Taryn Mamo Cefai might be known for her killer acting skills, but when she's not rehearsing her lines for stage and screen she's traipsing off to new lands far and wide! We were ever so curious to find out more about her globe-trotting after scrolling through her impressive holiday pics on Instagram, so we caught her between shows for the lowdown on all things travel! Here's what she had to share with Guide Me Malta.
Hey Taryn! We're loving your Instagram feed! Where have you visited so far and what have been your favourite places?
"There are too many countries so I’ll group them up in continents: Europe, Africa, Australia and just a few weeks ago I visited Asia for the first time. It’s so hard to pick a favourite! I think Egypt will always be a magical trip for me because I got to share it with my family. Australia is a top one too, but I think my most memorable experience to date was climbing Kilimanjaro in Africa for charity. Not many things come close to the feeling of summit-climbing and knowing your crazy adventure made a difference."
Wow! What has been your favourite world food dish so far?
"Anything Italian for sure! I’m a foodie so I get very excited about trying new dishes on my travels and I try to taste everything, but nothing compares to a good Italian dish paired with a perfect glass of wine. Last year I went on the ultimate foodie trip to Piedmonte with local culinary expert Dominic Calleja, and I’ve yet to top a gastronomic trip like that - absolutely fantastic!"
We have to ask... what three beauty products would you take to a desert island?
"I believe skincare is so important on holiday, especially if you’re taking a long haul flight to a different climate which can put your body into shock. If I had to pick three it would be a good facewash, moisturizer and sun protector. I don’t usually wear much make up but if I can squeeze in a 4th product it would be mascara!"
Do you have any packing tips?
"Pack wisely and plan ahead! I always go through the itinerary and plan my outfits day by day according to the activities - it’s useless packing things you won’t use. So I usually know what I’m wearing every day and then I take an extra outfit or two just in case. Another tip is don’t try new things on your travels, stick to what works, especially new shoes! Big no no. Lastly, if you’re taking long flights and spending time in transit, always keep extra underwear, a change of outfit, a good read and snacks in your hand luggage. You’ll thank yourself for it later!"
Good to know! Where are your favourite getaways in Malta and Gozo?
"When I think of a local getaway I always think of Gozo. It’s just a more peaceful, less polluted and more authentic version of home. Renting a farmhouse or a good hotel with a spa and just taking some time out. In fact I think I need a quick getaway soon!"
Any tips on getting the perfect Instagram photo?
"Plan ahead and keep it bright. I always look up the spots I’m visiting to find inspiration from other travelers on the perfect shot. Also, think ahead to avoid crowds when you can and having a very patient photographer who's ready to go to some extreme lengths to take the right shot helps!"
Where would you love to visit?
"Definitely India - it’s been on my bucket list since I was a little girl. I just want to make sure I do it right."
That would be amazing! What Is the shopping like at these destinations? Any great finds?
"I love markets! I think sticking to local spots is always the best option because you find the most unique items and usually you can haggle quite a bit for a good price. I’m not much of a clothes shopper but I bought a beautiful lion oil painting from Tanzania hand painted by a local and a unique wooden chopping board from an aboriginal artist in South Africa - both very special buys for me."
Which culture inspires you the most?
"African cultures are all so interesting in a beautiful way, we were lucky to experience the rituals and beliefs of the Maasai first hand in Tanzania. I also found the spiritual way of life in Bali very comforting and of course the incredible ancient Egyptian knowledge was mind blowing. To think they had discovered some of the most complicated biological procedures way before the rest of the world could even comprehend the idea of life."
Last but not least, what have you learned from your travels?
"Traveling keeps me grounded. It teaches you to adapt to cultures, understand and respect other ways of life and see the world from a different perspective. When I’m away I feel like I’m living in someone else’s shoes, it’s pretty incredible to realize how much is out there waiting for us away from this little rock we call home."
Thank You Taryn! We look forward to seeing where you end up next!