Travel tech Q&A: Manhattan Associates' Raghav Sibal

As the managing director of the global supply chain optimisation provider Manhattan Associates in Australia and New Zealand, Raghav Sibal travels a fair bit. In this week's Travel Tech Q&A, he talks about the tech he takes while he's away from home.

Manhattan Associates has over 1,200 customers worldwide, including Coles Corporate Express, DHL, and Cotton On.

What tech do you travel with and why?

I travel with the usual tech items, such as my Blackberry, tablet, laptop, and Wi-Fi connector. My noise-cancelling headphones are another must-have item, as they allow me to "zone out" wherever I may be, and fully concentrate on what I'm doing.

I also always travel with my iPad, as I find flights are a good opportunity to catch-up on reading — mainly the Wall Street Journal and The Economist. It's great to use for the occasional game of Sudoku, too.

What's your favourite phone app for travelling and why?

I have two favourite apps for overseas travel. The first is Bloomberg, which enables me to keep updated on investment tracking and the latest world news. The second is BlackBerry Travel, as it automatically imports travel information from your incoming emails, and will update you on any flight changes.

Personal travel advice/tip?

Don't check-in bags unless you really have to, and avoid alcohol.

How do you deal with jet lag?

I always adjust the time on my watch to the destination time as soon as I've boarded the flight, and try not to revert back.

What tech is in your briefcase?

My laptop and a global unlocked matrix phone. The global phone means that I can go online and get a local number, which is ideal for lengthy conference calls back to the office.

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

Singapore's Changi Airport — you can arrive and be in a taxi in 10 minutes. I also like that security screening is conducted at each boarding gate.

What was your last tech purchase?

Apple iPad 2.

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

Wireless internet, an iPad or iPhone docking station, flat screen TV, and a universal plug adapter. It's always good to have a central light switch, too, as I often find myself struggling to find the right light switch after a long day.

Favourite destination city to work/visit and why? (in relation to technology)

Shanghai, as retail is open until very late there. It's great to be able to get out after dinner and have some time for yourself.

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

John F Kennedy (JFK) airport [in New York], as then I could catch a cab into the city and get a good meal.