From unforgettable shows in Budapest to breathtaking moments at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Canadian rock band The Beaches are turning their global tour into a travel bucket list of its own. The Toronto-born group shares the destinations that surprised them, the once-in-a-lifetime moments that come with life on the road, and the places—from St. John’s to Japan—that still top their personal wish lists.
On your world tour, what’s been the most unforgettable destination you’ve played so far, and why did it stand out?
There have been so many unforgettable cities and shows, but a recent fave of ours is definitely Budapest! We had never been before, so we got to explore for a day before we played Sziget festival and went on stage with queen Nelly Furtado!!!
Touring takes you to places most people only dream of visiting. Which city surprised you the most on this tour?
Our Fall No Hard Feelings tour ended in Vernon, BC where we got to meet so many lovely people, including the Mayor! He welcomed us into a city we had never been to and made us feel like locals. It always feels very special to get to experience the excitement of a city. We’re grateful to be there, and locals are always grateful to have us.
What’s one destination each of you still has on your personal travel bucket list?
Kylie and I have always wanted to go to Japan, which we’re finally doing after our Australian run with G! Eliza is crossing off her Lord of the Rings tour in New Zealand after Australia and honestly Jordan probably wants to visit every city in the world.
What’s the most “once-in-a-lifetime” experience you’ve had while traveling for music?
The first one that comes to mind is Cartier flying us to Stockholm and treating us like royalty. We got to play a show for them while WEARING Cartier jewellery I hope to one day be able to afford.
How do you balance the fast pace of touring with taking time to explore and appreciate where you are?
I make sure to get as much rest as I can, so that I can wake up early and explore the city we’re in. An easy way to do that if I have limited time is to go on a 5km run in an area of the city I really want to see.
As a Canadian band touring globally, what does representing Canada abroad mean to you?
I think a lot of Canadian artists get looked over because our music scene lives in a bubble, but there are so many cool, talented artists here that deserve to represent the country globally. We always feel so proud to do just that. Canada has supported our career from the beginning and we could not be more proud to come from such a generally peaceful and nice home.
What’s the best view you’ve encountered while traveling—on or off the stage?
When we played Red Rocks with Girl in Red I don’t think any of us took our eyes off the sky contrasted between the two huge, mountainous red rocks. It looked like the literal gates of heaven or a scene from The Legend of Zelda.
Are there any Canadian destinations you think deserve “bucket list” status?
St. John’s, Newfoundland for sure! I think we’ve been three times now, but every time we’re there we’re just in awe of the views, the crisp air, the delicious seafood, and the wonderful people of the city.
If you could play a show anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Ok I’ll give you my top three because I can’t decide: any city in Japan, Italy, or Brazil! Selfishly they’re places I really want to explore, but I also think the people in these countries would really appreciate live music and the energy we bring.
