ReZoom

Spending half the year at work in Anchorage and Fairbanks would make anyone long for warmer weather and tons of sun. When Harry Thornton isn't dividing his time between the office in Alaska and home in Mississippi, he likes to explore his new hobby of scuba diving in a variety of coastal waters like those of Hawaii, Mexico and Florida.

1. What one thing do you never leave home without?
Money, contacts and glasses.

2. What's the best meal you've had while traveling?
Lobster meal in a casino pub -- unexpected and inexpensive.

3. The best hotel you've stayed in?
The Diamond Center Hotel in Anchorage, Alaska. [There was a] large room, studio type with a large tub and separate shower. The service was fantastic.

4. The attraction that really blew your socks off?
It was a jeep tour of Cozumel, Mexico on Christmas Day. I saw local Mexicans with their Christmas decorations, ate local food on the east side of the island and saw a tropical raccoon tied up at a local pub.

5. Your best souvenir purchase?
A ring for my wife. It is made of silver with Mayan stones -- plus, I received many shots of tequila from the clerk while shopping.

6. How early do you really get to the airport?
1 to 1 and 1/2 hours.

7. Are language books/tapes ever actually worth it?
I have never used them.

8. What is the most useful word to know in a foreign language?
"Thank you" and "please."

9. What do you look for in a traveling companion?
My wife.

10. What destination did you most enjoy when you were in your 20s or 30s?
Florida for the sun, beach, fishing and parties.

11. What destination do you most enjoy now?
Cozumel, Mexico for the diving and golf.

12. What was your biggest moment of culture shock?
When Americans arrived at the resort [in Cozumel] being very rude to the staff.

13. If you could go back to one place, what would it be?
Cozumel, Mexico. I'd like to complete diving all the sites I have not seen and to play a few rounds of golf.

14. Where would you never go back to again?
Fairbanks, Alaska. [There was] nothing really to do.

15. Has there ever been a cultural tradition you tried to take home with you?
No.

16. What one thing has held true no matter what land or country you've been in?
There are nice people everywhere you go.

17. What has been your biggest surprise while traveling?
The price differences for the same services in the same country.

18. How do you stay safe when you're traveling?
I stay together with my partner at all times.

19. What are the ingredients for the perfect trip?
Preparation and flexibility.

20. What's next on your list?
Scuba diving in Florida.

Ready for more? Return to Insider Tips.

It's 'Summer Fun Time' here at ReZoom. So, if you want to make the most of the season, check the Travel channel often for new stories on planning the perfect summer vacation. We'll have insight from experts in addition to great ideas for all of your own adventures.