Brooke Quintana, who plays Belle in the national tour of “Beauty and the Beast’’ — coming to the Boston Opera House Jan. 6-10 — said she is looking forward to performing in Boston, since she has been here only once before. “I’m very much looking forward to exploring the city,’’ said the Cary, N.C., native. “Also, my family will be coming to see the show.’’ Quintana, who calls New York City home — even though she admitted that she pretty much lives out of her suitcase, since she is usually on tour — said she loves “getting to share this beautiful story that I grew up loving’’ with audiences around the country. “There is nothing like seeing all the smiling faces [as people walk] out of the theater and knowing that for just a few hours, you were able to take away everyone’s cares and allow them to live in the moment and simply enjoy the magic of theater and life.’’ We caught up with Quintana to talk about all things travel.

Favorite vacation spot? The beach. There is nothing more relaxing than lying in the sun on the beach with friends and feeling the sand under your toes. Malibu is one of my favorite beaches. . . . It is absolutely stunning.

Favorite food or drink while vacationing? What goes better with the beach and sunshine than a frozen libation with a tiny umbrella?

Where would you like to travel to but haven’t? I have always wanted to go to London, Paris, Italy, and Ireland. They all have different things about them I’d love to experience, but definitely food and West End in London. I’d especially love to see where my family is from in Ireland; that’s a big bucket list item for me.

One item you can’t leave home without when traveling? My “travel hat.’’ It’s an oversize hat to make me look a little more glamorous (when my hair is not) on those long travel days.

Aisle or window? Window always. I love getting to look out the window when I’m flying and see everything. There is also nothing more exciting than the anticipation of seeing the city you are arriving in when you land.

Favorite childhood travel memory? Waking up in the car when we were “on our way to grandmother’s [house]’’ only to find out we were in Disney World. My mom always has the best surprises.

Guilty pleasure when traveling? Albanese Candy Factory gummy bears.

Best travel tip? Put your phone down and actually experience wherever you are. We miss so much nowadays being buried in technology. Your Instagram will still be there when you get back to the hotel.

JULIET PENNINGTON