My fascination for travel was sparked in childhood by books about intrepid explorers and their adventures. The desire to witness the places I read about led me to explore some diverse corners of the world. However, it's the Middle East and North Africa that has really captured my attention, particularly Morocco, Egypt, Jordan and Turkey. I'm particularly attracted to the history, scenery, culture and food. From the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, to the wide open spaces of Wadi Rum in Jordan, to a shared mint tea with a local family in the High Atlas in Morocco, there's always something to explore and enjoy.
Being able to recreate some of the dishes I’ve learnt on my travels is one of the highlights for me so when I’m not travelling, I’m often to be found in the kitchen reliving travel experiences through cookery. I’m always delighted to be able to send people to this part of the world so that they can experience the same as I’ve done.
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I've been lucky to visit many deserts on my travels but there's something special about the landscape at Wadi Rum. The huge, tall rock formations looming over the sandy valley floor with wild camels roaming free make for a really spectacular scene.
There’s wonderfully homely feel to Riad Ilayka in Marrakesh. When you close the entrance door to the hustle and bustle of the city you can feel the calm descend and it really is a little oasis of calm.
I saw the sun setting on the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert for the first time. After years of reading about the Sahara and seeing it featured in television programmes, I still didn’t feel prepared for the immensity and beauty of it.
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