Some people can sell anything. Actor/comedian Nicole Byer is one of those people. It doesn’t matter if she’s portraying a free-spirited wine drinker (the criminally underrated Grand Crew) or hosting a baking show about people who can’t really bake (Netflix’s Emmy-nominated Nailed It!), if this sunny New Jersey native is pushing it, most folks are paying for it in laughs.
Not that Destination Canada (the organization that promotes the country’s tourism) needed any help convincing travelers to visit its gorgeous terrain, but having Byer hilariously teach a Canadian Crash Course, where folks learn how to handle falling in the snow and other winter-related situations, is a smart play. Byer recently talked to Forbes Travel Guide about her favorite Canadian cities, her must-have travel essentials and the 2024 projects we need to circle on our calendars.
You’re a Jersey girl. What was it about this Destination Canada promotion that caught your eye?
Hosting a Canadian Crash Course is like taking Nailed It! to the ice, embracing all the fun and hilarious mishaps, now with Canadian winter adventures. Like all the baking fails, now I’m tackling ski falls, skating surprises, cold plunging, overpacking and more.
And as a Jersey girl, sure, I know a thing or two about winter, but Canada takes winter to a whole new level! From snowy slopes to epic ice festivals, there’s always an adventure waiting to happen. Canadians are so friendly and open that it’s the perfect vacation destination to try something new. I loved sharing my Canadian winter experiences through this course with all my American friends. Been hearing so many positive things from my bestie Matteo Lane, the iconic Ziwe Fumudoh, Michelle Buteau, Bobby Berk and more! But the greatest is getting that warm welcome from Canadians, themselves. They know how to make a girl feel like a queen.
I’ve had some great times in places like Vancouver and Halifax. What is your favorite Canadian city?
Tough one! Vancouver’s got that West Coast charm. Toronto has a diverse, bustling and oh-so-lively energy. I had a blast headlining the Just For Laughs festival there back in September, and I’m actually headed to Vancouver for JFL in February. But you know what? It’s Edmonton for me. The people are so friendly, and there’s this thrift store there that’s an absolute gem. I stumbled upon it during one of my visits with Sasheer Zamata, and it was a thrift shopper’s dream! The finds I scored? Wild! So, yeah, Edmonton definitely holds a special place in my and Sasheer’s hearts for being the home of that thrift store treasure trove.
When it comes to picking vacation destinations, in general, are you more of a snow/ski boots person or a sun/swimsuit person?
Don’t get me wrong, I’ll still rock one of my Kitty & Vibe swimsuits on a sunny beach, but right now, give me that Canadian winter wonderland! After diving into the Canadian Crash Course, I’ve got a whole new appreciation for winter, and I’m all about the snow and ski boots now. Who knew winter could be this much fun or even so fashionable? If you’re like me and always overpacking, I recommend you watch the “Frosty Fashions” episode of the crash course. Don’t mean to pat myself on the back, but I’ve kinda been nailing the cold-weather couture lewks.
Where is the one place you’ve already visited that you never get tired of?
I lived in New York for eight years and now I’m in L.A. I love going back to the city. There’s such an energy there that is unmatched. It’s one of my favorite places.
Now that Hollywood is back up and running, you can get back to acting. I was a huge fan of the now-canceled Grand Crew. What did you miss most about acting during the hiatus?
Being on set is such a special thing. It’s real corny to say, but it’s a dream come true. Specifically Grand Crew. I miss the cast. They are some of the most incredible people I’ve had the opportunity to work with. We hang out a lot but nothing compares to getting to do comedy with friends.
What project on the horizon can you talk about?
I’m in two movies [The American Society of Magical Negroes and Thelma] premiering at Sundance, and I have a bunch of podcasts for you to listen to, so that’s fun.
You just finished up a comedy tour. What do you love most about being on the road?
You never finish touring. There are always more dates to do. I love seeing different cities and trying popular food in each area.
What are a few must-have items that you always pack in your bag during a tour or vacation?
Face lotion because the plane will dry you out. Lysol and wet wipes [because] the world is dirty! Oh, and I wear my mask on the plane.
Got anywhere exciting planned on the 2024 trip calendar yet?
I really am stoked to make it back up to Canada this winter for Just For Laughs Vancouver. With the Canadian Crash Course now live, I’ve been getting so much love from Canadians, including the blessing of being called an “honorary Canadian.” Now, this is an honor I do not take lightly. I’ve embraced so, so many of the True North’s quirks. I’m smiling more. I’ve tried paying for things with toonies and loonies. I’m a pro cold plunger now, basically. And I’m ready to apologize excessively, while rocking this Canadian crown!
