Travel News

Business Class: Shannon Bennett

Chef, restaurateur and Nespresso ambassador Shannon Bennett tells us his travel habits.

Where do you travel for work?
"I've had some incredible experiences travelling through Europe, the Americas and Asia. My next trip is to France, but my dream destination is Africa."
How often are you away?
"Research and promotional travel for the restaurant and my books requires roughly six trips overseas a year."
Suitcase of choice?
"My Rimowa, which is both lightweight and strong, or if I'm travelling light, I pull out an old leather satchel I picked up in Italy at a flea market years ago. I love this bag - it's unbranded, has a lot of character, and seems to get better with age."
Pre-flight routine?
"I always try to work out the day I travel, and drink plenty of fluids. Before I leave home, I check for passport, phone, keys and wallet. I change my watch to the time at my destination, and always try to book an overnight flight so I can sleep."
Essential cabin item?
"I usually don't check in my baggage, so all the essentials are with me: Dr Dre Beats wireless headphones, and an iPad with Zinio magazines."
On-board routine?
"Sleep and no alcohol - unless George Calombaris, Gary Mehigan or Matt Preston are on board with me, in which case a glass of wine is mandatory."
Roll or fold?
"Fold, although Madeleine [West, Shannon's partner] does the folding - I end up crushing everything."
Who do you fly with when you're working?
"I like Qantas, Emirates and Singapore Airlines."
Aisle or window?
"Always the aisle."
Favourite airline lounge?
"Melbourne Qantas First Lounge."
Favourite hotels for business?
"Soho House in London; it's like holding a meeting in your own home. It has a great creative atmosphere."
How do hotels get it wrong for business travellers?
"Some are too impersonal, too bland. They try to accommodate too many types of traveller in the one design. This results in an awkward atmosphere that doesn't suit anyone."
Shannon Bennett's London is out now, published by Hardie Grant Books, $49.99.