Looking back

Eric reflects on his travels and what he enjoys most about exploring new places

Korean-American singer, actor and entrepreneur Eric Nam has seen a lot of the world. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, the 34-year-old went to college in Boston, Massachusetts, spent an academic year in Beijing and has also lived in India, Panama and South Korea. Today, he is accustomed to life on the road and often goes on tour to promote his music. In the coming months, he will be performing songs from his hotly anticipated new album, House on a Hill, in more than 80 cities around the globe.

“I love travelling and I do so a lot – whether I’m on tour, filming a TV show, attending events or enjoying a vacation. Exploring the world is an incredibly important source of inspiration and a form of personal growth for me,” he says. “Whenever I have writer’s block or am feeling stuck creatively, I’ll pack a bag and head off somewhere for a few days to get reinspired.”

According to the seasoned globetrotter, the best way to experience a new destination is to immerse yourself in its culture. “One of my favourite ways to see the places I visit is by looking back. By that, I mean learning about the history and culture of each destination, finding those unique traditions that build communities and discovering the stories that give it real depth and soul,” he shares. “Doing so fuels my creativity and curiosity, and helps me take on fresh perspectives.”

For him, this means truly taking the time to soak up the sights and sounds of a destination – an endeavour that’s sometimes best done solo. “There’s something great about discovering a new place alone. I love walking around new places by myself, taking photos, trying new foods, checking out the local stores, and going to museums and galleries,” he says. “Also, I like just sitting by the river or in a park and enjoying a spot of people-watching. That’s the best way to get a sense of how the locals live and what the place is really like.”

“Exploring the world is an incredibly important source of inspiration and a form of personal growth for me.”

Some of his favourite destinations in the world include London for its varied cultural scene, Bali for its relaxed vibe and Mexico City for its vibrant energy. He also loves Seoul, where he is currently based. “I’ve spent roughly a third of my life in Seoul and there is absolutely no other city like it. It’s always alive and awake,” he says. “Music, TV, film, fashion, skincare, food – everything about Seoul is constantly changing and ahead of the trends.”

Of course, he also has a soft spot for Atlanta, where he spent his childhood. “For me, Atlanta is home. These days, it’s changing so much, so fast, that it’s hard to keep up. But I love that I’m watching a very traditional Southern city transform right in front of my eyes,” he muses.

Despite having travelled extensively, Eric feels that there is so much more to discover in places both familiar and new. “I’ve learnt that the world is massive and that there are so many ways of approaching life,” he reflects.

In this spirit, he has teamed up with Booking.com to experience the colourful cities of Hoi An and Bangkok from another perspective. “I’m honoured to be a part of Booking.com’s 2023 Explorers campaign, and I’ve seen and done some once-in-a-lifetime things in Thailand and Vietnam,” he says. “This has taught me to fearlessly embrace different ways of seeing the world.”

“I’ve learnt that the world is massive and that there are so many ways of approaching life.”

Eric’s travel style

City breaks or nature trips?

Cities if I’m with people. Nature if I’m just focusing on myself.

Early morning or late nights?

I’m more of a night owl – late nights give me a sense of tranquillity and infuse me with creative energy. However, I do appreciate the calmness and freshness of early mornings as well, especially when I can watch a beautiful sunrise and have a peaceful moment to myself.

Go-to cocktail?

These days, it’s a mezcal or tequila spicy margarita – but not too sweet! Tequila soda also works just fine.

Travel essentials you can’t go without?

Face masks, hand cream, lip balm and a solid neck pillow. I also always pack my own compressible pillow for the hotel, running shoes, swim shorts and goggles – honestly, you just never know when you’ll need them!