By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Tribune and other outlets
February 13, 2024
Some people love filming on location so much that they return there for a vacation. Actress Aliyah Turner took it one step further. “I traveled to New York to work on ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’ and I enjoyed the city so much that I made it my new home,” Turner said. “The vibration of the city provides a fun and refreshing contrast to living in relaxed California. I’ve also shot in Los Angeles and look forward to shooting internationally on a future project.” The actress is active on social media, where her user handle is @_AliyahTurner.
Q: Do you have any upcoming trips planned?
A: I do! I am planning on attending a girls’ trip to Croatia this summer to enjoy Yacht Week 2024.
Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?
A: Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Jamaica provides an island vibe you just can’t help but immerse yourself in. The food is also delicious. The Dominican Republic holds a special place in my heart as I have meaningful childhood vacation memories there with my family. It’s a place full of beautiful culture and people.
Q: What untapped destination should people know about?
A: Turks and Caicos. I wouldn’t say it’s an untapped destination. However, I feel all travel enthusiasts should visit Turks and Caicos. The white sand beaches and gorgeous sunsets are unmatched.
Q: What was a trip you took as a child that stands out?
A: A Royal Caribbean cruise for a family vacation. I remember experiencing Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Thomas for the first time. The greenery was so lush and beautiful, the people were kind and the music was unique. I absolutely loved it.
Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from your travels?
A: I would say to keep an open mind and always maintain respect for other cultures and their people. Don’t be afraid to try new experiences even if they scare the daylights out of you.
Q: If you could only pick one place to eat, would you prefer a food truck or fine dining?
A: Honestly, I would prefer fine dining. Don’t get me wrong – food trucks are fantastic. However, I love the experience of sitting down with loved ones and sharing a delicious meal.
Q: Where are your favorite weekend getaways?
A: I have yet to find my favorite weekend getaways here in New York. However, in California, I cherished a good weekend getaway to Napa Valley and the beach towns of Carmel and Monterey.
Q: If you’ve ever gone away for the holidays, which was the best trip?
A: A few years back, my family visited Seattle and had a perfect white Christmas. Exploring attractions like the iconic Pike Place Market and the Seattle Great Wheel was a blast.
Q: Do you speak any foreign languages?
A: I am in the process of learning Spanish. It’s important to me to be fluent. It takes a lot of effort for me to pick up new languages, but I’m dedicated to making it happen.
Q: What are your five favorite cities?
A: Los Angeles, New York City, Honolulu, San Diego, Cabo San Lucas.
Q: Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?
A: I have yet to visit Italy. I cannot wait to plan a trip. I want to experience the pasta, wine, and architecture. I’m ready!
Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?
A: I must have ample bug spray. Unfortunately, mosquitoes stick to me like a magnet.
Q: What is your guilty pleasure when you’re on the road?
A: Fruity Mentos. I only eat them when I travel and it’s become a ritual for me to pick up a pack each time I do.
Q: What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?
A: I always check to make sure the place I’m staying suits the vibe I’m trying to create for my trip. I’ll also look up must-have food options and unique excursions.
Q: What is your best and/or worst vacation memory?
A: My best vacation memory is actually from a recent trip to Cancun. Traditionally I’m a bit of a scaredy-cat when it comes to adventurous activities. However, on my last trip I jumped off a 20-foot cliff into a cenote … twice! My worst vacation memory was in Orlando, Florida, many years ago as a child. A terrible storm hit while my family was visiting and I hid under the covers and prayed that the hotel would not get hit by lightning.
© 2024 JAE-HA KIM
DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
