Richard E. Grant reveals how he only travels solo after the death of wife Joan and has visited eight countries this summer… after waiting until dark to go out to avoid tourists

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Richard E. Grant says that popular European cities have become so crowded that he now prefers to explore them after dark.

The actor traveled to eight countries this summer—Morocco, Kenya, Italy, France, Greece, Turkey, Germany, and Austria—and noted that popular cities like Rome and Venice are so crowded with tourists that he avoids going out during the daytime.

Rather than avoiding these popular areas, he chooses to visit when tourists are having dinner.

Sixty-eight-year-old actress, originally from Swaziland, shared a tip for avoiding crowds while traveling in popular cities like Rome and Venice. Speaking at the World Travel Market in London, she explained that she found exploring at night – specifically between 8 and 10 pm while people were dining – allowed her to enjoy the illuminated sights without the daytime crowds.

Richard Grant, known for his roles in the classic film Withnail and I and the popular movie Spice World, has lived a nomadic life. He spent his childhood in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) in southern Africa before relocating to the UK, and recently discussed his frequent travels in an interview with Sir Chris Bryant, a Business Minister.

He was busy last week! He filmed scenes for his new Christmas movie, “Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint,” and then made an appearance at WTM before heading to the London premiere of “Nuremberg” on Thursday.

Even while working on location, he always makes time to explore his surroundings. He jokingly described himself as a ‘constant tourist’.

I recently finished filming in York, playing the role of a toymaker from Yorkshire in a Christmas movie scheduled for release next year. Whenever I arrive in a new place – even one I’ve visited before – I make a point of exploring on foot and going for a four-mile run each morning. It’s a great way to get to know the area.

He shared that since his wife, Joan Washington, passed away in 2021, he’s been traveling solo, and he’s completely fine with it.

I enjoy the experience of flying and especially love exploring new cities on foot. It’s exciting to wander without a plan or relying on apps like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, or Instagram – you stumble upon hidden gems you’d otherwise miss. It feels freeing and adventurous.

He explained that he’s accustomed to eating dinner alone, whether at home or while traveling, saying, ‘I always have, everywhere I go.’

I believe it’s generally harder for women to navigate life as widows than it is for widowers. I’ve spoken with other widows who’ve shared that they often face unwanted attention, pity, or other difficult reactions when they’re on their own. From what I’ve seen, men tend to have an easier time adjusting to being alone after losing a spouse.

Despite spending his entire career filming across the globe, there’s still one place he hasn’t visited.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m always exploring new corners of the world, but surprisingly, I haven’t yet had the chance to experience South America firsthand. I haven’t had any of my films or TV shows picked up for distribution there, and the Caribbean Islands have been the closest I’ve gotten to that part of the world so far. It’s definitely on my list, though!

Grant initially agreed to participate in the BBC’s Celebrity Race Across the World in Latin America, but he had second thoughts when he learned it could include extensive bus travel.

He firmly denied ever doing such a thing, saying it was the last thing he’d want to do. He explained that it would mean missing out on seeing the country and having new experiences.

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2025-11-11 02:38