Veteran Broadway actor Richard Topol on hanging with Larry David — and that time his car was impounded

If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you go?
I've been dying to go to Machu Picchu. I'd like to do the few-day hike all the way up — something about the combination of a vigorous climb through forests and highlands to reach the top of a mountain, where you find an unfathomable man-made structure, seems like the magical pairing of natural beauty with human creation.
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Do you prefer booking trips through a travel agent or on your own?
Depends on where I'll be going, but my sister-in-law is a travel agent and I often like to go through her.
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Thoughts on an 'unplugged' vacation?
I'm headed to the High Sierras in California for a week of backpacking in August with three of my college buddies. Can't wait. Unplugged for sure.
What has been your worst vacation experience?
Can I let you write about this? My girlfriend and I were traveling back from Canada in her old VW bug, and we got stopped at the border because we looked young and scruffy — or at least I did. It was during [the elder] George Bush's 'war on drugs.' I had one joint in my backpack, and they took us out of the car and searched everything. When they found my joint, which my girlfriend begged me to throw out the window before we got to the border, they impounded the car, and we were stuck at this isolated border station in Vermont. Luckily, they said we could buy the car back, and it was an old VW, so its Bluebook value was only $250. The Border folks had to drive us 20 minutes to the nearest town so we could withdraw that cash from a bank and buy the car back. The most expensive joint I never got to smoke.
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What is your favorite childhood travel memory?
So many. Maybe my favorite was our road trip from the Adirondacks through Canada to Quebec City, Montreal, and the Thousand Islands to Toronto, or the summer where we swapped houses with a family in Richmond just outside London.
Do you vacation to relax, to learn, or for the adventure of it all?
Yes, yes, and yes.
What book do you plan on bringing with you to read on your next vacation?
I've been trying to crack open both Colm Tóibín's 'The Magician' and Michael Chabon's 'Summerland.' The former seems just the right kind of intense and the latter the right kind of magical.
If you could travel with one famous person/celebrity, who would it be?
Larry David, with whom I worked on Broadway in his show 'Fish in the Dark.' He might complain a lot, but we'd get to play at all the best golf courses, and he'd make me laugh, even if our flights are delayed, our food never comes, or our luggage gets lost.
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What is the best gift to give a traveler?
Advice on the best places to eat, where they are going. Seriously, remember not to over-plan so much that you can't be open to the new world right in front of you. I think you are asking for a tangible physical thing, but I think this is more important and useful.
What is your go-to snack for a flight or a road trip?
I do like a few clementines or some fresh fruit because there's just so many tasty salty snacks out there that are hard to say no to.
What is the coolest souvenir you've picked up on a vacation?
A beautiful handcrafted wrought iron water basin with a mirror that my now wife and I picked up on the vacation in Italy where we got engaged.
What is your favorite app/website for travel?
I just Google everything.
What has travel taught you?
That the world is a big beautiful planet filled with magical places, interesting people, and incredible history. Get off your butt and be inspired; learn and grow from experiencing it.
What is your best travel tip?
See the previous answer and the answer to the question about the best gift to give a traveler.

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Travel + Leisure

5 days ago

• Travel + Leisure

I'm a Travel Writer, and This Is My Go-to NYC Staycation Itinerary—and the Stylish Outfits to Match

As much as I love experiencing different cultures and traversing new landscapes, there's something special about exploring your own backyard. Staycations are quickly becoming one of my favorite ways to relax, and I recently spent a week experiencing my own city as a tourist. I live in NYC, so there's plenty to explore. Throughout my week-long staycation, I visited museums, parks, landmarks, and more, and I gained a greater appreciation for the city along the way. Now, I'm revealing my five go-to staycation itineraries, along with the stylish summer outfits to match. Whether you're visiting NYC or romanticizing your own city, keep reading for elevated outfits to make you feel like a jet-setting traveler, wherever you are. Whenever I have a few days to kill, I make it a priority to see some of the world's best theater at Broadway and off-Broadway shows. To pass the time before the show, I'd head to Soho for some shopping. Soho has some of the most beautiful buildings (and people) New York has to offer—and near countless shops. On my ideal staycation, I'd partake in quite a bit of retail therapy before heading to the Theater District for an early dinner and a show. This itinerary calls for a slightly dressier outfit, but comfort is still key. After all, this day entails plenty of walking, standing in lines, and sitting for extended periods. The Prettygarden Skirt Set is ideal, thanks to the stretchy, comfortable fabric. I'd pair it with trendy fisherman sandals, plus an oversized tote to help carry the day's inevitable purchases. This outfit looks elevated enough for one of NYC's most fashionable neighborhoods, but it's breezy and cozy to carry you through the day's activities. The Met's free date night is one of NYC's best-kept secrets. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can head to The Met for live music, drinks, and world-renowned art. Plus, during the summer, you can grab a drink on the museum's Roof Garden and soak in beautiful views of the city. I'd recommend dressing up for this event, and I found the perfect outfit at Amazon. The Drop's Dia Midi Tank Dress is simple, elevated, and comfortable enough that you won't be fussing throughout the night. I'd pair it with one of NYC's most popular shoes, slingback heels, and I love this pair that adds an edge to an otherwise classic ensemble. Don't forget to bring a simple handbag and throw a cardigan over your shoulders in case it gets chilly in the exhibits. Hudson River Park has some of Manhattan's most scenic views. The park stretches four miles of riverfront space, with an extensive walking path and beautiful piers. I love to start at Pier 97 and work my way down, stopping by the Little Island, Pier 45, and more sunny destinations on the way. Once you reach the bottom of Manhattan, you can hop on a ferry to Ellis Island—or just soak up views of Lady Liberty from Battery Park. To stay comfortable throughout this scenic walk, I always wear a sporty ensemble. The Crz Yoga tennis skirt is perfect for the occasion, with a 'buttery soft' and 'lightweight' fabric. I'd snag the coordinating racerback tank and pair the look with a hands-free belt bag that reviewers call a 'perfect dupe' for pricier bands. Since I rack up thousands of steps on this walking path, I always opt for a pair of comfy walking shoes—and the podiatrist-recommended Brooks Ghost 16s are a stylish and comfortable choice. The Grand Bazaar is one of my favorite spots to visit on Sunday mornings. This shopping market is filled with clothing, art, antiques, food trucks, and more, and I always find something worth taking home. Afterwards, I'd head a few blocks east to spend some time in the sun at Central Park. Who said you have to go south to catch a tan? While most New Yorkers don't have easy access to a beach, some areas of Central Park are packed with sunbathers in the summer. I love the Berlook Floral One-piece, because it can easily be camouflaged with a casual outfit, and no one will guess you're wearing a swimsuit. I'd pair it with Chartou's Cotton-linen Drawstring Pants and a breezy button-down. Finish off the look with platform sandals for a market-ready outfit that can easily transition to sunbathing later in the day. Maybe it's just because I'm a Grey's Anatomy fan, but there's something so magical about ferries. Every time I get to cross into Brooklyn on a ferry, it's a treat—and this itinerary is packed with scenic views, on and off the boat. Hop on the South Brooklyn Route of the NYC ferry and get off at Brooklyn Bridge Park for casual dining options and an unbelievable view of Manhattan's skyline. Afterwards, you can check out Dumbo's beautiful cobblestone streets, flea markets, and art galleries. It's truly one of the most gorgeous parts of the city. Keep things casual for this day of sightseeing—but be prepared for candid photo opportunities. I'd pair relaxed barrel jeans with a summery eyelet top for a look that's equally comfy and stylish. I'd complete this ensemble with simple black flats that 'can be worn all day without pain or blisters', plus a classic straw tote that looks so summery. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Boston Globe

12-06-2025

• Boston Globe

Veteran Broadway actor Richard Topol on hanging with Larry David — and that time his car was impounded

If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you go? I've been dying to go to Machu Picchu. I'd like to do the few-day hike all the way up — something about the combination of a vigorous climb through forests and highlands to reach the top of a mountain, where you find an unfathomable man-made structure, seems like the magical pairing of natural beauty with human creation. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Do you prefer booking trips through a travel agent or on your own? Depends on where I'll be going, but my sister-in-law is a travel agent and I often like to go through her. Advertisement Thoughts on an 'unplugged' vacation? I'm headed to the High Sierras in California for a week of backpacking in August with three of my college buddies. Can't wait. Unplugged for sure. What has been your worst vacation experience? Can I let you write about this? My girlfriend and I were traveling back from Canada in her old VW bug, and we got stopped at the border because we looked young and scruffy — or at least I did. It was during [the elder] George Bush's 'war on drugs.' I had one joint in my backpack, and they took us out of the car and searched everything. When they found my joint, which my girlfriend begged me to throw out the window before we got to the border, they impounded the car, and we were stuck at this isolated border station in Vermont. Luckily, they said we could buy the car back, and it was an old VW, so its Bluebook value was only $250. The Border folks had to drive us 20 minutes to the nearest town so we could withdraw that cash from a bank and buy the car back. The most expensive joint I never got to smoke. Advertisement What is your favorite childhood travel memory? So many. Maybe my favorite was our road trip from the Adirondacks through Canada to Quebec City, Montreal, and the Thousand Islands to Toronto, or the summer where we swapped houses with a family in Richmond just outside London. Do you vacation to relax, to learn, or for the adventure of it all? Yes, yes, and yes. What book do you plan on bringing with you to read on your next vacation? I've been trying to crack open both Colm Tóibín's 'The Magician' and Michael Chabon's 'Summerland.' The former seems just the right kind of intense and the latter the right kind of magical. If you could travel with one famous person/celebrity, who would it be? Larry David, with whom I worked on Broadway in his show 'Fish in the Dark.' He might complain a lot, but we'd get to play at all the best golf courses, and he'd make me laugh, even if our flights are delayed, our food never comes, or our luggage gets lost. Advertisement What is the best gift to give a traveler? Advice on the best places to eat, where they are going. Seriously, remember not to over-plan so much that you can't be open to the new world right in front of you. I think you are asking for a tangible physical thing, but I think this is more important and useful. What is your go-to snack for a flight or a road trip? I do like a few clementines or some fresh fruit because there's just so many tasty salty snacks out there that are hard to say no to. What is the coolest souvenir you've picked up on a vacation? A beautiful handcrafted wrought iron water basin with a mirror that my now wife and I picked up on the vacation in Italy where we got engaged. What is your favorite app/website for travel? I just Google everything. What has travel taught you? That the world is a big beautiful planet filled with magical places, interesting people, and incredible history. Get off your butt and be inspired; learn and grow from experiencing it. What is your best travel tip? See the previous answer and the answer to the question about the best gift to give a traveler.

USA Today

08-06-2025

• USA Today

A floating Disney bubble: What families can expect on Disney cruises

A floating Disney bubble: What families can expect on Disney cruises Show Caption Hide Caption Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom tour on the new Disney Treasure USA TODAY took a ride on the brand new Disney Treasure cruise ship. Here's what to know about the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom. "Family travel' is a six-part series showcasing the best experiences and destinations for young families looking for an escape. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form. I've been visiting Disney parks my entire life. I thought I knew what the Disney bubble was. Disney Cruise Line blew my definition out of (or into) the water. Everything Disney fans look for in a Disney vacation is – as Disney likes to say – plussed up on their ships. Here's what I experienced on my first Disney cruise and what your family can expect on yours. What is special about a Disney cruise? Disney cruises are made for Disney fans. 'We know that when guests get on one of our ships, 40, 50% of them are saying the only reason I'm cruising today is because Disney is here,' Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro told USA TODAY last August, ahead of the cruise line's expansion announcements at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. 'These cruise ships are ways that we can tell all of the amazing stories that we have. We bring them to life in dining; we bring them to life theatrically. We bring them to life through technology and our cast members.' Many ship venues are inspired by Disney stories. Guests who want to learn how they can take an Art of the Theme Show Tour during their sailing. Disney characters roam about regularly and unlike in the parks, never have long waits to meet them. The entertainment on board is truly Broadway quality, not only because Disney is at heart an entertainment company, but it's also produced numerous shows on Broadway. My favorite show on our Disney Treasure sailing was "Disney the Tale of Moana," which Disney developed with Broadway veterans and Polynesian cultural advisors and cast. The youth clubs, particularly for younger children, feel like stepping into Disney movies. Many kids happily spend hours there, and adults wish they could, too. The closest grown-up guests get is during open houses. Guests rotate through a variety of themed restaurants for dinner each night of their sailing, and servers rotate with you so they can get to know you and your preferences, as well as any dietary needs. The level of customer service is exactly what you'd expect from Disney. Ships are designed with families in mind. Most staterooms have split bathrooms, so multiple people can get ready at the same time, and most feature bathtubs, which are clutch with young children. You're traveling with fellow Disney families and fans, who share your enthusiasm. Non-Disney fans can still enjoy sailings, but for those who love Disney, it's the ultimate floating Disney bubble. Disney parks take to the seas: How the new Disney Treasure makes magic Is a Disney cruise all-inclusive? Disney cruises include lodging, most dining, entertainment, recreation, youth club access, and more in their standard fare. There is an additional fee for childcare for infants and toddlers under age 3 at 'it's a small world nursery.' Extra experiences like adult-exclusive dining, makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Sea, the Royal Court Royal Tea Party with Disney princess, and spa and salon services also have fees. Is all the food on a Disney cruise free? Meals at rotational dining restaurants, on-board buffets, and various food stands are included in the cruise fare, as is most room service. Guests may choose to pay extra for adult-exclusive dining like Remy or Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement. Treats at smoothie and sweets shops and snacks at concession stands near onboard movie theaters have à la carte fees. Specialty coffee drinks and alcohol are also extra. Do Disney cruises have good food? Yes. There are various options at each rotational restaurant. Guests are also welcome to ask for other offerings off menu, but what stuck out to me were everyday dishes like comforting congee at breakfast and a mountain of succulent crab legs during lunch at the Treasure's Marceline Market buffet. Mickey Churro Waffles and Disney Cruise Line chicken tenders are other fan favorites. So are Mickey ice cream bars, which you can order for free through room service. Italian-inspired Palo and other adult-exclusive restaurants, which cost extra, are so popular that reservations book up well ahead of sailings. Guests who miss out in advance can try to book in person upon embarkation. Is there unlimited alcohol on Disney cruises? No. There are no unlimited alcoholic beverage packages on Disney cruises. You can buy individual drinks and bottles of wine on board or pre-order bundles of hard seltzer, beer or wine. There are also deals like Drinks of the Day and the Beer Mug Savings package, which, for a one-time $15.25 fee, gets you 21-ounce beer refills for the price of 16 ounces. Upon initial embarkation and at each port, guests of legal drinking age may also carry on up to two unopened bottles of wine or champagne or six unopened beers no larger than 12 ounces. These must be brought in carry-on luggage, not checked, and may not be consumed in lounges or public spaces, aside from restaurants, where there is a corkage fee. Is there a casino on the Disney cruise? No. There are no casinos on Disney cruise ships. The closest thing to gambling is BINGO, which is extremely popular. Is there free Wi-Fi on Disney cruises? Yes. Guests can use free DCL Guest Wi-Fi to access the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App and message fellow guests. You can also message folks back home using third-party tools like Apple Messages and WhatsApp. However, you'll need paid internet service for anything more substantive like making calls, accessing social media, browsing the internet, posting or streaming video, and more. How much does a Disney cruise cost per person? Prices vary widely by sailing (ship, dates, itinerary, cruise duration and more), stateroom category, how many guests share the same stateroom and guest age. Kids under age 3, ages 3-12, and 13-17 are charged at different rates than adults, according to Plan Disney. Limited-time promotions also impact pricing. For instance, Disney Cruise Line is currently offering up to 30% off select summer 2025 sailings from the U.S. Prospective guests can find the latest special offers on the cruise line's website. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line passengers can lock in 10% off a future cruise when they purchase a refundable placeholder reservation while onboard a ship. At last check, the lowest priced sailing for a family of four departing the U.S. with two adults and two kids between the ages of 3-12 was priced at $2,620. That works out to $655 per person in an interior cabin on the Disney Wish for a 3-night Bahamas cruise leaving Port Canaveral on Aug. 22, 2025. Three-night cruises on the new Disney Adventure, launching in Singapore this December, start even lower. Does Disney Cruise Line go to Europe? Yes. Disney sails from three European ports: Barcelona, Spain Citavecchia, Italy (outside Rome) Southampton, England Transatlantic sailings are also offered several times a year. Do adults with no kids go on Disney cruises? Yes. Even though the cruises are designed with families in mind, lots of Disney adults sail kid-free. Many enjoy getting to feel like kids again themselves. Each ship and both of Disney's private island destinations have adult-exclusive areas and experiences. What are Disney's two private islands? Disney's has two private island destinations in the Bahamas: Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Is it cheaper to go to Disney or Disney cruise? That depends on how long you plan to sail versus visit parks, as well as choice of accommodations, dining and time of year. It can go either way. What is the cheapest way to book a Disney cruise? Guests will generally find the best prices the day itineraries are released. This happens a few times a year, about 15 to 18 months in advance of sailings, according to Plan Disney. Travelers can work with travel agents to keep tabs on when the next batch will be released or sign up for Disney Cruise Line email updates and follow the cruise line on social media. Are Disney cruises worth it? They are for many fans. 'They rate us very, very highly, and they tend to want to come back,' D'Amaro said. But just like any vacation, the cruises may not be worth it for everyone. The reporter on this story received access to the ship from Disney Cruise Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.