We all love to catch a glimpse of our favorite actors on the big screen, but what about when the cameras stop rolling? In this special roundup, we’ve tapped into the off-screen lives of actors and actresses, uncovering their most cherished hangouts, travel escapes, and personal sanctuaries. From the coolest spots they’ve filmed to the hidden gems they recommend, these stars share the destinations they’d write home about. Whether it’s their perfect day off, the comforts of a beloved getaway, or the essentials they never travel without, discover where these stars go to unwind and find inspiration. As summer draws to a close and with each of them starring in major films and shows this month, we’ve captured their travel inspiration — perfect for a final getaway before cozying up this winter and catching up on their latest projects.
IMANI PULLUM
Starting her career in Disney’s Broadway touring production of The Lion King as ‘Young Nala,’ Imani now stars as ‘Ella Garner’ in Prime Video’s new drama series Classified, released on August 22nd. She previously delivered a standout performance in Emancipation alongside Will Smith and captivated audiences as ‘Topa’ in The Orville: New Horizons. At just 20 years old, Imani is quickly emerging as a dynamic and versatile actress in the entertainment industry.
Where do you head for comfort and relaxation? Is there a particular place that feels like your sanctuary, where you can truly relax and recharge?
Being back home in LA is my favorite place to be when I need to relax. I live in New York now and I really love it, but when I need a break from the fast pace, I go back home to LA for comfort.
When it’s time for a vacation, what destination is at the top of your list? Do you have a favorite getaway spot that you always look forward to visiting?
Barbados is at the top of my list of travel destinations. I’ve been a couple of times now, and each time I’m thinking about when I can plan my next trip back.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
Mexico City is at the top of my bucket list right now. Mexican food is one of my favorite cuisines, and I’ve heard that Mexico City has great boutiques and markets with vintage jewelry. One of my favorite things to do when I travel is buying clothes and jewelry from local businesses, because those are places where I usually find my favorite pieces.
What essentials are always in your travel bag? Fashion, beauty products, snacks, etc… Are there specific items you always pack, no matter where you’re going?
I always keep bleach wipes and hand sanitizer in my travel bag to make sure I keep my hands and all the surfaces that I touch clean. Also, I always carry L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Hand Cream and Topicals Slick Salve for my lips because the air in planes is really drying. Lastly, I always bring my Kindle because I love reading and my Kindle takes up less room in my bag than books.
Do you have any travel rituals or routines that help you feel at home no matter where you are?
Going to the grocery store is sometimes what always makes me feel at home wherever I am in the world. I find walking through the aisles really relaxing, and having my favorite snacks and foods in my hotel room gives me a sense of comfort and consistency that allows me to relax more.
AILEEN WU
Aileen, a recent graduate of NYC’s Tisch School of the Arts and the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, made her impressive feature film debut this summer in Disney’s Alien: Romulus, released on August 16th. Aileen quickly stepped into the spotlight as ‘Navarro’ in this new installment of the Alien franchise, directed by Fede Alvarez, alongside fellow rising stars Cailee Spaeny and Isabela Merced.
When you think about your perfect day off, what does it look like?
Hanging with my mother so she can cook for me all day. She’s such a good cook, everything is made with love. And we’d binge-watch five different old classic films in a day together. That’s my perfect day off.
Where do you head for comfort and relaxation? Is there a particular place that feels like your sanctuary, where you can truly relax and recharge?
In my bed, next to my husband. We talk and cuddle for hours.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
Japan, Germany, France, The UK, and Italy.
What book, podcast, or playlist do you turn to for the journey? What keeps you entertained or inspired during your travels?
I’m a big fan of Chuck Palahniuk. Right now, I’m reading Doomed. He just has such a distinct voice that I can never get tired of, and the plot of his books are always so absurd and intense. They’re a good tool to keep me from getting too in my head.
What essentials are always in your travel bag? Fashion, beauty products, snacks, etc… Are there specific items you always pack, no matter where you’re going?
My wired Apple earphones purchased back in 2018. And my uncle’s limited edition Yankees hat that I borrowed that same year. (I don’t watch baseball; I just like that the hat says NY.)
LAUREN BUGLIOLI
Lauren stars as “Heather” in the highly anticipated AppleTV+ series Bad Monkey alongside Vince Vaughn, which premiered on August 14th. Previously, she captivated audiences as “Kaitlin Fox” in Netflix’s Florida Man and has appeared in other notable projects like Cinnamon, A Jazzman’s Blues, and Queens. Beyond acting, Lauren is dedicated to fostering mental health within the entertainment community, volunteers with organizations like Heart Gallery and Chastain Horse Park, and is a proud dog mom to two rescue pups, Vixen and Beverly Hills Cop II.
When you think about your perfect day off, what does it look like?
I love a Sunday. My ideal Sunday would be taking a hike with my pups and a friend, swinging by a farmers market or Sprouts, and then going home to do my Sunday reset/cleaning routine to get ready for the week before watching a couple of episodes of whatever show I’m obsessed with at the moment. It sounds nerdy (cause, it is) but I feel like I get centered and release stress by cleaning, and I love feeling organized. I’m a Capricorn… I’m allowed to blame astrology for my personality, right?! My younger self would be shocked and appalled that I love… cleaning. Isn’t adulting wild? I really didn’t see getting excited about a vacuum coming but in my defense, it also mops.
Where’s the coolest or most standout place you’ve filmed? What’s something you’d write home about after a long day on set?
I was lucky enough to film in Bermuda for three weeks and I absolutely fell in love with it. I went back for a vacation there last summer and hope to visit again soon. The beaches are stunning and Bermudians are lovely people. I tend to write home/call my family and gush about people on set who inspire me. Often it’s someone’s energy, attitude, kindness, and/or passion for their craft that really stand out to me and stick with me. Energy doesn’t lie and I’m always motivated to be more like those artists who manage to bring joy to a 16-hour day. It makes all the difference.
Off-set and off-screen, where do you love to spend your time? Do you have a favorite hangout spot or activity that helps you unwind?
I love having my girlfriends over to my condo for a night in. Once a month, we get take out, have dinner, and then sit on my couch, crank up the fireplace, and talk for hours. It’s my favorite. All of us are so busy that it helps to know we have a standing date to catch up and have quality time together. I’ve realized that cultivating friendships as an adult is so important or the time just… goes. Girl’s night in has helped us stay connected. People leave saying they feel like their “cup is full,” which is my favorite thing to hear. I think we all need more of that feeling.
What book, podcast, or playlist do you turn to for the journey? What keeps you entertained or inspired during your travels?
Okay, so this is going to be an eclectic mix, because… balance! I just finished Michael Singer’s The Untethered Soul and it is absolutely beautiful. Now I’m working through the accompanying journal and just started to read his book, Living Untethered.
As far as podcasts go, I love Expanded from To Be Magnetic, Giggly Squad (I love Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo. I am certifiably a Giggler), and the Daily Stoic (Ryan Holiday’s books are incredible). This is clearly all over the map, which feels right. What can I say? My brain is eclectic.
Are there any cultural experiences or traditions from your travels that have left a lasting impression on you? What have you learned or adopted from different places you’ve visited?
I love visiting Italy because their culture really emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and… last but not least, coffee. There’s an emphasis on contentment and presence there that I try to bring home with me after visiting. I have a little morning routine that includes journaling, breathwork, and really savoring my coffee. Recently, I started getting fresh flowers from Trader Joe’s and creating little flower arrangements throughout my apartment. I’m also making an effort to spend more quality time with friends throughout the week. I’m essentially trying to romanticize the little things in an effort to cope with not currently being in Lake Como, pounding ice coffee, and living my best vacation life. In all seriousness, I find infusing joy in my day where I can make everything more magical.
DIMITRI LEONIDAS
Dimitri stars as the famed chariot racer Scorpus in Peacock’s new summer series Those About to Die, directed by Roland Emmerich. Known for his versatile roles across stage, television, and film, Dimitri most recently appeared in Apple TV’s Foundation and Masters of The Air. His previous work includes leading roles in Netflix’s The One, Sky Atlantic’s Riviera, and the World War II drama The Monuments Men alongside George Clooney.
What’s the coolest or most standout place you have filmed?
My work has taken me to a variety of different countries. Many wonderful places like Malta, Nice, Jordan, Barcelona, Berlin, Prague, and most recently Rome — have all been home to me at some point. The place I have chosen as a standout is far less exotic though.
In 2009, I shot a film called Centurion. It’s based on the true-ish account of the Ninth Legion, a legendary sect of the Roman army sent to fight the Picts in the Scottish Highlands. They disappeared entirely and were never seen again. The film presents director Neil Marshall’s vision of what might have happened to them. We filmed high up in the snow-capped mountains of central Scotland. Some of the locations were only accessible via a half-track vehicle, a small tank that can drive vertically up a steep mountainside. It was deep winter at the time and we emerged from the vehicle into a vista of pure white. The thick dense fog was inseparable from the snow-covered ground and created the impression we were wandering through clouds — which, from our location at the summit of the Cairngorms mountain range, were actually below us. We stood in awe. Freezing in our Roman kilts. There were several remote locations we filmed in that were unbelievably beautiful. My favorite was a green valley that stretched for miles through a mountain pass. A narrow stream of icy water ran through it, its source somewhere far away, a crevice in the rocks. A brutal environment in many ways but truly unique.
What essentials do you bring on your travels?
When I travel for work, I always used to overpack. Sometimes I’d be working away for weeks or months at a time and paranoia had me packing every T-shirt I own ‘just in case.’
A trip to Vietnam a few years ago changed all that. I was meeting a friend there who had been living and working in Thailand. The plan was to rent motorbikes and drive across the mountains on the northern tip of Vietnam. We’d travel through the low-lying villages and farmland and circle back up the mountains in what would be a four or five-day round trip. There isn’t much room for a 32kg suitcase on a motorbike. It was a backpack-only sort of vibe. It was hard deciding what to leave behind, but actually quite a wonderful feeling, to pack light and have everything right there with you. You need surprisingly little actually. I squeezed a book into my backpack; that was my luxury item I guess!
What book or playlist is your go-to when traveling? What keeps you entertained or inspired?
Music can really punctuate a moment in time, doubly so when you are traveling. Listening to a familiar album as you travel through a foreign landscape by train can be quite a magical experience. And then listening to that music again, years later, transports you back to that rattling train carriage. I read a book called Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned on a beach holiday earlier this year. I still haven’t gotten over it! It’s a collection of short stories by the writer Wells Tower. I could try and describe his writing style, but I wouldn’t do it justice. I will say the book heightened the experience of the holiday in such a profound way — I still think about it.
Anywhere you haven’t been that you want to visit?
Everywhere! Japan, Tibet, and South America are high on the list. I have been fortunate to have seen a lot of Europe, particularly its major cities. There is obviously still plenty more on the continent I’d like to explore, but I’d also like to visit places that are unlike Europe, and unlike the cultural experiences and norms I have become accustomed to. Tibet is obviously vastly different in that respect. South America seems wild and Japan is… well, who doesn’t want to go to Japan?
Any rituals or routines to make you feel at home when you are away?
I’m a bit like a cat in a new home — going through each room and identifying the new parameters. I also like to go for a walk when I arrive in a new place. Obviously, I am not mapping out everything, but it’s nice to establish some familiarity with the surroundings. Even if it’s just to find a nice cafe nearby. I think having a few places you can reference helps settle the mind. Especially if you’ve discovered somewhere with good coffee!
MCKINLEY FREEMAN
McKinley is an American actor and producer, currently starring as Lewis in the second season of Hulu’s Reasonable Doubt, which premiered August 22nd. Known for his roles as Derek Roman in Hit the Floor and Dominic in Ava DuVernay’s Queen Sugar, Freeman has also appeared in popular series like Titans, Scandal, and Bones. Beyond acting, he is passionate about boxing, ju-jitsu, and philanthropy.
When it’s time for a vacation, what destination is at the top of your list? Do you have a favorite getaway spot that you always look forward to visiting?
Vacation or not, for lots of reasons including family, relatives, life-long friends and more, I always find a way back to Champaign, IL. The name sounds like a vacation (haha) and the pride of the folks from there is special. But for “vacation, vacation” I’d say the North Shore of Hawaii is near the top of the list — Turtle Bay, specifically. But I also think it’s cool to find spots closer to home, so I’ll look to do things like camping or star-gazing in Arizona and New Mexico.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
There are a few places in Africa that I want to visit, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, and Egypt. I’d also like to visit Japan… and by the time you share this, I’ll probably have more places.
What book, podcast, or playlist do you turn to for the journey? What keeps you entertained or inspired during your travels?
I’m a huge audiobook person, so there’s a small library of books on my phone which is great, so I could be listening to any from The Book of Acts when Paul was preaching on Mars Hill, to a few of Robert Greene’s books, to books on history with figures ranging from Marcus Garvey, Aloric the Goth and Ghenghis Kahn, to a book I feel attacked by called “Surrounded by Idiots” haha.
What essentials are always in your travel bag? Fashion, beauty products, snacks, etc… Are there specific items you always pack, no matter where you’re going?
My bible usually, a power chord, some kind of snack… because the airport prices are always taxing… and a hoodie.
Is there a place, restaurant, or activity you discovered recently that you’d recommend to others? Any hidden gems or new experiences that have become favorites?
It depends on where you are, but the cool thing about LA is there are so many great places to eat, with an amazing range of cultures and cuisines just miles or minutes away. Simply Wholesome on Slauson is always a great place to stop… Earle’s on Crenshaw is never a bad idea… neither is Soul Food Kitchen on Manchester if you have an appetite. SK Donuts on 3rd is always cool; the owner and his family seem to never have a bad day, which I pray God sustains because that’s rare these days. And with that, supporting small businesses is important, and so are the prices in these places to ensure they can keep doing what they do.
Are there any cultural experiences or traditions from your travels that have left a lasting impression on you?
There are two. During the height of the pandemic, I was working in Toronto and everything was closed or Covid-mandated distances/eat with your mask kind of situations, and I just remember being grateful to have experienced Toronto in so many other ways before. And Toronto at that moment giving me the chance to work — even with things being super closed, I tried to walk to a different park every day and frequented an amazing place called “Pam’s Roti.” If Pam greets you and Pam and her friends are laughing doing the cooking and hanging out, then you knew you were about to eat good haha.
The other moment was at the Whitney Plantation in New Orleans, with its combination of pointed reminders of the history there through the eyes of kids statues, combined with its history, its position on plantation row… I just really marveled at the visceral reaction Rutina Wesley and I felt just walking around there, let alone working…
TONI TRUCKS
Toni stars as Lisa Davis in the hit CBS/Paramount+ series SEAL Team, which premiered its seventh and final season on August 11th. Portraying a strong female Navy SEAL as a woman of color has been a deeply meaningful experience for her. With a career spanning both film and television, Toni’s credits include Twilight: Breaking Dawn – Part 2, Franklin & Bash, NCIS: New Orleans, Hostages, and more. Outside of acting, she is excited to embrace new roles while navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood.
Where’s the coolest or most standout place you’ve filmed? What’s something you’d write home about after a long day on set?
In this last season of SEAL Team, we spent about three weeks in Colombia. The landscape there is absolutely breathtaking. I snuck away for a few days to see Medellin. That city is just beautiful and magically tucked in the clouds. We finished our final days of filming in the jungle near Palomino. ‘Love in the Time of Cholera’ is a novel that really stuck with me and is set in that exact area. So being in that environment felt very romantic and nostalgic. Definitely a special place to film.
When it’s time for a vacation, what destination is at the top of your list? Do you have a favorite getaway spot that you always look forward to visiting?
I used to really chase the sun when I traveled, but now I seek out anything that feels peaceful and serene. In recent years I have grown to love hot springs — nature’s hot tub. From Iceland to Two Bunch Palms, they definitely put me into a relaxing mode.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
Japan! It’s at the top of my list. The landscape is so vast. There are a multitude of ways to enjoy it, and there are seemingly treasures in every season. It’s hard to feel far away in this digital age. I feel like Japan might just scratch that itch. I crave a culture shock, and Japan holds both fast-paced and profoundly peaceful areas within its borders. I want to go there!
What book, podcast, or playlist do you turn to for the journey? What keeps you entertained or inspired during your travels?
I am an equal-opportunity music lover. I often ask my older brother to curate my playlists to find new artists. That being said, no matter where I am, I always happily turn to Bon Iver to serenade me. Justin Vernon’s voice tugs deeply at my heartstrings.
Do you have any travel rituals or routines that help you feel at home no matter where you are?
I firmly believe in completely unpacking my suitcase. No matter the length of stay, my clothes are immediately hung up and folded inside the dresser.
Are there any cultural experiences or traditions from your travels that have left a lasting impression on you?
If you see gelato, it is time for gelato! Italy taught me that.
JESSICA SHERR
Jessica is a seasoned actress, writer, and producer known for her roles on hit TV shows like TNT’s Claws, FreeForm’s Cloak and Dagger, HBO’s Flight of the Conchords, and most notably CBS’ Blue Bloods. She is currently reprising her role as the legendary Bette Davis in the acclaimed one-woman show Bette Davis Ain’t for Sissies at the Triad Theater in New York City. Having completed over 400 performances of the show across 25 states and three countries, Jessica is also developing a feature film titled Bette, which she co-wrote with Caitlin Scherer.
Where do you head for comfort and relaxation? Is there a particular place that feels like your sanctuary, where you can truly relax and recharge?
I grab my surfboard and head to the beach! I spend hours in the water dancing on the waves. I love the glimmer of sunshine that reflects and sparkles on the ocean. If I’m having a busy day, my thoughts disappear, and the ocean calms my nerves. Paddling out into the waves makes my body feel rejuvenated, vibrant, and recharged. I’ve been surfing since I was in high school, and it’s always brought me so much learning and joy. You learn a lot about yourself when you’re surfing in the ocean — it has its ups and downs; happy, sad, laughing, crying — all of it. And with each visit to the ocean I am fulfilled and leave a new person.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
I’ve been eyeing Australia for a long time. There are amazing surf camps there and it’s unlike anywhere I’ve visited so far.
Do you have any travel rituals or routines that help you feel at home no matter where you are?
Journaling. I’m able to write down exciting things that happen, and things that I observe, and how I’m feeling while I’m in this new place.
I remember taking my journal to Sienna, Italy where I studied abroad in college. I’d sit in the Tuscan city center or take my journal to a villa, and drink wine overlooking the region, and write about my thoughts and feelings. I took that same journal to Barcelona and was writing about two people that I met there, while on a train to Paris, and wouldn’t you know — they walked right by me. We couldn’t believe the luck. So we traveled the rest of the way to Paris together, and I wrote about that in my journal too. Journaling always helps me feel less alone. Travel always brings so much excitement and unknown. There’s so much synchronicity that goes into travel. It’s why I love doing it and journaling about these special moments.
Are there any cultural experiences or traditions from your travels that have left a lasting impression on you? What have you learned or adopted from different places you’ve visited?
I loved performing in Edinburgh, Scotland. I took up drinking tea and enjoying Scottish Shortbread cookies. I stayed in a flat that overlooked the Edinburgh Castle — what a dream! Every morning I’d open my huge shutters, and I would look at the castle and dream about its past and its history. And then at night, I would reflect on my day and see the castle standing tall for all its years. And with what became a very memorable routine, I’d say good night to the castle and close my shutters. Then in my slumber, I’d have these dreams of what it must have been like to be a Queen or King. I was so inspired — and that’s the important part about being an artist — travel helps with your creative life.
Where’s the coolest or most standout place you’ve filmed? What’s something you’d write home about after a long day on set?
I filmed in Newfoundland, Canada. It was beautiful. I had gotten to my hotel room late at night and it was dark out. In the morning when I opened the curtain, we were on a huge lake — it was pristine and absolutely still. It was breathtaking. Sometimes you just don’t know what to expect when you open the window.
JAVICIA LESLIE
Javicia Leslie is a German-born, DC-raised actress most recognized for her role as Batwoman/Ryan Wilder on the second season of the CW show, Batwoman. After landing her first major role in the Lifetime film Swim at Your Own Risk in 2016, she appeared as a series regular on the BET drama The Family Business and the CBS comedy-drama God Friended Me. This fall, Javicia will star as Detective Daphne in ABC’s new procedural drama, High Potential, which is based on the popular French series Haut Potentiel Intellectuel (HPI).
When you think about your perfect day off, what does it look like?
My perfect day off starts with a morning workout, followed by lunch outside to enjoy the weather, then dinner at a favorite restaurant, and ending with a movie on the couch.
Where do you love to spend your time when you’re not working?
Off-set and off-screen, I really enjoy spending my time at home. I love to cook dinner and enjoy watching some of my favorite movies and TV shows in my living room with guests.
When it’s time for a vacation, what destination is at the top of your list? Do you have a favorite getaway spot that you always look forward to visiting?
My favorite place to vacation is Barcelona. I love the food, the architecture, and the culture. The weather is always so beautiful, and the people are always so much fun.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
One place that’s on my bucket list is Kenya. I’m currently writing a book that’s based in Kenya, which makes me even more excited to visit one day.
What essentials are always in your travel bag? Fashion, beauty products, snacks, etc… Are there specific items you always pack, no matter where you’re going?
When I travel, I always bring my favorite perfumes — I love to tell a story with each fragrance. For example, when I’m traveling in the summer, I bring fragrances that feel and smell like summer in the Caribbean. And for vacation nights, I always pack more sexy, complex fragrances.
BRANDE RODERICK
Brande Roderick is an accomplished actress, director, and producer, best known for her lead role as Leigh Dyer in Baywatch Hawaii. She’s featured in the new Hulu documentary Baywatch: A Moment In The Sun, which explores the impact of the iconic franchise. Roderick also makes her directorial debut with Wineville, a 1970s-set horror film where she stars as Tess Lott, releasing this fall.
Where’s the coolest or most standout place you’ve filmed?
Hands down my most favorite place to film was Hawaii. This is where we filmed Baywatch. It is one of the most magical, spiritual places you could be. Every morning, I’d wake up in Waikiki and set out on my one-hour journey to the North Shore, windows rolled down listening to some island music, breathing in the smells as I passed the pineapple fields. Once on set — which was the beach — we’d get to frolic in the oceans of Hawaii and bask in the beautiful sunlight, not to mention the views. Whether it was the beautiful tropical mountains or the beautiful sites of my cast members, like Jason Momoa. I’d write home that my friends and family would have to come visit me because I’m never leaving.
Where do you head for comfort and relaxation?
Every year in the new year I head to WE CARE SPA in the desert hot springs area to re-set. This is where I’m reminded to slow down, ground myself, and re-train myself to be healthy. I cleanse my body and my mind. It’s a place to recharge and reboot. I would almost feel lost without it.
When it’s time for a vacation, what destination is at the top of your list?
For the past eight years, my entire family and I have gone to Yosemite to go camping. We always hike beautiful mountains like Vernal Falls, Carson Falls, and Mirror Lake. We go tubing down the Merced River, cook food over the campfire, play card games, and always get pizza in Curry Village while the kids go on stage and put on talent shows. It’s a fun family tradition that my kids and I look forward to every year.
Anywhere you haven’t been that’s on your bucket list?
In 2025, my family and I are going to Croatia and Greece — two places I’ve never been and have always dreamed of. This is definitely a bucket list trip.
This past June, I was able to mark Bora Bora Four Seasons off my bucket list and it was truly magical. My favorite thing about it was waking up every morning with the most amazing magical ocean view from our overwater bungalow.
What book, podcast, or playlist do you turn to for the journey?
My go-to podcast is Law of Attraction Changed My Life by Francesca Amber. I listen to her every day. I’m also in her book club and read two books a month. It’s all about self-improvement in all aspects of your life — health, career, spiritual… anything to make you a better, more successful person in life.
Credits:
Written by Carly Long | @bycarlylong
