WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE HOLIDAY?
When I was a boy in the late 1940s, we’d stay at a boarding house in Ramsgate on the Kent coast.
There was a racing track with cars at the end of the prom and I’d drive around with my father.
We’d build sandcastles, take donkey rides and have fish and chips in newspaper, and my eyes would be like saucers when I got a knickerbocker glory at Sorbetto’s, an ice cream parlour that is still there today.
I’ve been back but it’s changed so much. I still find our coast captivating though.
AND YOUR WORST HOLIDAY?
Lanzarote in the 1980s. If you wanted a quick tan it was fine, but I found it extremely hot and extremely dull.
It’s not the place you go for great architectural or scenic views.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY SOUVENIR?
The only thing I’ve ever brought back is fossils.
I love Portugal – I’ve a villa in Carvoeiro – I’m happy digging away there.
BEST HOLIDAY READ?
Thrillers such as The Sum Of All Fears by Tom Clancy or SS-GB by Len Deighton – that sees the UK conquered by Germany during the Second World War.
Stunning writing.
HOW DO YOU SPEND TIME ON HOLIDAY?
When I was young, my wife and I were sun-worshippers. These days, I only get brown because I like to play golf every day in Portugal.
My favourite course, San Lorenzo, has beautiful views. I love wandering around the traditional town of Lagoa and its wonderful market of fresh produce.
Each evening, we fi nd a new restaurant. Mar d’Fora, overlooking Carvoeiro’s coast, is a favourite.
WHERE WOULD YOU REVISIT?
America. It fascinates me, but I’ve only been to New York, California and Florida.
I loved Florida – it’s very laid back. We stayed in a gated community in Fort Myers where all the guys had big boats.
Some lifestyle! We also travelled to the Everglades to see the alligators and the Keys – beautiful.
I’d like to go to Kentucky and Nashville because of their music associations and The Grand Canyon for the spectacle.
WHERE NEXT?
Portugal – or Britain. I love York for its historic appeal and cathedral, and North Wales.
● Marty Wilde is currently celebrating 60 years in music with a nationwide tour: The Solid Gold Rock ’n’ Roll Show.
Information: flyingmusic.com
