Nael Nacer on all-inclusive resorts, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and his visit to Cuba
Do you prefer booking trips through a travel agent or on your own?
I usually book travel on my own, but I love the idea of using a trusted travel agent. Guidance is always appreciated.
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Thoughts on an 'unplugged' vacation?
Yes, please. It's hard to disconnect, but once you manage to do it, there's nothing better.
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What has been your worst vacation experience?
My wife and I went to a giant all-inclusive resort once and ... it was not my thing. There was a lot of drinking and it was very loud. It was all-inclusive — but totally secluded with a sort of party atmosphere, which wasn't exactly what we were after.
What is your favorite childhood travel memory?
I was lucky enough to go to Cuba with my family when I was in high school, and it's an astonishingly beautiful place. I dream of going back.
Do you vacation to relax, to learn, or for the adventure of it all?
I would say a healthy mix of adventure and relaxation. I like a good itinerary that has built-in downtime.
What book do you plan on bringing with you to read on your next vacation?
'The Ferryman' by Justin Cronin. Or 'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir.
If you could travel with one famous person/celebrity, who would it be?
Lin-Manuel Miranda. He seems like a good fellow traveler: enthusiastic, thoughtful, funny, curious, and kind.
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What is the best gift to give a traveler?
Information. I love to plan, but all my best trips have been elevated by recommendations from friends, and I try to return the favor whenever possible.
What is your go-to snack for a flight or a road trip?
My absolute favorite flight snack is Fauchon mini-crepes. I only buy them at the airport, and it's become a ritual with my wife to crack open a box once the seatbelt sign is turned off. It's how we start and end almost all of our trips. On road trips, I like to munch on Combos while I drive.
What is the coolest souvenir you've picked up on a vacation?
My wife and I collect ornaments from every place we go, and we've gotten some really beautiful ones over the years. Putting them up at Christmas time is really special; we get to think about all the places we've been as we decorate the tree.
What is your favorite app/website for travel?
I don't really have a favorite, but I use Google Flights, Expedia, and Kayak.
What has travel taught you?
It's made me more curious, open, and grateful to be on this planet. There is so much beauty in the world, and so many ways to experience it. It feels essential to me to get out of the daily grind whenever possible and open up my world view, whether it's flying across the world or taking a day trip outside the city.
What is your best travel tip?
Stay hydrated. And have at least one activity every day; it can make short trips feel longer.
Juliet Pennington can be reached at
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