Celebrity concierge • November 2015
The Australian-born singer released a new album earlier this year and has just completed a European tour. She tells The Club her favourite places to visit, and why Bondi Beach will always have a special place in her heart
Where’s your favourite place in the world?
It has to be London. I’ve built a home for myself here, and it’s where all my friends are. I love The Groucho Club in Soho – I’ve had some of my most fun evenings there. After a few drinks, I’ve been known to ask the in-house pianist to play I’ll Come Running (To Tie Your Shoe) by Brian Eno, and I’ll sing along. For dinner, I love Locanda Locatelli. The lobster linguine is my favourite dish.
What’s your earliest memory of a childhood holiday?
Family holidays usually involved driving miles to visit my grandparents in Inverell in New South Wales. I also remember having fun on my Aunty Mena’s dairy farm in Hannam Vale near Taree. She had Shetland ponies that we used to ride bareback.
How often do you go home to Australia?
I make it back to Sydney two or three times a year. I usually head straight to Bondi and do the walk to Bronte. I miss the ocean, so it’s really good to breathe the sea air. Last time I was home, I met friends for drinks at sunset on the roof of Coogee Pavilion. It has a great atmosphere and the oysters are fantastic.
Which city has amazed you and why?
I’ve just played my first-ever show in Beirut. The food was incredible, and I definitely came home a few kilos heavier. The people seemed really kind and happy. I remember walking down the cobbled streets of the old town, Byblos, and eating a beautiful restaurant meal. My friend’s father told me how silk was first brought to Europe, from China, through Byblos.
Favourite place to visit on tour?
I have such fond memories of a balmy night in Rome, performing at the Coliseum to the most lively Italian crowd.
How do you cope with long-haul flights?
I try to watch a couple of films and then go to sleep. Plus, having a shower when you land, or at a transit stop, really helps refresh you when doing a 24-hour flight.
Where’s on your bucket list?
Peru, to do the Inca Trail.
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This article has been tagged Opinion, Travel Tips