British R&B singer-songwriter Craig David released his first album, Born To Do It, in 2000. Currently based in Miami, he tells The Club about his love of Cuban music, filming in the Costa Rican rainforest and what he loves about London 

Where in the world have you most enjoyed working?
There isn’t an individual place – I take each experience for what it is. Every time I get to a new destination, I gauge how much I’ve enjoyed it through the people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve made. I love making music and knowing that even when I travel thousands of miles away, it still relates even in a totally different culture and climate. That excites me. I’m open to anything.

Where do you like going back to?
Southampton is my home town, although I spend a lot of time in London now. I’ve been based in Miami for the past six years, but when I go back to the UK it’s been really conducive to making music. I love being around the city’s eclectic styles and genres. It’s where I got my groove back.

Which country’s music would we be most surprised to hear on your playlist?
I like Brazilian music, as well as Cuban. The country has some amazing musicians who can play styles and certain drum patterns that you wouldn’t normally hear in contemporary music. They’d work so well if they were incorporated.

Which is the most memorable hotel you’ve ever stayed in?
The Mondrian in Los Angeles: I stayed there on my first trip to the city.

What is the most challenging travelling you’ve ever done?
Probably the Costa Rican rainforest, where we filmed MTV’s Music in High Places. It was a mission to get to though – the rainforest isn’t really built for cars. It was incredible when we were filming, but we did rough it for a while. Sometimes you have to do that to find the beauty in things.

What is top of your bucket list?
I don’t have a bucket list. If I did, it would be what I’m doing right now. To wake up in the morning and know that I’m healthy, my friends and family are healthy around me and I can perform the right songs for a living. For me, my bucket list is complete.

How do you escape the crowds in London?
I’ve never tried to run away from it. It’s more about just knowing where you’re going and what you’re putting yourself through. If you’re shopping on Oxford Street on a Saturday afternoon, there’s a good chance people are going to recognise you – but that’s flattering in itself.

British Airways now flies twice a week to San José, Costa Rica, from Gatwick. Book flights at ba.com

Interview by Cathy Adams

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This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips