My holidays: Justine Cormack

Justine Cormack of NZTrio.

What was your greatest holiday? Eight days of pure holiday in New York City, December 2012.

And the worst? I'm struggling to recall one - I guess that is a good sign!

If we bump into you on holiday, what are you most likely to be doing? Searching out and delighting in the best local cafes and restaurants - with lots of walking in between.

If we could teleport you to one place in New Zealand for a week-long holiday, where would it be? Having grown up in Christchurch, I definitely feel most at home in the South Island. And at this time of year, I would love a week of skiing in Central Otago.

How about for a dream holiday internationally? Italy is currently at the top of my list - a wonderful place for fantastic food and wine - and of course history.

What's the dumbest thing you've ever done when travelling? Not so much when I was travelling - but when I was studying violin at the San Francisco Conservatory, I regret that I didn't get myself to Yosemite National Park. I guess it's still not too late, though.

Complete this sentence: I can't travel without ... Comfortable clothes and shoes, and lip moisturiser.

What's the best travel tip you've ever been given? Drink lots of water - especially in the air, or in dry climates. I reckon it really helps combat jetlag. Also getting outside and walking is a great way to acclimatise and see the town/city/country.

What was the most memorable meal you've had while travelling? I have had many - but one that springs to mind was an extremely rustic meal at Fernando's Portugese restaurant on Macau Island. My husband and I caught the ferry over from Hong Kong, and after a day of walking, we had a fabulously tasty meal of grilled fresh sardines, tomatoes, lettuce and much more. I vividly remember the strong, flavoursome coffee at the end - a surprise for China back in those days. Also, we discovered when we went to pay that they only took cash - which we didn't have. Unphased, they asked us to post the money - which, of course, we did. How could we betray such trust - and they reckoned no one had ever failed to pay! Fantastic!
What's the best thing you've brought back from a trip? Actually, on the same trip to Hong Kong we bought a beautiful old stone buddha which exudes serenity and composure. It's the same size as our cat, Cass, who loves to sit with it.

Favourite airport at which to land? Any airport I am landing in for the first time - adventure awaits.

What's the next trip you've got planned? Back to San Francisco in January - to see family and friends.

Justine Cormack plays in the NZTrio Loft Series 3: Blast at Q Theatre, on November 8. For tickets, go to qtheatre.co.nz or phone (09) 309 9771.