Milisuthando Bongela is a writer, fashion journalist and designer agent

In a dreamy little village called Stanford, 90 minutes from Cape Town. It all felt very otherworldly until a little break-in reminded us that we were still in SA.

What was the best thing you did while there?

Sleep, eat, read, talk and drink really good wine.

Your favourite city abroad, and why?

I thoroughly enjoyed the scale of New York's buildings, the fashion and the big personalities of New Yorkers.

What must a first-time visitor see there?

It depends on what kind of holiday you want. I didn't do typical tourist things. I wanted to experience mundane American life, so I went to the movies. The seats are super big and I had this enormous 1-litre slushie called a Freeze Frame and popcorn dripping with butter. It was gross but I liked experiencing the difference.

What was your best holiday, ever?

This last one to Stanford. I was surrounded by wonderful people in a beautiful space and there was nothing to do. You just play it by ear. That's what holidays are about for me.

What was your worst holiday ever? What happened?

It was a working holiday in a place called Thessaloniki in Greece. Some parts of the town are beautiful but they were extremely racist.

Which is the worst hotel you have stayed in?

The Formula 1 in Witbank.

Who would be your fantasy holiday companion and why?

My business partner, Doreen Southwood. She is the funniest person I know.

Your favourite SA destination and why?

I really like Nieu Bethesda because it's so random and quiet. I also love the Transkei. It's so vast and green .

Your favourite restaurant anywhere?

Café Birds in Cape Town, when it was still owned by Frauke Stegmann. I also really enjoy Addis in Cape on Church Street in Cape Town.

One travel destination you would call "never again"?

Thessaloniki.