This was published 8 years ago
Richard Branson: Necker Island my piece of paradise on Earth
By Paul Ewart
MY BEST HOLIDAY would have to be Necker as I've got so many wonderful memories of the times I've spent there with family and friends over the years. There are two occasions that stand out. One was my own wedding more than 25 years ago, and the other was my daughter Holly's wedding that took place in 2011. My wife and I were thrilled that not only did she choose to have her wedding on Necker, but that she chose to get married on the same day as us, which now makes our wedding anniversary even more special.
THE BEST HOTEL I'VE STAYED IN is impossible to choose, particularly as I have my pick from the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio of hotels. Each property is small, especially in comparison to the larger hotel chains out there and each one brings soul to the mix; our quirkiness is a nice distinction. You won't find cookie-cutter hotels in our collection. Every property operates with the sole aim of creating amazing experiences for our guests, but they are run like a home since they are by and large homes.
I ALWAYS TAKE my notebook.
FOR A PERFECT HOLIDAY I NEED family and friends around me.
MY BEST PIECE OF TRAVEL ADVICE is to make a plan, get some sleep, don't fret over jet lag, stay hydrated and try and snag an upgrade.
MY WORST EXPERIENCE ON HOLIDAY was crossing the Pacific in a hot air balloon when everything that could have gone wrong did. For three days we were both certain we'd never come home. As it turned out we missed Los Angeles by 3000 miles and ended up in the Arctic. But I love travelling full stop. So while I've had some harrowing experiences, I never look at any of them negatively. Memories are made more when you're travelling and experiencing new places and cultures – rather than when you're chained to your desk.
MY BIGGEST PACKING MISTAKE is forgetting my passport.
THE NEXT PLACE I WANT TO GO IS space of course. Space has always held a deep fascination for me since I watched the moon landings back in 1969, it's a challenge but it's worth it.
For more information on Virgin's retreats and luxury hotels see virginlimitededition.com
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