Scottish-born violinist Nicola Benedetti is credited with bringing a new audience to classical music. The Classical Brit Award-winner has appeared in both the pop and classical charts since winning BBC Young Musician of the Year more than a decade ago

Where has inspired you professionally?
Playing in India was intriguing. Indian classical music matches ours in terms of complexity and diversity, and the audiences were good listeners.

What are your top tips for making work travel more pleasurable?
You can learn a lot by being among people, so enjoy and embrace that experience. I also like to read a good book: I currently have William Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury and Albert Murray’s Stomping the Blues on the go. And try not to eat too much when travelling – it makes the whole thing more painful.

Where is top of your bucket list?
Myanmar. People say it remains in another time we don’t experience often, but equally it is changing so fast that friends who know the country say if you’re going to go, get there soon.

What’s the best thing about being an Executive Club Member?
I’ve been a Member for about eight years. I spend so much of my life travelling, that it’s really important to be as comfortable as possible. Any help with comfort, saving time and avoiding queues is massively appreciated.

Where was your most memorable holiday?
Tuscany, where my dad’s from. When I first saw Lucca and Barga, it was an eye-opener. For me, the most beautiful is always the combination of a mountainous region, colourful architecture and the sea somewhere in sight. A lot of Tuscany’s towns and cities have that – there are so many hidden gems.

Where is your favourite place to escape to in London?
Chiswick High Road, for cafes, bars and little shops. There’s a tiny Italian restaurant called Tarantella with about 10 seats. I’d recommend any of the pasta dishes.

Where do you find yourself returning to?
The west coast of Scotland, where I grew up. I love going there to play, teach and visit my family. It has a serenity and peace I can’t find in London.

Nicola Benedetti performs Szymanowski’s Violin Concerto No 2 with the RSNO in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen on 17, 18 and 19 March

Interview by Etan Smallman

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This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips