When I was doing a lot of international travel (as defined by BA...) I found my time aboard the aircraft to be a sanctuary, the calm in the midst of the storm - yes, I often did work, but there is something wonderfully peaceful about being the only passenger awake, having no phones ringing or demands made, and only the silent, watchful steward to attend to one's needs.

I have always appreciated having time to think, to reflect and to see structure in the apparent chaos. For this reason, I like travelling alone - it grants a meditative opportunity.

Travelling with others is more of an adventure - going with a colleague to a new client site, or travelling with family members to much-beloved destinations or exciting new ones. At these times I always look out of the window, admire the clouds or watch the sun rising over a new continent.

There is a reason for travel, and sometimes we lose sight of it.