Hit the Road With Chef and Photographer: Keith King

Meet Keith King, passionate chef, travel photographer and a key component to the success of Hit the Road: Cambodia.

Keith is from Newfoundland, Canada and is Ric Gazarian’s partner in crime on Hit The Road adventures, in collaboration with Large Minority and the help of Film Makers Gor and Mushegh. As Keith explains himself in the words of Gregory David Roberts, “I am interested in everything and committed to nothing.”

What started your passion for travel?

My curiosity of the world and wanting to experience new things really inspired me to begin travelling. I wanted to know what it was like to live in a completely different part of the world. I wanted to change my life. Travelling gave me that opportunity.

What sparked your interest to join in on Hit the Road in the first place?

My friend Ric was my inspiration for getting involved. We met in Thailand and became instant friends. Ric called me out of the blue asking if I was interested in driving a tuk tuk across India and I had to say yes.
 

What has been your biggest success or accomplishment with Hit the Road so far?

I think we have had many accomplishments as a team, racing, filming and growing closer, but for me personally, my biggest accomplishment is my personal growth. I feel more connected, knowledgeable and open minded. These travel adventures and experiences have made me a better person.

What was the biggest challenge on your most recent trip for you?

My most recent trip was Cambodia, and the biggest challenge was the food. As a Chef and lover of food, the cuisine was not exactly delicious.. haha. Eating spiders and larvae is not my “cup of tea”. But exploring the cuisine is one part of exploring new countries that I truly love. So when you do not personally like the food, you start daydreaming about eating the foods you do love.

Was there anywhere along your journey in India and Cambodia that you would love to go back to? Why?

I would love to revisit Southern India and explore the food more. As a chef and food lover I think India is a country of interesting and diverse flavors, from the dosas to the chutneys, spicy gravies, and not to mention curries…it is heaven on earth for a chef and a guy with a big appetite.

Can you share an inspiring story when you felt your project was most fulfilling?

One thing that I will always remember was when Ric and I took an orphanage of young boys and girls to the local zoo, then to the beach for lunch. We had a great day and raised enough money to buy new blankets and essentials for the orphanage. When you are given the opportunity to improve someone’s life even in the smallest of ways, it can have a profound impact on you. It has made me a more grateful and present person.

How has teaming up with HTRC changed your daily life and future goals?

It has changed my goals in a distinct way. I went from working constantly, while sacrificing the things I was most interested and passionate about pursuing. I would allow work to prevent me enjoying life and travelling the world.  

Any big plans for the future?

I want to travel 9 months of the year and spend 3 months at home. I want to improve my photography, learn video work and keep expanding my food knowledge and travel experiences.

Is there any words of encouragement you would tell the Travel Massive members?

Travel travel and travel some more. The world is a big place and every experience good or bad makes us more aware of ourselves and our place in the world. Strive to live a fulfilling life. Be happy & safe travels!