The VIP Lounge with Ted Karras

Ted Karras is enjoying his second season with the Patriots, and while the backup offensive lineman’s attention is on football, he is also planning a February wedding — scheduled just two weeks after what he hopes will be another Super Bowl victory. Karras, 24, an Indianapolis native who lives in North Attleborough, is marrying Boston-based Pilates instructor Rachel McCool. He said that they were going to take time during the team’s bye week to plan their honeymoon — most likely a trip to the Caribbean. Karras said he is “so grateful’’ to be playing for the Patriots and “experiencing a part of the country that really no one in my family has spent extended periods of time. It’s awesome to have people visit . . . and I love being able to share the experience of being in the NFL with my friends and family.’’ We caught up with Karras to talk about all things travel.

Favorite vacation destination? I love the history and adventure that a trip in Europe can bring, but nothing tops the beaches of Hawaii and California in my opinion.

Favorite food or drink while vacationing? I always like to find the local special. Some of my favorites have been oysters at a place called Ramiro in Lisbon, Portugal. [They were the] freshest I’ve ever had. In Paris, I had to try escargot. La Cave Gourmande served it up to perfection. Vacation to me means pairing all of my meals with a good wine, and a personal motto of mine is to never leave beer on the table.

Where would you like to travel to but haven’t? I am getting married in February, so a trip to the Caribbean is certainly on the horizon. Other spots I’ve had my eye on are the northern countryside of England as well as the island of Naxos, Greece, where my family emigrated from.

One item you can’t leave home without when traveling? I cannot get on a plane without a book to read, and I frequently buy books in the airport. My favorite authors are Kurt Vonnegut and C.S. Lewis. Additionally, I like to film my trips on an old school camcorder. I love having the date and time of the video in the screen. . . . [That] gives it a nostalgic feel.

Aisle or window? Definitely need the aisle to stretch out my legs, but you have to be aware of the drink cart. A nap at the wrong time could get your knee blasted.

Favorite childhood travel memory? When I was 10, my entire family — my parents, sister, and both of my grandmothers — went to London. I will always cherish that time I got to spend with [my grandmothers].

Guilty pleasure when traveling? Vacation is vacation. I like to try and see all of the sights, but sometimes you just gotta sleep in.

Best travel tip? Talk to your taxi and Uber drivers. I have gotten some of my best recommendations from small talk on these drives.

JULIET PENNINGTON