Celebrity Travel: Go away with Chung Ha

Growing up in the United States and South Korea, singer-songwriter Chung Ha said she was heavily influenced by the music she listened to in both countries. One of her most popular songs is the critically acclaimed Spanish-language single “Demente” from her album “Querencia,” which featured Puerto Rican rapper Guaynaa. And the title of her latest album, “Alivio,” means relief or liberation in Spanish.

“That [word] really sums up what this album is about – letting go of stress, expectations and even versions of myself I’ve outgrown,” she said. “I started working on this album last summer without a set direction. At the time, I was going through a lot mentally and emotionally, and that naturally shaped the songs I gravitated toward. Over time, I realized they all shared a common theme – the weight of stress and the feeling of breaking free from it. That’s when the concept really clicked. This album is me being completely honest about where I’ve been and where I am now. It’s about learning to let go, but also appreciating the journey that got me here. I hope people can listen to it and feel that same sense of relief.

Q: What kind of music were you listening to as a child?

A: In Korea, I was surrounded by K-pop. But in Texas, I was introduced to so many different genres – R&B, pop, hip-hop and even Latin music. I think that mix naturally shaped the kind of music I love and the way I approach my sound. I’ve never really stuck to one style because I just like trying new things. I think that comes from being exposed to so many different influences growing up. Whether it’s the melodies, the way I sing, or even the languages I use, everything I’ve experienced plays a role in the music I make now.

Q: I know you’re multilingual, but how fluent are you in Spanish?

A: I’m not fluent at all. I learned it for a few years in middle school when I lived in Texas, but it’s been so long that I’ve forgotten most of it. I do have a Spanish tutor who I check in with from time to time, usually when I’m working on a Spanish song or when I need to double-check certain words. I’d love to brush up on it, though, because I really love the language and want to record more Spanish songs in the future.

Q: Where would you like to go that you have not been to yet?

A: Finland is at the top of my list. I want to go so bad. I even considered naming my EP “Finland” at one point, because it’s known as the happiest country in the world. I’m also obsessed with Christmas and I heard they have this magical Santa Claus Village. Plus, the saunas, the Northern Lights ... I could go on forever.

Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?

A: Out of the places I’ve been, Italy felt like something out of a fairytale. The cathedrals there are so beautiful. I could just sit and stare at the architecture for hours. There was something peaceful and healing about being there, like time slowed down for a bit. It’s a place I’d love to visit again.

Q: Which childhood trip stands out?

A: When I was six or seven, I went to New York with my mom. We didn’t do anything super crazy – just the usual sightseeing like the Empire State Building and Times Square. But what made it special was just spending that time with her. My mom didn’t speak any English, so even though I had no idea where we were going, I had to step up and guide us around. Looking back, it was kind of funny. But at the time, I felt so responsible. It’s one of those memories that stuck with me.

Q: What are your five favorite destinations?

A: Paris. This trip was extra special because it was my mom’s first time seeing me perform overseas, and it was right around my birthday. So many good memories. New York. Florida. The small towns in Italy were so beautiful, like a fairytale. And Jungfrau in Switzerland. The scenery there felt unreal.

Q: What is your best vacation memory?

A: I was reflecting on my best moments and the most magical one for me was in 2023. I was at Disney World in Florida, watching the New Year’s fireworks on January 1. It was such an unforgettable experience. It felt like a dream come true.

Q: What's the most important thing you've learned from your travels?

A: I used to think that to enjoy a trip, my mind and heart had to be completely free and stress-free. But through traveling, I realized that the experience itself can be healing. Even if I’m feeling overwhelmed, being in a new place, seeing different things and just stepping away from my daily routine helps me reset. Traveling isn’t just about having fun, it’s also a way to relieve stress and find little moments of peace.

Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?

A: I have so many, but my top must-haves are a pillow and a heated blanket. Good rest is everything when traveling.

Q: What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?

A: Honestly, I’m usually more of a follower when it comes to trips. I let my friends, family, or tour guides take the lead. I do some research on the destination to decide where to go, but once we pick the spot, I just go with the flow and let my travel mates take charge.

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(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and journalist. You can reach her at www.jaehakim.com, follow her on Instagram and X @goawaywithjae, or read more from her on Substack (jaehakim.substack.com).)