Club people • May 2015
Nick Talbot has been flying with British Airways for more than 20 years and is a Silver Member. He is currently in Nepal attempting to climb Everest to raise money for a cystic fibrosis charity. If he succeeds, he will be the first person with the disease to reach the summit. Before he left, he spoke to The Club about his motivations and travel inspiration
What’s the best thing about the Executive Club?
I joined 16 years ago to collect Avios and access the lounges. I travel a fair bit for business so the Fast Track and lounge make it more relaxing.
Where do you travel for fun?
I enjoy active holidays, so I often ski in the Alps. I don’t mind cold weather – it means I appreciate hot wine and nice hotels more. I’ve stayed in great resorts in Austria, including the Erzberg Hotel in Zürs.
Where’s next on your list?
Nepal for my Everest attempt. I’ve been mountain climbing for most of my life, and my last big climb was Cho Oyu in Tibet – the world’s sixth-highest mountain. It may sound crazy, but Everest seemed like the next logical step.
Why are you attempting the climb?
I am one of 10,000 cystic fibrosis sufferers in the UK. Only half of those will make it to the age of 40. I’m lucky as I’m among the four per cent who respond to revolutionary medication. I’m raising money so other people can benefit from breakthrough research. The attempt will take two months, and I hope to raise £100,000 for the CF Trust.
Where and how have you been training?
I go hill training in the Lake District and Wales. In London I go up and down the 26 flights of stairs at Baltic Quay with ankle weights and an expedition rucksack weighing around 24kg. And during my last holiday to the Alps, I would climb to the top of the mountain with skis on my back, then ski for the rest of the day.
If you could take a relaxing trip after your Everest attempt, where would it be?
The Maldives (pictured above). I enjoy a warm beach and find diving very relaxing.
Where was your best restaurant meal?
I get amazing cravings when climbing – usually for bacon sandwiches. This time I’m sure Wolfgang’s will cross my mind. It’s a typical American steakhouse in New York that also does amazing seafood.
What are your tips for earning and redeeming Avios?
I travel to New York and Washington several times a year, and I recommend going on as many oneworld alliance flights as you can. If you have plenty of Avios, go somewhere new. Just pick a place and off you go!
For more information on Nick’s Everest attempt or to make a donation, visit his fundraising page, his Facebook page, or his Tumblr