South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Sunday)
One trip especially stands out to Toggs
Based out of Sydney, Australia, the contemporary Christian group Hillsong Young & Free has a new album coming out later this summer. But on July 10, they’ll release not one but two new singles: “World Outside Your Window” and “As I Am.”
Pastor and youth leader Laura Toggs is one of the members of the Grammynominated group. She says she enjoys staying in touch with fans via the band’s social media accounts (user handle @youngandfree) along with her own personal accounts (@lauratoggs).
Now 33, the musician says she feels “young at heart.” The married mother of two says she loves to travel, but there was one trip that stands out.
“My husband proposed to me in Italy with all my family there,” Toggs said. “That will forever take the cake as the best vacation memory.”
Q. What is your favorite vacation destination?
A. Italy is my favorite place in the world.
Q. To someone who is going to Italy for the first time, what would you recommend they do during their first visit?
A. Head straight to the small coastal towns during summertime, indulge in incredible food and explore the little local gems.
Q. What untapped destination should people know about?
A. Byron Bay in Australia is one of the most beautiful spots on earth (with) stunning beaches, great food, places to shop and plenty to do.
Q. What was the first trip you took as a child? And did you love it? Or … not so much?
A. My parents’ work was ministry, which had them traveling the world with me from the time I was a baby. The first trip I ever made was to Malaysia when I was 3 months old (so) I obviously don’t remember it. I have really fond memories of being in the USA a lot as a child.
Q. What is the most important thing you’ve learned from your travels?
A. The world makes the best teacher. I believe my worldview is so much larger from my experiences traveling. I love learning about people and culture, what makes us unique and yet the same all over the world.
Q. If you could only pick one, would you choose a low-key meal at a street cart or fine dining at a nice restaurant?
A. Can I choose both? Probably a casual meal with friends, but I do love a restaurant experience.
Q. Where are your favorite weekend getaways?
A. To the beach, always. Sydney has beautiful beaches and we get there as much as we can on the weekends.
Q. Where is the most romantic destination?
A. Amalfi Coast, Italy.
Q. If you’ve ever gone away over the holidays, which was the best trip?
A. New York during Christmas season is pretty magical.
Q. What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?
A. I don’t do a whole lot of research, but I tend to know people around the world. So I often will get in touch with them to give me advice on where to get a good coffee mostly.
For more from the reporter, visit www.jaehakim.com.