WHICH WAS YOUR BEST HOLIDAY?

Last year my dad and I drove from Darwin to Broome along the Gibb River Road and camped the whole way along. The landscape was jaw-droppingly beautiful and every twilight was pure magic, no matter where we were.

AND THE BEST HOTEL YOU'VE STAYED IN?

The Blackman in Melbourne. I'm a big fan of the Art Series Hotels and their sleeping experience - including the high-quality beds, pillows and quilts - is hard to beat. Although I must admit I look ridiculous driving their Smart car emblazoned with a Charles Blackman portrait around Melbourne; it makes me feel like a clown.

WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS TAKE WITH YOU?

A Lonely Planet guide, my Canon 5D camera, a notebook and my favourite collection of pens. I try to leave my phone at home as I find being so easily contactable when you're away defeats the purpose of being away.

WHAT'S YOUR BEST PIECE OF TRAVEL ADVICE?

Always book a hotel for at least the first night so you can get your bearings and then follow your nose.

AND YOUR WORST EXPERIENCE ON HOLIDAY?

Both me and my travel companion getting "Delhi belly" within 12 hours of arriving in India and being catatonic for the next three days. I guess the lowest point was when we were both sharing a bed somewhere in Dharamsala and both not being able to reach the toilet in time. Let's just say it was one hell of a bonding experience.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO NEXT?

I really want to spend a couple of weeks weaving along the Italian coast, or rather, eating my way along the coast.

Brendan Moar is designing a display at the Australian Garden Show Sydney, at Centennial Park from September 5 to 8. australiangardenshowsydney.com.au.