Orlando Sentinel (Sunday)

Franken shares her trips with fans

- By Jae-Ha Kim Tribune Content Agency For more from the reporter, visit www.jaehakim.com.

Born and raised in Spain, Tasha Franken started modeling when she was 15 years old. Working in an industry that focused on her looks was difficult, she said.

The model was told that not only was her skin tone too dark, but that she needed to lose weight. After battling an eating disorder, Franken focused on becoming the healthiest version of herself possible. She developed an online app where she shares her love of staying fit with Pilates (www.tashafran ken.tv). Currently based out of Los Angeles, the avid traveler shares her adventures on Instagram @tashafrank­en.

Q: What is your favorite vacation destinatio­n? A:

I’m biased, but I love going to Spain for a vacation. I grew up there. Ever since I left, I realized how amazing it is and wish I appreciate­d it more while living there. The best part about Spain is the food. Everything has so much flavor. I would recommend trying the traditiona­l olive oil, red wine, paella and tapas.

Q: If you’ve gone away for the holidays, which was the best trip?

A:

I’m half Norwegian, so spending Christmas in Norway is the best. It doesn’t get much more Christmass­y than that.

Q: If you had to cancel travel plans due to the pandemic, where were they to?

A: I had to cancel a lot of

jobs at the beginning. But the worst part was not being able to go home and see my family in Spain for over two years.

Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from your travels? A:

To adapt to your environmen­t. I always try to eat like a local and try new things that are unique to each place, which I wouldn’t necessaril­y do elsewhere.

Q: Where are your favorite weekend getaways?

A:

If I’m flying, Miami or Mexico would be my go-to for a quick weekend getaway.

Q: Where is the most romantic destinatio­n? A:

I have to say Paris is one of my favorites and (it’s also one of the) most romantic cities I’ve ever lived in.

Q: What are your favorite cities?

A:

New York, Paris, Barcelona and Singapore.

Q: Where would you like to go that you have never been to before? A: Thailand and Japan.

Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items? A:

I am very particular and like to keep my routine while traveling, so I always bring noise-canceling headphones, my skincare products, jump rope and ankle weights, sunglasses, vitamins and healthy snacks.

Q: What would be your dream trip?

A:

I would love to do another safari trip. I went with my parents when I was younger and it was the best experience I ever had.

Q: What is your guilty pleasure when you’re on the road?

A:

I play really loud music and always need lots of snacks!

Q: What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?

A:

I don’t love researchin­g, but I always save everything I see on my Google maps with a specific note. That way you know exactly where everything is and what you saved it for.

 ?? CIBELLE LEVI ?? Tasha Franken tries to eat like a local and sample things that are unique to each place when traveling.
CIBELLE LEVI Tasha Franken tries to eat like a local and sample things that are unique to each place when traveling.

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