Celebrity Travel: Go away with Madison Elise Rogers

Jae-Ha Kim, Tribune Content Agency on Mar 18, 2025

Before moving to Los Angeles when she was 19, actress Madison Elise Rogers spent her early years in Tennessee, and t hen later moved to Mississippi when she was in middle school. Back then, the idea of being on TV and in films seemed like fun, but it didn’t seem like a realistic goal for her at the time. Today, she is one of the stars of the prestige Paramount+ show “1923.” Of her work on the series, Rogers said, “Lindy is a sex worker who has a very unconventional relationship with Donald Whitfield, played by the amazing Timothy Dalton. [I filmed in] Texas and Montana, which were both such beautiful places – they were unforgettable. The landscapes felt cinematic.” Rogers shares her work and travels on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/madisoneliserogers/).

Q: What did you do in Texas and Montana when you weren’t working?

A: I had a day off from filming and I drove through the mountains. I was taken by how beautiful they were. I explored local coffee shops, antique stores and absorbed the Western atmosphere. I loved being able to try the food in both places. There were some really amazing restaurants. The experience deepened my appreciation for both places and their history.

Q: For the roles you've done so far, do you feel more comfortable filming on set or location?

A: Both settings, but there’s something special about filming on location. Being immersed in a real environment adds an extra layer of authenticity and helps me connect even more with the character and story.

Q: Do you have any upcoming trips planned?

A: I have none yet in the books. I would love to visit Ireland in the next couple of years though. I think it’s beautiful.

Q: Have you visited places for work that were so nice that you traveled back there later for a personal trip?

A: I haven’t yet, but I definitely would. I think if I were to go back anywhere, it would be Montana. It’s just so peaceful and the landscapes are breathtaking.

Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?

A: I love visiting Lisbon. The city has such a rich history and incredible food. I fell in love with pastéis de nata. I loved trying food from small local cafés. I visited Belém Tower, Praça do Comércio and wandered Alfama’s historic streets. I first visited Portugal when I was 17 years old and hope to return soon.

Q: What untapped destination should people know about?

A: I think Toledo in Spain is must-see. It feels like stepping into a fairytale.

Q: What was a trip you took as a child that stands out? Did you love it, not so much?

A: Visiting Disney World when I was little stands out to me. I loved it so much. It really did feel like the most magical place on earth. I first visited Disney World when I was eight years old. I remember going on the Dumbo ride over and over again. Meeting the characters felt surreal. I remember meeting Ariel and Belle for the first time and truly freaking out about it. I have never been more starstruck. The atmosphere was the real magic. I haven’t returned yet, but I’d love to revisit with fresh eyes.

Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from your travels?

A: That stepping out of your comfort zone is always worth it. Some of the best experiences happen when you embrace the unexpected.

Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?

A: My digital camera and a journal. I love documenting my trip.

Q: What is your guilty pleasure when you’re on the road?

A: I have a weakness for collecting little trinkets from anywhere I visit. I love to stop at vintage stores to see what treasures I can find. I have a ceramic dish from Lisbon, a small gold angel that I keep on my coffee table from Joshua Tree and small Yellow taxi salt-and-pepper shakers from New York. Each piece reminds me of the places I’ve explored and holds sentimental value.

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(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and journalist. You can reach her at www.jaehakim.com, follow her on Instagram and X @goawaywithjae, or read more from her on Substack (jaehakim.substack.com).)