Cat Harding: 'I went to Mykonos with Jorginho and had the most romantic, wild time'

Irish Examiner

17-05-2025

Currently appearing in the hit series Married to the Game, Cat Harding's life has taken her from her roots in Co. Tipperary to glamorous global adventures with her Arsenal footballer husband, Jorginho.
Filming its second season, she says, felt much more natural and knowing what to expect, she enjoyed it much more. But talking all things travel, be it a romantic getaway in Mykonos or digging for vintage gems on Portobello Road, she's happy to share her most memorable trips and the hotels that keep her coming back.
My favourite childhood holiday memory
I didn't travel at all as a child. I only went on one holiday to Spain, and that was because I watched a travel agency video about ten times and begged my dad to take us. He told me if I learned a certain song on the piano, I could go — so I practised and practised until I got it, and he couldn't say no. I think not travelling at all as a child makes my love of travelling as an adult even stronger.
Most surprising destination
The place that surprised me most was a beautiful little town in Brazil called Jericoacoara. I was expecting a quiet, simple place, but it turned out to be stunning, with incredible nature everywhere you look, paradise beaches for miles, and a vibrant culture that's just contagious. You can't help but feel happy and smile when you're there.
My most memorable trip
Architecture at Mykonos town (Chora), Mykonos island, Cyclades, Greece at sunset.
It's hard to pick just one because I've had so many beautiful trips, but my favourite was my first trip away with Jorginho. We went to Mykonos and had the most romantic, wild time. It was our first proper trip together, and it was after our son Jax was born.
Before I got pregnant, we always wanted to go away but couldn't find the time, and then lockdown happened… then pregnancy and the baby. So when we finally got to take that trip, it felt really special.
Favourite city to visit
I have too many favourites to name just one. I love different cities for different reasons. New York is such an incredible city. I love how each area has its own feel — from the downtown artistic hubs with little cafes to the chic uptown shops and amazing bars.
Broadway is always a must, and I love breakfast at Sadelle's in West Broadway. The MoMA is one of my favourite places — I could stroll for hours taking in all the incredible art.
I also love Miami. Jorge and I especially enjoy the Latin side of the city — all the bachata dancing (not that I'm very good, but I love trying!). São Paulo is amazing, and it has probably my favourite park in the world — Ibirapuera Park. It's so vast and green. Every time I walk through it, I'm in awe of nature.
Favourite city in the world
Colorful houses in Notting Hill, London, UK
I think I'd have to say London. It's the only city I've lived in and never grown bored of — I'm such a London girl. It's such a dynamic, multicultural place with so much to do all the time. I love nothing more than strolling around Primrose Hill (where we live) or Notting Hill on a Saturday or Sunday morning, visiting the farmers markets or rummaging through vintage stalls on Portobello Road.
Some of my favourite coats are from vintage stores I found years ago. I love the theatre in London — my favourite show last year was Moulin Rouge, and I've probably been five times!
My favourite hotel
Choosing just one is almost impossible — it depends on the vibe. The Rosewood in São Paulo is something special. It reflects the city's culture so beautifully, and the interior design is stunning. The spa is next-level, and the bar with its live bossa nova and jazz band at weekends is sensational.
Other favourites are Cavo Tagoo, Mykonos; 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami; Petit Ermitage, Los Angeles; Nobu Marbella; Six Senses, Ibiza.
Favourite thing to do while travelling
Our favourite thing to do when we travel is just to relax and enjoy the energy of the place we're in. I love immersing myself in the culture, especially the music scene, food and restaurants, local shows, and artistic neighbourhoods. I love walking around, taking in the buildings, and finding little boutiques or independent stores. I'm not huge on outdoor sports (apart from skiing).
My bucket list trip
Traditional Korean style architecture at Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, South Korea.
I'd love to see more of Asia. I'm thinking of taking Ada to Japan next year during cherry blossom season — visiting some beautiful gardens there would be a dream. I'd also love to go to South Korea. I'm obsessed with skincare — and so is my daughter — so I think we'd be in our element there!
Also on the bucket list: Trancoso and Fernando de Noronha in Brazil. Maybe we'll get the chance if we go on a honeymoon this year — at the moment, we're not sure if Jorginho will have a break or go straight to a new team… so fingers crossed!
Married to the Game series 2 is available to stream now on Amazon Prime