'The spirit of Rio is infectious'

In films we see them cavorting in exotic destinations — romancing in a gondola in Venice, skiing in the Alps and windsurfing in Seychelles.

Do Bollywood stars enjoy their outings or is it just another day at work?

Sultry actress Bipasha Basu, for one, seems to thrill in it all. Here she talks of her love for travel and her secret hideaways:

As an avid traveller, what has been your best experience?

My first trip to New York after I won the Ford Supermodel contest was a memorable one.

For a young girl, living in a big city for eight months was a totally new experience — an experience I will pass on to my grandchildren.

What are your favourite holiday destinations in India and abroad?

In India, it has to be Goa, with its pretty beaches and laid-back lifestyle.

The best thing about the place is that it is so bohemian, unlike other Indian states.

Abroad, I think Brazil is a great place to discover. The spirit of Rio de Janeiro is infectious.

There are so many tourists thronging the place at any given time that life there becomes one big party.

Places you haven't visited but soon want to
There are so many unexplored places that I would like to visit, but as of now, it has to be Greece — that tops my list of must-see destinations.

What are the few essentials you always pack when travelling?

On a personal holiday, I like to travel light. I always pack a pair of comfortable trousers, a smart dress, comfortable shoes and a pair of stilettos for night parties. I carry a big handbag with my credit cards and cellphone.

Do you take a break when you have the time or do you take time out during your shooting schedules abroad?

It's wiser to take a break in your private time because during film schedules, there is so much work weighing on your mind that it gets tricky to take time out.

At least, I don't enjoy it as I like to keep work and pleasure separate.