The founder of eponymous London furniture brand Linley, and nephew of the Queen, Viscount David Linley became honorary chairman of Christie’s auction house in 2006. Here the Silver Executive Club Member shares his travel experiences with The Club

Can you describe a favourite travel memory?
Last summer, I spent a wonderful two weeks with friends on a motorcycle trip through Europe. I grew up tinkering with cars and motorbikes with my father, so it was all part of the fun when our machines inevitably broke down.

Which destination has inspired you the most?
I find Middle Eastern design and architecture captivating. On a visit to Doha [now a non-stop BA service] last year, an exquisite tile mosaic caught my eye. I sent a photo to the Linley studio in London and the geometric pattern inspired the design for a spectacular marquetry cabinet that launched in our Pimlico store.

Where’s top of your bucket list?
To take a boat from the Falklands to South Georgia and retrace Sir Ernest Shackleton’s route across the island in 1916.

What’s the most memorable hotel you’ve stayed in?
A few years ago I went to Japan to meet the craftsmen who make our marquetry tricks boxes. I stayed in a hotel at Hakone, which is in a beautiful National Park south-west of Tokyo. The hotel was memorable for its simplicity, from traditional tatami flooring to incredible views across Lake Ashi and the white peaks of Mount Fuji.

If you had to live abroad, where would you choose?
Our home in Provence, a former hunting lodge that my wife and I have lovingly restored over the years. It’s set in a glorious landscape of rolling hills and forests. In summer, the smell of lavender from the fields is intoxicating.

What are your three packing essentials?
Am I allowed more than three? I never travel without Marmite, Colman’s mustard, a length of string, tape measure, Swiss army knife and oatcakes. I also carry my iPhone everywhere, to take photographs of beautiful things and capture memories.

What does British Airways mean to you?
It conjures the excitement of holidays abroad with my family, and the thrill of travelling to new places.

What do you spend your Avios on? 
I like to use them on the Eurostar – perfect for last-minute weekends away.

Interview by Paul Joseph

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This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips