Want to know how to travel in style, just like the pros? We check in with frequent fliers to find out how often they fly, their favorite destinations and what they never leave home without.
Name: Laird Hamilton
Occupation: Waterman and Innovator
Hometown: Hanalei
Residence: Hanalei and Malibu
College: The College of Life
College major: The College of Life
Website: lairdhamilton.com & lairdapparel.com
Twitter: @lairdlife & @lairdapparel
Facebook: Laird Life & Laird Apparel
Instagram: lairdhamiltonsurf & lairdapparel
YouTube: Laird Life
Short bio: World renowned “waterman” Laird Hamilton is known as the guiding genius of crossover board sports, and is largely considered the primary influence behind many surfing innovations, including tow-in surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and hydrofoil boarding.
Laird is not just a surfer; he has transcended the sport of Surfing and has become an international fitness icon and nutrition expert. His first book, “FORCE OF NATURE: Mind, Body, Soul, and, Of Course, Surfing” (published by Rodale Books in 2008) has become the go-to manual for individuals seeking inspiration for a healthy lifestyle.
Laird’s passion for helping others live happy, healthy lives is also exhibited through his work with various charities. In 2009, he participated in the Race Across America, a 3,000 mile cross-country bike race that benefited such charities as Beautiful Son Foundation for Autism, Pipeline for a Cure for Cystic Fibrosis, and Muscular Dystrophy. In addition, Laird has also pledged his support to the Surfrider Foundation and joined other celebrities for City Of Hope’s Citizen of Hope campaign.
After the launch of Laird Apparel, a collection of performance-based apparel, Laird Hamilton has partnered with the iconic Los Cabos resort, One&Only Palmilla, to offer a one-of-a-kind weekend of activities hosted together with fitness expert and Olympic beach volleyball champion Gabrielle Reece from June 10-13. From stand-up paddle board training by Laird Hamilton and Team USA SUP Racer and Surfer Chuck Glynn, to HIGH-X explosive circuit training and conditioning with Gabrielle Reece and Team USA Olympian Erin MacKenzie, the four-day “Life Life Alive” weekend is designed to challenge guest’s mind, body, and spirit.
The “Live Life Alive” experience starts at $2,747 for one person or $3,900 for two people. For more information visit this page or book by contacting resort reservations at 888-691-8081 or via email at reservations@oneandonlypalmilla.com.
How often do you fly? Twice a month average.
How many countries have you been to? 45
How many continents have you been to? 5
Earliest travel memory: Camping in California with my mother.
Favorite American city: Los Angeles.
Favorite international city: Paris.
Least favorite country: I always try find the best in wherever I visit. They all have flaws though…
I have no desire to go to: For a good reason I welcome the chance to go anywhere…
Friendliest people in the world: The Hawaiians.
Favorite World Heritage Site: Machu Picchu.
Favorite airline: Virgin.
Favorite aircraft type: 787 Dreamliner.
Aisle or window: Window.
Favorite airport lounge: The New LA International First Class.
Favorite U.S. airport: JFK.
Favorite international airport: London Heathrow.
Favorite hotel: One&Only Palmilla.
Favorite cruise line: Not a cruiser!
Favorite travel credit card: American Express.
Favorite island: Kauai.
Favorite beach: Lumahai.
Favorite fancy restaurant: Belcampo—Santa Monica.
Favorite hole-in-the-wall: Malibu Farm at the Pier.
Favorite bar: I don’t drink so, Sun Life Smoothie Bar.
Favorite fruit: Papaya.
Favorite food: BBQ steak.
Least favorite food: Animals that can hurt you. It’s a karma thing.
Drink of choice (in the air and on the ground): Turmeric Wellness Shot.
Favorite travel movie(s): Riding Giants!
Favorite travel show(s): Anthony Bourdain.
Favorite travel book(s): Time Out Guides.
Right now I am reading: “Natural Born Heroes.”
Top favorite travel newsletters/magazines/blogs: Surfline, CNN Travel.
Favorite travel website(s)—besides JohnnyJet.com, of course! Orbitz!
5 things you bring on a plane: Good healthy food, good beverage, phone + audio book, carry-on pack only!
What do you always seem to forget? I’m a pro I have it down by now.
What do you like least about travel? Time change.
What do you want your loved one to buy you from an airport Duty Free store? Macadamia nuts.
Favorite travel app(s): Flight Stats.
Most embarrassing travel moment: Not recognizing celebrities that come and say hello!
Worst travel moment: Unrepairable surfboard damage and loss.
What’s your dream destination? Indian Ocean.
Favorite travel charity: Surfaid.org.
Best travel tip: Keep exploring.
