What's your earliest holiday memory?Going with my family to Co Clare from age five. Like all children, I remember the long car journeys. I have very positive memories; it is a great spot for kids, with Bunratty Castle and the Cliffs of Moher. My father was from Ennistymon, and we would stay at his parents' house or in a cottage in the area.
Your worst holiday?I was travelling with my wife on what was supposed to be a trip of a lifetime to South Africa. On the stopover in Paris we found out that around 14 of us were overbooked by Air France, and we had to stay overnight. Staff were horrendous when we raised queries. We eventually got there a day and a half later, but it took all the good out of the first few days of the holiday.
Your best holiday?In recent times, a week playing golf at Vilamoura, in the Algarve, Portugal. I went with a group, a mix of guys and girls. It's a short flight to Faro, and the weather and cost of living are good. We stayed in the Vila Gale hotel, behind the port. We got up late for breakfast, then the girls went shopping or to the beach and we played golf. We would all meet up for drinks before dinner. What makes half of it is the company. It was very relaxing.
If budget or work were not a restriction, what would be your dream holiday?I would love to go back to South Africa for a month. I'd travel first class with British Airways and take in Sun City and a safari in Kruger National Park. I'd go to Cape Town for the second half and do the Blue Train, from Cape Town to Pretoria, and the Garden Route, play on the great golf courses, go whale watching and sample the wines. It is such a vast country that, until you go there, you don't appreciate it.
If you had your pick, who would you bring on holiday with you?I would bring Charlie Haughey and over a month ask him how he thought he was going to get away with it. (But seriously, my wife.)
What's your favourite place in Ireland?Ennistymon. It is unspoilt and is a great spot for hanging out, sightseeing, walking and playing golf.
Your recommended holiday reading?One of my favourites is The Genesis Code, by John Case, followed by some of Dan Brown's novels.
Where to next?In April I'm going to take a break in Spain with Primera, an escorted-tours brand we have. I haven't been on one yet, so it will be a mix of business and pleasure. We will get a taste of Spain, visiting Barcelona, Sileras, Salou and the Costa Brava.
- Clem Walshe is head of marketing at Budget Travel
- In conversation with Genevieve Carbery