Former Springbok rugby player Robert du Preez is the founder of the inaugural East Coast Tens Rugby Festival that takes place over the Easter weekend
Where did you spend your last holiday?
New York.
What was the best thing you did there?
Walked, ate and drank.
Your favourite city abroad and why?
New York. It is the most inspirational place on Earth.
What should a first-time visitor do?
Walk! You will get to see everything at street level and absorb the atmosphere.
What should they not bother with?
Nothing. Everything is fantastic.
What was your best holiday ever?
A holiday in a remote village in Greece 15 years ago. We camped on the beach with our kids and friends. We visited unpopulated islands in our rubber ducks.
And your worst? What happened?
A holiday in the Comores. We left our son at home and I missed him.
The worst hotel you've stayed in? Why?
The Springbok tour to France in 1992 was a blur of bad hotels. At one of them I threw my bags on the bed and a huge cloud of dust flew up. We didn't stay.
What's the best thing you've been given on holiday, or pinched from a hotel?
When I played rugby I pinched towels. I don't do it now; they'd lock me up.
Who would be your fantasy holiday companion and why?
James Small. He is great fun.
Your favourite SA destination, and why?
The wine regions of the Western Cape. It's cosmopolitan and there's lots to do.
Your favourite restaurant, anywhere?
Ristorante San Domenico in Imola, Italy.
What is the most exotic dish you have ever eaten on holiday, or anywhere?
Uovo in Raviolo, a huge ravioli filled with spinach, Parmesan, ricotta and a poached egg, served with parmesan, butter and shaved truffles.
One place to see before you die?
Portugal.
What do you avoid on holiday?
Crowds. I also avoid places where you can't get good food and wine
Your best piece of travel advice?
Plan, research, and travel light.
One travel destination you would say "never again"?
China. I couldn't connect with it and the food was terrible.
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