Rachel Griffiths, known for her memorable roles in films and television, shares her top travel tips, which include avoiding food and drinks on planes, quickly adapting to local time, and utilising packing cubes for organisation. As an actress, travel is a significant part of her career, taking her around the globe, including her recent projects in Hollywood and New Zealand, where she plays an American woman opening an ethical brothel in a small town in the new TV series Madam on Channel Nine.
Beyond work, Griffiths appreciates leisure travel, with a highlight being a three-month stay in Italy. She reflects on the pros and cons of travelling, recounting vivid memories, including one trip she somewhat regrets.
When discussing ideal travel companions, Griffiths values individuals with complementary skills, such as those who enjoy research and share similar interests in food or adventure. Her fondest childhood travel memory is taking a train to Brisbane, where she discovered a mango tree at her grandmother’s house, a delightful surprise that remains etched in her mind.
One of her most unforgettable meals occurred during a train journey from Los Angeles to Chicago, where she shared a dining car with interesting fellow passengers, creating lasting memories despite the food itself being forgettable. Griffiths recalls her most relaxing holiday as a stay at Oak Beach in Queensland while expecting her first child. She enjoyed the simplicity of life by the beach, free from the pressure of tourist activities.
Conversely, she found her visit to Florence quite stressful due to large crowds and long wait times to see famous attractions. Griffiths maintains a travel ritual of unpacking and exploring upon arrival, regardless of the time, to connect with the atmosphere of a new place. Essential items in her travel kit include noise-cancelling headphones, an eye mask, and a laundry bag to keep her suitcase organised. She also champions the use of packing cubes.
Griffiths’ biggest travel regret stems from missing the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, presuming it would underwhelm and opting for a trip to Europe instead. In hindsight, she wishes she had embraced the excitement back home, particularly after hearing everyone rave about the unforgettable experience.