Judith Chalmers
Best known as the presenter of travel series "Wish You Were Here", Judith Chalmers OBE talks to us about her experiences, travel advice, the environment and terrorism. Judith is Vice President of The Holiday Care Service.
Which have been your favourite summer and winter destinations?
In the summer we go to the Algarve where there are great beaches and fantastic people which are an important part of you holiday. The restaurants by the Atlantic are great and you can just have your glass of wine and relax. Devon is another place we go to every year, near Kingsbridge and Solcolmbe. Winter varies from Cape Town, Caribbean and various golf and cricket destinations; and in spring we like to go to New Zealand, which is their autumn time.
What do you think makes a perfect holiday?
The people you’re with, the people of the country and a place that’s clean and taken care of.
What’s been your worst travelling experience?
The third attempt of landing a plane in a storm as we were going to Madeira. That was the most holding your breathe time.
With terrorist activities dominating media headlines, do you think people travel less?
No - I think people are naturally more aware, and I respect the things that are being done to prevent this i.e. I didn’t mind queuing up with the hand luggage. I loved the fact that people were getting on the plane with just the passport and nothing else really. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for ages but never been able to. Shame about the circumstances obviously but the extra checks have been very good and it’s meant certain people have been deterred from travelling abroad.
What’s your view on the whole fuel emission debate on the environment?
Of course it’s not good to effect the environment in this way but I have to say we do need these forms of transport including cars. Hopefully the quality of things like fuel and such will be improved instead.
How much have low-cost airlines affected the way Brits travel abroad?
Certainly low-cost airlines have encouraged people to travel in, and out of Britain. But the tickets are misleading and are advertised as £1 and then lots of tax is added on.
