My holidays: Natalie Medlock

Actress Natalie Medlock wants to see gorillas ... in fact, she wants to be a gorilla. Photo / Supplied

Actress Natalie Medlock talks travel, toilet emergencies and Africa.

What was your greatest holiday?

My family went to Botswana on safari. It was incredible. Fishing in the spillway and getting charged by hippos. Our guide would wait until they submerged and charged, then dodge the wake rushing towards us.

And the worst?

I went on a cruise around the Mediterranean with my extended family. The boat accommodated 4000 people. One night they had a beauty pageant called Miss Splendida. You know that Gypsy reality TV show? Well, it was worse than that. You're trapped, on a boat, being forced to do the Macarena.

If we bump into you on holiday, what are you most likely to be doing?

Looking and pointing at everything, while commenting aloud, "What's dis?"

If we could teleport you to one place in New Zealand for a week's holiday, where would it be?

The Bay of Islands. I hear it's not half bad up there.

How about for a dream holiday internationally?

I really want to see gorillas. If we're talking dreams, then I'd like to live and work with them. So basically it would be a permanent holiday where I AM a gorilla.

What's the dumbest thing you've ever done when travelling?

When I was young I travelled with my then boyfriend. Bad decision. (Sorry if you're reading this said ex-boyfriend - nothing personal. No, actually it probably is personal).

Complete this sentence: I can't travel without ...

... ear plugs, noise-cancelling headphones, and a sense of humour.

What's the best travel tip you've ever been given?

Expectation is never as good or bad as realisation.

What was the most memorable meal you've had while travelling?

I ate some piranha I caught in the Pantanal. After refried, refried, refried, refried beans it was quite delicious.

What's the best thing you've brought back from a trip?

A deep appreciation for my birthright and life in New Zealand.

Favourite airport at which to land?

I like Sydney because it's almost home. Also my friend pooped her pants in the Koro lounge there, so I have fond memories (this is on the return from India - obviously)

What's the next trip you've got planned?

Actually, I want to go back to India. To Kerala. It was the reason I went to India in the first place but alas I got so sick that I didn't quite make it.

Natalie Medlock stars in Silo's 'The Blind Date Project', November 4-29 at The Basement. For bookings see ticketmaster.co.nz or phone: (09) 970 9700.