ArcaMax

A. My parents were janitors at many nightclubs and I would have to go to work with them, 'cause a babysitter was too expensive. In the nightclubs, we found lots of change on the floor. My dad got a helium tank and cut a slit into it. We were all told to put any money that we found in that helium tank. So we did this for 10 years and finally saved up enough money to go to Greece. We also got to go to Disney World, which was amazing. I'll never forget those trips.

Q. Do you raid the hotel minibar?

A. I was always scared of the minibar. I'm not poor anymore, but being cautious about my money is who I still am. If I take something, it has to be something really good. But I might order a dessert from room service.

Q. What are your favorite cities?

A. I love Chicago. Boston, obviously. I love New Orleans, which is so much fun. I love Texas and would pick Dallas as a favorite. Miami. And let's see -- just about anywhere in Hawaii!

Q. Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?

A. I want to go to Alaska.

Q. Do you camp?

A. Yes! I love camping! I just talked to my best friend and said, "We haven't been camping in so long and I want to do another camping trip! I want to make s'mores and have some beers and do the whole thing." She said, "Maria, we're not 18 anymore." I have to take her camping and get her out of her comfort zone.

Q. When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?

A. I travel light. One bag and you're good. I always make sure I have my iPad for the plane. Also, an eye pillow and a scented lavender pillow that helps me calm down when I close my eyes. I also have a white noise app and a travel blankie. I never get on a plane without it. Planes are always freezing. And sometimes I'll need an extra blanket at a hotel, but I don't want to call down to ask for another one.

Q. What would be your dream trip?

A. I was just looking at my Pinterest travel board last night and I would say that my next trip has to be to Fiji!

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Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and travel writer. You can respond to this column by visiting her website at www.jaehakim.com. You may also follow "Go Away With..." on Twitter at @GoAwayWithJae where Jae-Ha Kim welcomes your questions and comments.

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