In 2007, Maggie Darlington won the World Irish Dancing Championship, and now, nearly 10 years later, the 26-year-old California native will bring her skills to the Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre in “Riverdance,’’ which is celebrating its 20th anniversary with performances May 10-15. Darlington has toured with “Riverdance’’ since 2011 and has traveled with the show to many foreign countries, including several in Europe, as well as China, Japan, and Russia, but what she would really like to see are the Northern Lights. While she’s been to Boston before — in dance competitions in her youth and in later years on tour — Darlington said she is looking forward to seeing family in the area, enjoying the city, and connecting with audiences here. “Unlike some other audiences, they know what Irish dancing is,’’ she said. “It’s not like we’re introducing it to them; it’s more like celebrating something they already know and embrace.’’ We caught up with Darlington, whose family of six includes a twin brother, two older sisters, and her parents, to talk about all things travel.
Favorite vacation destination? Thailand. We went to the island Ko Samui and it is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. The beaches are beautiful, the landscape is beautiful, the food is wonderful, It’s affordable [once you get there] . . . [and] the culture is interesting.
Favorite food or drink while vacationing? It would depend on where I am and what’s around. But typically I love to get a bunch of small plates and share.
Where would you like to travel to but haven’t? Italy, Greece, Iceland, Alaska. I really would like to see the Northern Lights.
One item you can’t leave home without when traveling? It’d probably have to be my cellphone, because it can double as a computer.
Aisle or window? For a long flight, I have to say window. I like to lean against it while I sleep.
Favorite childhood travel memory? Biking through a park in Vancouver with my dad and brother when we were 7 or 8.
Guilty pleasure when traveling? Afternoon naps.
Best travel tip? I think for a vacation, it’s best to just go with the flow and see what happens. And pack light if possible.JULIET PENNINGTON
