The host of Kfm Breakfast talks about the importance of London

Where did you spend your last holiday?

New York.

What was the best thing you did while there?

Run the marathon.

Your favourite city abroad and why?

London. I have been going there so often it almost feels like home and, more importantly, it is the best city to travel to Europe from.

The best places to stay and eat when there?

I always stay with family and I always like trying something new when it comes to eating out. The last restaurant was Jamie's Italian in Canary Wharf.

What must a first-time visitor see?

Some of the small towns in the English countryside.

What should they not bother with?

Long queues for tourist attractions. Get there early.

Your favourite shop there and what should they buy?

I love New/Old Bond Street for wristwatch shopping.

What was your best holiday ever and why?

A recent trip to Tuscany. Everything from the weather to the scenery and magnificent wines. The company was fantastic too.

What is the best thing you have been given on holiday - or pinched from a hotel?

Some advice about avoiding some bars in Mykonos and a bottle of Mumm while travelling through the Champagne region of France. I also took a really nice pair of slippers from a castle in Scotland once but I did tell the manager so it doesn't really count as stealing.

Do you prefer busy, active holidays or lazy relaxing ones?

I like to mix it up a little and get the best of both.

Tours or do-it-yourself holidays?

Do-it-yourself and see what you want to see.

Do foreigners understand you better if you shout at them in English?

Definitely not.

Who would be your fantasy holiday companion and why?

I get to travel with her every time: my wife.

Your favourite SA destination and why?

The Southern Cape. It's just magnificent.

Your favourite restaurant, anywhere?

The wonderful Linea d'Ombra, on the water's edge in Venice.