Rupert Murray talks to star of TV and stage Denise Van Outen, who recently returned from trekking in Peru to raise money for Breast Cancer Care
What is your most memorable trip abroad?
There are two places I will remember and want to revisit for the rest of my life. The first is New York. I worked there in the spring of 2002 when I appeared on Broadway in the musical Chicago. I was blown away by the buzz of the city and I found some great restaurants that stay open late.
The second is Silhouette Island in the Seychelles. Lee Mead and I got married there at the Labriz resort. The food and service is amazing, and the spa is one of the best I have ever been to.
Where is your favourite place to go with friends or girlfriends?
I love a great girlie holiday in Dubai. It’s not too far to fly and the shopping is incredible. I always stay at the Desert Palm, Dubai.
Now that you are a wife and mother do you have anywhere in mind for family holidays? I became a mum six months ago so we haven’t had our first family holiday yet. I would love to take our daughter to the Maldives next year. I can’t wait to take holiday snaps of her on the beautiful beaches.
What’s your favourite destination in the world?
It has to be Los Angeles. For me it has everything – great shopping, fab beaches and I have many good friends living there. I lived there for three years and had so much fun.
What do you think of travel agents?
I love using travel agents. It takes the pressure off organising everything and I’ve had some of my best holiday experiences when I’ve booked through an agent.
How do you do your research and book your holidays?
I tend to hear about somewhere from friends.
Which five places would you most like to visit and haven’t?
India, Japan, Bali, Miami and New Zealand.
What is the most important consideration for you when booking a holiday?
Definitely good flight times. There’s nothing worse than arriving feeling completely exhausted. I also like to know that the standard of hygiene at a hotel is good – even more so now that I’m a mum.