Celebrity Q&A Curtis Stone shares his favourite family travel experiences
LA-based Australian TV chef, author and restaurateur, Curtis Stone, opened his first solo restaurant, Maude, named after his grandmother, in Beverly Hills in 2014. He also runs an events and catering company in LA and Australia. When not at work, he loves
WE KNOW YOU LOVE TO TRAVEL, AS YOUR TV SHOWS SURFING THE MENU AND, MORE RECENTLY, FIELD TRIP ON FOXTEL’S LIFESTYLE FOOD CHANNEL, HAVE SHOWN. HAVE YOU DONE MUCH TRAVEL WITH YOUR KIDS?
We have! Travel opens the world up to kids and exposes them to cultures and lifestyles beyond the block they live on. Linds and I have taken the boys to South-East Asia, Greece and, of course, we get back to Australia. We're looking forward to getting back to Europe and to some sand, surf, and sloths in Costa Rica.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT TRAVELLING WITH YOUR FAMILY?
Long days and nights are part of being a chef. I also have so many other projects from product development to filming obligations, so travel is really a time for me to tune out with the people I love and just hit reset.
HOW IS IT DIFFERENT TO BEFORE YOU HAD KIDS?
There are fewer excursions exploring the nightlife and a more cultural itinerary including museums, historical landmarks, and outdoor adventure. Still, lots of swimming and surfing though!
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE IN AUSTRALIA YOU’VE TRAVELLED TO WITH YOUR FAMILY?
Melbourne, because that's where all the relatives are — and who doesn't love a big hug from mum? But there are still so many more places I'd like to take them. I've never been to Kangaroo Island and I think that would be a fun place for the boys.
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE YOU’VE TRAVELLED TO WITH YOUR FAMILY OVERSEAS?
We went to South-East Asia three summers ago and it was incredible. Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore – what a trip!
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO VISIT IN LA WITH KIDS?
We love to be outside. Biking at the beach and hikes in the canyon are highlights. Hudson stood up on a surfboard last summer and, I've got to say, it was a proud moment for me as a dad.
WHAT’S BEEN THE WORST THING THAT’S HAPPENED ON A FAMILY HOLIDAY?
We've been pretty lucky and have avoided any major catastrophes.
AND THE BEST MOMENT?
They just keep topping each other, so the best is yet to come.
WHY DO YOU THINK TRAVELLING WITH KIDS IS IMPORTANT?
Travelling is all about exposure – tasting new foods, hearing new languages, seeing other ways of life. Honestly, it's the most important gift you can give yourself and your family.
WHAT’S YOUR BEST PACKING TIP?
My secret is packing dirty clothes and having them laundered at the hotel. You can cram a lot in a carry-on and you don't have to worry about it being wrinkled. Admittedly, I do this more when I am away for business and am hopping from one place to the next.
ANY TIPS FOR SURVIVING LONGHAUL FLIGHTS WITH KIDS?
Downloading lots of videos on the iPad, lots of snacks on hand, headphones and, most importantly, fly at night when everyone is tuckered out.
WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO GO FOR YOUR NEXT FAMILY HOLIDAY?
The boys want to do the jungle and see animals. I'm happy to be near a body of water with a beer.
Field Trip with Curtis Stone screens on FOXTEL’s LifeStyle Food channel on Sundays at 8pm.