Travel Tech Q&A: CWT's Peter Brady

In this week's ZDNet Travel Tech Q&A, Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) managing director for Australia and New Zealand Peter Brady talks about his affinity for Hong Kong airport, the best gadgets to bring overseas, and his experience of playing with children in the slums of Agra.

What tech do you travel with and why?

My laptop, which is my mobile office, which allows me to manage virtually all aspects of my job from anywhere, along with my iPhone for voice communication, maps, currency conversion, and FaceTime with colleagues and family.

The iPad mini is perfect for emails on the run, meeting notes, and watching movies, and noise-cancelling headphones, which is a must on any long-haul flight!

What tech do you love abroad, where and why?

You can't beat the iPhone and iPad mini for their mobility, access to internet, and applications.

Most memorable travel story/experience?

I've been lucky and privileged enough to have many wonderful travel experiences. My most memorable travel experience would be playing cricket with children in the slums of Agra in India during the Festival of Colours. Complete chaos. I was covered in paint, but I'll never forget the looks of joy on the children's faces.

What is your one must-have piece of tech when travelling?

Laptop. I have to be able to work anywhere, anytime, and my laptop allows access to everything I need.

What was your biggest travel disaster?

I'm a very regular and experienced traveller, so I am extremely tolerant and often expect and prepare myself for any possibility. Delays, misunderstandings, and communication issues are part of the experience and make it interesting!

I have to say, most of my frustrations are usually with taxis. I've had some variable experiences overseas, some of which were not very positive.

What is the best airport you've visited and why?

My favourite is Hong Kong. It's new and modern, functional, spacious, great lounges, easy to navigate, and easy transport to and from Hong Kong via the Airport Express.

What tech do you expect in hotels when you are travelling?

Wi-fi and internet, preferably free and fast. It makes life much easier when you're able to lie in bed and do your day job following a busy day on the road.

Name one thing you wish your iPod/phone/laptop could do that it doesn't do now?

Unpack, repack, and do the ironing. I know I am dreaming, but who knows; maybe sometime in the future? Other than that, the devices I carry are great and with me all the time, even strapped to my arm so I can listen to music when in the hotel gym.

Which airport would you prefer to be stranded at and why?

Hong Kong. There is also a pretty good hotel connected to the airport for an overnight delay if necessary.