Since Leslie Carter began travel blogging in 2012, she has traveled to more than 50 countries and experienced incredible adventures, including an African safari and a rain-forest hike. Recently, On the Go: A Magazine for Travelers spoke with Carter about her favorite travel experiences, which range from extreme adventures in Fiji to the relaxing escapes in the Dominican Republic.
Adventure or relaxation?
I’m definitely the extreme adventure type. My idea of relaxation is flying to the drop zone or swinging from a tree. I’m a hyperactive traveler.
Best vacation/experience you’ve ever had? (I know this must be like choosing a favorite child!)
This is impossible, but if I need to choose an overall experience, I’d say Fiji. In ten days, I was able to go snorkeling, skydiving, whitewater rafting, cliff jumping and dune buggy racing. I stayed at several of the most exclusive, private island resorts and dining regularly on the beach. I relaxed in luxury and explored in the extreme.
Dream vacation destination?
These are all very difficult questions, and I’m only on number 3. Thailand is what’s coming to mind right now, but that changes with my mood, the time of day, the day of the week, what adventure I dreamt about…. I want to see the world. I want to experience everything I can get out of this life. Travel is as much a part of my life as family and friends. Answering these questions is like choosing your favorite parent or sibling. I love them all.
Favorite hotel?
Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic. It’s on the beach, it offers the sporting life, and the amenities are endless. Any hotel that incorporates the extreme into their daily activities got it right in my eyes.
Favorite restaurants/dish?
I’m a cheap date. I like pizza regardless of where I am in the world, but give me an aged, well-cooked, medium-rare steak and I’m in Heaven. I recently ate at Zozo’s in St. John, and it was the best steak I’ve eaten. As for pizza, Original in Newport Beach, California, or The Wheel in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, are unbeatable.
Favorite vacation drink?
“So bring me two piña coladas
One for each hand
Let’s set sail with Captain Morgan
And never leave dry land”
[Editor’s note: Lyrics by Garth Brooks]
Favorite vacation activity?
Anything and everything extreme. Add water and I’m like a kid on Easter chocolate.
Pool or beach?
Beach; no question.
Socks or no socks with sandals?
Oh no; no socks with sandals for me. I’m a flip-flops kind of gal. I wear them everywhere. (Living in SoCal helps with that.)
Is there truly “no place like home,” or is the road your home?
The road is my home. I’m more comfortable in airports and hotels than in my own town. I’ve never lived anywhere for more than three years my entire life. I get “road sick”.
Read how Leslie chose her 2015 travel adventures in October’s issue of On the Go: A Magazine for Travelers and read Leslie’s travel adventures at Bucket List Publications.