Hotelier Alex Polizzi on Channel 5’s Spectacular Spain
THE hotelier moves on from her Italian heritage to present a new travel series on Spain...
The hotelier moves on from her Italian heritage to present a new travel series on Spain...
Why Spain this time?
I wasn’t allowed to do any more Italy. I had done a lot of travelling in my 30s, including an eight-week road trip round Spain, that I was keen to replicate. I also wanted to see the similarities between Spain and Italy. They are always lumped together as southern European but I have found their differences are much greater than their similarities.
What are the differences?
Italy is very good at protecting its patronage. In Spain I feel they have a very interesting dynamic where they reveal a past yet also embrace contemporary culture and architecture, but somehow more conventionally than the Italians.
The food must have been delicious.
I felt very under-vegetabled! There is so much octopus, and meat. The ham, tapas and wine were amazing.
How long were you away for?
Because it’s six episodes I was away all of June, July, September and part of October. It’s a dream job but the downside is my husband’s very grumpy when I get back. He found having the two children on top of work stressful.
What stood out for you in Spain?
I met the King of Flamenco, who was a gypsy. He is tiny and he sounds like he has smoked 70 cigarettes a day. I was too shy to have a class with him.
Where has your passion for travelling come from?
It is that fascination of seeing different countries rather than in a book.
Do you prefer Europe or beyond?
I love beyond. I have a dream to go to Cambodia and Vietnam with the children. I have always wanted to go to New Zealand but when you have little ones you are limited.
Is it stressful running a hotel and being away?
I don’t run a hotel any more, I oversee things. I have a four year old and an eight year old, there’s always a drama. I’m sad I can’t always be there for them but I can’t deny myself my amazing job.
Where would you recommend to visit in Spain?
Valencia. The beaches are stunning and the old town is beautiful. And Fort Bravo, a Western-style theme park, is like a desert in Europe.
Spectacular Spain with Alex Polizzi, Friday, 9pm, Channel 5