Executive Club member and skincare supremo Liz Earle reveals her love of Africa and recalls meeting Daniel Craig in a BA airport lounge

How long have you been a Member of the Executive Club? 
As a frequent business flyer, I can’t remember ever not being one. I think I picked up an application form on my first flight to Paris 30 years ago and never looked back. I work my way up to Gold, spend all my Avios, then slip back to Bronze or Silver before working my way back up again.

What’s your favourite thing about BA? 
I love the welcome when I step on board. As an entrepreneur and businesswoman, I appreciate the professionalism and customer-service ethos. I also enjoy the Wellbeing channel.

Where in the world are you most inspired by? 
I love the buzz and fast pace of London, where my office is. I spent a lot of time in Manhattan in my early twenties and I’ve never lost the love of being in a major city, even though I’m ready to return home to my farm at the end of the week.

Who’s your dream travel companion? 
James Bond would be a fun date. I’m sure he’d be charming (if dangerous), and I love the occasional very dry martini. I once shared a BA lounge with Daniel Craig, which is probably as close as I’ll ever come to this fantasy.

Where do you keep returning to for holidays? 
Kenya (above) has a magnetic attraction. It has a beautiful and diverse landscape, friendly people and a huge variety of places to explore. I’m always on the lookout for unusual botanical ingredients and herbal health cures, and I’ve found many interesting indigenous plants there.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
My husband is half-Italian, so we visit Italy often. It really is the most beautiful place (pictured above), steeped in art, culture, history, fine food and wine. As we’re often travelling with five children, I appreciate the way restaurant staff greet us with enthusiasm and smiles instead of scowls. 

Where’s on your bucket list? 
My daughter has just returned from New Zealand and I was blown away by her photos of the landscape. 

What are your top tips for coping with long-haul flights? 
I immediately start thinking of the time zone of where I’m heading to. I set my alarm clock to the new time before it goes in my suitcase. For me, jet lag is mostly in the mind. 

Interview: Tamara Hinson

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This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips