Designer Caroline Charles
Designer Caroline Charles talks about her love of London, the markets of Istanbul and why she was arrested at Ho Chi Minh airport…
FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WORLD?
My office in Beauchamp Place in London – it’s retained its townhouse feel.
EARLIEST HOLIDAY MEMORY?
Skiing in the Fifties in Germany’s Harz mountains. There were uniformed Russian soldiers on skis patrolling the border.
FAVOURITE TRAVELLING COMPANION?
Any of the following authors: Mark Twain, Alan Coren, Douglas Adams, Jan Morris or Martha Gelhorn.
MOST BEAUTIFUL BUILDING?
The Mezquita de Cordoba (the Great Mosque of Cordoba). It’s famous for its giant candy-cane arches and forest of more than 850 columns.
FAVOURITE SHOPPING CITY?
Istanbul — for the rugs, myriad treats and markets.
WHAT’S THE WICKEDEST THING YOU’VE DONE ON HOLIDAY?
I was stopped at customs at Ho Chi Minh airport and arrested for taking pottery out of the country. Thankfully — having handed it back to a local official — a full plane, including me, was able to take off.
EVER HAD A HOLIDAY DISASTER?
We went on a seven-day holiday to Mauritius and had to stay indoors for the entire time due to a hurricane. On looking out of the window at what would have been a tropical view, we saw only swimming pools filled with chairs.
Bright lights: The colourful markets of Istanbul sell all sorts of trinkets
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE MODE OF TRANSPORT AND WHY?
A train, to feel part of the landscape. Walking is also a favourite but not too far.
WHERE WOULD YOU LIVE IF YOU COULD LIVE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD?
London — it’s the centre of the world and has the best theatres, music, museums, fashion, food and people.
WHAT HAS TRAVEL TAUGHT YOU?
To keep interested in foreign news and keep calm in all circumstances.
Caroline Charles OBE will speak at the Victoria & Albert Museum’s 50 years in Fashion event. Visit www.vam.ac.uk for more information.
Source: Mail Online
