1/12/13 HERALD-SUN Damien Leith Sings Hamilton Island Prais
Dec 1, 2013 0:10:08 GMT 10
Post by thebraff (Braffy) on Dec 1, 2013 0:10:08 GMT 10
www.heraldsun.com.au/travel/damien-leith-sings-hamilton-island-praises/story-fnjjuxvu-1226770505340
Damien Leith sings Hamilton Island praises
Chanel Parratt
Escape
December 01, 2013 12:00AM
DAMIEN Leith's journey began in Dublin 38 years ago.
Spending a portion of his childhood travelling with his family, living in countries such as Libya and Botswana, he fondly remembers the closeness his brothers and sisters shared as they moved through fascinating cultures.
When he moved to Australia 10 years ago, Leith had been gigging for a long time before friends finally convinced him to audition for Australian Idol.
The winner's journey continues, with Damien's decision to return to independent music and release his new album, Chapter Seven.
Favourite place to travel in Australia?
DL: I love Hamilton Island as to me, it was what I always imagined Australia to be like - the Great Barrier Reef, crystal-clear blue water and summer fun. I also love going to Hyams Beach (at Jervis Bay on the NSW south coast) with the kids as it's close to where we live - the kids just can't keep away from the beach.
How often do you get back to Ireland?
DL: I try to get back every year.
What do you like to do when you're back?
DL: I love visiting little country towns and hanging out in Dublin in Temple Bar listening to live music from some great bands. I love taking the kids to Wicklow Mountains as I did that a lot as a kid.
What's the best thing you've eaten while travelling?
DL: I had some incredible curries in India like vegetable jalfresi and paratha. I really enjoyed the vegetarian ones, too, which was surprising for me as I'm a meat man.
Cheesiest thing you've done travelling?
DL: Jumped on a horse and carriage with my family from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain in Rome - it's only a five-minute ride but the kids were waving to everyone as we rode through the busy city streets.
Do you collect souvenirs?
DL: Always. My favourite would be a large hand-sewn cloth tapestry from Chitwan National Park in Nepal.
We visited a small women's community shop and saw them make it every day while we were there and had to buy it. The money went straight to the women in the community, which was great.
Biggest mistake or faux pas you've made while travelling?
DL: Drinking moonshine (called feni) in Goa, India. It is lethal (laughs).
Is there anything you can't travel without?
DL: A bracelet that has all my family's names engraved on it.
Where to next?
DL: We are off to Ireland for Christmas and Paris in the New Year so looking forward to a cold, maybe even white Christmas with the family.
What has travel taught you?
DL: Travel has enriched my life. It's taught me to be respectful, considerate and grateful.
It's a real joy to be able to experience different cultures, nationalities and create special moments with people you care about most.
* Damien Leith's new album, Chapter Seven, is out now and he is touring Australia. For tickets and tour dates see damienleithofficial.com
