Celebrity Travel: Go Away With Kimberly Brooks
A. There is nothing like the internet. Now, it's hard to go somewhere and have NO idea what you will experience. I'm always curious and excited before a trip, so I read a lot or talk to people who live there or have been there before. Then, I take this information and pair it with an open mind and open heart, and I'm ready.
Q. What untapped destination should people know about?
A. I wouldn't say it's untapped, but Kashmir -- a disputed territory between India and Pakistan -- is one of the most beautiful places I have seen. One of my best friends from grad school is from the region and a few months back I flew there for her wedding. Because of my work schedule, I had to make the trip short. But even in its current conflict and highly militarized borders, it is absolutely stunning -- a shikara ride on Dal Lake with the Himalayas as a backdrop while listening to the beautiful echo of the Muslim call to prayer is an experience seared in my memory.
Q. Where are your favorite weekend getaways?
A. Living in Miami puts me pretty close to some great locations. This past year, I had a few amazing weekend trips to Costa Rica, Mexico City and Bahamas -- with all flights under three or four hours. I think sometimes the thought is that you have to spend a week or more in a place to really enjoy it. And, of course, a week or more is ideal. But when you need a quick recharge, a different, beautiful environment takes the cake.
Q. When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?
A. I have to take a small bottle of rosewater spray -- a nice refresher after a long flight or anytime really; earbuds for good music; my Klean Kanteen thermos for hot tea or water; probiotics so my stomach holds up and a journal.
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(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and travel writer. You can respond to this column by visiting her website at www.jaehakim.com. You may also follow "Go Away With..." on Twitter at @GoAwayWithJae where Jae-Ha Kim welcomes your questions and comments.)
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