Natalie Brown

When I’m, not at work or travelling, I’m…

Socialising with friends, going out for dinner, dancing and practising Spanish

On my round the world trip I spent longer than expected in...

The Pacific Islands. I just fell in love with the islands and the hospitality of the locals.

Which place exceeded your expectations on your travels and why? 

Canada, because of its all-round breathtaking beauty.

What are your top five must-pack items?

Rain mac, head torch, sarong, travel pillow, good SPF (and music playlist).

What was your first great travel experience? 

Climbing Machu Picchu and experiencing Latin America for the first time.

What are your top 3 places in the world?

Costa Rica, Canada, French Polynesia.

Which is your favourite beach, where is it and why?

Tortuga Bay, Santa Cruz Galapagos. This beach is virtually deserted, with pristine white sand, amazing views and just the odd iguana and pelican hanging about.

Which passport stamp makes you most proud?

Japan, because it's somewhere I never thought I’d visit.

Do you have any ‘pet hates’ while travelling?

Noisy eaters on planes, trains and automobiles.

What’s the best/worst thing you’ve eaten on your travels?

A tarantula is the weirdest thing I've eaten, and it tasted great!

Have you ever worked abroad?

I worked in Melbourne selling gas and electricity.

Have you experienced culture shock?

Nepal was the first country on my round the world ticket. Kathmandu was very different than I imagined and the smell of incense was overpowering. Within 48 hours, the shock disappeared and the guest house which I hated on arrival turned into a place I went back to at the end of my trip because the hospitality was unforgettable.

If you had just 24 hours in a big city which one would it be?

New York, simply because there's so much to do.

What’s the best party you have been to while travelling?

New Year's Eve party in Ho Chi Minh.

What do you miss most from home while you are away?

My family and friends.