Photo credit: Philip Sinden
Where will you be holidaying this year?
I’m just about to set off to join my extended family and the dog in the depths of rural south-west France where we have a cottage. The plan is to eat a lot of cheese, and then work off the calories with long river swims. I have also learned to love the fact that we have almost no internet access, so I can’t really do any work.
Where is your favourite al fresco drinking/dining spot?
Our terrace there, which overlooks a vista of peaceful hills dotted with brown cows, a thickly wooded valley, and a twinkling river. By way of a contrast, in London I love the noise and bustle of Sheekey’s Atlantic Bar.
What is your ‘must-have’ item to pack in your suitcase?
My Olivia von Halle silk eye mask, so I don't I wake up at 5am. And a pack of cards.
What's your holiday read?
Bazaar’s huge September issue, which I otherwise wouldn’t have time to enjoy properly. And I’m re-reading The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa.
Have you ever had a ‘lightbulb’ moment related to your business or career while taking some downtime?
Several years ago, I had a transcendently wonderful two-hour massage at the Banyan Tree in the Seychelles. Immediately after I got off the massage table, I burst into tears and decided to resign from my job.
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