Business & Finance
The Star Of 'Crazy Rich Asians' Shares His Best Travel Tips And His Latest Projecta"A Travel Rewards Credit Card
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 11:36 GMT by Forbes🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Actor Henry Golding has explored the world. Here, he shares his top travel tips and why he's partnering with Citi on a travel rewards credit card.
Henry Golding's Wanderlust: Travel Tips from the 'Crazy Rich Asians' Star and His New Venture in Rewards
Henry Golding, the charismatic actor best known for his breakout role as Nick Young in the blockbuster film *Crazy Rich Asians*, has always had a deep passion for travel that extends far beyond the silver screen. In a recent in-depth interview, Golding opens up about his globetrotting adventures, sharing insider tips that blend luxury with authenticity, and reveals his latest project: a collaboration on a travel rewards credit card designed to make high-end travel more accessible. With a life that has taken him from the bustling streets of Malaysia to the red carpets of Hollywood, Golding's insights offer a unique perspective on exploring the world in style.
Golding's love for travel began in his childhood. Born in Malaysia to a British father and Malaysian mother, he grew up immersed in diverse cultures, which fueled his wanderlust. He recalls family trips that mixed adventure with cultural immersion, setting the foundation for his approach to travel today. "Travel isn't just about ticking off destinations," Golding explains. "It's about connecting with people, tasting local flavors, and stepping outside your comfort zone." This philosophy is evident in his recommendations, which emphasize meaningful experiences over superficial sightseeing.
One of Golding's top travel tips is to prioritize off-the-beaten-path destinations. While he appreciates iconic spots like Paris or Tokyo, he urges travelers to venture beyond tourist traps. For instance, in Southeast Asia, where he has strong roots, Golding suggests exploring lesser-known gems like the Perhentian Islands in Malaysia for pristine beaches without the crowds, or the highlands of Borneo for wildlife encounters and indigenous community stays. He shares a personal anecdote from a trip to Borneo, where he trekked through rainforests and stayed with local tribes, learning about sustainable living and traditional crafts. "These experiences ground you," he says, highlighting how such immersions foster a deeper appreciation for global diversity.
When it comes to packing and preparation, Golding is pragmatic yet luxurious. As someone who jets between film sets and exotic locales, he swears by versatile clothing that transitions from day to night. "Invest in quality basics like a good pair of chinos, a lightweight jacket, and comfortable walking shoes," he advises. For tech-savvy travelers, he recommends apps like Google Translate for language barriers and Rome2Rio for seamless transportation planning. But his golden rule? Pack light. "You don't need half the stuff you think you do," he laughs, recounting a time he overpacked for a shoot in Thailand and ended up donating clothes to locals.
Food is another cornerstone of Golding's travel ethos. A self-proclaimed foodie, he believes cuisine is the heart of any culture. In Singapore, the setting of *Crazy Rich Asians*, he raves about hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre for authentic dishes such as chicken rice or laksa. "Skip the fancy restaurants sometimes and eat where the locals do," he suggests. For those seeking luxury, he name-drops hidden spots like a rooftop bar in Bangkok overlooking the Chao Phraya River or a Michelin-starred omakase in Tokyo. Golding also shares tips for dietary needs, emphasizing research on vegetarian options in meat-heavy regions like South America.
Sustainability is a recurring theme in Golding's advice. Influenced by his environmental advocacy, he encourages eco-friendly practices: choose hotels with green certifications, support local economies by shopping at markets rather than chains, and offset carbon footprints through programs like those offered by airlines. "Travel responsibly so future generations can enjoy these places," he urges, drawing from his experiences in fragile ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef.
Transitioning to his latest project, Golding is excited about partnering with a major financial institution to launch a travel rewards credit card tailored for avid explorers. This isn't just any card; it's designed with input from Golding himself, incorporating features that align with his jet-setting lifestyle. The card offers generous points on travel-related purchases, including flights, hotels, and dining, with bonuses for international spending. Perks include airport lounge access, travel insurance, and exclusive experiences like VIP event invitations—echoing the opulent world of *Crazy Rich Asians*. "I wanted something that rewards real travelers, not just points collectors," Golding explains. He envisions it as a tool to democratize luxury travel, making it easier for everyday people to afford dream trips.
Golding details how the card's rewards system works: earn points on everyday purchases that can be redeemed for statement credits, upgrades, or even charitable donations to travel-focused nonprofits. For example, users could accumulate points from grocery shopping and redeem them for a business-class upgrade on a long-haul flight. He shares a hypothetical scenario: "Imagine booking a spontaneous getaway to Bali using points earned from your morning coffee runs." The card also integrates with travel apps for seamless booking and real-time deals, appealing to tech-forward millennials and Gen Z travelers.
Beyond the mechanics, Golding ties the project to his personal story. After *Crazy Rich Asians* catapulted him to fame, travel became both a professional necessity and a personal escape. He's hosted travel shows, like *Surviving Borneo*, and frequently posts about his adventures on social media, inspiring fans to explore. This card, he says, is an extension of that inspiration. "Travel has opened doors for me—literally and figuratively. I want to help others unlock those doors too."
Golding doesn't shy away from the challenges of travel in a post-pandemic world. He advises on health precautions, like carrying rapid tests and staying updated on entry requirements via sites like the U.S. State Department. For solo travelers, especially women, he stresses safety apps and trusting instincts. Families get tailored tips too: involve kids in planning to make trips educational, and opt for destinations with child-friendly activities, like wildlife safaris in South Africa.
In wrapping up, Golding reflects on his dream destinations still on the bucket list—Antarctica for its untouched beauty and the fjords of Norway for adventure. But his ultimate tip? "Be present. Put down the phone and soak it in." With his blend of celebrity charm, practical wisdom, and innovative ventures like the rewards card, Golding continues to redefine what it means to travel richly—in every sense of the word.
This extensive overview captures the essence of Golding's shared experiences and tips, painting a vivid picture of a life lived on the move. From cultural dives to luxury hacks, his advice resonates with both novice and seasoned travelers, while his new credit card project promises to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality. (Word count: 928)
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