Biz-Travel Q&A: Vasili Vass

BizTravel: Do you make your own travel arrangements or do you have an in-house travel desk?

V V: The company makes my travel arrangements. Before any trip I receive all the details needed for the trip including flight times, transfer times and hotel bookings.

BizTravel: Which airline do you prefer to fly with? Why?

V V: For business, I always travel British Airways. The ground and in-air service is always good with staff being friendly.

When travelling personally I always choose the airline with the best deal. For local travel, the distances are short and it is worth your while looking out for the specials.

I don't have a personal preference but have got used to British Airways.

BizTravel: Have you ever been "bumped off" flights that are overbooked or upgraded? What happened?

V V: I have been extremely fortunate not to have been "bumped off" a flight. However there have been unfortunate delays, two lasting more than five hours. Both incidents have been due to circumstances beyond the airlines control and I believe the manner in which the situation was dealt with professionally. British Airways also compensated me with a voucher to use for my next booking.

The best advice I can offer anyone who is delayed for a lengthy period is to understand that no matter how frustrating the situation is, there is nothing you can do and should try to remain level headed and not get angry with the airline. Feeling frustrated only makes an already difficult situation, unbearable.

BizTravel: What's your airport survival strategy?

V V: Arrive on time. For me, knowing that I am not chasing a clock always takes the stress out of travelling.

I also ensure that I am connected to the world through my Blackberry and laptop. This way, I have access to everything I need.

If I don't have access to an airport lounge, I find a quite spot in the airport where I can listen to music, work on my lap top or read. This way I shut myself out from the hustle and bustle and assault of noise that is associated with any airport anywhere in the world.

BizTravel: Everyone knows about remaining hydrated while in the air. As a regular traveller, what do you do to ensure you arrive looking and feeling your best?

V V: I ensure that I am well rested before a trip, always have a toothbrush and toothpaste available, drink very little or no alcohol. If you are allowed to take a small amount of face cream on board, this will always help.

BizTravel: Where do you usually stay in Joburg? What do you like about your hotel and what needs to be improved?

V V: I usually stay at one of the Southern Sun hotels in Sandton. Being a frequent guest you get to know the staff. They greet you by name and know your likes and dislikes. This makes being away from home a lot easier.

I prefer hotels that are located close to shopping centres for ease of access to a choice of restaurants.

BizTravel: Do you think there's a real risk of industrial espionage on planes? Are you conscious that the passenger next to you can see what you're working on?

V V: I am conscious of the person next to me seeing what I am working on. In public places, I do not work on any documents that could be sensitive.

BizTravel: Do you eat on-board?

V V: It really depends on the time of travel. If I am hungry I will eat.

BizTravel: What are the real benefits of having frequent-flyer status?

V V: The more miles you collect the more benefits you get. Access to the airport lounge is a great perk.

BizTravel: Who do you drive with? Have you ever opted for chauffeur-driven hire?

V V: The company organizes transport to and from the airport.

BizTravel: You know Joburg well but do you use a GPS for other cities/countries? How did it work?

V V: I have not used a GPS, but when I am next in a city that I am not familiar with, I would like to use one. Again, this will take the stress out of getting from point A to point Z with one less thing to worry about.

BizTravel: How do you best manage the exhaustion of frequent travel?

V V: Firstly, try to get a good night sleep before you travel. Then keep going and don't let the exhaustion impact your day. The first evening out of town, I ensure that I get an early and good night sleep as well.