Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Bahamas resort is favorite escape
Before becoming a “Good Morning America” co-host, Michael Strahan was a Super Bowl champion as a defensive end for the New York Giants. He would later be nominated for an Emmy for his work as a “Fox NFL Sunday” analyst. Also on his list of multitasking duties: hosting ABC’s “$100,000 Pyramid” and executive-producing the TBS revival of “The Joker’s Wild.” In 2015, he partnered with J.C. Penney to launch Collection by Michael Strahan. The latest addition to his clothing and accessories line is luggage.
“For traveling, good luggage is a must,” says Strahan, 45. “We went back and forth on the weight and lining and pretty much every little detail. As someone who travels for work every weekend, I know how critical a good piece of luggage is.”
An edited version of our conversation follows.
Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?
A: The Albany resort in the Bahamas. There is nothing like walking out 100 yards into the ocean and having the beautiful blue water still only come up to your knees. It’s an incredible feeling. There’s also great food and activities, from horseback riding to tennis to golf. Anything adults and kids could want. It’s perfect for the whole family.
Q: What was the first trip you took as a child?
A: As a child, my parents always took me and my siblings on family road trips in our RV. The earliest memories are when we went to the Busch Gardens amusement park (in Virginia). I can honestly say it was some of the happiest times, and I loved it.
Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from your travels?
A: There is a big world out there that exists beyond your community and comfort zone. Every country has a unique feel. Different people who thrive on different values and foods, and they’re all worth experiencing. So don’t be scared to go out of your comfort zone and test the waters.
Q: Where are your favorite weekend getaways?
A: Probably have to go with the Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach, Calif. It’s a great escape and not too far. Q: Where is the most romantic destination? A: Lake Como, Italy. It’s beautiful there!
Q:Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?
A: I’ve had my eye on Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia and the Maldives.
Q: What would be your dream trip?
A: Around the world in 142 days. It’ll happen one day.
Q: What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?
A: I ask the kids to see what location or activity is on their minds and then we vote based on what they suggest. As long as it’s safe and interesting, we give it a go. At the end of the day, I want them to experience the world and explore as much as possible.
Q: What is your best and/or worst vacation memory?
A: Best is safari with the kids at the Royal Malawane in South Africa. There was really nothing like it. The worst has to be a canceled flight to St. Tropez. We got booked on the next flight out the following day, but weren’t able to retrieve our bags. Instead, they told us that our bags would automatically be put on that next flight. But three days later, it was clear that the bags had never left New York. Let’s just say that at my size, it is pretty hard to find replacement clothing in a European country.