre for authentic laksa and chili crab. "Singapore is a melting pot," he notes. "You can go from high tea at Raffles Hotel to slurping noodles in a bustling market in the same day."

But Golding's adventures aren't limited to Asia. He's an avid explorer of Europe, where he honeymooned with his wife, Liv Lo, in the romantic hills of Tuscany, Italy. "We rented a villa overlooking vineyards, cooked fresh pasta, and just unwound," he recalls. For those seeking romance, he suggests Amalfi Coast drives, stopping at cliffside villages like Positano for sunset aperitifs. On the other end of the spectrum, Golding loves the rugged beauty of New Zealand, where he filmed parts of *The Gentlemen*. "The landscapes are otherworldly—think rolling hills, glacial lakes, and adventure sports galore," he enthuses. He recommends heli-skiing in Queenstown or hiking the Milford Track for an adrenaline rush paired with breathtaking views.

When it comes to travel essentials, Golding is pragmatic yet stylish. As someone who's constantly on the move for red-carpet events and film sets, he swears by versatile packing. "A good pair of sneakers that can go from airport to trail is key," he advises. He favors brands like Allbirds for comfort and sustainability. For skincare, especially on long-haul flights, he packs a hydrating face mist and eye cream to combat jet lag. "Hydration is everything," he stresses. "And don't forget a reusable water bottle—it's good for the planet and keeps you going." Golding is also a proponent of sustainable travel, influenced by his time in eco-conscious destinations like Costa Rica. There, he zip-lined through cloud forests and volunteered at sea turtle conservation projects. "We have to travel responsibly," he urges. "Choose eco-friendly hotels, support local businesses, and leave no trace."

Family plays a huge role in Golding's travels now that he's a father to his daughter, Lyla. He dreams of introducing her to the world, starting with gentle beach escapes. "Bali is perfect for families," he says. "Soft sands, kid-friendly resorts like the Four Seasons in Jimbaran, and cultural experiences like traditional dance shows." For couples, he points to the Maldives for overwater bungalows and snorkeling amid vibrant coral reefs. But his ultimate bucket-list spot? Antarctica. "The idea of seeing penguins in their natural habitat, surrounded by icebergs—it's the last frontier," he muses.

Golding has had his share of travel mishaps, too, which he recounts with humor. Once, while backpacking in Thailand, he got lost on a scooter in the pouring rain, ending up at a roadside eatery where locals shared homemade tom yum soup. "Those unexpected detours make the best stories," he laughs. To avoid common pitfalls, he advises researching visa requirements and downloading offline maps. For foodies, he encourages trying everything: from street tacos in Mexico City to fresh sashimi in Tokyo's Tsukiji Market (now relocated to Toyosu).

Looking ahead, Golding is excited about upcoming projects that might take him to new locales, but he always circles back to the joy of home. "Travel expands your horizons, but it also makes you appreciate where you come from," he reflects. Whether he's jetting off to a film festival in Cannes or planning a quiet retreat in the English countryside, Golding's approach to travel is inspiring: a mix of curiosity, respect, and unbridled enthusiasm. For anyone feeling wanderlust, his advice is simple: "Just go. The world is waiting, and it'll change you in ways you never imagined."

In essence, Henry Golding embodies the modern traveler—adventurous, culturally attuned, and ever-evolving. His stories remind us that travel is more than destinations; it's about the people, flavors, and moments that shape who we are. As he continues to grace screens and explore the globe, one thing is clear: Golding's passport is as full as his heart for discovery. (Word count: 912)

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