Acclaimed equestrienne and racing personality Francesca Cumani reveals her favourite getaways.
WHICH WAS YOUR BEST HOLIDAY
Skiing is always the best holiday for me, as it brings back great memories from my childhood. My parents (Italian British-based racehorse trainer Luca Cumani and wife Sara) have a chalet in the French Alps. We always had a wonderful time there, growing up surrounded by friends and family.
AND THE BEST HOTEL YOU'VE STAYED IN?
I would have to say the J.K. Place Hotel in Capri, Italy, where I stayed in September 2012 for a week. It's beautifully designed with impeccable taste. Capri offers incredible views and amazing food - the perfect combination for a relaxing holiday. I'm also a big fan of sleeping in a tent in Kenya on horse-riding safaris. I usually ride with Offbeat Safaris. It's not always luxury, but it's always exhilarating.
WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS TAKE WITH YOU?
A good book. It takes the pain out of any delays on long journeys. Right now I'm reading The Bronze Horseman, which is set in Russia during World War II.
WHAT'S YOUR BEST PIECE OF TRAVEL ADVICE?
Be adventurous. Chat to the locals, try different foods, see the sights. I also love to walk through a city. It is the best way to get a feel for it and you see so much more than when driving.
AND YOUR WORST EXPERIENCE ON HOLIDAY?
Having Delhi belly while on a horse-riding holiday with my parents in Rajasthan, India, about 2000. I was only a teenager and it was not pleasant.
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO NEXT?
On my honeymoon in August! I'm engaged to [top Australian polo player] Rob Archibald. But we'll be taking a break from horses for our honeymoon. We're getting married in Italy and the honeymoon will be in Europe. The exact location is going to be a surprise.
