Travel light, make memories

Published May 29, 2014

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Cape Town - South African actor Bjorn Steinbach worked here and abroad on stage and screen.

Two months out of acting school at William Esper Studio in New York he landed his first role in the US on Generation Kill, an Emmy award-winning mini-series about the war in Iraq filmed in South Africa.

He has worked with the likes of Clint Eastwood, Matt Damon, Darryl Roodt, Sean Bean, Cuba Gooding jr and Alexander Skarsgard.

Steinbach is currently on eTV’s new crime drama Traffic, where he plays Jacques du Plessis.

How widely have you travelled?

Through sport and work, I have been lucky enough to travel to 17 countries, from Argentina to Croatia, Paris, France to New York.

Where was your favourite holiday or time spent abroad?

Mozambique in Tofu. It is my happy place. There is a peacefulness and authenticity about it and the locals make you feel that a good life is simple.

Your worst experience on holiday?

It also happened in Mozambique, in Maputo. We had been pulled over by the local police. While we were waiting for our chaperone to sort things out, we decided to take a selfie. The police thought we had snapped a picture of them, and in no time our hands were in the air with AK-47s in our faces. It was scary because of the communication barrier and how quickly things could have escalated out of our control. It all sorted its self out, thankfully.

Your funniest experience?

While studying in New York, I heard that it was vampire weekend in Central Park. I was eager to step out of my comfort zone and have a New York experience. I made my flatmate dress up like a vampire with me. I was all in black and full of make-up. When we arrived, no one was dressed up and there was a long line. My friends asked me if it was a vampire weekend or the band Vampire Weekend. And, well yes it was the band – oops!

What do you avoid during a holiday?

Tourist traps or sights. I want to experience the people, not the structures.

Best meal abroad?

In a small chateau, driving from Paris to the south of France. It was goat’s cheese and spiced caramelised pear phyllo parcels and then everything that came after that. We never made it to the south.

Your favourite place to have sundowners on your travels?

At Fatima’s in Tofu, a Mozambique beach bar. It’s a mix of sand, music, culture, views and an easy walk home. What more could you want?

What have you learnt from your travels?

With patience and openness you can survive anywhere. Get over yourself and be interested in other cultures, you might just learn more about yourself.

Ideal travelling companion?

I think people with a spirit for adventure who just jump in. Best friends are not always the best travel partners.

Culture vulture or adrenalin junkie?

Adrenalin junkie.

Greatest travel luxury?

It used to be a really good backpack, but I would have to say my smartphone now. It really makes a difference having great information at your fingertips.

Holiday reading?

If you read anything other than a map to an adventure, you are doing something wrong.

Favourite drive?

New York City subway – there is something authentic about it.

Dream trip?

I have never been to Asia. I would love to work in a rice paddy somewhere there. Or work in a book shop in Venice by day and go to masquerade balls at night.

As a seasoned traveller and flyer can you share some tips?

Travel light, make memories.

Where next?

I’m off to Hong Kong and Bali next with my girlfriend in June, I’m really excited. - Weekend Argus

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