Though she didn't grab a gold statuette this year for her memorable performance in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Oscar® nominee Taraji Henson nonetheless seems to have the Midas touch. She's received rave reviews for nearly every role, and habitually steals scenes from even her most formidable co-stars. And, whenever she can, Taraji likes to steal away with her girlfriends to someplace sunny—we caught up with her in Los Angeles to dish about where she's headed next.
As a Washington, D.C. native living in Los Angeles, what are the top three things (or places) you miss about your hometown?
I miss blue crabs, Rock Creek Park and cherry blossoms.
You've traveled extensively for work, living on location for weeks or months at a time. What tips can you offer other long-term travelers for creating an at-home vibe on the road?
Scent is the most powerful memory trigger, so I find it important to bring things with you that remind you of home. I love to bring candles and pictures of loved ones.
What's your favorite vacation memory, either as a child or an adult?
My favorite vacation memory is Jet Skiing with my girlfriends. We've gone to Hawaii and several places in Mexico and I always have a blast.
If you could sneak off for a three-day weekend, where would you go—and who would go with you?
I would love to get away for a relaxing trip to the South of France. As for whom I'd take with me on this vacation, I'm still accepting resumes!
What's the weirdest thing that's ever happened to you while traveling, either for business or pleasure?
Right after the Oscar nominations were announced, I was chased by the paparazzi. I hadn't experienced anything like it before, even after Hustle & Flow. I wasn't sure if it felt good or bad—but it definitely was weird!
Say you have five minutes to pack for your next trip. What absolutely has to come with you?
My Paul Scerri moisturizing cream, my Prada butterfly shades, a great book...you always need a bathing suit when you're on vacation, and an iPod because I can escape anywhere with my music. I'll buy a toothbrush when I get there!
We've heard you say you have five core girlfriends that “stick really close” to you. What's your ultimate girlfriend getaway?
Absolutely! We try to get a girlfriend vacation in every year. My dream trip? Brazil with the girls! It’s so sexy and exotic, and I’m sure we could Jet Ski there, too!
If you had to choose one of your co-stars (who include Brad Pitt, Kate Blanchett, Mark Walhberg, Don Cheadle, Jamie Foxx, Forest Whittaker, Tina Fey and Steve Carrell, among others) to travel with for a week, who would you pick—and why?
I'd pick Steve Carrell because he would make me laugh! I know he'd be a fun and spontaneous companion on any vacation. Maybe I should take him to the South of France for that weekend getaway!
