Andy Pickering. Photo / Norrie Montgomery
Do you travel light or heavy?
As light as possible.
Cattle or first class?
I've flown business a few times on someone else's wallet. The first time you fly business is a revelation. It's like losing your virginity, you feel all grown-up and it is difficult to wipe the smile off your face. Haven't yet flown first-class. Keen as. Airlines, call me please?
I can't travel without ...
A small tinge of guilt due to all that gas the jet burns. The next time you're in the air, look down at the earth below. It's the only one we've got!
What's always in your hand luggage?
My Grand Lodge certificate from the Grand Lodge of England. Along with the funny handshakes, it's proof that I am a Freemason, and is my ticket of entry to any Masonic lodge around the world. There's no better way to gauge the feel of a new city than by visiting a lodge.
Are you a planner or last-minute packer?
Left to my own devices I'm a last minute panic-packer. Luckily my partner Leigh is an organisational mastermind. She does the packing.
Best thing you've brought back from a trip?
An open mind and an expanded palate.
Best packing tip?
Have someone else do it for you.
Most memorable trip?
I'd love to share a hard-won story of trekking in the Amazon in barefeet, but really, the first time I flew business class to London put me in the perfect head-space to go forth and conquer. It's like a mini-holiday from the world. You arrive rested and ready.
What do you do while on the plane?
In cattle class, I force myself to relax to fight the constant urge to run screaming down the aisles looking for a way out. Cabin crew tend to frown on such behaviour. In order to relax, self-medicate...
Andy Pickering is the editor of PILOT Magazine.
Vail combines luxury with festive charm better than anywhere else.