New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones said he can’t get enough of the Caribbean — especially St. Lucia, where he enjoys hiking (“We climbed the Pitons, which was pretty amazing,” he said), socializing with the locals, and spending time on the beach — especially if a massage is involved. The Carrollton, Ga., native, who played football at Auburn University, was drafted by the Patriots in 2016. The 29-year-old defensive back, who has won two Super Bowls with the Patriots, said in a recent interview (after a preseason practice) that he has a “good feeling” about the 2022 season. And while Jones is focused right now on football, he said he hopes to go on an African safari in the off-season in the not-too-distant future. We caught up with the new dad, who lives in Norwood with his girlfriend, Andressa Barboza (who works in database management), and their 4-month-old son, Jaiden, to talk about all things travel.
Advertisement
Anywhere in the Caribbean. I especially like St. Lucia. The people are nice, it’s a small island. Just hang out with the people, do excursions, hikes early in the morning … it’s perfect. I [also] love going to a street party late at night.
Get The Big To-Do Your guide to staying entertained, from live shows and outdoor fun to the newest in museums, movies, TV, books, dining, and more. Enter Email Sign Up
Favorite food or drink while vacationing?
Fried red snapper from the Caribbean. And to drink? A good rum punch — anything with tropical fruit.
Where would you like to travel to but haven’t?
Africa. I’d like to go on an African safari and see all of the animals. I hope to do that during one of these upcoming off-seasons.
One item you can’t leave home without when traveling?
A speaker. I love music. I love to sit by the beach, listen to my music … bring the party with me. If I leave my speaker, I’m mad. I like to play reggae … definite beach vibes.
Advertisement
Aisle or window?
Tough one. Aisle for accessibility, window for the view. So either one — just not the middle. Never the middle.
Favorite childhood travel memory?
Going to California with my family — my parents and two older sisters — when I was 11 or 12. We did Sacramento, San Francisco … and saw the Golden Gate Bridge.
Guilty pleasure when traveling?
I would say sleep in, but I can’t really sleep in. It sucks because I wish I could sleep in. I’ve always been a morning person, even before the baby. I love massages. If they offer a massage by the beach, I’m definitely going to do that — and fall asleep. That’s the best.
Best travel tip?
I would say something that I don’t do and that is pack early, because you’re going to forget something and get to the airport and wish you had remembered it. So pack early and be prepared.
Jonathan Jones on St. Lucia, bringing his speaker, and packing early
- Advertisment - 