Where did your love of travel come from? 

When I was 18, I set off to Africa for the first time on a volunteering programme. I spent two-and-a-half months in Kenya and Tanzania, and I will never forget it. The projects I worked on ranged from teaching English to the construction of a new tailoring room for the villagers to weave and sell clothes. 

My most memorable experience was our night guard waking up our band in the middle of the night in Tsavo National Park to warn us there was a lion outside of the camp – certainly not something you forget quickly!  After this experience, I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro along the Machame route which is one of the best experiences of my life and one I’d encourage anyone to do. 

Following university, I still had the travel bug and set off for the Alps. Two ski seasons in Courchevel and St Anton, and a summer spent in Australasia and on the West coast of America, it was finally time to embark on my career, so the travel industry was a natural fit for me. 

Top recommended ultra luxury experience?

Jumby Bay Island in Antigua was a treat like no other. We were celebrating a family milestone and from the moment we landed on this Caribbean island and boarded the private yacht to sail across the turquoise waters to the secluded island, we knew it was going to be special. 

There were lots of standout moments here. The Estate House restaurant had an incredible fine-dining experience and yet, was the definition of understated luxury. There is an abundance of activities from water sports like sailing and water skiing to tennis, so it’s the ideal place to do everything, or nothing at all. 

It’s also a beautiful place to simply take in the tranquil surroundings. You can enjoy a beach walk or ocean swim and press the re-set button. Apart from my love of the ski slopes, it’s definitely the best holiday I’ve ever been lucky enough to experience.  

Ultimate dining experience?

Having a TV producer uncle based in Los Angeles has definitely had its perks and securing a reservation at The French Laundry in Yountville, California, is certainly one of them. Set in the Napa Valley and ran by esteemed chef Thomas Keller, the classic French menu changes daily. You dine in a rustic setting, within a building which was originally built as a saloon in 1900. The menu is exquisitely imagined, with locally sourced produce as the hero; you can tell a huge amount of craft has been put into each dish. As well as boasting three-Michelin stars, numerous accolades and a waitlist which can exceed six months, it’s a great place to spot your favourite celebrities.  

Hotel with the best service?

When it comes to service, I don’t think you can beat the Belmond Collection and the Splendido in Portofino on the Italian Riviera. Having worked there as part of a luxury super-car event, I experienced the impeccable attention to detail that’s core to the daily service. The team really go above and beyond, putting the guest experience at the heart of everything, with personal touches that make you feel at home. Set in a prime position above the bay, guests can enjoy an aperitif at La Terrazza Bar while admiring both sea views and luscious countryside. The hotel is in a stunning setting, and I would highly recommend it for an Italian escape. 

Best kept travel secret? 

Personally, I don’t think Wanaka in New Zealand receives the airtime it deserves. This is truly nature in all its glory. Setting off at 02.00, a group of friends and I did a three-hour hike up Roy’s Peak and the incredible sunrise was more than worth the early start. The drive down to Queenstown then offered some of the most breath-taking scenery I have ever seen. From glittering lakes to snow-capped mountains, it was a post-card road trip with jaw-dropping views at every turn. Many tend to skip a visit to this small town in the South Island, but I think it’s an absolute must and for me, driving through those landscapes is something I’ll always remember.