Tara Malone

Hometown: Hatboro, PA

Travel Specialty: Solo Travel

Tara Malone is an account executive at a company that sells luxury women’s outerwear and accessories. She lives alone with her terrible cat, Sebastian.

What excites you the most about travel?

Getting to realize and see firsthand how truly big and amazing the world is outside of my bubble. Also, the feeling of knowing that after my trip, I’ll return home depressed but feeling fulfilled, grateful, blessed, smarter and enlightened, and that I have a better sense of self. Every place I’ve traveled to or visited thus far has changed me for the better. Oh, and the thought of getting to eat myself into a food coma while away excited me as well.

What do you like the least about travel?

Packing. It’s such a chore. I hate the feeling I’m forgetting something. And layovers. I prefer to try to get direct flights whenever possible. The more time spent in transit, the less time spent exploring. I just want to get to where I am going!

What was your favorite travel adventure?

I’ve had more than I can remember. Most recently, though, I traveled to Ireland with my family for 2 weeks. We drove from city to city, all through southern Ireland. I’ve always wanted to go to Ireland, but I didn’t expect to fall madly in love with it! It was so beautiful, especially the Cliffs of Moher. Absolutely breathtaking. The overall experience, paired with the people I love most in the world, was incredible.

What do you like to do for fun?

I’m always having fun no matter where I am or who I’m with. I love being with my friends and family. I’m always trying new bars and restaurants, attending sporting events or shows, and staying active.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Trashy reality TV. I love watching these complete train wrecks. Netflix is another guilty pleasure. The amount of my time spent watching Netflix is borderline embarrassing. I’m not ashamed.

Why do you want to be the next Travel Channel Star?

I would love to be on the show because this is a chance to do something not many other people can say they’ve done. I don’t think I know anyone who can say that if presented with the opportunity to travel and document their adventure to share with the world, they wouldn’t take it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If I can influence just 1 person in the world to muster up the courage to live their life and take a solo trip, I’d walk away happy.