By Paul Ewart
Nathaniel Willemse puts good weather top of his holiday wishlist.
MY BEST HOLIDAY
was The Maldives. I went for my honeymoon at the end of last year and it was eight days of pure heaven. The weather was fantastic and the setting was spectacular – all crystal clear waters and white sand. We stayed at the Lux Resort in the South Ari Atoll and had a blast.
THE BEST HOTEL I'VE STAYED IN
was The Roosevelt in New York. The service was amazing and the facilities are incredible: huge gym, massive swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam rooms – even a cinema. Can't beat it.
I ALWAYS TAKE
headphones for the plane. I love listening to music and I'm always downloading albums. Flying is one of the only times when you can really listen to a full album. Good quality headphones are one of the best investments I've ever made. Also, I try to take my guitar – depending where I'm going and for how long for. It's crazy how inspiration often strikes when you're relaxing, doing nothing.
THE INGREDIENTS FOR A PERFECT HOLIDAY INCLUDE
good weather, which is at the top of my list. I like it warm. Also, going with someone who makes a good travel companion. But most importantly, living in the moment is key. I find people struggle to do that, whereas I find it pretty easy to switch off and just appreciate where you are. Emails, internet, mobile phone…I turn it all off when I go away.
THE BEST PIECE OF TRAVEL ADVICE
is don't pack too much. In my experience, there's more than a 90 per cent chance that you'll be coming back with anther suitcase of clothing – especially if you've been in America.
MY WORST EXPERIENCE ON HOLIDAY
was being sick for two days straight on my honeymoon in the Maldives. I was devastated – especially considering how much the resort cost per night – but thankfully I made the most of my remaining time there.
MY BIGGEST PACKING MISTAKE
is I guess packing too much on the way out and then needing to buy a small suitcase to bring back all the shoes I bought while on a trip to the States. I love shoes.
NEXT ON MY LIST
is the Greek islands. I've been to Europe once before but missed out Greece. I've got a feeling that it's a place I'll really love – the sunshine, the beaches, the culture. And maybe I'll have a side trip to Italy too while I'm there.
Nathaniel is the ambassador for Sydney's The Star.
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