It’s only his first season with the New England Revolution, but forward/winger Griffin Yow said he couldn’t be happier with his new team. Not only has he formed a close relationship with his teammates on and off the field, but FIFA World Cup is coming to the Revs’ home turf next month. “There is so much excitement having World Cup in the United States, but to have it here in Boston is great,” said Yow, 23, who played with D.C. United for four years and has competed internationally. He was part of the United States men’s soccer team roster at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games under current first-year Revs head coach Marko Mitrović, where he played in all four matches and tallied three assists. Yow said he is hoping to catch some games — and that the United States will take home the trophy. “But it will be great to see other teams, too. There are so many great players from France, Brazil … to have these players coming here is exciting.” The Clifton, Va., native said he also thinks it will be a boon for New England to have World Cup matches played here. “It will attract more eyes, more fans … and that can only be good in the long run.” We caught up with Yow, who lives in the Seaport with his wife, CeCe Cutler — who is working toward a master’s degree in psychology — and their British shorthair cat, Pip, to talk about all things travel.
If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you go?
The Bahamas, because it’s my favorite vacation destination. I’ve been there twice. It’s my go-to spot in the offseason to relax and recharge.
Do you prefer booking trips through a travel agent or on your own?
I prefer doing it on my own because I like the experience of finding new places and especially finding the right place. It allows me to use different resources.
Thoughts on an “unplugged” vacation?
I like it. There definitely needs to be an unplugged part of the vacation, but I don’t think it needs to be the entire time. Sometimes there are still coaches, agents, and teammates you need to get in touch with.
What has been your worst vacation experience?
When I was playing for KVC Westerlo in Belgium last year, I tried to go to Barcelona once during a FIFA international break and completely missed the flight. I tried to get another one but couldn’t, so I had to stay in Belgium (laughs). I still have not made it to Barcelona.
What is your favorite childhood travel memory?
Going to Hilton Head, S.C., with my family. That is one of my core memories of us all being together. Now that I travel by myself and am often in different states and countries, it’s harder to be together like we were that time.
Do you vacation to relax, to learn, or for the adventure of it all?
To relax and for the adventure.
What book do you plan on bringing with you to read on your next vacation?
I don’t really read, but I always bring the Bible with me.
If you could travel with one famous person/celebrity, who would it be?
Steph Curry because he is my favorite NBA player.
What is the best gift to give a traveler?
A suitcase with wheels. Shoulder bags are too much to carry, and I feel like my shoulders are going to fall off after a while!
What is your go-to snack for a flight or a road trip?
My go-to snack is salt and vinegar chips.
What is the coolest souvenir you’ve picked up on a vacation?
When I was playing in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, I brought back a bunch of United States and Olympics merch for my family.
What is your favorite app/website for travel?
My favorite travel app is Omio, where you can book flights or trains. It was super useful in Europe to book the trains, which is the best way to travel there.
What has travel taught you?
Travel has taught me to be aware of my surroundings and protect myself, especially in new or unfamiliar environments.
What is your best travel tip?
Always arrive early. Don’t get there on time; always be early. I once had to run to catch another train in Paris while it was raining heavily. I was wearing loose shoes, and they both fell off my feet while I was running.
Juliet Pennington can be reached at writeonjuliet@comcast.net.