My Travel CV: For Mahalia Barnes, Thailand is like a second home

This Aussie singer has been to 42 countries, but her mother’s homeland holds a special place in her heart. 

Aussie singer Mahalia Barnes has performed all over the world. This is her Travel CV: 

I got my first passport when…

I was only a baby. I am pretty sure I’m being held up by my mum in the passport photo.

My first holiday memory is…

We used to holiday as a family in Thailand, where my mum is from. I have so many childhood memories of being there.

I’ve been to about 42 countries…

I have travelled a lot… but there’s definitely a whole lot of places I’ve never seen.

My favourite place in Australia is…

Australia is beautiful – there are so many places I love for all different reasons. I think my favourite place is still home – the Southern Highlands.

The place I’d love to visit in Australia is…

I’ve never been to the Red Centre! I’ve travelled across the country touring with bands, but somehow never made it to Uluru.

The place I’d rather be right now is…

Hua Hin in Thailand – it’s like a second home to me. I’d be looking at the ocean, soaking up the sun and humidity, feasting on delicious local food and getting a Thai massage. Or the Maldives – it’s so incredibly beautiful there.

The place I’ve visited most often is…

For holidays, probably Hua Hin.

My most memorable travel experience happened in/when...

My husband and I managed to get a seat at Noma’s pop-up in the Ace Hotel Kyoto when we had a week together in Japan. Tokyo was incredible, but Kyoto was such a wonderful experience. The food we ate on that trip was outrageously good.

The travel experience/destination on my bucket-list is...

I think somewhere I want to experience more is Mexico. I’ve been, but it was years ago and I’d love to go with my husband and kids. Also to see the Northern Lights is a dream of mine.

What I’ve noticed has changed in travel this year…

As a touring artist I’ve noticed the serious increase in prices for all travel, flights and accommodation in particular. Outside of cost, ease and efficiency of customs has improved in places with e-arrival cards.

The place that most surprised me was…

Japan. I knew it would blow my mind, so it wasn’t a complete surprise, but it’s just an amazing place – I loved it even more than I thought I would.

The place that didn’t live up to expectations…

There is great stuff everywhere. Because I travel so much for work, I haven’t had huge expectations as such. I didn’t love Bali as much as others seem to but I can’t say it was terrible – just that I prefer Thailand.

The advice I’d give to young travellers is…

Ask locals or friends who have been before for tips. Don’t stick to exclusively tourist map destinations. Walk. Take photos and journal so you remember and can pass on. Travel with a friend on the same page.

My holidays are mostly devoted to…

My holidays are often food-focused. Depending on the destination, museums and galleries are up there. If it’s a beach, I’m more likely to be eating and relaxing.

The souvenir I always buy…

I used to always buy snow globes – my kids loved them. These days I try to bring back something that is practical, or really reminds us of the trip.

The best hotel I’ve ever stayed in…

I have stayed in some ridiculously nice hotels over the years, particularly on tour with some bigger bands. I’ve been spoilt. Some standouts would be the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo, the Lanesborough in London, and The St Regis in Bangkok.

The travel tips I’d like to share are…

Don’t be afraid. Be open and willing to experience local culture, food and life. Always be respectful. If you don’t know, ask. Talk to locals and get their tips.

Travel has taught me...

To be open-minded about other cultures and cuisines, about history, about our similarities and our differences, about humanity. It’s taught me to be grateful for home and for everything I’ve been lucky enough to see and do.

How many flights have you missed?

Not many. Missed one NYC to Nashville. They made no call in the lounge and we realised too late.

Passports/visas/wallets/luggage lost?

Lost my wallet in Paris – it was stolen on the Metro. Had a stroller and kids, plus bags and didn’t zip up my handbag.

Who is your favourite travel companion?

My husband, Ben. Otherwise my friend Jade MacRae. We are two peas in a pod on the road!

Flight/cruise/car or train?

Flight or a car, I think. Definitely not a cruise for me.

Check-in or carry-on?

Depends on the destination but I usually have a small to medium check-in bag and a carry-on backpack.

I manage jet lag by…

Jet lag is for the weak! Don’t nap. See sunlight. Always stay up past 9/10pm on the first few nights. Night one is critical.

Mahalia Barnes is starring in Jesus Christ Superstar, which is playing in Melbourne until June 22 before heading to Brisbane.

Originally published as My Travel CV: For Mahalia Barnes, Thailand is like a second home