Johannesburg - Whether on the stage or small or big screen, Kate Normington is acting or singing her heart out.
First holiday memory?
I remember going to Durban with my mom and sister, and staying with friends. I must have been about 9, and remember thinking it a terribly exotic place. I remember feeling like we’d gone to another universe, and I suppose in a way we had. Six hours to drive to a place when you’re a kid is a lifetime, especially when you have no concept of time or space! Hey shoo!!
Favourite place in SA?
Nature’s Valley, for the peace and serenity and other-worldliness.
Best holiday?
Going to the Maldives with my fiancé. It was like being on a movie set. I don’t think I could quite believe where I was. I thought at any minute someone might tap me on the shoulder and apologise for its being a mistake and that I should go home, but nobody did, so I stayed and went scuba diving on the reefs instead! Complete bliss.
What have you learnt from your travels?
I’ve learnt to travel with basic medications, and a sense of humour. Failing these, a winning smile. Also, make friends with everyone you meet – you never know who’ll be making your dinner. Honey gets you more than vinegar.
Ideal travelling companion?
A quiet adult who likes to read.
Beach bum, culture vulture or adrenalin junkie?
I’m a beach bum. Indolence is my middle name, and there are so many books to read!
Greatest travel luxury?
My Kindle.
Holiday reading?
Patrick Gale, Mo Hayder to scare myself a little, and Deon Meyer. And some Barbara Kingsolver or Ian McEwan.
Where has seduced you?
Italy and La Cinque Terre. The surrounding countryside is magnificent and the food phenomenal. Italy is so romantic, and in Rome you can just walk for days and not run out of sights to marvel at.
Worst travel experience?
Sheffield. Nuff said.
Best hotel?
I have loved staying at the Mount Nelson in the past, but am now an adopted Capetonian, so have a home there too.
Favourite walk, swim, ride or drive?
I still love the Cecilia Forest in Capeys.
Best meal abroad?
The Thistle in Peckham Rye, London. The name is in French, but I can’t remember the French for thistle! It was some of the best food I have ever had in my life. Le Chardon! That was it!
Favourite city?
Paris, for the architecture, food and ambience. I love the language and life feels heightened because of it.
Where next?
Onwards and upwards!
l Whether on the stage or small or big screen, Normington is acting or singing her heart out. She is starring in the Joburg Theatre production of Sister Act as the uptight Mother Superior, and travel is her great escape.
Saturday Star