Checking in... Karren Brady

Baroness and businesswoman

MOST MEMORABLE PLACE?

IT HAS to be Mauritius. We went as a family and my children were that perfect age, around 11, 12ish — not so young that I had to keep a close eye on them all the time. We rented a villa and I shed a tear when we left.

FIRST HOLIDAY MEMORY?

NAPLES to visit my grandmother. I can’t remember how young I was, I just remember the sand burning my feet and the crowds of people.

FAVOURITE HOTEL?

I GO back to one place every year — The Marbella Club in Spain. I’ve been going since I was 16 and know what to expect.

MOST MEMORABLE MEAL?

VILLA TIBERIO in Marbella. It’s an Italian run by an Italian called Sandro. It’s set in the most beautiful gardens. It’s the combination of the lovely food and atmosphere.

NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT?

I HAVE a pillow that is about 30 years old. I have a bad back and this pillow is almost flat. I once went on a trade delegation to China with David Cameron and left it on the plane while we had a quick stop off. Luckily someone kept it safe for me.

YOUR LAST TRIP?

I WENT to Lanserhof spa in Austria in October to try to help my back. I had to go into a chamber at minus 110c, and detoxed for about five days. There’s something good about going away on your own — doing exactly what you want.

WHERE NEXT?

CAMBODIA with my husband. It’s going to be a more adventurous trip so we’ll be going sightseeing and white water rafting. I’ve done relaxing holidays for the past 49 years. I’m turning 50 this year and I want more experiences.

DO YOU SWITCH OFF?

WELL, my BlackBerry is always by my side so I’m in constant contact — but the main thing for me is getting away from my diary.