Celebrity Travel: Go Away With Sophie Simmons
As the daughter of Kiss frontman Gene Simmons and former Playboy model Shannon Tweed, Sophie Simmons is no stranger to the limelight. Simmons, 24, appeared with her family on the A&E reality series, "Gene Simmons Family Jewels," auditioned on "X-Factor" and (along with Rebel) released a cover of "Kiss Me." The Los Angeles-based host of Refinery29's "Body Image School" digital series and the face of Adore Me's inclusive lingerie campaign, Simmons also advocates for child abuse victims with Sophie's Place in Vancouver. Fans may follow her on Twitter, (at)SophieTSimmons.
Q. What is your favorite vacation destination?
A. Whistler (British Columbia, Canada). I did a lot of growing up there and it will always be home for me. Go during the winter or summer. There is so much to do, from hiking, biking, snowboarding and volleyball. But it's not all outdoors. The Scandinave Spa is a favorite of mine -- gorgeous hot pools and amazing massages.
Q. What untapped destination should people know about?
A. Sofia, Bulgaria. It's actually quite the metropolis! I lived there for a while working in orphanages on a community service mission. The people are just so kind and beautiful. They really have captured living happily. It's also a beautiful country with woods and rivers and historical landmarks.
Q. What was the first trip you took as a child? And did you love it, or not so much?
A. I don't remember my first trip. I'm sure it was on tour somewhere. But the first one I can remember is Hawaii. I loved it. Went with the whole fam and learned to surf and got to explore by myself, which was amazing for a tween.
Q. What's the most important thing you've learned from your travels?
A. Don't stroll into another culture without first researching it. I've had one too many foot-in-mouth moments while traveling. Also, don't be afraid to explore your city! The first thing I like to do is walk through the neighborhood and get a sense of the local life. Where do these people get coffee or tea? Where do they work and live? And from that I can tell a lot about a community.
Q. Where have you traveled to that still stands out in your mind?
...continued
(c) 2017 DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
