BRAZIL
At the age of 21 I took my first true steps into the wider world. I joined some good friends on a completely unplanned adventure with very little idea of what I'd find. We bought an old green car, some cheap surfboards and began a journey that took us from Rio to Recife. What an incredible country to explore. Besides the amazing coastline, I remember the warmth of the people the most. Brazilians have a truly unique gift of enjoying life, no matter the circumstances.
DOHA
Richard Lindsay.
One of my first exposures to the Middle East was in 2006 when Qatar seemed to be just joining the world. I was fortunate enough to be part of an epic ceremony that established Doha as the city to watch. I found the strange contrast of an ancient culture becoming shadowed by a brand new skyline dominated by cranes that could not build fast enough. To me this was the sign of what was to come – Arabian cities that feel as though they rise up from the desert itself almost overnight. What ambition.
NEW YORK
My first real international project took me all the way to NY with my humble little design company at the time. I was 25 and not too worldly, but we had landed a rather large gig for Sheraton hotels at Madison Square Garden. We were way over our heads in so many ways, but the excitement and spirit of NY city seemed to lift us and make us believe. It's quite a place to be when you think you're king of the world – even for a day. I've always enjoyed NY and have never had a single dull moment there. It's the real deal and has an unexplainable presence. You are constantly aware you are there.
CAPERTEE VALLEY
As a New South Welshman, I found a place in my very own backyard that is still a great secret to many of us. It is in fact the "Widest Canyon in the World" with some of the most breathtaking scenery I've ever seen. Large sandstone cliff faces surround the endless valley, where the spectacular sunsets that appear to change their form. My family loved this place so much we bought a little farm in the Glen Davis Valley. We still enjoy it to this day.
HONG KONG
Hong Kong is a place that I've been fortunate enough to spend a lot of time in. I've also had the great pleasure of working alongside the Hong Kong Tourism board where I've been able to make small impressions on Hong Kong – the latest being its famous A Symphony of Lights show. It's a one of a kind city that embraces all and every part of life. The people have a built in instinct for hard work, respect and success. The people are the true backbone of Hong Kong and the reason it works as effectively as it does. It's a very clever place.
For the first time since it launched in 2004, Hong Kong's nightly light show, Symphony of Lights on Victoria Harbour, has been revamped. Australian Emmy-award winner, Richard Lindsay curated the new show featuring dynamic lighting effects accompanied by a score from the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra
Sign up for the Traveller newsletter
The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now.